The history of the Republic of South Africa as a country began with the landing of European settlers on April 6, 1652. On this day, a group of colonists who arrived from Holland founded the first settlement on the Atlantic coast, at this place is now the city of Cape Town. By that time, sailors from Europe, starting with Vasco de Gama, had circled the southern tip of the African continent many times, and needed a base to repair ships and replenish supplies. The Dutch East India Company created such a base and began to attract immigrants from different countries. Having merged into a single nation, the colonists began to be called Boers, their language "Afrikaans" became one of the branches of the Dutch.
A new stage in the life of South Africa came with the arrival of British troops. Having seized the territories mastered by the Boers, England declared them to be its colonial possessions. In response, the Boers migrated into the depths of the continent. After a fierce struggle with the local tribes, they were able to conquer new lands and equip them. Two Boer countries appeared on the world map at once - the Free Orange State and the Transvaal. They existed quietly for about forty years, until reserves of gold and diamonds were found on their territory. The beginning of the "gold rush" prompted the UK to try to take rich deposits under its control. Two Anglo-Boer wars followed, the second conflict, which lasted from 1899 to 1902, was especially difficult; the British were able to break the resistance of the Boers only with great efforts. On the conquered lands, Great Britain created the Union of South Africa, giving the new colony self-government.
Over time, an apartheid regime was created on the territory of South Africa. All residents were divided by race into whites, blacks, Asians and coloreds. Each race was granted a certain set of rights, institutions, places in transport, even beaches were divided. The black population, if possible, settled in places of compact residence, the so-called "bantustans". The authorities diligently limited the number of Negroes needed to work in the cities and introduced bans on their living in white houses, even as personal servants. As more African countries gained independence, the apartheid regime began to cause great resentment throughout the world. The United Nations imposed sanctions against South Africa, most of the economically developed countries interrupted trade relations with South Africa. The apartheid regime was abolished only in 1994, when representatives of the black majority came to power as a result of general elections.
Now in South Africa, all citizens enjoy the same rights, but the country has lost many qualified specialists who have emigrated abroad; according to various sources, every fifth representative of the white community left. Because of this, the economy was seriously undermined, although the Republic of South Africa continues to outpace all other states on the African continent in terms of development.
Citizens of the Russian Federation need a visa to stay in the country. For information on what needs to be done to obtain it, read the section "Visa to South Africa".
How to get to South Africa
Weather in South Africa
DurbanSights of South Africa
Given the historical belonging of the Republic of South Africa to both the Dutch and the British, plus the presence of its own history and a high level of development relative to other African countries, the country has something to see. See the links below for more information on each attractions in South Africa - a general description, location on the map, ways to get there, photos, opening hours, ticket prices and much more.
Along the southern coast of South Africa stretches the "Garden Route", a set of paths, paths and roads through an extremely picturesque and diverse area. It extends over a very considerable distance, the journey on foot through the most outstanding points takes five days, even with porters (provided to those who wish for a fee, including the trip back by steam locomotive). Although the name mainly provides for the kingdom of flora, since there are 24 thousand species of vegetation on the “path”, not only the “gardens” declared in the name, but enough of everything - both untouched nature and landscapes created by human activity, pleasing to the eye, forests smoothly flow into picturesque plantations that give way to the mountains, overlooking the virgin beach and the endless ocean! The two combine to provide a myriad of possibilities, from visits to ostrich farms to the famous Klein Karoo with its stunning scenery. Yes, some Kango caves with the famous "organ pipes", which were sculpted in stone by inventive nature, what are they worth! This is the paradox of the "garden path" - on a 30-kilometer beach stretching along the coast, you can find a place where you will not meet a living soul, but besides, quads, canoes, trips on a surfboard through the dunes, skydiving, canopy tours, voyages to the open sea in order to look closely at sharks and whales.
Where to go in South Africa
Interesting places in South Africa
Attractions
Museums and galleries
Entertainment
Parks and recreation areas
Leisure
Transport
Shops and markets
Private guides in South Africa
Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with the Republic of South Africa in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.
Traveling in South Africa
Aircraft in South Africa
The most convenient flights in the Republic of South Africa are provided by the national air carrier "". Its flights link Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, Kimberley, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Nelspruit and other major cities. Prices for flights within the country are approximately $100-150 one way. More favorable offers can be found with the airlines "" and "" - with the help of these discounters you can save about 25-35 percent of the cost of the South African airways flight. You can find out the current price of flights on the websites of airlines.
Buses in South Africa
For budget travel in South Africa, it is recommended to use intercity buses. The bus network is extensive and includes all cities of interest to tourists. On most routes there is competition between carriers, this allows you to choose the best prices for transfers.
The services of the Intercape bus company, which operate flights not only in the territory of the Republic of South Africa, but also to neighboring countries - Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, are very popular. you can buy tickets online. Intercape buses are mostly new, comfortable, with TVs, air conditioning, toilets. Between Johannesburg and Cape Town and on a number of other long routes, special sleeping buses of superior comfort run with 150-degree folding seats. Ticket prices are slightly higher than those of other carriers, but there are often special offers that allow you to save a lot. For example, a standard ticket from Johannesburg to Cape Town costs 750 rand, but a special offer can be purchased for 560 rand.
Another popular carrier, "", also allows you to book tickets online on the site. The company has an extensive fleet of modern buses, and its route network reaches the most remote corners of the country. Also, good offers are found at the company "".
An interesting option for travelers is offered by the company "". Its multi-day pass is beneficial for those who expect to make stops along the way to explore cities. For example, by purchasing a weekly ticket from Johannesburg to Cape Town, you can visit about a dozen large settlements, stopping at each desired time. A one-week ticket that allows you to ride the entire Buz Bus network costs 1,700 rand, a two-week ticket costs 2,700 rand, a three-week ticket costs 3,300 rand. Clients of this bus company also receive discounts at inexpensive hotels and hostels.
Railways in South Africa
Rail transportation in South Africa is much less developed than bus transportation. Traveling by train usually takes more time and costs about the same as traveling by bus. For example, a voyage in a sleeping car on the Johannesburg-Cape Town train will cost 620-740 rand depending on the season and take more than a day versus 18 hours by bus. The trip between Johannesburg and Durban will take more than 10 hours instead of 6 by bus. In addition, safety is ensured only in intercity trains; commuter trains are categorically not recommended. You can check the details of the trip at.
Car rental in South Africa
Car rental in South Africa is well developed, but for travelers from continental Europe, left-hand traffic is a serious obstacle. Because of this, many are afraid to rent a car, and if they do, then with an automatic transmission. Knowing this, South African rental companies keep prices for cars with "automatic" 30 percent higher than for "mechanics". Renting an economy class car for a week costs about $250-300 from a large international company such as Avis or Hertz, local rental offices give better prices.
South African cuisine
The cuisine of South Africa does not have a pronounced national color: Africans have never been distinguished by culinary arts, and European settlers brought with them the traditions of their own countries. The specialties of South African cuisine are mainly associated with the interweaving of these traditions, for example, Indian or Asian spices are added to meat with vegetables. One of the most famous South African dishes is braai, a kind of barbecue. Grilled meat is served with vegetables and spices, sometimes very spicy.
In everyday life, inexpensive chicken dishes are in demand, fish cuisine is developed, especially in Cape Town and other seaside cities, where, in addition to fish, mussels, lobsters, and shrimp are also served. Tourists can taste fairly common game dishes, including exotic ones; the menu of large restaurants constantly meets the meat of crocodiles, ostriches, hippos. There are also more exotic varieties, such as larvae and locusts, but they are not common.
The opportunity to eat inexpensively in South Africa is provided by fast foods, represented by both international chains such as Mc'Donald's and local establishments. Indian cuisine establishments are popular, where you can eat inexpensively, if you do not pay attention to the spiciness of the food.
Wines of South Africa
The traditions of South African winemaking were laid down three and a half centuries ago: for the first time, locally produced wine appeared in 1659. For a long time, the wine industry, for various reasons, was in the shadow of other sectors of the economy, mainly enthusiasts invested in its development. The cultivation of grapes and the production of wine reached significant volumes only in the 20th century, when the South African government developed certain rules. Areas with the most suitable climate for growing grapes were identified, and the order of wine production was streamlined.
International recognition of South African wine was achieved in the 1990s, after the fall of the apartheid regime and the lifting of economic sanctions from the country. Now the Republic of South Africa ranks eighth in the world in terms of wine production and these volumes are growing year by year.
Mostly grapevine varieties were imported to South Africa from Europe, France made a big contribution. South Africa produces white wines based on grown grape varieties Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, which occupy about three quarters of the market. For the production of red wines are used varieties "Merlot", "Sauvignon", "Cabernet". South African breeders in the 1920s managed to create a hybrid called "Pinotage" by crossing two varieties of French grapes, which became the hallmark of the wine industry. Red wine from this grape is distinguished by aroma, richness and balance. Due to the country's climatic features, South African wines are sweet and tart, connoisseurs put many varieties on a par with French wines.
Shopping in South Africa
The Republic of South Africa has been known throughout the world as the largest exporter of precious stones for many years, and in the country's jewelry stores you can buy magnificent diamonds, including unique colored ones. Also in South Africa, items made of garnets, sapphires, and emeralds are sold. Jewelry prices are somewhat lower than in Europe, and most importantly, many of them are real works of art.
It makes no sense to buy clothes and shoes in South Africa, unlike accessories: skillfully crafted handbags and crocodile leather belts have become a kind of hallmark of the South African industry.
It is better to make expensive purchases in large shopping centers, they are in all cities of South Africa. It is also better to buy groceries in supermarkets, although private shops run by Indians are often more conveniently located in central areas.
Souvenirs from South Africa
Souvenirs are sold in specialized shops, but they offer mostly a standard set - magnets, plates with views, etc. asphalt near places visited by tourists. From stalls and from stretched bedspreads, Africans sell national clothes, various decorations, statuettes made with their own hands, and masks. Various crafts in the African style are popular with tourists - figurines of animals and people made of wood, embroidery, pottery with ornaments. Of interest are bone key chains and other items made from the bones of African animals. The traditions of African beading go back to the deep past, and therefore each braid attracts attention with bright colors - such a souvenir is not so expensive, especially if you bargain, and then you can bring down the price, for example, from 80 to 50 rand. Trade between a buyer and a seller is appropriate, but only in private markets - if there is a price tag, then it is pointless to bargain.
Connection
Security in South Africa
However, according to local police, three-quarters of murders and other serious violent crimes occur in the same areas, covering about a quarter of the country. In other words, if crime-prone areas are avoided, the chances of falling into the hands of criminals are relatively low. Tourists who adhere to certain rules and do not leave large cities are likely not to be subjected to armed attack. It is also safe to be in national parks, small towns, and generally anywhere where there are no poor Negro neighborhoods nearby.
CCTV cameras have been installed in the central areas of Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, allowing law enforcement to quickly respond to the situation. City streets are systematically patrolled. In addition to the police, security is monitored by numerous private security guards: shopping centers, hotels, large condominiums, entertainment complexes must have their own security guards. Therefore, staying and moving in large cities is quite safe, although in any case you should not carry large amounts of cash with you, and even more so show them to sellers, bank employees and other local residents - they can give a tip to familiar bandits, and then neither the police nor the video cameras will not help to avoid robbery. It is not recommended to leave things in a parked car, at least in plain sight: thefts from vehicles make up the largest percentage of all non-violent crimes in South Africa.
Republic of South Africa(South Africa) (Afrikaans Republiek van Suid-Afrika; English Republic of South Africa) is a state located in the southern part of the African continent. In the north it borders on Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, in the northeast on Mozambique and Swaziland. Inside the territory of South Africa is the state-enclave of Lesotho.
South Africa is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in Africa and has the largest proportion of white, Indian and mixed populations on the continent. The country has rich mineral resources, and is also the most economically developed on the continent and has a relatively strong global position.
The most important point in the history and politics of South Africa was the racial conflict between the black majority and the white minority. It reached its climax after the apartheid regime (from Afrikaans apartheid) was established in 1948, which lasted until the 1990s. The initiator of the introduction of discriminatory laws was the National Party. This policy led to a long and bloody struggle in which black activists such as Steve Biko, Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela played a leading role. Later they were joined by many whites and coloreds (descendants of the mixed population) as well as South Africans of Indian origin. Pressure from the international community also played a certain role in the collapse of apartheid. As a result, the change of the political system took place relatively peacefully: South Africa is one of the few countries in Africa (and, more broadly, of the entire Third World) where there has never been a coup d'état.
The "new South Africa" is often referred to as the "Rainbow Country", a term coined by Archbishop Desmond Tutu (and endorsed by Nelson Mandela) as a metaphor for a new, multicultural and multiethnic society that transcends divisions dating back to the apartheid era.
South Africa is a country that developed nuclear weapons and subsequently abandoned them voluntarily.
Geography
South Africa is located at the southern tip of Africa. The length of the coastline is 2,798 km. With an area of 1,219,090 km², South Africa is the 24th largest country in the world (after Mali). The highest point in South Africa is Mount Njesuti in the Dragon Mountains.
South Africa has a variety of climatic zones, from the dry Namib Desert to the subtropics in the east near the border with Mozambique and the coast of the Indian Ocean. To the east, the terrain rises rapidly, forming the Drakensberg Mountains and descending into a large inland plateau called the veld.
The interior of South Africa is a vast, relatively flat, and sparsely populated area known as the Karoo, which dries up as it approaches the Namib Desert. On the contrary, the east coast is perfectly humidified and has a climate close to tropical. In the extreme southwest of the country, the climate is extremely similar to the Mediterranean, with rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The famous fynbos biome is located there. It is here that South African wine is mainly produced. The region is also known for its constant winds throughout the year. This wind in the area of the Cape of Good Hope is so strong that it caused a lot of inconvenience to sailors and led to shipwrecks. Further east, the rainfall is more even, so the region is better stocked with vegetation. It is known as the "Way of the Gardens".
The Free State area is a particularly flat area located in the very center of a high plateau. North of the Waal river, the veld is better moistened and not exposed to too high temperatures. Johannesburg, located in the center of the veld at an altitude of 1740 meters, receives 760 mm of precipitation per year. In these places, winters are cold, although snow rarely falls.
To the north of Johannesburg, the high plateau of the veld turns into the bushveld, a region of dry mixed forests that lies relatively low above sea level. To the east of the high veld, a low veld descends to the Indian Ocean, which is characterized by high temperatures; In this region, intensive agriculture is carried out. From the southeast, the veld is bounded by the high Drakensberg Mountains, where you can even practice skiing. It is often believed that the coldest place in the country is Sutherland in the west of the Roggeveld Range, where winter temperatures can reach as low as -15°, but in fact the lowest temperatures are witnessed in Beffelsfontein (Eastern Cape) -18.6°. The highest temperatures are found inland: in the Kalahari near Upington, a temperature of 51.7 °C was recorded in 1948.
Official names
Due to the fact that South Africa has 11 official languages (the third country in terms of the number of languages after India and Bolivia), South Africa has 11 official names:
- Republiek van Suid-Afrika (Afrikaans)
- Republic of South Africa (English)
- IRiphabliki yeSewula Afrika (Southern Ndebele)
- IRiphabliki yaseMzantsi Afrika (spit)
- IRiphabliki yaseNingizimu Afrika (Zulu)
- Rephaboliki ya Afrika-Borwa (Northern Sotho)
- Rephaboliki ya Afrika Borwa (Sesotho)
- Rephaboliki ya Aforika Borwa (Tswana)
- IRiphabhulihi yeNingizimu Afrika (Swazi)
- Riphabuḽiki ya Afurika Tshipembe (Vendian)
- Riphabliki ra Afrika Dzonga (tsonga)
Story
Man appeared on the territory of the country in ancient times (as evidenced by finds in caves near Sterkfontein, Kromdray and Makapanskhat); however, there is very little reliable information about the early history of this region. Before the arrival of the Bantu tribes (they reached the Limpopo River in the north of the country in the middle of the 1st millennium AD), this territory was inhabited by nomadic pastoral tribes of the Khoi (Hottentots) and Bushmen (San) gatherers. Bantu farmers moved southwest, destroying or assimilating the local population. Archaeological evidence of their presence in the current province of KwaZulu-Natal dates back to around 1050. By the time the Europeans arrived, the area of the Cape of Good Hope was inhabited by the Khoi, and the Bantu (Xhosa tribes) had already reached the banks of the Great Fish River.
The first written record of a permanent European settlement dates from April 6, 1652, when Jan van Riebeeck, on behalf of the Dutch East India Company, founded a settlement on the "Cape of Storms", later called "Good Hope" (now Cape Town). In the 17th and 18th centuries, colonists from the Netherlands arrived in South Africa, as well as French Huguenots fleeing religious persecution in their homeland, and settlers from Germany. In the 1770s the colonists encountered a scythe advancing from the northeast. A series of clashes followed, known as the border ("Kaffir") wars and caused mainly by the claims of white settlers to the lands of Africans. Slaves from other Dutch possessions, in particular from Indonesia and Madagascar, were also brought to the Cape Colony. Many slaves, as well as the autochthonous population of the Cape region, mixed with the white colonists. Their descendants are called "Cape Coloreds" and now make up 50% of the population in the Western Cape.
British colonization
Great Britain first gained dominance over the Cape Colony in 1795, during the Fourth Anglo-Dutch War: then the Netherlands fell under the rule of Napoleon, and the British, fearing that the French would gain control of this strategically important region, sent an army under the command of General James Henry to Kapstad Craig to seize the colony on behalf of Stadtholder William V. The governor of Kapstad received no instructions, however, agreed to submit to the British. In 1803, the Peace of Amiens was concluded, under the terms of which the Batavian Republic (that is, the Netherlands, as they became known after the French conquest) left the Cape colony behind. After the resumption of the war in 1805, the British again decided to capture the colony, and as a result of the battle on the slopes of Table Mountain in 1806, British troops under the command of David Byrd entered Fort Kapstad.
The British consolidated their presence on the eastern frontier of the Cape Colony by fighting the Xhos by building forts along the banks of the Great Fish River. To strengthen its power in these places, the British crown encouraged the arrival of settlers from the metropolis.
In 1806, under pressure from various forces within the country, the British Parliament banned slavery, and in 1833 this provision was extended to the colonies. Constant skirmishes at the borders, the abolition of slavery and other disagreements with the British forced many peasants of Dutch origin (called Boers, from the Dutch boer peasant) to go on the so-called Great Trek deep into the continent, to the high plateau-veld. There they encountered the Ndebele chiefdom, led by Mzilikazi, a former associate of Chaka, who fled west during the so-called mfekane - the migration of peoples caused by internecine wars in Southeast Africa (modern KwaZulu-Natal). In the end, the Boers founded their states in the continental part of South Africa, the Orange Republic and the Transvaal.
Boer Wars
The discovery of rich deposits of diamonds (1867) and gold (1886) on the Witwatersrand led to the economic growth of the colony and an increase in the outflow of capital to Europe, a sharp increase in immigration to the Boer republics and a deterioration in the situation of the natives. These events, provoked and encouraged by the British government, eventually led to a conflict between the British and the Boers. In 1880-1881, the first Anglo-Boer War took place, during which the Boers managed to defend their independence largely due to the disinterest of Great Britain in drawing it into a protracted colonial war, since the territories of the Orange Republic and the Transvaal were not of significant strategic interest at that time. despite the discovery by that time of a diamond deposit in the Kimberley region. The "gold rush" in the rand (area of Johannesburg) began after the first Boer War. It is also impossible not to note the small number of British colonial troops at that time. Thus, the annexation of the Transvaal by Great Britain in 1877, which was the direct cause of the war, was carried out by an English detachment of only 25 people without firing a shot. At the same time, the British established themselves in Natal and Zululand, winning the war with the Zulus. In 1899-1902, the second Anglo-Boer War took place, in which the Boers, despite initial successes, still lost to the better trained and equipped British, who had an overwhelming numerical advantage. After the defeat of their semi-regulars, the Boers under Christian De Wet turned to guerrilla tactics, which the British fought by setting up a network of blockhouses and also rounding up Boer women and children in concentration camps. Under the terms of the treaty at Vereniching, the British agreed to pay the three-million-dollar debt of the Boer governments. In addition, blacks were still denied the right to vote (except in the Cape Colony).
The war was reflected in the famous works of world literature - in the novel by L. Boussenard "Captain Smash Head", where the Boers were presented as victims of the violent colonization policy of Great Britain, and in the historical work of A. Conan Doyle "War in South Africa", who is more advocating British policy (despite the author's efforts to be impartial, the book was used by the British government for propaganda purposes).
Creation of the Union of South Africa
After four years of negotiations, on May 31, 1910, the Union of South Africa was formed, which included the British Cape Colony, Natal, the Orange River Colony and the Transvaal. It became a dominion of the British Empire. In 1914, South Africa entered the First World War. In 1934, the United Party was formed, which united the South African Party (pro-British) and the National Party (Boer). It collapsed in 1939 over disagreements over whether South Africa should follow Britain into World War II—the right-wing National Party sympathized with the Third Reich and advocated drastic racial segregation.
Independence of South Africa
In 1961, the Union of South Africa became an independent republic (Republic of South Africa) that emerged from the British-led Commonwealth. The exit was also due to the non-acceptance of the policy of apartheid in South Africa by other members of the Commonwealth (South Africa's membership in the Commonwealth was restored in June 1994).
Apartheid and its aftermath
In 1948, the National Party won the general election and passed some very strict laws restricting the rights of the black population: the ultimate goal of this policy was to create a "South Africa for whites", while blacks were supposed to be completely deprived of South African citizenship. During apartheid, blacks were effectively deprived of some or all of the following rights:
- The right to citizenship of South Africa (in most cases this has become a privilege)
- The right to vote and be elected
- The right to freedom of movement (Negroes were forbidden to go outside after sunset, and also to appear in "white" areas without special permission from the authorities, that is, in fact, they were forbidden to visit large cities, since they were in "white" areas)
- The right to mixed marriages
- The right to medical care (this right was not formally taken away from them, but they were forbidden to use medicine "for whites", while medicine "for blacks" was completely undeveloped, and in some areas was completely absent)
- The right to cultural and entertainment leisure (the main cinemas and other entertainment facilities were in "white" areas)
- The right to education (the main educational institutions were in "white" areas)
- The right to be hired (employers were formally granted the right to use racial discrimination in hiring)
Despite the end of apartheid, millions of black South Africans still live in poverty. This is due to the fact that, due to historical reasons for the level of education, social responsibility and labor productivity, the majority of indigenous black Africans at the current stage are objectively unable to meet the standards of a developed post-industrial society. The level of street crime is extremely high, including the percentage of serious crimes, however, the authorities refuse to give in to the wishes of society and introduce the death penalty. True, the social housing program has yielded certain results, improving the living conditions of many citizens, which has led to an increase in tax collection.
At the beginning of the 21st century, the problem of illegal migration also became very acute in South Africa. After the abolition of apartheid and a significant weakening of control at the external borders, a flow of illegal immigrants from Zimbabwe, Angola, Mozambique and other countries of East Africa poured into the country. In total, in South Africa (at the beginning of 2008), according to various experts, there are from 3 to 5 million illegal migrants. The massive influx of foreigners causes dissatisfaction among the citizens of South Africa. Claims against migrants are mainly that they take away jobs from the citizens of the country, agreeing to work for lower wages, and also commit various crimes.
In May 2008, mass protests by South Africans against migrants took place in Johannesburg and Durban. Groups of the local population armed with clubs, stones and knives beat and killed migrants. During the week of riots in Johannesburg alone, more than 20 people were killed, thousands fled their homes. Migrants were forced to take refuge from angry local residents in police stations, mosques and churches. The local police actually completely lost control over the situation and were forced to turn to the president of the country with a request to involve the army to restore order. On May 22, 2008, South African President Thabo Mbeki authorized the use of troops to quell unrest in the country. For the first time since the abolition of apartheid, the South African army was used against citizens of their own state.
Population
In terms of population, the Republic of South Africa is in 25th place in the world - 49.1 million people live in the country (July 2010 estimate).
Over the past two decades, the country's population has remained almost unchanged (slight decline), due to high HIV infection, as well as a decrease in the number of whites.
The average life expectancy is 50 years for men, 48 years for women.
Ethno-racial composition (according to the 2001 census):
- black - 79%
- whites - 9.6%
- colored (mostly mulattoes) - 8.9%
- Indians and Asians - 2.5%
The religious composition of the population is quite motley - there is no absolute religious majority in the country, and adherents of various religions and worldviews live: adherents of the Zionist churches (10%), Pentecostals (7.5%), Catholics (6.5%), Methodists (6.8 %), Dutch Reformed (6.7%), Anglicans (3.8%), other Christians (36%), Muslims (1.3%), adherents of other religions (2.3%), undecided (1.4 %), atheists (15.1%). (Data from 2001).
Demography
One of the central problems is the massive spread of HIV infection (mainly among the black population), in which South Africa ranks first in the world (according to UN data published in 2003 and 2007), while in terms of infection rate South Africa is on fourth place (after Swaziland, Botswana and Lesotho). In total, about 5.7 million people are infected with HIV, which is 18.1% of the adult population of the country (in 2007). Because of AIDS, the death rate in the Republic of South Africa has long exceeded the birth rate (in 2010, the population decline was −0.05%, with an average fertility of 2.33 births per woman).
The number of whites in the country is gradually decreasing due to their emigration to North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand - in 1985-2005, about 0.9 million whites left South Africa, mostly under the age of 40 and their children. The proportion of the black population of South Africa is growing due to the influx of black emigrants from Zimbabwe.
Standard of living
The average income of the population is approaching the lower limit of the world average income. However, in general, the economic situation of society is extremely unstable. The apartheid regime that reigned here for a long time and the previous colonialism were reflected in the social and property stratification of society. About 15% of the population lives in the best conditions, while about 50% (mostly blacks) live in dire poverty, which may well be compared with the situation of the inhabitants of the poorest countries in the world. Not all residents have electricity and water supply, and poor sanitation in many settlements contributes to the spread of various diseases. Such sharp contrasts lead to tension in the social environment. South Africa has a fairly high crime rate. It is mainly present in poor areas. The average life expectancy in the country is only 49 years (2008), but it has increased significantly since 2000, when it was 43 years. An unusual fact is that women have a shorter life expectancy than men.
State structure
Now South Africa is a unitary state. The territory of the country is divided into 9 provinces.
Until 1994, South Africa was a federation and was divided into 4 provinces: Cape, Natal, Orange Free State and Transvaal. This division reflected well the colonial past of South Africa.
In addition, from 1951 to 1994, so-called bantustans existed in South Africa - autonomies reserved for the residence of certain nationalities. Outside the bantustans, the rights of the black population were significantly limited. Four of them received “independence” (in connection with this, their residents were deprived of South African citizenship), which, however, was not recognized by any state except South Africa:
- Bophuthatswana (Tswana) - "independence" since December 6, 1977
- Transkei (spit) - "independence" since October 26, 1976
- Ciskei (spit) - "independence" since December 4, 1981
- Venda (venda) - "independence" since September 13, 1979
Pretoria is officially considered the "main" capital of South Africa, since the country's government is located there. The other two branches of government are located in the other two largest cities: Parliament - in Cape Town, the Supreme Court - in Bloemfontein. They are also considered capitals. This is due to the fact that initially South Africa was a confederate state, and in this regard, during the formation of the Union of South Africa (from the British possessions with the capital in Cape Town, the Orange Free State with the capital in Bloemfontein and the Republic of South Africa (Transvaal) with the capital in Pretoria) authorities were evenly distributed among the capitals of the states included in it.
It is sometimes claimed that Pretoria was renamed Tshwane. This is incorrect: Tshwane is the name of a city municipality, an administrative division that is one level below the province (in this case, we are talking about the province of Gauteng). The municipality of Tshwane includes the cities of Pretoria, Centurion (formerly Verwoerdburg), Soshanguwe and a number of smaller areas.
Political regime
South Africa is a parliamentary republic. The president in almost all his decisions on most issues must rely on the support of parliament. A South African citizen over 30 years old can become a presidential candidate.
South Africa has a bicameral parliament, consisting of the National Council of Provinces (upper house - 90 members) and the National Assembly (400 members). Members of the lower house are elected by proportional voting system: half of the deputies go on national lists, half - on provincial ones. Each province, regardless of population, sends ten members to the National Council of Provinces. Elections are held every five years. The government is formed in the lower house, and the leader of the party that received the majority in it becomes president (now this post is occupied by Jacob Zuma). South Africa's current ruling party is the African National Congress, which received 65.9% of the vote in the 2009 general election and 66.3% of the vote in the 2006 municipal election. Its main rival is the Democratic Alliance party (16.7% in 2009; 14.8% in 2006). The leader of the Democratic Alliance is Helen Zille. The New National Party, the successor to the apartheid National Party, declined rapidly after 1994 and merged with the ANC on April 9, 2005. Also represented in Parliament are the Freedom Party-Inkata (4.6%), representing mainly Zulu voters, and the People's Congress (7.4%).
Right
The legal system of South Africa has absorbed elements of three legal families distinguished today at once: Romano-Germanic, Anglo-Saxon and traditional. In general, Romano-Germanic law prevails in modern South Africa, that is, there is the rule of law over all legal decisions and a clear division of law into private and public. The country has a constitution adopted in 1996. It protects and guarantees all internationally recognized human rights. But the law of South Africa has not always been humane and tolerant. For a long time, discrimination against the black population, called "apartheid", found its reinforcement in it. As a result of the fall of the political foundation of apartheid and subsequent long trials in the 1990s, the legal system of South Africa was completely overhauled, and all discrimination based on race was excluded from it. In 1994, the Constitutional Court was established in the country.
Criminal law
The Republic of South Africa is one of the few countries where English-style criminal law operates. It is not codified. The judicial system consists of the following instances: the Supreme Court of Appeal, high courts and magistrates' courts. The Supreme Court of Appeal is the main court in South Africa for criminal cases. It is located in Bloemfontein, the "judicial capital" of the country. Under the apartheid regime, there were separate local courts for the black population ("courts of chiefs"), in which judges were also predominantly black. At the same time, in the general judiciary, the vast majority of judges were white. Particularly cruel punishments were provided for opponents of the political regime - up to and including the death penalty. It was allowed to detain people for 5 days without trial or investigation. After the fall of apartheid, many norms were revised. In 1994, the Internal Security Act was abolished, and in 1995, the death penalty. Until now, physical punishment of minors is officially applied - in the form of flogging. With a revision of the legal system in the 90s, homosexual marriage was legalized in the country, making it the only country of its kind in Africa.
Economy and national economy
South Africa is the most developed on the African continent and at the same time the only country that is not classified as a Third World. GDP for 2008 amounted to 491 billion dollars (26th in the world). GDP growth was at the level of 5%, in 2008 - 3%. The country is still not among the developed countries of the world, despite the fact that its market is actively expanding. In terms of purchasing power parity, it ranks 78th in the world according to the IMF (Russia 53rd), according to the World Bank 65th, according to the CIA 85th. It has a huge stock of natural resources. Telecommunications, electric power industry, financial sphere are widely developed.
Currency: South African rand, equal to 100 cents. There are coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, 1, 2, 5 rand, banknotes - 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 rand.
Main import items: oil, foodstuffs, chemical products; exports: diamonds, gold, platinum, machinery, vehicles, equipment. Imports ($91 billion in 2008) exceed exports ($86 billion in 2008).
It is a member of the international organization of ACT countries.
Work force
Of the 49 million people in South Africa, only 18 million are able to work. Unemployed - 23% (in 2008).
65% of the working population is employed in the service sector, 26% in industry, 9% in agriculture (in 2008).
Extractive industry
South Africa owes its rapid development to a large extent to the wealth of natural resources. About 52% of exports come from the mining industry. Manganese, platinum group metals, gold, chromites, aluminoglucates, vanadium and zirconium are widely mined. Coal mining is very developed - in terms of the use of coal for the production of electricity, South Africa ranks 3rd in the world (due to the lack of oil, about 80% of South Africa's energy resources are based on the use of coal). In addition, the country has concentrated reserves of diamonds, asbestos, nickel, lead, uranium and other important minerals.
Agriculture
Since most of the country has an arid climate, only 15% of its area is suitable for agriculture. However, it can be said that, unlike most other countries in Africa, where soil erosion occurs, this 15% is used wisely - advanced agrotechnical achievements of South Africa and the leading countries of the world are used to protect soils and efficient agriculture. This led to surprising results: South Africa fully meets domestic food needs, and is also one of the leading (and by some parameters, the leading) suppliers of agricultural products - the country exports about 140 types of fruits.
Winemaking
In South Africa, there are three zones for winemaking. The Northwest (Northern Cape) and East Coast (KwaZulu-Natal) are not considered to be the best wine sources, as they have a very hot and arid climate. But the South-West of South Africa (Western Cape) has a wonderful climate for winemaking.
animal husbandry
Meat and dairy production is concentrated in the north and east of the Free State province, in the hinterland of Hoteng province and in the southern part of Mpumalanga province. Meat breeds are common in the Northern and Eastern Cape. The arid areas of the Northern and Eastern Capes, the Free State and Mpumalanga account for areas of sheep breeding. Astrakhan sheep skins are supplied to the world market.
Goats are bred in large numbers, mainly 75% - Angora, whose wool is highly valued in the West (up to 50% of the world's mohair production is in South Africa). The other most common breed is the Boer goat, which is bred for meat. In terms of goat wool shearing (92 thousand tons per year), South Africa ranks 4th in the world.
Compared to predominantly extensive sub-sectors such as cattle and sheep raising, poultry and hog raising are more intensive and prevalent on farms near the major cities of Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.
In recent years - mainly in the province of the Free State - ostrich breeding has been actively developing. The export from South Africa of meat, skin and feathers of this bird is gradually increasing.
Fishing
In terms of fish catch (about 1 million tons per year), South Africa occupies a leading position in Africa. The main fishery objects are sardines, herring, hake, anchovy, sea bass, mackerel, cod, Cape salmon, mackerel, monkfish. In addition, shrimp, lobsters, tuna, lobsters, oysters, octopuses, sharks, whose fins are in demand in Southeast Asia, as well as the Cape seal are caught. Fishing is carried out mainly off the western coast of South Africa, washed by the Benguela Ocean Current, in a fishing zone 200 nautical miles wide. About 40% of the catch falls on freshwater fish caught in the rivers Elands, Limpopo and others, as well as by breeding in artificial reservoirs.
Forestry
The main zone is the southern part of the province of KwaZulu-Natal. Natural forests occupy 180,000 hectares, that is, only 0.14% of the country's territory. Most of the commercial wood comes from forest plantations, which cover only 1% of the territory of South Africa. Approximately half of the forest plantations are planted with pine, 40% with eucalyptus and 10% with mimosa. Yellow and ebony, Cape laurel, assegai and camassi are also grown. Trees reach marketable condition in an average of 20 years - in contrast to trees growing in the Northern Hemisphere, where this process lasts from 80 to 100 years. The annual volume of wood entering the market is 17 million cubic meters. More than 240 woodworking and timber industry enterprises operate in South Africa.
Agriculture accounts for 35-40% of all exports and accounts for 5% of South Africa's GDP.
Economic policy of the state
It is generally recognized that the main political course of the state is aimed at stabilizing the economy. According to the statistics of The Heritage Foundation, the republic is in 57th position in the world in terms of economic freedom. South Africa has a relatively high income tax (up to 40% depending on income level).
culture
South African culture is traditionally diverse. First of all, it is a combination of two cultures: traditional and modern.
Many indigenous peoples contributed to it, such as the Bantu, Bushmen and Hottengots. The protea flower is the national symbol of South Africa.
Sport
The South African Grand Prix was repeatedly held in South Africa: in the period 1934-1939 with the participation of the world's leading racers of the pre-war period, and from 1962 to 1993 already as part of the Formula 1 World Championship. World-class racing was held at the East London and Kyalami circuits. South African Jody Scheckter in 1979, speaking for the Ferrari team, became the first and only Formula 1 world champion originally from Africa. And his compatriot Desiree Wilson, driving Williams in 1980, became the first and only woman in history to win a Formula One race. True, the stage held at the Brands Hatch track was held as part of the British Formula 1 Championship.
Rugby and football are very popular sports in the country. So, in 2007, the South African national rugby union team (Springbox) became a two-time World Cup winner, beating England in the final with a score of 15:6 [source].
In 2010, South Africa hosted the FIFA World Cup.
Useful data for tourists about South Africa, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, the currency of South Africa, the cuisine, the features of visa and customs restrictions in South Africa.
Geography of South Africa
The Republic of South Africa (SAR) is a state located at the southern tip of the African continent. It borders Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Swaziland. It is washed by the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean.
Most of the country is occupied by high flat plateaus "karru" and low (up to 2500 m) mountains, only a narrow strip of plains stretches along the coast, separated from the elevated regions by a ridge of the Drakens (Great Ledge) and Cape Mountains. The highest point in the country is Mount Mont-au-Source (3299 m).
State
State structure
Republic with a presidential form of government. Independent member of the British Commonwealth. The legislature is a bicameral parliament (the Senate and the National Assembly). Each of the 9 provinces of the country has its own parliament, legislature and government, accountable to the Prime Minister of South Africa.
Language
Official language: Afrikaans and 10 other languages
Afrikaans is spoken by Afrikaans (descendants of the Dutch) and most mestizos, English is spoken by almost all whites and Asians, some Africans. Most Africans speak their own languages.
Religion
Religion - Christians (mostly Protestants) - 68%, followers of local beliefs - 28%, Muslims, Hindus, Jews.
Currency
International name: ZAR
The South African rand is equal to 100 cents. In circulation there are banknotes of 200 (orange), 100 (magenta), 50 (pink), 20 (brown) and 10 (green) rand, coins in denominations of 5 (silver), 2 and 1 rand, as well as 50, 20, 10 , 5, 2 and 1 cent. In circulation are coins of both old and new issues, the denominations of which, with different denominations, are quite similar to each other. For cash payments, only the local currency is used.
Foreign currency can be exchanged at airports, train stations, hotels and numerous bank branches. It is relatively unprofitable to exchange money in hotels, as the exchange rate is usually somewhat overpriced and a commission fee is charged (approximately 1%). It is necessary to keep currency exchange receipts for reverse conversion when leaving the country.
All major shops, hotels and restaurants accept major credit cards. Only cash is used for payments at gas stations. Traveler's checks can be cashed at banks and tourist offices (commission approx. 1%).
History of South Africa
The territory of South Africa in ancient times was inhabited by Bushmen, Hottentots and Bantu peoples, but after the discovery in 1488 by the Portuguese of the southern tip of Africa, colonization of the country began. In 1652, the first European settlement was founded by the Dutch East India Company. The history of South Africa is marked not only by the conquest of territory by aliens, but also by a fierce struggle (especially after the discovery of diamond deposits) between the descendants of the Dutch settlers, who formed a special ethnic community - the Boers, and England. The struggle ended with the formation on the basis of two Boer republics in 1910 of the Union of South Africa (since 1961 - the Republic of South Africa) as part of the British Commonwealth.
Popular Attractions
South Africa Tourism
Where to stay
South Africa is a country of contrasts: here you can enjoy wonderful nature, excellent hunting and gorgeous beaches. The main tourist destinations are national parks, major cities and the coast. It is there that hotels of world hotel chains and national hotel brands are located - Southern Sun Hotel Holdings, Inns and Protea Hotels, Sun Hotels International and Karos Hotel.
The hotel infrastructure is diverse - from economy hotels to luxury five-star hotels. All of them are quite high-class, even three-star hotels are prestigious and offer tourists quality service, cleanliness and comfort.
In South Africa, there is no traditional European hotel classification, but most hotels have a star classification, depending on the quality and quantity of services provided. Most motels, boarding houses, hostels and beach cottages are not classified at all.
One of the most budgetary types of accommodation is camping in national parks, which, in addition to tent accommodation, can offer a shower, a kitchen and a shop. The so-called "hotels on wheels", which offer a fairly high level of service, are unique for this country and are in great demand.
An ideal option for unpretentious tourists would be accommodation in youth hotels (hostels). Usually they offer multi-bed rooms with a bathroom on the floor. Meals are not included in the room rate.
African safari lovers can stay in camps - tarpaulin chalets on wooden platforms.
Guesthouses - family hotels are scattered throughout South Africa. The cost of accommodation in such hotels depends on the number of services provided.
On the coast and nature reserves, most hotels are so-called bungalow complexes or loggias. The presence of a restaurant and a bathroom in the room is a must. Meals are mainly organized according to the "all inclusive" system, or - full board.
Office Hours
Banks are open on weekdays from 9:00 to 15:30, on Saturday - from 8:30 to 11:00. ATMs operate around the clock, as well as bank offices at airports.
Purchases
Value Added Tax (VAT, 14%) is included in the price of all goods and services. VAT refund is possible at the airport at the "VAT REFUND" counter upon presentation of a refund receipt (issued in the store). At the same time, tourists must also present a valid passport, all required forms of documents and cash receipts, as well as the goods themselves, and the minimum purchase amount must exceed 250 rand. In the event that the amount of VAT itself exceeds 3 thousand rand, compensation is often issued non-cash, by bank transfer to the account.
Medicine
Yellow fever vaccination certificate required. It is recommended to take action against malaria. International health insurance is required.
Drinking water and most local soft drinks are generally safe to drink, but it is still recommended to use commercially packaged mineral or drinking water. The quality of food in the vast majority of cafes and restaurants meets sanitary standards. Street stalls and bistros are also considered safe.
Safety
All reasonable precautions should be taken both in regard to things and in regard to personal safety. Traveling alone is frankly dangerous. You should always gather a company before you go swimming, walking in the mountains or going hiking. It is not recommended to travel alone in buses, fixed-route taxis and trains in the evenings.
Credit card fraud is very common in South Africa.
Emergency Phones
Police - 10111.
Criminal police - 0800-111-213.
Ambulance - 10117 or 999.
Rescue Service - 1022.
National features of South Africa. Traditions
Since the autumn of 2006, the country has been implementing an extensive and consistent program to limit smoking.
Republic of South Africa.
The name of the country is due to the geographical location of the country.
South Africa area. 1221000 km2.
Population of South Africa. 46,000 thousand people
Administrative divisions of South Africa. The state is divided into 9 provinces.
Form of government of South Africa. Republic.
Head of State of South Africa. The president.
Supreme legislature of South Africa. The bicameral parliament is the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces.
Supreme executive body of South Africa. Government.
Ethnic composition of South Africa. 77% are Africans, 12% are Europeans and their descendants, 11% are Asians.
South African currency. Rand = 100 cents.
Climate of South Africa. There are 20 climatic zones on the territory of the state. The region of the Natal province is characterized by elevated, which is inherent in the hot tropical. In the Cape Town area reigns, which is characterized by dry hot summers and mild winters. The rest of the state is characterized by a climate. The climate in South Africa is more than in other countries located at the same latitudes, this is due to the sufficient height above sea level and the proximity of ocean currents. more falls in the east (1000-2000 mm per year), the least - in (less than 100 mm).
Flora of South Africa. The flora of South Africa is rich - at least 20,000 species of plants grow here. From here, many flowers were once taken out, which are now common in - among them geranium, gladiolus, daffodil. There are more than 5,000 species of plants found in the Cape Town area that no longer grow in any other country in the world. A silver tree has been preserved, the flower of which is the national symbol of South Africa. The main part of the country -.
Fauna of South Africa. Among the representatives of the animal world of South Africa are elephant, rhinoceros, zebra, lion, giraffe, cheetah, aardvark, antelope, hyena, golden mole, tarsier, various types of birds. and lakes. The largest rivers - and. Attractions. In Cape Town - the Castle of Good Hope, the South African Museum, which presents the findings of archaeological excavations in the vicinity and samples of rock art of the Bushmen.
Useful information for tourists
Tips in a restaurant are 10-12% of the total order value (including drinks), porter service is from 2 to 5 rand per piece of luggage, a driver guide is 15-20 rand per person per day of work. No vaccinations are required, unless you are planning a trip to the northeastern regions (areas where the malaria mosquito is present). Along with taking antimalarial drugs, it is recommended to wear long sleeves and use insecticides. Malaria mosquitoes are most active at dusk. Air conditioners and fans also reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
