SEPTEMBER is always a celebration of the many cultural and tourism treasures found within South Africa.
With Covid-19 continuing to restrict any travel outside of the country’s borders, there’s no better time to start exploring your very own backyard than now.
In preparation of this, here’s a look at some of South Africa’s key cultural sites and symbols.
National symbols
These unique symbols are key representations of South Africa’s incredible biodiversity, and used to promote the country’s rich natural heritage. They include:
* National flower: king protea
* National tree: real yellowwood
* National animal: springbok
* National fish: galjoen
– National bird: blue crane
South African heritage sites
Mzansi is home to an incredible eight World Heritage Sites as proclaimed by UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation).
UNESCO’s programmes contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals defined in Agenda 2030, as adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015.
1. iSimangaliso Wetland Park in KZN
In the heart of Zululand is one of the world’s most treasured biodiversity sites. Formerly known as the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, iSimangaliso consists of one of Africa’s largest estuary systems, and boasts the continent’s southernmost coral reefs.
2. Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park in KZN
Another nearby heritage gem, this park has the largest concentrated series of rock art paintings on the continent, and the highest mountain range south of Kilimanjaro.
3. Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng
A site that contains the origins of humankind, this world-revered location has unearthed hominid fossil sites at Swartkrans, Sterkfontein and Kromdraai.
4. Mapungubwe Heritage Site in Limpopo
Known as the ‘place of the stone of wisdom’, Mapungubwe is believed to be the sub-continent’s first realm, lasting some 400 years before being abandoned around the 14th century. Artefacts found here indicate that members of the realm traded in gold and ivory with Egypt, India and China.
5. Robben Island in the Western Cape
The famed incarceration site of many political prisoners – Nelson Mandela among them – Robben Island attracts international tourists wanting a glimpse into the country’s troubled, yet iconic past.
6. The Cape Floral Kingdom in the Western Cape
This is one of the world’s richest plant areas with 18 global biodiversity hotspots. Within this heritage site are a number of protected areas, including:
* Table Mountain
* De Hoop Nature Reserve
* Boland mountain complex
* Groot Winterhoek wilderness area
* Swartberg mountains
* Bosmansbos wilderness area
* Cederberg wilderness area
* Baviaanskloof
* Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
7. Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape in the Northern Cape
This covers 160 000 hectares of dramatic mountainous desert, with visitors able to witness amazing biodiversity throughout the Richtersveld National Park.
8. Vredefort Dome in the Free State
For some astronomical history, South Africa’s famous Vredefort Dome is the place to visit.
Around two billion years ago, a meteorite measuring 10 kilometres in diameter hit this area, creating an enormous impact crater that is now the site of incredible natural beauty.
Outside of South Africa’s UNESCO heritage sites, there is a wealth of exciting natural, cultural and recreational sites and activities to enjoy.
Support local this September, and get exploring!
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