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Formally called the Republic of South Africa, this country is located at the southernmost tip of the African continent. In recent times, the South African government is heavily promoting the tourist attractions in the country to generate revenue and boost the economy. South Africa is the largest economy amongst the African nations. A major cricket playing nation, South Africa is no stranger to cricketing enthusiasts all over the world. Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa, while Pretoria is the executive capital.

Archeological findings have shown evidence that South Africa was one of the earliest settlements inhabited by humans. In mid 17th century, South Africa was colonized by the Dutch. Unfortunately often it is that a country’s natural resources spell trouble for a country and its natives. The discovery of mineral wealth in South Africa (diamonds and gold) sparked the Boer War between the British and the Boers (the original Dutch settlers in the region) resulting in the British colonization of South Africa in the mid 19th century.

An unfortunate part of South Africa’s recent history has been its apartheid policies that supported racial segregation of South African citizens. However, due to efforts of leaders like Nelson Mandela and pressure from the rest of the world, the apartheid legislation was repealed and the country held its first universal elections in 1994.

South Africa is home to a number of climatic zones, given its unique topography. In the farthest northwest, the climate is desert like with extreme summers and winters. On the other hand, the extreme southwestern region of the country experiences dry summers and mild winters, accompanied by some rainfall. The eastern area along the Indian Ocean coastline has a sub tropical climate that supports lush vegetation.

South Africa exhibits the highest diversity in its population amongst all the African nations. People of multi-ethnic origins coexist in South Africa, and the constitution recognizes as many as eleven languages as official. The majority of the people in South Africa (close to 80%) are Christians. A small minority makes up the rest of the major faiths such as Judaism, Hinduism and Islam.