Tourism has emerged as a major industry in South Africa, which is hardly surprising, given its diversity and beauty. South Africa is a land of contrasts, from the warm seas of the Indian ocean, to the chilly, fish-rich Atlantic. It has deserts and mountains, tropical forests, and wetlands filled with birds, as well as savannah patrolled by pachyderms, lions, leopard and antelope.

The country’s constitution talks about “celebrating diversity” in its people – there are 11 main indigenous Tourists will find a warm welcome from South Africa and its people, and a country of surprising sophistication and fascinating indigenous music and culture.

Tourism options in South Africa range from big game viewing to extreme sports, luxury sailing, fresh or saltwater fishing, hunting, going down a gold or diamond mine, visiting Bushmen art or some of the earliest hominid sites in the world, and a vast array of activities, ranging from beach tanning to climbing high mountains.

The Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA) is found in major shopping centres, especially in Johannesburg (Rosebank Mall and Sandton City), and has an excellent range of holiday and recreational ideas and helpful staff. Click here to go to the GTA website for specific Gauteng tourism information. The South African Tourism Agency (Satour) has an office in the town you are visiting and will be delighted to answer your queries. The official South Africa tourism website has in-depth coverage of all aspects of the country and tourist attractions.