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Unity in diversity
Spirit of a nation
South Africans - always in a hurry to celebrate.
© Darling Lama Productions
Did you know?
Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Tutu are the only 2 Nobel winners in the world to live on the same street.
Determined. Passionate. Energetic. There are so many ways to describe the spirit of South Africa and its people, but perhaps the very best word is Ubuntu. You may have heard the word before, uttered by our leaders – or perhaps even the flower seller down the street or the friendly concierge at your hotel.
The word sums up who we are as a nation. A Zulu word, Ubuntu basically means 'humanity/compassion towards others. I am, because you are'. This attitude of compassion and humanity is felt all over the country – from our township home-stays to the humble rural farms to our city's busiest streets.
It's found in the smile of everyone you meet, in the rhythm of our music, in the thrum of a thousand vuvuzelas at a soccer stadium. We are a nation that knows how to make you feel welcome – and we know that making you feel at home is a gift to ourselves.
Those who have come before us have paved the way for our spirit to prosper and grow – Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison and came out to preach peace, Mahatma Ghandi formulated his philosophy of passive resistance on our very streets, and the diminutive Archbishop Tutu continues to show the world that dynamite comes in small, but potent, packages.
Just look at our modern day sporting heroes – Natalie du Toit, Oscar Pistorius, Baby Jake and others – and you'll know that we're a nation that refuses to look at limitations. Instead we focus on the arena of possibilities, and we welcome you to come and do the same.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
South African Tourism
www.southafrica.net
How to get here
South Africa is a long-haul destination - but worth every second you spent getting here.
Get around
For first-timers, guided tours are advised; for next-timers, self-drive journeys are recommended; for seasoned visitors, specialised guided tours are preferred.
What to eat
Try the local delicacies: the Malay food, the toasted mopani worm and, for the brave of tongue, the 'Smiley' - sheep's head.
What's happening
There are more than 250 festivals in South Africa throughout the year.