South Africa is the country where one can walk in forests or mountains, enjoy a day in a dessert and see grasslands and wetlands. All in one place and without the need to cross the borders. Truth be told, South Africa is so different from what many people imagine it to be that one will be discovering a whole new world while staying in it. Many of those who have been to the country say that it’s unforgettable. South Africa is the destination you want to come back to again and again because of its breathtaking beauty, amazing dunes, wildlife and views.
Some people mistakenly believe that the country is a dangerous place, staying in which may have a negative effect on the life and health of a person. In fact, the country can boast high safety in terms of water to drink. Apart from water, one can choose from a variety of wines and beers. South Africa is home to the longest wine route, and the plantations located there produce grapes that are used for the production of high-quality wine.
Today, we’ll share with our readers a set of interesting facts about South Africa, thus hoping to help them learn more about the country. Here are the facts we’ve gathered…
South Africa Facts
1. South Africa is the country where the first successful heart transplantation was carried out
Innovations in the spheres that play a big role in the life of society are always regarded as risky. This is especially true for techniques and methods developed in the area of medicine because any wrong move can lead to lethal consequences.
An interesting fact about South Africa is that the first successful heart transplantation was performed in one of the Cape Town hospitals in 1967 was a revelation in the world of medicine. The doctor who performed it went on to perform the first lung transplantation that was also a success. The name of Dr. Christiaan Bernard will forever stay in the history of medicine because he didn’t give up under the pressure of fear and managed to save many lives.
2. The country is among the top diamond producers
Even though Russia produces more diamonds than South Africa, the diamonds mined in Botswana are more expensive due to their size and quality. The best sources of diamonds are the mines in Kimberly and Jagersfontein. Before the mining began, special measures were taken so that to be able to extract the precious stones right from the underground. The people working on the mines annually extract diamonds worth 8.4 million carats, a fun South Africa fact.
3. South Africa is multilingual
Do you know that South Africa is also known under the name “Rainbow Nation”? The diversity of this country is showing not only in the number of ethnic groups living in it but also in the number of languages spoken in it daily.
Apart from English and Afrikaans, the most popular languages in the country are Zulu and Xhosa. In general, there are as many as 11 languages that are stated to be the official languages of the country, with an average native speaking fluently at least 3 of them. The country is an ideal place where one can practice and improve the skill of speaking various African languages. If you’re currently learning one of these languages, you definitely need to visit South Africa.
4. The country’s natives love meals based on meat
Since people living in the country love meat, it’s logical that their traditional meal is based on this ingredient. Do not forget to try their traditional meal called Braai while staying in the country. Apart from grilled meat, the dish may include any food grilled over fire.
5. The country serves home to all the animals included in the Big Five
That is one of the factors speaking in favor of South Africa as a tourist destination. An interesting fact about South Africa is that it is the country where one can see lions, cheetahs, elephants, rhinoceros and cape buffalos in their natural habitat.
6. South Africa actively participates in the processes that help to stabilize the world economy
The economic crisis and various issues linked with the economy and finance force countries all over the world to unite and take measures in order to fix the situation. South Africa is a member of BRICS, an association that also includes Russia, China, Brazil and India. Together the countries represent a serious force that can influence the world economy positively.
7. The country has a beach where penguins relax
The coastlines of South Africa seem convenient for penguins who first settled in the country back in 1992. The Boulders beach is popular among visitors during the peak season when penguins come and relax on it, an interesting fact about South Africa. If you plan to visit South Africa, visiting the beach in order to see penguins in their natural habitat should definitely be on your list of the things to do.
8. South Africa offers its guests an opportunity to try bungee jumping
You’re looking for the activities that will enable adrenaline rushing through your blood? You love extreme sports and are constantly looking for ways to get out of your comfort zone? If so, you’ll definitely have a chance to do it while in South Africa. The bridge above the Bloukrans river is the place where you can try bungee jumping, a fun fact about South Africa. Taking a huge leap from the highest bridge in South Africa is definitely one of those experiences one will never forget.
Conclusion
South Africa may not be as popular as European countries with their luxury resorts and expensive hotels. Nevertheless, the history and culture the country has deserve attention and will be interesting to any passionate traveler exploring the world.
We hope that the facts we shared with you today sparked your interest in the life of South Africa and its natives.
I hope that this article on South Africa facts was helpful. If you are interested, visit the Country Facts Page!
