Countries Surrounding South Africa
Introduction
South Africa is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. However, there is much more to explore beyond its borders. The countries surrounding South Africa offer a wealth of experiences, from natural wonders to cultural immersion, adventure sports to historical landmarks. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey to discover the top attractions, hidden gems, and budget-friendly tips for exploring these neighboring countries.
Top Attractions
Each of the countries surrounding South Africa has its own unique charm and attractions. Zimbabwe is home to the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Botswana offers a chance to see the Big Five on a safari in the Okavango Delta. Mozambique’s stunning beaches and coral reefs are a paradise for snorkelers and divers. Namibia’s towering sand dunes and rugged landscapes are like nowhere else on earth. And Swaziland’s traditional villages and cultural festivals offer a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are well-known, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover in the countries surrounding South Africa. In Zimbabwe, the Matobo Hills offer stunning rock formations and ancient rock art. In Botswana, the Makgadikgadi Pans are an otherworldly landscape of salt flats and baobab trees. Mozambique’s Ilha de Mozambique is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Namibia’s Fish River Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the world, but lesser known than its famous cousin in the United States. And in Swaziland, the Mantenga Cultural Village is a living museum of traditional Swazi culture.
Food Scene
The food scene in the countries surrounding South Africa is as diverse as their landscapes. Zimbabwean cuisine is influenced by its African and colonial heritage, with dishes like sadza (a type of porridge) and biltong (dried meat). Botswana’s cuisine features a lot of meat, including braai (barbecue) and seswaa (shredded beef or goat). Mozambique’s seafood is renowned, with dishes like peri-peri prawns and matapa (a stew made with cassava leaves and peanut sauce). Namibia’s cuisine is influenced by its German colonial heritage, with dishes like schnitzel and bratwurst. And Swaziland’s cuisine features a lot of maize-based dishes, like pap (similar to polenta) and umncweba (dried fish).
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling in the countries surrounding South Africa can be affordable, if you know some budget-friendly tips. Accommodation can be cheaper if you stay in guesthouses or campsites instead of hotels. Public transportation is often the cheapest way to get around, but be prepared for long journeys on bumpy roads. Eating at local markets or street vendors can be a great way to save money and try authentic cuisine. And many attractions, like national parks or historical sites, have lower entrance fees for locals or residents, so it can be worth checking if you qualify.
Outdoor Adventures
The countries surrounding South Africa offer a wealth of outdoor adventures. Zimbabwe’s Zambezi River is a popular spot for white-water rafting, while Botswana’s Okavango Delta is a unique destination for canoe safaris. Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago is a paradise for snorkeling and diving, and Namibia’s Skeleton Coast is a challenging destination for experienced surfers. Swaziland’s Malolotja Nature Reserve offers hiking trails and zipline adventures.
Historical Landmarks
The countries surrounding South Africa have a rich history, and there are many historical landmarks to explore. Zimbabwe’s Great Zimbabwe ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the country’s ancient civilization. Botswana’s Tsodilo Hills are home to thousands of rock paintings that offer a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric culture. Mozambique’s Island of Mozambique has a rich history of Portuguese colonialism and trade, and Namibia’s Twyfelfontein rock engravings are a reminder of the country’s ancient San people. Swaziland’s Mantenga Cultural Village offers a chance to learn about the country’s traditional culture and customs.
Family-Friendly Activities
The countries surrounding South Africa offer plenty of family-friendly activities. Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park is a great spot for a family safari, while Botswana’s Chobe National Park offers boat safaris to see elephants and hippos. Mozambique’s beaches and coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling and swimming, and Namibia’s Etosha National Park is a great destination for family wildlife sightings. Swaziland’s Ezulwini Valley is a popular spot for family-friendly activities like horseback riding and cultural tours.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For travelers who want to venture off the beaten path, there are plenty of unique experiences to be had in the countries surrounding South Africa. Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park offers canoe safaris that allow you to get up close to wildlife on the riverbanks. Botswana’s Central Kalahari Game Reserve is a remote destination that offers a chance to see the Kalahari lions and other rare wildlife. Mozambique’s Lake Niassa is a secluded spot that offers a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. Namibia’s Spitzkoppe is a stunning landscape of granite peaks that offers hiking and stargazing. And Swaziland’s Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is a peaceful refuge for wildlife and a great spot for horseback riding.
Natural Wonders
The countries surrounding South Africa are home to some of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls is a must-see, with its thundering waterfalls and rainbow mist. Botswana’s Okavango Delta is a unique ecosystem of wetlands and savannas that supports a diverse range of wildlife. Mozambique’s Quirimbas Archipelago is a pristine marine reserve with coral reefs and mangrove forests. Namibia’s Namib Desert is the oldest desert in the world, with towering sand dunes that change color with the light. And Swaziland’s Malolotja Nature Reserve is a biodiverse landscape of forests, grasslands, and mountain peaks.
Vibrant Nightlife
While the countries surrounding South Africa are known for their natural beauty and outdoor adventures, there are also plenty of opportunities for vibrant nightlife. Zimbabwe’s Harare and Bulawayo offer lively music scenes, with genres like jazz and Afro-pop. Botswana’s Gaborone and Francistown have a growing club scene, with DJs and live music. Mozambique’s capital city, Maputo, is known for its nightlife, with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Namibia’s Windhoek has a range of bars and clubs, while Swakopmund offers a more laid-back atmosphere with beachside bars and restaurants.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience the local culture in the countries surrounding South Africa is to visit local markets. Zimbabwe’s Mbare Musika is a bustling market with fresh produce, clothing, and crafts. Botswana’s Maun Market offers a chance to buy traditional crafts and souvenirs. Mozambique’s Maputo Central Market is a vibrant spot to buy fresh seafood, spices, and fabrics. Namibia’s Oshetu Community Market is a great place to sample local food and learn about the culture. And Swaziland’s Manzini Market offers a range of crafts, textiles, and produce.
Beaches and Mountains
The countries surrounding South Africa offer a range of landscapes, from beaches to mountains. Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba is a popular spot for boating and fishing, while the Eastern Highlands offer stunning mountain scenery and hiking trails. Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans are a unique landscape of salt flats and baobab trees, while the Tsodilo Hills offer hiking and rock art exploration. Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago is a paradise for beach lovers, while Mount Gorongosa offers hiking and wildlife sightings. Namibia’s Skeleton Coast offers challenging surf breaks and shipwreck exploration, while the Fish River Canyon offers stunning canyon scenery. And Swaziland’s Malolotja Nature Reserve offers hiking trails and mountain biking.
Cultural Immersion
For travelers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture, there are plenty of opportunities in the countries surrounding South Africa. Zimbabwe’s Matobo Hills offer a chance to learn about the region’s ancient San people and their rock art. Botswana’s San people offer cultural tours and experiences that showcase their traditional way of life. Mozambique’s Island of Mozambique has a rich history of Portuguese colonialism and trade, and Namibia’s Himba people offer a chance to learn about their unique customs and traditions. Swaziland’s Mantenga Cultural Village offers a living museum of traditional Swazi culture, with dance performances and craft demonstrations.
Art and Music Scene
The countries surrounding South Africa have a rich artistic and musical heritage. Zimbabwe’s Shona sculpture is world-renowned for its intricate carvings, while the country’s music scene features genres like mbira and chimurenga. Botswana’s traditional music includes the kwaito genre, while the country’s visual arts scene is growing with galleries and exhibitions. Mozambique’s music scene includes genres like marrabenta and pandza, while the country’s contemporary art scene is gaining recognition. Namibia’s music scene includes genres like kwaito and Afro-pop, while the country’s visual arts scene is