South Africa is a beautiful and diverse country with a number of attractions for visitors. Each of the nine provinces offer unique experiences for vistors to their environs. Sun-drenched beaches, bushveld teeming with wildlife and the bustling nightlife of the cities are just some of the possibilities in this world in country.

Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape offers some of the most varied landscapes in the country. From the ancient forests of Tsitsikamma, to the rugged coastline of the Wild Coast, to the arid expanse of the Great Karoo and the jagged edges of the southern Drakensberg, this province has a bit of everything. Sunshine is the one thing that is not in short supply here and the coastline is the premiere spot in South Africa for all manner of watersports. Surfing, sailing, angling and many others are just the beginning of what is available in the Eastern Cape and far from the all that is available.

Free State

To some people the Free State may not seem like the ideal destination, but there is more to this province than meets the eye. Some of the best game reserves in South Africa can be found in the Free State that house some of the most incredible collections of animal and plant life. The Free State also boasts some incredible scenery, especially the awe-inspiring rock formation at the Golden Gate National Park and the beautiful vistas at the Gariep Dam. Nestled in the middle of the country, the Free State is a bit of a lost treasure, just waiting to be found.

Gauteng

While it may be the smallest province, Gauteng is the bustling economic heart of South Africa. The twin cities of Johannesburg and Pretoria could not be more different. From the fast-paced life and bright lights of the City of Gold to the laid-back, tree-lined streets of the Jacaranda City, Gauteng is a cosmopolitan province built on gold and steeped in history. But there is more tot his province than money and skyscrapers. Just a short distance from the cities are the magnificient Magaliesberg and Hartbeespoort Dam where residents can get away into the wilderness of the Highveld. Though small, Gauteng offers visitors an experience they won't forget.

Kwa-Zulu Natal

In the Kingdom of the Zulus, visitors are treated to rolling green hills and golden, sun-drenched beaches. The coastline of the province offers world-class resorts and pristine towns near the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. The city of Durban is the epitomy of the Rainbow Nation with an eclectic mix of people calling the city home where nearly anything is for sale in the markets. Heading inland, one comes across historical towns and battlefields where the modern South African landscape was sculpted in conflict but where the hospitality has not diminished one bit.

Limpopo

Limpopo is about as far north as one can go without entering Africa. Like many of South Africa's northern provinces, Limpopo is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plantlife, but here, ancient history is also to be found. Explore the ancient caves that was once home to humanity's ancestors or explore the rugged valleys and riverine forests of the Soutpansberg. Relax a while at the warm spring in Bela Bela (Warmbaths) before going out to admire the natural splendour of the Waterberge. Discover why the Voortrekkers, who arrived here over a century ago, decided to stay.

Mpumalanga

In the far eastern reaches of the country, Mpumalanga is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful areas in the country. The Lowveld is dotted with escarpments, rocky outcroppings, winding rivers and ancient forests. Here, too, you will find the Big Five wandering across the bushveld as they did centuries ago. Visit one of the many reserves or the famous Kruger National Park. The area is also steeped in the history of its local people that have lived here since before the gold rush that drove people to dare the sometimes treacherous landscape in search of wealth. Mpumalanga offers scenic beauty and wild diversity in one, untouched package.

North West

The aptly named North West Province is probably most famous for Sun City. The famous resort attracts scores of people to enjoy its varieties of entertainments, but the province offers so much more. The entire area hosts a number of large and beautiful reserves. The Pilanesberg National Park, situated in the crater of a million year old volcano is the only of its type in the world. Madikew Game Reserve is proof that with a little work, any conservation effort can succeed. The Northwest Province is the perfect opportunity to take a chance to get away from it all.

Northern Cape

At first glance, the Northern Cape is little more than vast expanse of arid, flat land. Looking closer, it soon becomes apparent that this seemingly desolate area is a diamond in the rough. In the spring, the lifeless landscape is transformed into a colourful carpet of wildflowers and even in the driest season, hardy animals manage to survive in some of the harshest conditions in the world. But treasure hides beneath the land as well. From Kimberley, the first home of diamonds in South Africa to the alluvial mines along the coastline, the Northern Cape is famous for its diamonds. Between the nature reserves, quaint seaside towns and historical remnants, there is more to this province than meets the eye.

Western Cape

One of the most beautiful provinces in South Africa, the Western Cape is the perfect destination. At the very tip of the African continent, neslted between two oceans and majestic mountains, this province offers varied and wondrous attractions. The magical verdant forests of the Garden Route are stark contrast to the arid beauty of the Klein Karoo. Travel through winding mountain passes from the shimmering coastline to the Cape Winelands, where some of the best wines in the world can be found; or simply unwind on one of the many pristine beaches that dot the coastline. From bustling modern cities to quaint, quiet fishing villages, the Western Cape has something to offer for everyone.