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Country Info > South Africa >Visa Info > Travel Basics >Safari Tours > Beaches > National Parks >Arts & Culture > Shopping & Watersport > Govt & Economy

South Africa: Country Info

South Africa is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. Exotic combinations of landscapes, people, history and culture offer a larger-than-life experience for the traveler in search of a truly unique and inspiring experience.

South Africa's vast landscape includes savannahs, snow-covered mountains, forests, tropical swamps, endless beaches, tranquil rivers and… bustling urban epicenters.

South Africa is known for its abundant wildlife (and of course the famous "big five") as well as its fantastic birding and eco-tourism possibilities. However, the real heart of this vibrant country is the diversity of people and cultures. South Africa's family tree goes way back to the start of time.

The country has been touted as the Cradle of Humankind, because it was here that archaeologists discovered 2,5 million year old fossils as well as the 100 000 year old remains of modern humankind. Many of South Africa's cultures have their roots in an ancient world, whilst some of the cultures are relatively new - and others, well, are a fascinating mix of both.

The People
According to a statistics census taken in 2001 (Census '01), South Africa's population was recorded as 44,8 million people. The results across the racial groups were as follows:

• African: 79,0%
• White: 9,6%
• Coloured: 8,9%
• Indian/Asian: 2,5%

Diverse Cultures
The South African population consists of the following groups:

• The Nguni people (including the Zulu, Xhosa and Swazi), who account for two-thirds of the population.
• The Sotho-Tswana people, who include the Southern, Northern and Western Sotho (Tswana)
• The Tsonga
• The Venda
• Afrikaners (of Dutch origin)
• English
• Coloureds
• Indians
• Khoi and San people
• Other: the remainder consist of people who have immigrated to South Africa from the rest of Africa, Europe and Asia and who maintain a strong cultural identity.

Languages
There are 11 official languages spoken in South Africa, namely: English, Afrikaans, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, Sesotho, Setswana, siSwati, Tshivenda and Xitsonga. However, English is largely spoken in most urban areas of the country.

Religion
Almost 80% of South Africa's population adheres to the Christian faith. Other major religious groups are the Hindus, Muslims and Jews. A minority of South Africa's population does not belong to any of the major religions, but regard themselves as traditionalists or of no specific religious affiliation.
Freedom of worship is guaranteed by the Constitution, and official policy is one of non-interference in religious practices.