Welcome to our world in one country

South Africa has one of the most unique and diverse tourism products in the world. Whether it be the breathtaking , scenery, incredible wildlife, the diversity of our people or the sophistication of our cities, South Africa can cater for the taste of every tourist.

The peaceful transition to democracy in our country was good news for all of us. Apart from the obvious benefits derived from it, we are now truly in a position to market our wonderful attractions. In this regard, we have embarked on a comprehensive international campaign - Explore South Africa - in which we invite the world to experience the new South Africa at first hand.

South Africa has taken its rightful place in the international tourism community, by becoming the 125th member of the World Tourism Organisation (WTO). While the country will continue to play a leading role in Southern Africa, we intend to share our expertise to the benefit of the entire region.

We assure potential visitors of a quality experience. South Africa really is a world in one country.

Walter Msimang

Executive Director of the South African Tourism Board (Satour)

Go Wild Explore South Africa

Many of us marvel at the exciting adventure-oriented things that other people do, but we have lots of excuses for not attempting them ourselves. No time. Not fit enough. Too risky, etc. etc... The truth is that you don't have to be young, super-fit or an expert to enjoy some of the things that seem so intimidating. Whether you're six years old or 60, there's an adventure option within your fitness range that will add a lot of fun to your life. There are plenty to choose from and the choice is growing all the time.

Intrepid, ultra-fit thrill-seekers opt for hair-raising stunts such as bungi jumping, riding the rapids, diving with great white sharks, and leaping from the skies with parachutes strapped to their backs. Hikers follow adventure trails, drinking in the sparkling air. Climbers scale the mountain peaks, and anglers stand thigh-high in freezing streams waiting for an elusive trout to snatch the fly. Popular options for the less energetic include bird-watching, snorkelling and hot air ballooning.

Those in the know say that South Africa's near perfect climate provides ideal conditions for ballooning. What's more, it doesn't require the slightest exertion. All you do is climb aboard a basket, wait for lift off, relax and enjoy fabulous birds-eye views of the countryside. The wind, the pilot and the crew do all the work, and at the end of the flight, a celebratory glass of champagne and a scrumptious brunch await you. No wonder ballooning is called the sport of the gods.

White water rafting can be either gentle or terrifying, depending on the river. Some, like the Doring in the Cape, are fast-flowing and steep. Others, including the Orange River, are calm and undemanding. You need to be reasonably fit for the really wild rivers, but most people who can swim can cope with the gentle conditions. Thrills and occasional spills, tranquillity, bird song, great scenery and convivial company provide the ideal ingredients for memorable excursion.

For snorkelling - the easiest (and cheapest) way of exploring the rich marine life of the underwater world - all you need is a pair of fins, a snorkel and a face mask. The rest is up to you. Scuba diving is in a different league altogether, and you should be a fairly good swimmer before thinking of taking the plunge. You'll also need specialized gear and a knowledge of the physical effects and potential dangers of the "foreign" environment. A course takes a minimum of five days and includes theory and practice sessions. According to some addicts, scuba diving can easily become an obsession.

You don't have to be an experienced rider to take part in a horseback safari, and in the saddle you'll probably get closer to game than you would on foot or in a vehicle. Novice riders quickly gain confidence, and those who've tried it say that the combination of riding and game-viewing is irresistible.

There are two good reasons why should consider a camel safari. It's less strenuous than riding a horse and it's easier and quicker than walking. Once you've mastered the knack of mounting from a kneeling position (the camel's, not yours), the rest is easy. Camels amble along at a surprising speed and your lofty position on top is the ideal vantage point from which to survey your surroundings.

When you've tried almost everything and you're looking around for something new, adventurous and challenging to do, you can always climb onto the back of an ostrich and gallop off into the Karoo.

Whatever you decide, go wild!