The provinces of South Africa

South Africa's provinces vary greatly in size, geography, population and wealth.

Western Cape is one of the largest provinces in South Africa. This region offers a multitude of adventure possibilities and trails to explore. Blessed with stunning scenery, pleasant climate, good agriculture land and rich fish resources, the "fairest Cape" has a rich history and culture to go with its fabled tourist attractions - Table Mountain, Robben Island, the winelands, among others. Cape Town - the "Mother City" is the provincial capital and the home of the national parliament. It is also the home of many leading corporations.

The story of Eastern Cape is the story of migration and the ultimate search for a better life. Many people have found a better life here and settled down to tame the land for future generations. Today, the province is renowned as a premier tourist destination, popular for the many adventure opportunities, the pleasant coastal conditions and the beautiful scenery.

Mpumalanga, formerly known as the Eastern Transvaal, is one of South Africa's top tourist destinations. People are drawn by the magnificent scenery, by the fauna and flora and by the saga of the 1870s gold rush era and a wealth of fascinating tribal legends. Aptly known as "Paradise Country", few regions in the world can match the extraordinary beauty of the Lowveld and escarpment. Mountains, panoramic passes, valleys, rivers, waterfalls and forests characterise the landscape. This is also Big Game Country, the setting for dozens of sanctuaries teeming with wildlife and birds.

Kwazulu Natal has diverse and spectacular landscapes with a wealth of plant and animal species to match. Its geography ranges from sandy beaches through rolling hills to the magnificent Drakensberg mountains. The history of the province has left a fascinating cultural mix of British, Boer, Indian and Zulu and interesting historical sites for the tourist to visit in addition to the fine beaches and natural reserves.

South Africa’s northernmost province, Limpopo, borders onto Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Botswana, making it the ideal entrance to Africa. Named after the great Limpopo River that flows along its northern border, this province is rich in wildlife, spectacular scenery and a wealth of historical and cultural treasures.

The country's largest province, Nothern Cape has the smallest population. Kimberly, its capital and only city, is the diamond capital of the world.

North West's economy is based on mining and tourism. Mining - primarily diamonds, gold and platinum accounts for more than half of GGP and 25% of emloyment. Tourism centres around the Sun City complex, Pilanesberg National Park and the Magaliesberg Mountains.

Gauteng is the country's financial and industrial heartland and the most densely populated province. Vibrant, exciting Johannesburg, the provincial capital of Gauteng offers visitors a large selection of recreational, cultural and historical attractions.

Free State is the third largest province. Its is often referred to as "The Golden Country". Fields of corn and golden sunflowers embellish the landscape, and the gold deposits beneath the ground are a source of great wealth. One third of the country's gold is produced in the region where modern towns with shopping centres, hotels, restaurants, parks and sports facilities have mushroomed.