Study Abroad in South Africa

Study Abroad in South Africa

Studying Abroad in South Africa is available in a variety of different forms including Volunteer & Intern, etc.

South Africa Overview

South Africa is a country of extremes: It is a country of arid semideserts and subtropical coastlines; of fertile vineyards and barren snow-capped peaks; of isolated Zulu villages and world-class cosmopolitan cities. This beautiful stage is set for the daily drama of "one of the world's greatest experiments in racial harmony," a post-Apartheid world. It is likely to be not only eye opening and fascinating, but also challenging and intense. Despite a well-developed infrastructure compared to some other countries in the region, South Africa is haunted by townships stuffed with too many people, hunger, poverty and one of the highest HIV/AIDS infection rates in the world.

Despite such a conflicted history, South Africa undoubtedly has many natural and historical attractions. Visitors will be relieved to find such a temperate climate on what is normally a very hot continent. South Africa is home to some magnificent wildlife such as the African elephant, white rhino, hippopotamus, giraffe and cheetah. World renown for their wine, South Africans have a fierce pride in their beautiful and varied country.

Table Mountain National Park - The main attraction here is clearly the flat-topped 3562 ft (1086 m) Table Mountain. The Cableway runs regularly throughout the year and makes the summit's awesome views accessible to all. The park takes up three-quarters of the peninsula shared with Cape Town.

Victoria and Albert Waterfront - Known to the Cape Town locals simply as "Waterfront", this tourist district features shops, restaurants, bars, cinemas and other entertainment. Harbor tours or trips to former prison Robben Island can be booked here.

Pretoria and Johannesburg - Most flights to Southern Africa will filter through Johannesburg, so it is an easy stop on your trip. Here you will find the administrative seat of the country, as well as lingering apartheid scars. Jo'burg, as it is more commonly known, offers hip rejuvenated districts, constitution hill, live music, museums and more. Pretoria is the smaller and more laid-back capital, driven by university students and military institutions.

Kwazulu-Natal - This province is a perfect example of the eclectic cultures and natural wonders that South Africa has to offer. Durban is the metropolitan heart, coastal beaches attract local holiday-makers and the north is home to the traditional settlements of Zululand. In the west, you'll find the wild uKahlamba-Drakensberg mountain range, which offers fantastic hiking opportunities.