WHEN TO TRAVEL to South Africa

Location

Climate

Major cultural events and public holidays in South Africa

South Africa is a country rich in cultural diversity, and there's always something to celebrate or discover. Here are some of the major cultural events and public holidays you might want to consider when choosing the time of your trip:

1. New Year's Day (January 1st): Traditional celebration of the start of the calendar year.
2. Liberty Day (April 27): Commemoration of South Africa's first democratic election in 1994.
3. Youth Day (June 16): Remembering the student uprising in Soweto on June 16, 1976.
4. Heritage Day (September 24): Celebration of the cultural heritage and diverse communities that make up South Africa.
5. Day of Reconciliation (December 16): Commemoration of the end of apartheid and the start of a new era of democracy in South Africa.
6. Christmas Day (December 25) and Good Deeds Day (December 26): Traditional Christian celebrations of the birth of Jesus and sharing with the less fortunate.

Other major cultural events include the Cape Town Jazz Festival in March, considered the biggest musical event on the African continent, and the Grahamstown National Arts Festival in June and July, the biggest arts festival in southern Africa.

Low and high season for travel in South Africa

As a general rule tourist season in South Africa is divided into two main periods: high season and low season. High season generally corresponds to the hottest, driest months, while low season coincides with the coldest, rainiest months.

High season (November to March)

The period from November to March is considered to be the high tourist season in South Africa. During this period, the weather is generally warm and sunny, making it an ideal time to visit beaches, enjoy outdoor activities and go on safari. However, accommodation and flight prices tend to be higher during the high season, and some tourist attractions can be crowded.

Low season (April to October)

The period from April to October is considered to be the busiest time of the year. low tourist season in South Africa. During this period, the weather is generally cooler and wetter, which can make some outdoor activities less enjoyable. However, this period also offers advantages, such as cheaper accommodation and flights, and fewer crowds in tourist areas. What's more, some animals are easier to spot on safari during the dry season, which runs from May to September.

Tips for choosing the best time to go to South Africa

To help you decide when to travel to South Africa, here are some additional tips to consider:

• Reverse seasons South Africa: Don't forget that the seasons in South Africa are the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere. The southern summer runs from November to February, while winter takes place from June to August.
• Regional climate The climate in South Africa varies considerably from region to region. For example, Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, while Johannesburg has a subtropical climate with rainy summers and cool, dry winters.
• Planned activities Depending on the activities you wish to undertake during your stay in South Africa, certain times of the year may be more appropriate than others. For example, if you're planning a safari, the dry season (May to September) is often considered the best time to observe wildlife.
• Your budget constraints As mentioned above, accommodation and airfares tend to be higher during the peak tourist season. If you're on a budget, you might consider traveling during the off-season to save money.

Immigration statistics for South Africa

The country has experienced significant increase in the number of immigrants in recent decades. According to South African government data, the foreign population almost doubled between 2003 and 2020, rising from 900,000 to around 1.7 million.

Geographical origins of immigrants

The main sources of immigration to South Africa come from neighboring countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Zimbabwe, THE Mozambique, THE Lesotho and the Namibia. However, the country also attracts immigrants from other parts of the world, notably Asia and Europe.

Reasons for immigration

The reasons why people choose to settle in South Africa are diverse, ranging from the search for economic opportunities to family reunification, study or escape from conflict in their home country.

Most popular visas in South Africa

There are several types of visa available for people wishing to settle in or visit South Africa. Here are the most popular visas:

• Temporary visitor visa This visa is issued to people wishing to enter South Africa for a specific period, generally for tourism, business or visiting relatives.
• Student visa Foreign students wishing to study at a South African institution must obtain this visa.
• Work visa For qualified foreign workers who have received a job offer from a South African company.
• Permanent residence permit This type of visa allows foreigners to live and work in South Africa indefinitely.

Visa application process

To apply for a visa, applicants must follow a number of steps, including submitting specific documents, paying an application fee and attending interviews withimmigrants selection board. Depending on the type of visa requested and individual circumstances, the process can be complex and take several months.

International tourism figures for South Africa

As well as being a popular destination for immigrants, South Africa is also a major tourist destination. a major tourist attraction. The country welcomed nearly 16 million international visitors in 2019, generating considerable revenue for the local economy.

Tourists' geographical origins

Tourists to South Africa mainly come from Europe (notably the UK, Germany and the Netherlands), North America and Asia. However, the country also attracts many visitors from other African countries.

Popular tourist attractions

South Africa offers a multitude of tourist attractions to suit all tastes, including :

• Kruger National Parkone of the world's most famous nature reserves, where tourists can observe African wildlife in its natural habitat.
• Cape Townwith its spectacular beaches, lively nightlife and diverse culinary scene.
• The wine route which passes through some of the country's most picturesque wine-growing regions, allowing visitors to sample some of South Africa's finest vintages.
• Historical heritage of the country, including sites linked to apartheid and the struggle for freedom, such as the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg and Robben Island.