Distance Chart between the South African Host Cities

Bloemfontien

998 km         Cape Town

667 km         1660 km       Durban

264 km         1405 km       598 km       Johanesburg

771 km         1779 km       689 km       358 km       Nelspruit

748 km         1736 km       929 km       311 km        320 km      Polokwane

635 km         756 km         927 km        1062 km     1373 km    1393 km      Port Elizabeth

441 km         1385 km       711 km       121 km        445 km      376 km         1104 km         Rustenburg

South African Host Cities and Stadiums:

Bloemfontein/ Mangaung: is the judicial capital of South Africa as well as the capital city of the Free State Province. In Dutch, the word Bloemfontein means “fountain of flowers” or in the local African language Sesotho, the word Mangaung, means “the place of cheetahs”. Bloemfontein/ Mangaung is a small and historic city in the centre of South Africa which is affectionately known as the “city of roses”. It has some wonderful memorials and monuments as well as thousands of rose bushes. In the nearby township of Batho, the African National Congress (ANC) was established in 1912 and Maphikela House, built in 1924, is recognised as the birth place of the ANC. The National Party of South Africa’s previous regime was also established in Bloemfontein in 1914. The city has a population of ± 650 000 and is situated on the South African Interior Plateau at ± 1350 metres above sea level. The city enjoys clear cool winters and hot sunny summers and is approximately 3,5 hour’s drive from Johannesburg; however one can fly from anywhere in South Africa or catch a train from most main stations.

Things to do: Enjoy the Bloemfontein Waterfront on Loch Logan, visit surrounding cultural villages, the Golden Gate National Park, go on safari and do numerous adventure activities including fishing, rafting, hiking, gliding and paragliding.

Facts:

Altitude: ± 1350 metres

Map Co-ordinates: 29” 06’ S, 26” 18’ E

Population: ± 650 000

International Dialling Code: +27

Free State Stadium: Originally, the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein was built in 1952 and is dedicated to all sporting events. It is undergoing major renovations for the world cup and receiving a second tier to the western pavilion. This will take the stadium’s seating capacity from 38,000 people to 48,000. These changes will be completed by June 2009 and it will host another major soccer event during 2009. This stadium is known for its safety and security, and boasts abundant parking for all events held at the stadium.

During the world cup, Free State Stadium will host several matches, five first round matches and one second round match.

Cape Town: known to many South Africans as the “Mother City” was first established in 1652 by Jan van Riebeeck as a supply station for the Dutch East India Company along their East Africa, India and Far East trading routes. The city is famous for its magnificent mountains and in particular, Table Mountain, which is the focal point of the city and cradles the City Bowl. The mountain is believed to be the most summited and most photographed mountain in the world and can be easily scaled by using the Table Mountain Cableway or more strenuously, and sometimes precariously, via a multitude of walks and climbs. Set within the Cape Floral Kingdom, the richest floral kingdom on earth, this natural environment, superb beaches and unbeatable scenery are why Cape Town is South Africa’s top tourist destination. Cape Town is also recognised for its wonderful restaurants, hotels, bars and beaches as well as hundreds of shops in the V&A (Victoria and Alfred) Waterfront which is situated on the Port of Cape Town. This is still a working harbour and visitors experience the arrival of cargo ships and tankers in this busy port. The renowned Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek wine routes are recognised as one of the most important wine areas in the world.

Things to do:  Shopping at the V&A Waterfront, drive the Cape Peninsula and visit Cape Point, Boulders Beach, Hout Bay, the Clifton beaches and Simonstown, climb Table Mountain, tour the wine routes, party the night away along Long Street and look out for the legendary, DJ Marshall!

Facts:

Altitude: ± 40 metres

Map Co-ordinates: 33” 59’ S, 18” 36’ E

Population: ± 3 million

Green Point Stadium: Green Point Stadium in Cape Town is being completely rebuilt for the Soccer tournament in 2010. The previous stadium, which held only 18,000 people, was demolished in 2007 and the brand new stadium will have a massive maximum capacity of 70,000 seats, minutes away from the centre of Cape Town.

Situated in the suburb of Green Point along major routes between town and the beach areas, Lions Head and the famous Table Mountain will form the backdrop to one of the world’s most beautiful stadiums, alongside the crisp Atlantic Ocean.

During the World Cup, Green Point Stadium will host several matches, five first round matches, one second round, one quarter-final and one semi-final.

Durban: is one of the most important ports in South Africa and the busiest in Africa. Along the 4 km “golden mile” in the centre of Durban there is a bustling mix of culture, hotels, restaurants and bars as well as swimming pools, promenades and jetties. The city has a population of ± 3 million, however Durban is most recognised for its beautiful beaches. uShaka Marine World is one of the world’s five biggest aquariums and within the complex, one finds many excellent sea-food restaurants, exciting shops as well as and a number of water activities including waterslides for adults and children alike. Year-round warm weather and the influence of the warm Indian Ocean will make Durban a popular destination during 2010.

Things to do: Catch a ride in a rickshaw, wonder the Victoria Embankment, visit uShaka Marine World, visit the Drakensberg or nearby Game Reserves, surf, relax or party at one of the many bars and clubs.

Facts:

Altitude: ± 10 metres

Map Co-ordinates: 29” 58’ S, 30” 57’ E

Population: ± 3 million

Durban Stadium: Durban Stadium is one of the brand new stadiums being built for 2010. The stadium will hold 70,000 supporters, which is a huge improvement to the current King’s Park which has a maximum capacity of 55,000 seats. Durban Stadium will form part of the Kings Park sporting precinct and will accommodate a variety of different sporting disciplines including athletics, rugby, golf and swimming to be used after the 2010 events.

The defining features of the Durban Stadium are 2 arches which will soar 100 meters above the roof and stretch across the whole stadium. During the world cup, Durban Stadium will host several matches- five first round matches, one second round and one semi-final.

Johannesburg: is by far the largest city in South Africa and is one of the 40 largest metropolitan areas in the world which covers ± 1 700 km². It is the economic centre of Africa and source of large scale diamond and gold mining. Originally established in 1898 after the discovery of gold on the Witwatersrand Reef, Johannesburg is also known as Jozi, Joburg and Egoli (Place of Gold). It is often mistakenly taken as the capital of South Africa however is not, but is, the provincial capital of Gauteng. It is also home to South Africa’s highest court, the Constitutional Court and Constitution Hill is a well known attraction within the city. Johannesburg also includes Soweto, an ellipses for South Western Townships which was an area originally populated by native African migrant gold miners. Johannesburg has a fast paced lifestyle with some of the best facilities within South Africa. It is believed that it produces over 4% of Africa’s GDP and that nearly 40% of major business deals for Africa are concluded in Johannesburg.

Things to do: Visit the Cradle of Humankind, do a Soweto tour, visit the Constitution Hill or Apartheid Museum, learn of ancient people at the Wits Origin’s Centre, explore the South African Museum Military History or wonder the Johannesburg Zoo.

Facts:

Altitude: ± 1700 metres

Map Co-ordinates: 26” 08’ S, 28” 14’ E

Population: ± 10 Million (Greater Johannesburg Metropolitan Area)

International Dialling Code: +27 11

Ellis Park Stadium: Ellis Park Stadium is legendary in international rugby and was the site of South Africa’s 1995 Rugby World Cup conquest. First built in 1928, then demolished and rebuilt for the sole purpose of rugby in 1982, Ellis Park is receiving a face lift for 2010 and will accommodate 61,000 people on completion.

Ellis Park is the home base for the Orlando Pirates Football Club, local heroes for “Johannians/ Johannesburgers”. In 2008, Coca-Cola bought the naming rights to the Stadium which is now called Coca-Cola Park; however in 2010, the original name will be used.

During the world cup, Ellis Park Stadium will host several matches, five first round matches, one second round and one quarter-final.

Soccer City: Soccer City will be the head quarters for the World Cup and is the second stadium in Johannesburg. It is the home of South African Soccer and SAFA (South African Football Association) and will host both the Opening Ceremony and the Final of the World Cup. It boasts a capacity of 94,700 and is the biggest stadium in South Africa. Soccer City is undergoing major renovations to enlarge the seating plan from 80,000 to the new figure of 94,700.

During the world cup, Soccer City Stadium will host several matches including the opening ceremony, five first round matches, one second round, one quarter final and the final.

Nelspruit: is situated in the fertile Crocodile River valley and is an area recognised for citrus orchards and timber forestry. It is also on route to Mozambique and the Port of Maputo which is the closest one to Johannesburg. In recent years Nelspruit has seen tremendous growth due to this as well as tourism. Nelspruit could be referred to as the gate to the southern Kruger National Park and many visitors arrive on scheduled flights into the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. There are a number of eco-tourism and adventure activity providers both within the park and the nearby escarpment and river rafting, safaris, ballooning and quad biking can easily be arranged.

Things to do:      Visit the Kruger National Park and live the thrill of a Big 5 Safari, take a leisurely drive along the Panoramic Route, walk a number of mountain trails and enjoy the exquisite scenery.

Facts:

Altitude: ± 650 metres

Map Co-ordinates: 25” 26’ S, 30” 59’ E

Population: ± 300 000

Mbombela Stadium (Mm-bom-bela): Nelspruit welcomes a brand new stadium for the World Cup, and it is called Mbombela Stadium. Its name is taken from the local municipality and siSwati origins and literally translates into 'many people together in a small space'.

Nelspruit’s innovatively designed stadium is a rounded-rectangular which will give all seats a great view of the field. The Mbombela Stadium will be completed by October 2009 and will have a capacity of 46,000.

During 2010, Mbombela Stadium will host four first round matches of the World Cup.

 Polokwane: is situated 60 km’s south of the Tropic of Capricorn in a warm and tropical climate. Known as the “Place of Safety” the city was established in the 1880’s after gold was discovered in the area and boats the lowest crime rate in South Africa.  Polokwane, previously called Pietersburg, is the capital of the Limpopo Province and well suited to entertain visitors during 2010. The region offers warm weather, beautiful surroundings, game reserves and excellent golf courses and is also a major contributor to South Africa’s agricultural sector. Beef farming forms an important part of this and you can be guaranteed of some delicious steaks from local restaurants and accommodation providers. Situated along many of South Africa’s highways which connect us with countries like Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia and Malawi, the area also has some of South Africa’s largest, gold, diamond and platinum mines as well as extensive forestry plantations. Some of South Africa’s most recognised hunting areas are found here and a number of agricultural farmers are converting to tourism and provide number of ecotourism products including 4x4 trails, safaris, cultural and historic tours among many other things. Polokwane is also a short 2,5 hour drive to the less touristic northern section of the Kruger National Park and a number of private game reserves nearby.

Facts:

Altitude: ± 1250 metres

Map Co-ordinates: 25” 52’ S, 29” 27’ E

Population: ± 500 000

Peter Makoba Stadium: Another stadium is being built at the existing Peter Makoba Complex, named after the inspiring political activist. Peter Makoba Stadium is being especially built for the World Cup and will add another 45,000 seats for to the existing Sports Complex which is mainly used as an international athletics venue in Limpopo.

In 2010, the Peter Makoba Stadium will be hosting the following four first round matches.

Port Elizabeth/ Nelson Mandela Bay: lies along the South-Eastern coastline of South Africa in the Eastern Province and comprises of over 40kms of wonderful, golden beaches. Also known as the friendly city, Port Elizabeth has lots of sunshine, warm water and fresh ocean breezes. This is the province where the Mr Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was born and spent his early childhood and it is after this great man, that the bay has understandably been named. The welcoming climate and access to some of the most fascinating areas of South Africa make the area a must to experience in 2010 and visitors will be able to enjoy numerous cultural activities, leisurely beach days, wonderful wildlife and nature, sports and adventure activities.

Things to do: Go surfing, visit a local community, enjoy blissful days on the beach, take a safari to Addo Elephant National Park and see the Big 5 plus whales and great white sharks, take a boat trip, shark cage diving or enjoy a marine mammal ocean experience.

Facts:

Altitude: ± 60 metres

Map Co-ordinates: 33” 59’ S, 25” 36’ E

Population: ± 1.5 million

Port Elizabeth Stadium: Port Elizabeth is the home town of Danny Jordaan, the legendary man responsible for bringing the World Cup to South Africa. As such, a brand new stadium is being built in his honour for the World Cup as P.E does not currently have an adequate football stadium for so many fans! Historically, all international games were hosted at the Eastern Province Rugby Stadium.

On completion, the Port Elizabeth Stadium will seat 48,000 people, which is good news for the locals of Port Elizabeth, as most of them are football fanatics, and nearly all football games are played to jam-packed stadiums.

During the 2010, Port Elizabeth Stadium will host several matches including five first round matches, one second round, one quarter final and the 3^rd and 4^th place match.

Pretoria/ Tswane: Pretoria, now known as Tswane, is the Administrative Capital of South Africa and is only ±60 km’s from Johannesburg. Here you will find some of South Africa’s most impressive buildings which range in style from the British Colonial Union Buildings to the Art Deco Voortrekker Monument. Church Street is the longest urban street in South Africa and one of the longest in the world and the famous church square, situated on the street is a must see for some fine examples of turn of the century architecture. Pretoria, or Tswane, is also affectionately known as the Jacaranda City. More than 100 000 jacaranda’s line the streets and just after the World Cup, will explode into a purple extravaganza as spring arrives and the trees come into bloom. The city is extremely historical and a tour to explore the town would be well worth it.

Things to do: Enjoy a historical tour of the city including the Voortrekker Monument, Union Buildings, Kruger House, Transvaal Museum, Church Square, Melrose House, Pretoria Forts and the Pretoria Botanical Gardens.

Facts:

Altitude: ± 1350 metres

Map Co-ordinates: 25” 44’ S, 28” 11’ E

Population: ± 2 million

Loftus Versveld Stadium: Loftus Versveld in Pretoria is an internationally recognised stadium used for both football and rugby and is named after Mr. Robert Owen Loftus Versveld who played a major role in bringing organised sport to Pretoria. Loftus Stadium hosted games during the 1995 Rugby World Cup and 1996 CAF Africa Cup of Nations. Before 2010, Loftus is undergoing minimal upgrades to meet FIFA’s requirements and will seat 50,000 supporters. The stadium will host games during the major soccer event held in 2009.

During the world cup, Loftus Versveld will host several matches - five first round matches and one second round match.

Rustenburg: was the third town to be established in the area between the Vaal and Limpopo Rivers (Transvaal Republic) during the mid 1800’s and is an area rich in historical events. Literally translated into “rest between the mountains”, it is believed that the name originates from the Trek Boers who longed for peace after prolonged battles with the British for land. Situated near two of South Africa’s favourite attractions, the Pilanesberg National Park and Sun City (a resort and casino), the region is not to be missed in 2010 and as they are only 30 minutes from Rustenburg, or a mere 2 hours from Johannesburg- easy access from these host cities. This area is recognised as one of most the heavily mined regions in the world and is said to possess the second greatest deposit of Platinum on the continent. The Jacaranda lined lanes of Rustenburg are just a short drive from Johannesburg (± 1 hour) and will be the ideal breakaway for visitors in 2010. It is interesting to note that the first president of the Republic of South Africa came from Rustenburg who was the legendary Paul Kruger- who was also responsible for the establishment of the Kruger National Park. This area falls into the Bafokeng Royal Land, the Nation who owns a large portion of the platinum reserves and have the fastest growing rural village in South Africa.

Things to do: Visit Pilanesberg or Madikwe for an excellent safari experience, learn of our ancestors in Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, enjoy a day on the “beach” at Sun City or play golf at one of the many golf courses nearby.

Facts:

Altitude: ± 1150 metres

Map Co-ordinates: 25” 34’ S, 27” 9’ E

Population: ± 500 000

Royal Bafokeng Stadium: The Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace in Rustenburg was originally built for the 1995 Rugby World Cup and has subsequently become an important soccer stadium. The stadium will be having minor renovations, and on completion it will be able to seat 42,000. This stadium will also be used in 2009 as a test run for 2010.

The Royal Stadium is named after the Bafokeng People who won a legal battle in 1999, entitling them to 20% of all platinum mined in the area (70 % of the world’s platinum reserves are found in this region)

During the world cup, The Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace Stadium will host several matches, five first round matches and one second round match.

An Introduction to South Africa

South Africa: As you know, South Africa is hosting two major soccer events back to back, one in 2009 and the second in 2010.

South Africa covers ± 1 223 200 km² and consists of over 2 954 km’s of beautiful coastline. There are 11 official languages, none of which are French, Spanish, German or Chinese; however English is widely spoken. Many people from every corner of the world live in South Africa and there are a number of foreign language guides. South Africa also has 3 capital cities - which are Bloemfontein being the judicial capital, Cape Town the parliamentary capital and Pretoria, the Administrative Capital - and is split into 8 provinces.

South Africa is a large country and distances between cities will often mean a few hours travelling. Much of the country is open space and a lot of it is under some form of agriculture or possibly conservation. Our wildlife reserves are recognised around the world for their advanced conservation strategies and parts of South Africa hold some of the world’s richest areas in biodiversity and important biomes, which many people and organisations work continuously to protect and secure for future generations.

South Africa has an excellent and established infrastructure with a wide network of National Toll Roads, Provincial Highways, Railway Stations and Airports in all major cities as well as a number of and Ports.

Top 10 Attractions:

• Cape Town, Table Mountain and Cape Point.
• Stellenbosch, Francehoek, Orange River and Paarl Wine Routes.
• Kruger National Park and Panoramic Route (Pilgrims Rest, God’s Window).
• The uKhahlamba Drakensberg World Heritage Site.
• Sun City and  Pilanesberg National Park.
• The Eastern Cape and Garden Route Beaches, Towns, Reserves and National Park.
• Soweto, Pretoria and Cradle of Humankind (guided tour is suggested).
• Natal coastline and Indian Ocean.
• Augrabies Falls and Namaqualand Flowers.
• Northern KwaZulu-Natal Game Reserves and the iSimalangiso Wetlands World Heritage Site (Hluhluwe- iMfolozi, Mkuze and Maputaland Area).

Facts about South Africa:

Population: ± 46 Million                                

Total Surface Area: ± 1,223,200 km²

Official Languages: Zulu, English, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Setswana, South Sotho, North Sotho, Tsonga, SiSwati, Venda and Ndebele.

International Dialling Code: + 27

Capital Cities: Bloemfontein, Cape Town and Pretoria

Main International Airports: Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town

Global Time Zone: GMT +2

2010 Host Provinces of South Africa:

The Eastern Cape: is situated between the Indian Ocean, along South Africa’s south eastern curve, and the Drakensberg Mountains. The province is made up of areas known as the Wild Coast and the Sunshine Coast and the Valley of Desolation. These have historic towns such as Rhodes, Grahamstown and Graaff Reinet and were all once frontier towns and missions during the early history of South Africa.  The Eastern Cape offers everything- great beaches, mountains, deserts, as well as marine and terrestrial National Parks. It has colourful cultures, sunshine, surf and a generally easy -going lifestyle. The main cities are East London, Port Elizabeth, Umtata and Bisho, whilst both Port Elizabeth and East London are important harbours. Various car manufacturers have factories in these cities which include Ford and Volkswagen as well as a number of other large corporations.

The province has a good highway network between most cities and towns, whilst Airports are found in PE, East London and Umtata.

Things to do: Do the world’s highest commercial bungy jump (317m), learn to surf in Jeffrey’s Bay or Coffee Bay, paraglide, whale watch, go hiking on eco trails, horse ride, scuba dive, quad bike, go canoeing or snow skiing.

Cities: Port Elizabeth, East London and Bisho (Provincial Capital)

The Free State Province: lies in the centre of South Africa on the vast Free State plateau. The rolling hills and open grassland reach the 9000 ft Maluti Mountains in Lesotho, which is the source of two of South Africa’s most important water sources, the Vaal and Orange/ Gariep Rivers. The Free State is also an important agricultural centre, and has large mineral deposits and many natural resources.

It has produced some of the best miners in South Africa and provides a strong workforce for other mines throughout southern Africa.

Things to do: Go fly-fishing, mountain hiking and enjoy cultural experiences, outdoors activities, white water rafting, diamond mine tours and Anglo Boer War sites..

Cities: Bloemfontein (Provincial and National Capital) and Welkom

Gauteng Province: South Africa’s smallest province and means “Place of Gold” in Sotho. It is fitting that it will be the stage for Africa’s First World Cup Final. Being the economic hub of South Africa, almost 20 % of South Africa’s population lives here and Johannesburg sprawls for over 70kms at ± 1 700 metres above sea level.

Hotels and accommodation are found throughout the province; however the suburbs and business district around Sandton are more popular with business travellers.

Gauteng will simultaneously be hosting games at 3 venues / stadia during the World Cup, they are: Loftus Versveld, Ellis Park and Soccer City. Don’t be put off by the stories of crime because it isn’t really as bad as many make it out to be. Just do the necessary research before you come and enquire about security precautions before visiting any area.   Many accommodation providers have 24 hour security and secure parking. As with all big cities worldwide, some parts of the city should be avoided.  Avoid parts of the city centre- however Newtown is said to be one of the ‘fans zones’ and is considered safe to go to at night but if you’re visiting, try and go with somebody local.

Gauteng’s major infrastructure includes the soon to be completed new Gautrain, the OR Tambo International Airport, Park and Pretoria Train Stations whilst smaller airports include Rand Airport, Lanseria and Wonderboom.

Things to do: Visit Soweto, Gold Reef City, Pretoria and the Union Buildings, Apartheid Museum, Voortrekker Monument, the Cradle of Humankind, Dinokeng Big 5 Game Reserve, Sand boarding (down a Mine Dump!) and the house where Nelson Mandela lived

Cities: Johannesburg (Provincial Capital), Pretoria (National Capital), Soweto and Vereeniging

KwaZulu Natal: has a sub tropical climate, making it an ideal holiday destination year round. The province is a rugged fusion of mountain and warm oceans but with calm, rolling hills, wetlands and forests in between. KZN is not to be missed in 2010. Durban is South Africa’s busiest port and hosts as well as one of the 5 largest aquariums in the world. One of KwaZulu-Natal’s key sources of income is through tourism. It boasts a number of blue flag beaches, 2 World Heritage Sites- The uKhahlamba Drakensberg and iSimangaliso Wetland Park and a number of provincial and private nature reserves. Major infrastructure includes the Durban International Airport, Durban and Kingsmead Stadium and Durban Train Station.

Things to do: There are endless outdoor adventures including paragliding, hiking, sailing, surfing, diving and wildlife viewing.

Cities: Durban, Pietermaritzburg (Provincial Capital), Ulundi, Richards Bay and Newcastle

Limpopo Province: This province borders 3 countries, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Mozambique. This ancient part of Africa, it provides evidence dating back thousands of years to ancient civilisations that traded in gold and ivory and even further to our very origins, where one of the first pre human hominid skulls in South Africa was discovered. To date the area is still rich in myth with Baobab trees and the Rain Queen, of the Modjadji people, who resides in the sacred area close to Tzaneen. The hot subtropical climate ensures year round sunshine and large open spaces and the northern section of the Kruger National Park to ensure that Limpopo receives many visitors throughout the year. Agriculture, mining, tourism and industry are the main sources of income for the province.

The province is easily reached through a number of good road networks and is generally within 6 hours travelling from Johannesburg. The Limpopo Province also has two airports, namely Polokwane and Potgietersrus.

Things to do: Safari, safari, safari- on horseback, by helicopter, on foot or on a private reserve in an open vehicle. There are also a number of extreme sports and numerous markets and cultural sites.

Cities: Polokwane (Provincial Capital), Potgietersrus, Tzaneen and Phalaborwa

Northern Cape: Unfortunately the Northern Cape will not be hosting any of the games during 2010.   However the arid province of the Northern Cape is a wonderful barren wonderland which will be transformed shortly after the World Cup into one of the world’s most spectacular sights - field after field as far as the eye can see of wildflowers including the Namaqualand Daisies and many other species of indigenous cape flora. The Northern Cape is recognised for its agriculture and mining activities, having the largest diamond deposits in South Africa. It also has the single largest iron deposit ever discovered. This hot, dry landscape was once home to the ancient Khoi San people and where small clans left wonderful rock art throughout the mountains and rocky outcrops. These rock paintings are protected by law, as they depict the way of life of the Bushmen thousands of years ago. Some of southern Africa’s largest game reserves are established in this province to protect the Kalahari. Upington is a quickly developing city, with plans for vehicle testing tracks and a new airport, the run way which is already the longest in South Africa.

Things to do: Visit Kimberly and The Big Hole, go to the Karoo and visit a game reserve, visit small towns such as Poffadder, Calvinia and Springbok. White river rafting on the Orange River, go along the Orange River wine route and explore the endless Kalahari.

Cities: Kimberley and Upington

North West Province: South Africa’s North West Province covers a substantial part of South Africa and is predominantly an agricultural and mining area; however ecotourism and wildlife reserves abound. The capital city, Mafikeng, is within easy access of Pilanesberg National Park and the Magaliesberg Mountains and most of the province can be reached within a 3 hour drive from Gauteng. During 2010 the province will offer an unsurpassed safari experience at Pilanesberg or Madikwe, offering anything between luxury and budget Big 5 wildlife experiences.

Sun City boasts a number of attractions including the Gary Player Golf Course, The Lost City Hotel and The Valley of Waves as well as a number of casinos.

Things to do: Experience the Big 5 (just 2 hours from Johannesburg) at the Pilanesberg National Park or a few luxurious days at Madikwe Game Reserve. Visit Sun City for a day at the “beach” and enjoy the many restaurants, bars and casinos.

Cities: Rustenburg (Provincial Capital), Mafikeng, Potchefstroom, Brits

Mpumalanga Province: Famous, together with the Limpopo Province, Mpumalanga Province is the home of the world-renowned Kruger National Park.  Its capital city, Nelspruit, and the new Mbombela Stadium will host a number of the 2010 games.

There are a multitude of lodges and hotels adjacent to and within the Greater Kruger National Park which will be a highlight for many visitors to South Africa. En-route to Swaziland and Mozambique, Nelspruit will be the ideal stop-over in 2010 for visitors to Kruger and our neighbouring countries.

Apart from a large number of private, provincial and national game reserves and parks, the “Panoramic Route” as well as tropical forests and mining villages as well as cultural experiences, Mpumalanga will attract many of the soccer fans.

Things to Do: Visit the famous Kruger National Park, enjoy views from the escarpment, trout fishing and small country stalls and curio shops.

Cities: Nelspruit (Provincial Capital), Witbank, Middelburg and Ermelo

Western Cape: is known as the fairest of all Capes and is one of South Africa’s biggest attractions. During 2010 thousands of visitors will flock to its beautiful beaches. The Western Cape is famous for its wine routes, mountain ranges, the garden route and Cape Town. With spectacular scenery and cosmopolitan restaurants, Cape Town is the second busiest harbour while finance, textiles, food, wine and tourism dominate. Hermarnus is said to have the World’s best access to land based whale watching and the whales should be arriving during the World Cup. Africa’s most southern point is an hour’s drive. Also close to Cape Town and worth the visit as well the Overberg, The Klein Karoo and Central Karoo consisting of small towns, farms and country stalls.

Things to do: Whale watch, visit the vineyards, explore the Table Mountain National Park, visit the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens,

Cities: Cape Town (Provincial and National Capital), Stellenbosch, George, Saldanha Bay

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