A short guide to the Western South African Coast

by: Sarah Maple
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Word Count: 422

South Africa is a diverse country steeped in historical and cultural significance and astounding natural beauty. Its coastline is no exception, and being home to the nation’s legislative capital, the Western coast of the country is perhaps the example of past, present and future day South Africa. In regards to getting there, many airlines are currently offering cheap flights to Cape Town in an effort to entice recession-weary travellers out of the Eurozone – so could 2009 be the year of South African tourism?

Starting in the North West of the country, the Namakwa District is known for its unspoilt expanses and semi-desert appearance which is perfect for walkers and explorers eager to seek out such sights as incredible lava rock formations and untouched coastline. Springbok, the area’s capital, is home to over 14,000 inhabitants and is famed for the amazing transformation that occurs at springtime, when the dry scrubland becomes awash with floral colour after the rains.

If you travel about 95 kilometres South West from Springbok then you get to the even quieter coastal village of Hondeklip Bay, where the arid land meets the sea. The small harbour was once the centre for the exportation of copper ore but has since become replaced by the more easily accessible Port Nolloth. Today the village is used today by fishermen and local diamond miners, but is also a popular destination for tourists who seek clean beaches and peace.

Further down the coast and into the West Coast District Municipality you come to the natural harbour of Saldanha Bay, where the land is far greener. Saldanha boasts a larger population and begins to show the more developed side of South Africa with an economy dependant on seafood and the steel industry. The area has strong historical ties as it was the location of the Battle of Saldanha Bay in 1796, and the significant archaeological find: Saldanha man. Whales are also known to be spotted from the coast at certain times of the year.

Cape Town, is the second biggest city in South Africa after Johannesburg and the most visited tourist destination in the country. Aside from attractions such as Cape Point and Table Mountain, the city is also home to a number of beautiful beaches – including the warmer False Bay and Boulders Beach which is even home to penguins. The city also boasts unique and colourful architecture with European influences and many cultural/historical attractions also.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleStreet.com/profile/sarah-maple-4310.html

About the Author

Sarah Maple writes about how to book cheap flights and honeymoon places.

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