South Africa Culture
Social Conventions
Shaking hands is the most common greeting in South Africa, however, it is advisable to wait to see if women initiate handshakes. Everyday affairs call for very casual attire, but certain evening occasions may call for dinner jackets and black ties for men and formal dresses for women. One should never point at someone with their thumb between their forefinger and second finger as this gesture is considered obscene. South Africa is very multicultural and so each ethnic or cultural group has their own customs and traditions that should be respected.
Language
There are eleven official languages in South Africa: Afrikaans, English, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, Sesotho, Setswana, Siswati, Tshivenda and Xitsonga.
Religion
Almost 80% of the population follows Christian religions (including Catholicism, Anglicanism, Dutch Reformed or African Independent Churches). Hindu, Muslim, Jewish and Buddhist populations are also represented, while some people follow traditional African beliefs.
South Africa Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to South Africa.
Learn about the history and culture of South Africa, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about South Africa's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering South Africa for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our South Africa tours today!
Extend Your Stay
After your South Africa vacation, why not consider one of Goway's Europe tours or Egypt tours en route from South Africa or perhaps a stopover in Dubai on one of our United Arab Emirates tours.
Book your South Africa vacation with Goway!
AfricaExperts is the exclusive division of Goway that specializes in planning and organizing South Africa tours and experiences. Choose from a simple city stopover, an exclusive African game lodge, a Holiday of a Lifetime, a stay of distinction, a self-drive tour and more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to South Africa.
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