Of all the countries in the world, South Africa is one of the most diverse and captivating.
Famed for its picturesque landscapes, unique wildlife, delicious culinary dishes and, of course, its friendly people, the Rainbow Nation has garnered a positive reputation among the global populace.
Unfortunately, that same populace has some far-out notions about our country. It’s gotten so that many of these notions are regarded as fact – much to the annoyance of countless (i.e., ALL) South Africans!
BUSTING COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT SOUTH AFRICA
Here are five of the most common misconceptions that folks overseas have about South Africa and why they fall incredibly short of the mark:
1. IT’S A CONTINENT
If we had a rand for every time we heard a tourist or a reality star call Mzansi “Africa” (or refer to the entire African continent as “South Africa”), we’d be as rich as Paul van Zuydam.
To be clear, Africa is the second-largest continent in the world. It consists of 54 countries – South Africa just happens to be one of them. The confusion over the country/continental designation most likely stems from having “Africa” in our name, but that’s no excuse to be geographically challenged in this day and age (if it is, then North America and the USA would like to have a word).
2. IT’S A JUNGLE OUT THERE
South Africa may be home to a wide array of wildlife, but that doesn’t mean we’re walking shoulder-to-shoulder with lions, zebras and rhinos out on the streets of Gqeberha and Durban.
Sure, residents may run into trouble with the odd snake or baboon, but the misconception that wild animals roam freely on our roads is just that. The accompanying idea that we’re living up a Tarzan-like lifestyle in a dense jungle is also false.
3. IT’S DESERT-LEVELS OF HOT
If we’re not living in a jungle, then we’re living in a sprawling desert of unimaginable heat, apparently.
While it’s true that there are areas in SA that are incredibly hot, it’s not like that all year ‘round. The biomes of our country – ranging from grassland and succulent Karoo to fynbos – allow for various seasonal weather patterns. For example, the Mediterranean climate in the Western Cape sees hot, dry summers and cold, wet winters.
4. IT’S TOTALLY UNSAFE
While South Africa does have a high crime rate, this doesn’t mean that the entire country is dangerous. At the least, most areas – including tourism hotspots – are generally well-protected.
“Crimes against travellers are primarily opportunistic, and popular tourist destinations often have increased security,” says SafeAbroad. “Thousands of tourists visit the country each year without issues, largely due to visiting only safer tourist areas with increased security and remaining vigilant. Most crimes are typically committed in non-tourist areas.”
There’s also the misconception that South Africa is rife with disease, war and genocidal acts. Fortunately, SA is actually better off than most countries when it comes to these issues.
5. IT’S A HOMOGENEOUS SOCIETY
Far from being a one-pan dish, South Africa is a colourful, cultural melting pot.
We’re a country consisting of different cultures, languages and ethnicities. Our people are of African, European, Asian and mixed-race descent. It’s these differences that make us a strong, united nation, one with a heritage you will never find anywhere else on Earth.
SOUTH AFRICA: FROM FALLACY TO ACCURACY
South Africa may be misunderstood at times, which is why it’s important to clear up these pesky inaccuracies (and also give the collective sanity of locals a break).
So, folks, if you’re planning to visit Mzansi, be sure to sweep those delusions under the rug, do your research and come here with an open mind. And don’t worry if you do slip up – it’s the only way to learn, and we’ll still help out wherever we can.
