Five more SA UNESCO Heritage Sites to visit this Heritage Month

South Africa is home to a wealth of cultural and natural treasures, many of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These diverse locations reflect the nation’s deep history as well as its’ incredible biodiversity of its landscapes. As we celebrate Heritage Month, it’s the perfect time to explore some of these significant sites and appreciate their contributions to South Africa’s identity – if the first five weren’t enough, here are five MORE heritage site to visit this September…

1. Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape

The Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape in Limpopo is a site of great archaeological and historical significance. It was once the center of the ancient Kingdom of Mapungubwe, Southern Africa’s first powerful indigenous civilization, which thrived between the 9th and 14th centuries. The site offers a glimpse into early trade routes and African royalty, as artifacts such as the famous golden rhinoceros were found here.

2. Vredefort Dome

The Vredefort Dome is the world’s largest and oldest known meteorite impact structure, located about 120 km southwest of Johannesburg. This geological marvel, created over two billion years ago, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its scientific importance. It provides valuable insights into the Earth’s history, particularly in terms of planetary evolution and the processes that shaped the surface of the Earth.

3. Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains

The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains in Mpumalanga are among the oldest mountains on Earth, with geological formations dating back over 3.6 billion years. The site is of great scientific importance as it holds some of the best-preserved volcanic and sedimentary rocks, providing insights into the conditions of the early Earth. The mountains also have a cultural connection to South Africa’s mining heritage, as gold was first discovered here.

4. Cape Floral Region Protected Areas

Stretching across the Western Cape, the Cape Floral Region is one of the richest areas for plant biodiversity in the world. This UNESCO site consists of a series of protected areas, including the famous Table Mountain National Park. The region is part of the Cape Floristic Region, home to nearly 20% of Africa’s plant species, many of which are endemic.

5. ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape

In the Kalahari Desert near the borders of Botswana and Namibia, the ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape is a testament to the survival and cultural heritage of the indigenous San people, one of the world’s oldest continuous cultures. The San, or Bushmen, have lived in harmony with this harsh desert environment for thousands of years, maintaining their traditional knowledge and practices.