Five UNESCO Heritage Sites to visit in SA 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 – here are five heritage site to visit this September…

1. Robben Island, Cape Town

Just off the coast of Cape Town sits Robben Island, a place that holds a poignant spot in South Africa’s history. The island was used as a prison during the apartheid era, most famously housing political prisoners like Nelson Mandela. Today, it stands as a symbol of the resilience of the human spirit and the triumph over oppression. A visit to Robben Island offers a deep dive into South Africa’s journey toward freedom and democracy.

2. Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng

Just short drive from Johannesburg, the Cradle of Humankind is one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world. In the limestone caves here, some of the oldest human fossils have been discovered, providing crucial evidence about human evolution. Among the significant finds is the Australopithecus africanus skeleton, a link in the human evolutionary chain that is over two million years old.

3. uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, KwaZulu-Natal

The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park in KwaZulu-Natal is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and cultural significance. This mountain range is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its dramatic peaks and biodiversity but also because of its impressive collection of San rock art. The San people, who lived in the area thousands of years ago, left behind over 35 000 rock paintings, illustrating their beliefs, way of life, and relationship with nature.

4. iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal

Stretching along the east coast of South Africa, iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a natural paradise that boasts some of the most diverse ecosystems in Africa. The park encompasses coral reefs, coastal dunes, lakes, as well as savannahs, making it a haven for both wildlife and adventure seekers. iSimangaliso, meaning “miracle” in Zulu, lives up to its name with its abundant biodiversity, including rare species such as the leatherback turtle.

5. Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape, Northern Cape

For a unique blend of cultural as well as natural heritage, head to the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape. Located in the Northern Cape, this rugged desert landscape is home to the Nama people, one of the last groups in southern Africa to practice a semi-nomadic lifestyle. The Nama have adapted to the harsh desert environment using traditional practices that have been passed down through generations.