Topography. Africa covers more than 30 million sq km.

South Africa lies between 22 and 35 degrees south and covers 1.127 mil sq km. SA is surrounded by sea to the west, south and east.

Population. SA Population : 46.6 million

Provinces. The country is divided into nine provinces

Water. 83.4% of South African households have access to clean water. One of the only 12 countries in the world to supply safe, drinkable tap water.

Wine. The winter rainfall of the peninsula with its mountainous neighbouring inland area provides ideal conditions for the cultivation of grapes. Numerous South African vineyards are producing excellent wines, winning international awards every year.

Weather. Average annual temperature in Cape Town is 17 degrees

Minerals. SA has 77% of the world's chrome reserves, 94% of its platinum group metals, 62% of its gold

Economy. The South African economy is primarily based on mining, agriculture and manufacturing.

In 2004, South Africa's GDP was USD$213 billion.