South Africa’s Free State lies in the heart of the country, nestled between the Vaal and Orange Rivers and bordering the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. The Free State is a rural province largely made up of farmland, mountains, goldfields and widely dispersed towns. This tranquil land is famous for its warm South African hospitality and a cultural diversity, which is clearly evident in street names, public buildings, monuments and museums. Some of South Africa's most valued San rock art is found here in the Free State.
The Central Free State is often referred to as "The Golden Country". Fields of corn and sunflowers decorate the landscape, and the gold deposits beneath the ground are a source of great wealth. The north of the region is blessed with fertile soil and good rainfall; excellent conditions for growing maize, wheat, sunflowers and cattle and game farming.
The region is also home to some fantastic geological wonders for visitors to explore. In the eastern Free State you will fine the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. This protected area is renowned for its impressive sandstone features, and in the northern region is the Vredefort Dome; the impact site of a major meteorite believed to have struck earth two billion years ago.
Fields of Golden Sunflowers
Home to the world’s longest wine route. Discover world-class wines, whale watching and contrasting landscapes
The Sunshine Coast, bursting with adventure and coastal charm. Home to one of the world’s top surfing spots
Boasts some of the most impressive geological attractions in the world including part of a pre-historic meteorite impact crater
The smallest province but considered the country’s commercial powerhouse – energetic and vibrant
From rugged mountain ranges and rolling midlands to bush lands and pristine beaches. Home of the Zulu culture
South Africa’s northernmost province, rich in wildlife and cultural heritage
Dominated by the Blyde River Canyon and home to the famous Kruger National Park where you can see the famed Big 5
Vast expanses of space and silence, and blazing summer sunshine. Across the arid landscape, the Orange River flows
A vast area of grasslands which houses two of the country’s largest game reserves, the world’s largest playground and a world heritage site