As the 9th largest country in Africa and the 25th biggest on the planet in terms of land area, South Africa is located on the southern part of Africa that borders Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe on its North. It’s estimated that there are over 60 million people living in South Africa as of 2021. Here we will take a look at some of the biggest cities in South Africa that are renowned worldwide for their culture and attractive sites.
Johannesburg
In regard to population, Johannesburg is the biggest city in South Africa. There are over 5.6 million people who live in Johannesburg. This city is part of the Gauteng which is the largest South African province in population. It’s also part of the 50 biggest urban areas on the planet. Johannesburg is home to an array of popular attractions, including Mandela House, Apartheid Museum, and the Human Rights Precinct that houses information on South Africa’s history. Johannesburg is also known for its lively markets and friendly locals who can help guide you around the city. Located south of the city is Gold Reef City Casino where you can play casino games. Before heading there, you can check out PlayLive Casino and their online casino live guides to get to grips with the game.
Cape Town
Sometimes referred to as the Mother City, Cape Town is South Africa’s oldest city. Cape Town is the capital of SA legislature and houses the Parliament of South Africa. This city is part of the Western Cape province which is the 4th biggest both by land and population. Cape Town has roughly 4.5 million people living there and is home to some brilliant attractions like Clifton Beach and Table Mountain Park. Many people from far and wide regard Cape Town as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It also boasts great winter sun and it’s relatively easy to get to. With wonderful beaches, scenery, and oceans to explore, it’s easy to see why millions of people flock to Cape Town each year.
eThekwini
eThekwini is a metropolitan municipality that incorporates various South African cities. These cities include Chatsworth, Umlazi, and Durban. eThekwini is part of the KwaZulu-Natal province that is the second largest South African province by population and the 3rd smallest by land area. Durban is one of the most known towns in South Africa that’s home to the famous Moses Mabhida Stadium. Durban also houses the busiest port in SA. The city is home to roughly 3.4 million people.
Ekurhuleni
Ekurhuleni is another metropolitan municipality that can be found in South Africa’s Gauteng province. The city has several towns in SA, including Boksburg, Tembisa, and Krathong. Ekurhuleni has a population of roughly 3.1 million people. Tembisa is also one of the largest townships in SA by population. There are lots of landmarks and attractions to check out in Ekurhuleni. These include Bedford Centre, Eastgate Shopping Centre, and Emperors Palace.
Tshwane
Tshwane is a South African city located in the Gauteng province. There are currently around 2.9 million people living in the city and towns around it, including Mamelodi, Soshanguve, and Centurion. Tshwane offers an array of popular attractions that both locals and tourists can check out. These include Loftus Park, Irene Dairy Farm, and Bester Birds and Animals Zoo Park. Many regard Tshwane as a naturally exciting, cosmopolitan, and cultural destination to visit in South Africa.
Nelson Mandela Bay
Nelson Mandela Bay is a metropolitan municipality found in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. A part of this metropolitan municipality is Port Elizabeth. Nelson Mandela Bay also covers towns like Despatch and Uitenhage. This name was chosen to honour former President Nelson Mandela. The municipality has a population of around 1.3 million. Eastern Cape Province is the 3rd largest province in SA by population and second biggest in terms of land area.
Buffalo City
Buffalo City is another metropolitan municipality located in SA’s Eastern Cape Province. Towns in this region include Bhisho, East London, and King William’s Town. There are roughly 780,000 people who live in Buffalo City. The city offers a broad range of attractions, including wildlife, beaches, eco-tourism, history, and entertainment options. There are spectacular reserves to feast your eyes on in Buffalo City. In fact, Buffalo City is located in one of the last remaining South African urban green belts.
Mangaung
Mangaung is a metropolitan municipality that’s part of South Africa’s Free State province. Free State is the 2nd smallest province by population and the third biggest by land area. Bloemfontein is within Mangaung and houses a population of roughly 750,000. The area around Mangaung and Bloemfontein offers a brilliant mix of experiences. There are heritage routes, cultural villages, and an array of outdoor activities worth exploring.
South Africa is a ginormous country filled with many beautiful spots to visit. The country has major cities spread across its 9 provinces. All of South Africa’s major cities offer unique attractions, sights, and culture.