Discover South Africa

South African Flag: First used on 27th April 1994. The colours represent different meanings for different people, with no symbolism attached to any. There is, however, a theme of unity with the V-form flowing into one band, which ties in with the previous coat of arms' motto: Unity is Strength.

National Anthem: As of 20th April 1994 South Africa has two national anthems. They are Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika and The Call of South Africa (Die Stem van Suid-Afrika). In 1997 a shortened, combined version became the national anthem. Click here to view the words along with the anthem music.

National Coat of Arms or State Emblem: This is the highest visual symbol of South Africa. Absolute authority is given to every document with an impression of the Great Seal on it as this means that is has been approved by the President of South Africa.

National Animal - Springbok: Its typical jumping display led to its common name. Springbok have adapted to dry, barren areas and open grass plains - found especially in the Free State and North West Provinces, and in the Karoo. They are herd animals, eating grass and leaves, and can go without drinking water as they get enough moisture from the leaves.

National Bird - Blue Crane: This is a graceful crane standing about 1m high and almost entirely restricted to South Africa. It is light-grey in colour with a long neck, long legs and elegant wing plumes which sweep to the ground. It eats seeds, insects and reptiles. They are endemic in the Karoo and grasslands of KwaZulu Natal.

National Fish - Galjoen: Also called the Blackfish or Blackbream, this fish is only found along the South African coast. It is almost completely black or silver-bronze in sandy areas. The record weight is 7kg, although the average is much smaller. Its main diet is red bait, small mussels and barnacles. It is known to every angler.

National Flower - King Protea: Also known as the Giant Protea, it is widely distributed in the southern and western areas of the Western Cape (Cedarberg to Grahamstown). There are a number of varieties in colour and leaf shape. The King Protea is the largest in the species.

National Tree - Real Yellowwood: This tree is widespread in South Africa, found from Table Mountain, along the southern and eastern Cape coast, in the ravines of the Drakensberg up to the Soutpansberg and the Blouberg in the Limpopo Province. They can grow up to 40m in height and the base of the trunk 3m in diameter.