The history of the region situated in the Southern section of Africa goes back to thousands of years when the Khoikhoi tribes resided in the area. However, many immigration waves came from the north and stayed during the 3rd century AD. Many inhabitants from Europe as well, from Netherlands and Great Britain started exploring the region. Today, many Europeans come visit South Africa today to enjoy their vacations.
The community at that time also included people from Madagascar, Eastern Africa, China, and India. The written history was only recorded as early as the 15th century AD. Therefore, all the historical facts tourists who travel to South Africa read before that period are actually the results of the efforts of researchers and historians.
Researchers have found fossils in various sections that date back to more than two million years and even before that date as well. Tourists who spend their holidays in South Africa would never imagine that the history of the country is that old.
In fact, the Khoisan tribes are the first to live permanently and they are the ones who tried to defend the country against the European occupation afterwards. These tribes used to work in fishing and hunting and they moved all around the region of Southern Africa. Many travellers who visit are fond of the wonderful and distinctive art and culture of the African tribes.
These tribes lived peacefully until the Dutch ships started visiting their lands at the 16th and the 17th centuries. With the increase of the importance of Cape of Good Hope, the Dutch created a base to supply their ships with fresh water and meat that they used to get from the original inhabitants of South Africa in return of European goods. Nowadays, many Europeans visit South Africa not for trading, but to enjoy a wonderful vacation.
It was in 1652 when the Dutch established their first settlement in South Africa. The French Protestant started their traveling to the country as well in 1688. However, the real occupation began when the British colonizers reached the country in 1820. During all these periods, the Khosian tribes were trying their best to combat the spread of the European in South Africa. However, at the beginning of the 18th century, the smallpox epidemic disease stroke them and this was among the most important reasons why they were not able to defend their lands. There are still many African tribes that reside in the country and many travellers who spend their vacations would love to explore their art and music.
The spread of the European occupation was quick. At the end of the 18th century, they reached 500 kilometers to the north of Cape Town and 800 kilometers to the East. There were more than 60,000 people living in many settlements. Many tourists from Europe travel to South Africa today to enjoy the magnificent beaches and forests of the country.
It was in the beginning of the 19th century when Great Britain took control to prevent the French to control this important transit point. After many battles with the original inhabitants, the British took full control of the country in 1820. At that point in time, there were more than 5000 British people living in Cape Town. The city today welcomes thousands of tourists who travel to South Africa.
Explore the beautiful places of South Africa such as Cape Town, Swaziland, Johannesburg, Etosha National Park, Victoria Falls, Botswana and much more.