Geography of South Africa
By J. P. 6
Namib Desert
The Namib is important because, due to its age and ancient past, it may be home to more endemic species of plants and animals than any other desert in the world.
Cape of Good Hope
The Cape of Good Hope is important because it has long since been a symbol of significance to sailors, many who refer to it as simply "the Cape". It is a resting place, or waypoint, for clipper ships on the route to the Far East and Australia. The route is still followed today by offshore yacht races.
Johannesburg
Johannesburg is important because it is served by two international airports and one domestic airport. The O.R. Tambo International Airport is east of the city, and is the largest and busiest airport in Africa, as well as a gateway for international travel to and from the rest of Southern Africa. This allows more visitors and tourists to visit, boosting the economy.
Zambezi River
The Zambezi is important because it is a vital waterway for shipping goods in and out of the continent, as well as an important source of water and hydroelectricity. The two main hydroelectricity sources on the river are the Kariba Dam, which provides electricity for Zambia and Zimbabwe, and the Cahorra Bassa Dam in located in Mozambique, which provides power to Mozambique and South Africa.
Limpopo River
The river is important because it provides a habitat for the Zambezi shark, crocodiles, and hippopotamus, as well as people. Around 14 million people make their home in the Limpopo basin; the fertile lowlands can support a denser population.
Lusaka
Lusaka is important because it is a center of both government and commerce in Zambia, and connects the four main highways of the country, heading north, south, east, and west.
Kalahari Desert
The Kalahari is important because, after plentiful rainfall, it contains huge spreads of excellent grazing grounds, and is home to many species of plants and animals, including endangered species like the African Wild Dog.
Cabinda (exclave)
Cabinda is important and highly valued because of natural resources, particularly oil. Adjacent to the coast of Cabinda are some of the largest oil fields in the world. The province also produces coffee, hardwoods, rubber, cacao, and palm oil, though petroleum accounts for most of Cabinda's domestic product.
Orange River
The river is important to the South Africans because it provides water for irrigation, as well as hydroelectric power for electricity.
Victoria Falls
The Victoria Falls is an important part of Zambia and Zimbabwe's economy, as it attracts many tourists every year. Both countries permit tourists to make day trips from side to side, and visas can be obtained at border posts. The costs can range from $20-$50 (U.S. dollars)