Geography of South Africa
Climate, terrain, natural resources, and geographic features
Total Area
1,219,090
km² (rank #25)
Coastline
2,798
km
Highest Point
Njesuthi (3,408 m)
Lowest Point
Atlantic Ocean (0 m)
Area Comparison
South Africa
1,219,090 km²
United States (reference)
9,833,520 km²
South Africa is 12.4% the size of the United States.
Climate
Mostly semiarid; subtropical along east coast; sunny days, cool nights
Terrain
Vast interior plateau rimmed by rugged hills and narrow coastal plain
Natural Resources
Gold
Chromium
Antimony
Coal
Iron Ore
Manganese
Nickel
Phosphates
Tin
Uranium
Diamonds
Platinum
Land Use
82.5%
Arable: 9.9%
Forest: 7.6%
Other: 82.5%
Bordering Countries
South Africa on the Map
Region
Africa
Southern Africa
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is South Africa?
South Africa covers an area of 1,219,090 km², ranking #25 in the world by size.
What is the climate of South Africa?
Mostly semiarid; subtropical along east coast; sunny days, cool nights
What is the highest point in South Africa?
The highest point in South Africa is Njesuthi (3,408 m).
What natural resources does South Africa have?
South Africa's natural resources include Gold, Chromium, Antimony, Coal, Iron Ore, Manganese, Nickel, Phosphates, Tin, Uranium, Diamonds, Platinum.
Which countries border South Africa?
South Africa shares land borders with Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Eswatini, Zimbabwe.