Traditions and everyday life in South AfricaFestivals, family customs, favourite places and everyday traditions, written by members of Global Penfriends who live in South Africa. Each cultural keepsake is a short note about life where they are.
51 keepsakes from South Africa · page 1 of 2
Sunday kos is a special meal in South Africa where families come together to eat, relax, and spend time with each other. It usually happens on Sundays after church or in the afternoon, and it’s one of the most loved traditions.A…
Shared by Still letters
A braai is more than just a barbecue—it’s a South African tradition, a social event, and a way of life! It’s about gathering with family and friends around an open fire, sharing stories, laughter, and, of course, delicious…
Shared by Lily Faye
The flavours of this dish, ranges from mild to hot,,, a taste of history, tradition and legacy.Indentured Indians in the 1800s cooked a spicy beans curry and served it in the bread for the whole family to share.The variety ranges…
Shared by Ursa Major
There is so much to do in Cape Town, there are many beautiful beaches, restaurants and many more! I personally love going to Melkbosch strand and Lovers Lane to take pictures of the sunset and city lights. In Cape Town we have…
Shared by Ami_007
Koeksisters, a South African treat, are more than just a sweet pastry; they're a cultural keepsake, deeply woven into the nation's history and identity. Their story reflects South Africa's diverse heritage, from Dutch and Malay…
Shared by Adz
Biltong is a form of dried, cured meat that originated in South Africa, and has become quite popular in North America where they call it 'Beef-Jerky'. The word Biltong comes from the Dutch word Bil meaning “rump” and Tong meaning…
Shared by HarryInLux
Another term in certain countries for this can be "Barbeque". But it is not exactly the same. Friends come together on weekends and make a fire, throw on a chop (lamb chops), wors (sausages), and a braaibroodtjie (Cheese and…
Shared by F.Bloomfield
This is me visiting the Kramat with family. There are a number of Kramats in and around Cape Town. These are cared for burial sites of considered Saints in Islam. They are usually surrounded by gardens and beautiful buildings…
Shared by ZanaM
Easter festival in my town is a religious festival that is held every year .it host people from all over the world .its a celebration that takes place with varieties of activities like paragliding sports and entertainment.with…
Shared by mahatma
My country is full of many diverse languages and traditions so heritage day is basically a day where everyone celebrates their cultural heritage and our differences. My favourite part of heritage day is wearing my traditional…
Shared by Tatiqrs
Maropeng,the “Cradle of Humankind”is the place where they uncovered the skull of an “Australopithecus africanus” the first ever found in South Africa.I remember going to Maropeng as a child for a birthday celebration,the…
Shared by Zephyr2024
Table mountain in the mother city, Cape Town - South Africa is breathtaking. Even though I have lived here ALL my life I am always amazed by the beauty of it. One of our main tourist attractions and one of the places in the world…
Shared by Ryn7
Table Mountain is representative not only as my city and birth place Cape Town, but of the whole country. People come from all over the world to experience the majestic attraction. On a cold morning, the clouds will cover the…
Shared by Popsy
On Saturday mornings there is no better place to be than on top of the Magaliesberg Mountain Range in South Africa. Myself and some friends would start our climb at 06:00 to enjoy the sunrise from the top of this mountain, which…
Shared by Gabi17
In my country it is a tradition for December to be known as “festive” where a school/work year is finished and the entire country celebrates with friends and family, goes on vacation for the entire December. Everyone is at the…
Shared by kiyah04
PEOPLE & CULTURE. Many different peoples make up South Africa, each with their own language and history. The country has 11 official languages and many more unofficial ones. This colourful mix of cultures gives South Africa its…
Shared by LadyCastle
Comrades Marathon is one of the biggest ultra marathons in the world. It’s a massive event in South Africa attracting locals from all over the country and runners from all over the world. 90km+ of running. This is the finish arch…
Shared by RayneSuper
PEOPLE & CULTURE. Many different peoples make up South Africa, each with their own language and history. The country has 11 official languages and many more unofficial ones. This colourful mix of cultures gives South Africa its…
Shared by K33L
Heritage Day is a South African public holiday celebrated on 24 September. On this day, South Africans are encouraged to celebrate their culture and the diversity and traditions, in the wider context of a nation that belongs to…
Shared by MiraSands
On heritage day we celebrate the many cultures & customs that make up this beautiful country. There are about 11 official languages therefore 11 (& more) South African cultures celebrated on that day with traditional wear & foods
Shared by Mizu
A family-themed park that’s an absolute favorite for kids’ birthdays or a fun-filled family outing! Some of my fondest childhood memories were made there, filled with laughter, excitement, and pure joy.
Shared by Lily Faye
Camps Bay is a famous beach in South Africa, Cape Town. It is right by Table Mountain and has beautiful scenery with great hotels and restaurants. It’s also a great view when hiking on our mountains.
Shared by CombatWombat
This is a World Heritage site based on history of the first type of human species roaming the land. Maropeng and Sterkfontein caves are Eye Openers and an Inspiration for all modern humans to see.
Shared by Ursa Major
I love to hike and explore the surrounding areas of the Western Cape! We have a beautiful country and much of it remains untouched by civilization - the perfect way to start off a good weekend!
Shared by Miss Ashleigh
I enjoy horse riding, mostly over weekends and in the afternoon after school. My mom gives horse riding lessons hence my passion for these majestic animals. Tell me about your super power.
Shared by Natascha 1
Every year my best friend and I go to our fav amusement park to celebrate our friendship. We’ve been going 7 years strong and I can’t imagine life without her❤️
Shared by N?
When you zoom in on the Table Mountain, you will see a tiny square on the edge of the plateau. That is the restaurant that you can reach via the cable cart.
Shared by Ursa Major
Taken at my favourite beach - Dolphin Beach. One of the wonders of the world. A reminder that we are part of something greater than ourselves.
Shared by Phoenix1974Want to hear about life in South Africa first-hand? Write to a penpal who lives there.
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