8 stunning photos of South Africa

Sep 5, 2019

Thousands of people flock to celebrate New Year's Day on Cape Town's Muizenberg beach, January 1, 2015. REUTERS/Mike Hutchings (SOUTH AFRICA - Tags: SOCIETY) - GM1EB1204JF01

It's not just wildlife you find on South Africa's beaches. Image: REUTERS/Mike Hutchings

Joe Myers

Writer, Forum Stories

This article is part of: World Economic Forum on Africa

The World Economic Forum on Africa is taking place in South Africa this week.

Leaders are gathered in Cape Town to discuss the challenges the continent faces, the progress that's already been made and how this can be continued.

They'll meet in the shadow of Table Mountain, a reminder of the natural beauty found across the country – even in the middle of the biggest cities.

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From bushveld to mountains and rugged coastline, the country has a huge range of natural habitats.

These photos provide just a snapshot of that diversity.

A group of about 100 African penguins are released into the sea near Cape Town September 16, 2005 after recovering at the SANCCOB (South African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) rehabilitation centre. About 400 of these endangered birds were treated by volunteers at the centre after being affected by an oil slick. Conservation officials suspect the oil spill may have been the result of vessels illegally flushing bilges off the South African coast. Pictures of the Year 2005 REUTERS/Mike Hutchings MH/JJ - RP6DRNAWEPAB

African penguins live along the South African coast, with thousands alone in the sea around Cape Town. Image: REUTERS/Mike Hutchings

You can find zebras across South Africa on grassy plains and park-like savanna, where they live in small family groups. Image: Brand South Africa

Sun sets over part of South Africa's Drakensberg Mountain range in northern KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa, January 4, 2004. The area draws large numbers of visitors each year who come to savour the natural beauty of its ragged peaks and flowing rivers. NO RIGHTS CLEARANCES OR PERMISSIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS IMAGE REUTERS/Mike Hutchings REUTERS MH - RP4DRIFXXJAA

The Drakensberg mountain range runs parallel to South Africa's southeastern coast, and rises to more than 3,475 metres. Image: REUTERS/Mike Hutchings

A praying mantis climbs a shoot in Cape Town, May 11, 2008. . REUTERS/Mike Hutchings (SOUTH AFRICA) - PM1E45D1CJV01

Despite their angelic name, praying mantises are ambush predators and the larger ones are even know to prey on rodents. Image: REUTERS/Mike Hutchings

Cape Town lights up as dusk falls over the city's backdrop Table Mountain, November 2, 2009. Cape Town is one of nine South African cities hosting the 2010 Fifa Soccer World Cup. REUTERS/Mike Hutchings (SOUTH AFRICA SPORT SOCCER IMAGES OF THE DAY) FOR BEST QUALITY IMAGE ALSO SEE: GF2EA5L0PGN01 - GM1E5B30KJ201

In Cape Town, humans, mountains and the ocean meet, with Table Mountain an iconic backdrop to the city. Image: REUTERS/Mike Hutchings

South Africa's grasslands are a vital water source for the country, but they're under threat from mining, urban development and overgrazing according to the WWF. Image: Brand South Africa

Vehicles drive along the scenic Ou Kaapse Weg as seasonal fog covers the city in Cape Town, South Africa, May 29, 2016. REUTERS/Mike Hutchings - D1AETGVZNNAA

The Ou Kaapse Weg (Old Cape Road) offers stunning coastal views - when they're not obscured by fog. Image: REUTERS/Mike Hutchings

The Hillbrow Tower, an iconic tower used to identify the Johannesburg skyline, is seen as the sun rises, in Johannesburg, South Africa, June 20, 2019. REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko - RC15E7EF9A40

The Hillbrow Tower is an iconic landmark on Johannesburg's skyline. Joburg is home to nearly 4.5 million people and generates 16% of South Africa's GDP. Image: REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko

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