South Africans are known for being among the friendliest people in the world. In fact, a 2024 survey found that South Africans are among the most agreeable people in the world, exhibiting deep empathy, understanding, and hospitality toward both strangers and loved ones. Below are some of the prominent South African cultures you can expect to encounter while in the Rainbow Nation.

 

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What is Indigenous South African Culture?

Indigenous South African culture is rooted in tribal heritage originating from Xhosa, Zulu, and Sotho tribes. These cultures are present throughout South Africa, displaying a strong focus on family, community, and reverence for both elders and ancestors.

Roots of Indigenous Culture

The earliest inhabitants of South Africa were the Khoisan people, who can trace their lineage back 100,000 years, making them the direct descendants of the earliest humans. This has equipped the Khoisan with a unique genome, distinguishing them from every other group on the planet.

The Khoisan originally consisted of two groups: the Khoekhoe, who specialised in herding livestock, and the San, who specialised in gathering plants and hunting animals. Khoisan people also pioneered tool-making techniques like heat-treating stone and creating spear tips.

Around 400 AD, the Khoisan would be joined by the Bantu people of Eastern and Central Africa, who introduced metallurgy, farming, and adobe construction. These two groups would eventually give rise to the Zulu, Xhosa, and Sotho people as we know them today.

Elements of Indigenous Culture

Every indigenous culture in South Africa has its own unique language, traditions, foods, dances, and beliefs. South Africa has 11 officially recognised languages, nine of which are indigenous languages, and six dialects of Khoisan are considered the original indigenous languages of the region.

• Languages: Indigenous languages include isiZulu, isiXhosa, isiNdebele, siSwati, Sesotho, Setswana, Sepedi, Tshivenda, and Xitsonga. Officially recognised dialects of Khoisan include Khoekhoegowab, !Orakobab, Xirikobab, N|uuki, ǃXunthali, and Khwedam.
• Foods: Popular foods among indigenous cultures include samp and beans, amasi (a sour milk drink), and Morogo (a dark green leaf often called “African Spinach”). Meats (nyama) and traditionally fermented alcohol (umqombothi) are commonly enjoyed in traditional settings, especially weddings, funerals, and tribal meetings.
• Religious Beliefs: Indigenous cultures often practise a blend of Christianity and ancestral worship. This unique combination has created a socio-cultural distinction between those who align with indigenous traditions and other groups in South Africa.

What is Afrikaner Culture?

Afrikaner culture refers to the ethnic and cultural descendants of predominantly Dutch settlers who made the Cape Colony their home. However, many individuals with both German and French heritage also identify as Afrikaners, meaning the majority can trace their lineage back to European origins.

Roots of Afrikaner Culture

Afrikaner culture traces its roots back to Dutch colonialism in the 17th century. Many Afrikaner settlers were traders who set up businesses in the Cape Colony before eventually making it their permanent home. This was a common occurrence, resulting in many new settlers who would later become known as Afrikaners.

Afrikaners developed their own unique language called Afrikaans. While it originally evolved from Dutch, Afrikaans incorporates elements of other European languages like French and German, as well as indigenous languages such as Bantu and Xhosa.

Afrikaners often speak Afrikaans as their first language, English as their second, and sometimes indigenous languages. It is very common for not only Afrikaners, but virtually all South Africans to be multilingual to some degree.

Elements of Afrikaner Culture

Afrikaner culture is typically centred around family, whether it be family outings or having a braai (barbecue) on weekends. Farming, homesteading, and rearing livestock remain an important part of their cultural identity. In recent years, Afrikaans music has also gained nationwide popularity.

• Foods: Afrikaner food culture has a few prominent dishes, including braai (flame-grilled meats), potjiekos (stew cooked in a three-legged cast iron pot over a fire), and a bredie (a lamb stew cooked with vegetables). Snacks like biltong and droëwors are also very popular.
• Religious Beliefs: Afrikaner culture is strongly rooted in Christianity and traditional Christian values.
• Sports: Afrikaner culture is typically associated with sports like rugby and football, with both watching and participating seen as opportunities to connect with friends and family.

What is Cape Malay Culture?

The term “Cape Malay” refers to both an ethnic group and a cultural identity. It’s generally used as a broad term to describe mixed-race individuals residing in the Cape Flats. However, not all individuals of mixed descent subscribe to this culture.

Roots of Cape Malay Culture

Cape Malay culture traces its roots back to enslaved Southeast Asian peoples, particularly from Indonesia, Malaysia, and The Philippines, as well as the Khoisan and European settlers. Many attribute this diverse heritage to the arrival of the Dutch East India Company led by Jan van Riebeeck in Cape Town in 1652.

Cape Malay culture consists primarily of English and Afrikaans, with the latter having a unique dialect within the culture, often mixing the two in what’s known as “Afrikaaps”. This dialect is unique to the Cape Flats and spoken nowhere else in South Africa.

Cape Malay culture is unique because, unlike other South African cultural groups, it incorporates individuals of different ethnicities, races, religions, languages, and traditions. These differences are what solidify the culture, enabling people to draw strength from diversity.

Elements of Cape Malay Culture

Cape Malay people celebrate their identity through foods, traditional celebrations, languages, dialects, dances, music, and so much more.

• Religion: Cape Malay culture is religiously diverse but primarily consists of people who practice Islam and Christianity. There are also individuals who practise Buddhism or identify as agnostic or atheist.
• Food: Cape Malay food is incredibly diverse reflecting its mixed heritage. Popular Cape Malay foods are samosas (triangular-shaped pastry pockets, deep-fried, filled with a savoury spicy meat mixture), Koeksisters (sugary dough balls), breyani (a spicy meat/chicken dish with rice), and the Gatsby (a foot-long sandwich with steak, chicken eggs, lettuce, tomato, spices, and sauces).
• Dance: An extremely important cultural event in Cape Malay heritage is the “Tweede Nuwe Jaar” (Second New Year) parade on January 2nd. Here, the Cape Minstrel Carnival, known as the “Kaapse Klopse”, participate in a vibrant festival featuring thousands of minstrels in colourful costumes, dancing, singing, and playing musical instruments such as the “ghoema” drum, trumpets, and tambourines.

Moving to South Africa? Choose AGS Movers!

Experience South African culture firsthand with AGS Movers! We offer professional moving and relocation services from anywhere across the globe.

Whether you’re moving to Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, or Pretoria, our team of professionals will ensure a stress-free, seamless moving experience for you and your loved ones.

South Africa’s cultural richness is waiting for you. Let AGS Movers help you settle in with ease, so you can focus on embracing your new life. Get in touch with us today and take the first step towards your move.

 
From Cape Town’s stunning coastlines 🏖️ to Johannesburg’s buzzing energy 🌆, and Durban’s warm beaches 🌊 to Port Elizabeth’s charm 🪁 — our teams across South Africa are here to help every step of the way.

💼 Ready to pack your bags? Start with our Moving to South Africa Starter Pack & let us handle the rest.

✨ Move with care. Move with expertise. Move with AGS.

 
South Africa is calling! Watch our Moving Starter Pack ✨ and begin your stress-free relocation today — your new chapter awaits!

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South African Residency Requirements

South Africa has a variety of visa options, so it’s crucial to figure out which one suits you best. Whether it’s a work, study, or family visa, make sure to start the application process well in advance as the residency applications can be time-consuming.

The Department of Home Affairs is your go-to for all things visa-related. You can visit their website to familiarise yourself with the different forms and understand their specific requirements for your chosen permit. AGS Global Solutions can advise and support you throughout the visa process.

Handling Finances

Financial landscapes vary significantly between the Netherlands and South Africa, reflecting differences in economic development, currency strength, and overall fiscal structures. In the Netherlands, the cost of living is relatively high, with expenses such as housing, healthcare, and education contributing to this. However, high incomes and a robust social support system help balance the cost.

South Africa’s cost of living is generally lower compared to many European countries, making it an attractive destination for expatriates. However, there can be significant disparities in living costs between urban and rural areas.

If you’re switching from euros to South African rands, keep an eye on the exchange rates to maximise your currency conversion and consider opening a local bank account. It’s not just about currency conversion; it’s about making your financial transition smoother. Also, don’t forget to inform your Dutch bank about the move to avoid any unexpected hiccups.

Navigating the Healthcare System in South Africa

Health is wealth, they say. And while South Africa does have a public healthcare system, investing in comprehensive health insurance is highly recommended. This ensures you have access to private medical facilities and specialists, giving you peace of mind in case of emergencies or routine medical needs.

South Africa prides itself on having the most advanced healthcare standards on the African continent. With over 200 private hospitals nationwide, if you opt for private health insurance you can expect healthcare services on par with those offered in the Netherlands.

There are a multitude of options to choose from when shopping for health insurance, referred to locally as “medical aid”. Whether you’re looking for a bare bones solution that only covers emergency hospital visits or one that comes with all the bells and whistles and full dental care, read the documentation carefully as many policies only pay out up to a predefined limit and costs incurred over that will be for your account. To get around this, many South Africans also pay for “gap cover” – an additional policy designed to cover any financial shortfall in your health insurance.

South African Housing Hacks

Compared to many European countries, South Africa offers a more affordable housing market. Rental prices and property values vary significantly between urban and rural areas, providing expatriates with flexibility in choosing accommodation that suits their budget. Whether you’re considering the bustling city life of Johannesburg or the coastal charm of Cape Town, start your search early. Websites like Property24 and Private Property are your new best friends.

Tip: In South Africa, particularly in urban areas, security is a crucial factor to consider when selecting accommodation. Gated communities and secure complexes are popular choices, offering added peace of mind for residents.

Transportation Tips

Public transportation varies across cities, with the local options being buses, trains and taxis. Taxis are the most affordable and fastest for navigating the cities. However, public transport of any kind is not recommended for tourists and expats, making a car a necessity (Uber is a convenient and less expensive short-term option). Understand the road rules, get your local driver’s license, and consider the practicality of owning a vehicle.

Tip: Get an international driver’s license before you leave the Netherlands. It’s valid for six months in South Africa, allowing you to drive while you are getting your local license sorted (which could take up to a few months, depending on the city).

South Africans drive on the left, so think twice about importing your car from the Netherlands as you will have extremely limited visibility when driving.

Embracing Diversity in South Africa

South Africa is a blend of culture and traditions, and you can expect to hear a variety of dialects, especially since there are 11 official languages. Take time to research and understand the local customs and etiquette. Learning a bit of Afrikaans or isiZulu won’t hurt either, even though English is spoken everywhere. Being culturally aware not only eases your integration but also enriches your experience in your new home.

As an expat in South Africa, you’ll meet people from many different cultures and nationalities. The most popular cities among expats in South Africa include Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg. Each city is different and it’s important to know what each one offers before deciding where to settle.

Cape Town often ranks as one of the most beautiful cities in the world and comes with a complex history of indigenous people, as well as Dutch, British and French settlers. The city offers leafy suburbs, colourful Cape Dutch architecture, an abundance of cafes and restaurants and bustling nightclubs. Its proximity to world-class white sandy beaches, internationally renowned winelands and a plethora of outdoor activities make it a top destination for travellers from around the world, resulting in a cosmopolitan and relaxed vibe.

In Durban, you can enjoy a subtropical climate, hot and humid summers, followed by mild and dry winters. The city is home to a significant Indian population which has influenced its traditions and cuisine. A popular local dish is “bunny chow” – a spicy and aromatic Durban curry served in a hollowed out half-loaf of bread. Like Cape Town, Durban is an outdoor-lover’s paradise, where you can enjoy a multitude of adventures on land and sea.

Johannesburg, also known as Joburg or Jozi, is the largest city and serves as the economic and financial hub of the country. In this city, you’ll find a wide range of high-end shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The cityscape is characterised by modern skyscrapers and trendy urban areas with plenty of street art. Jozi is a mix of economic vitality and cultural heritage – offering visitors a unique and multifaceted experience.

Staying Secure in South Africa

Even as you drink in South Africa’s vast natural beauty, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. The country boasts stunning landscapes and a rich cultural diversity, but understanding the risks to your safety is crucial for a positive and secure experience. When looking for a place to stay, research the safety in the area before making your final decision. Once you’re all moved in, take common-sense precautions, and connect with locals for advice on staying secure.

A few tips for staying safe in South Africa are:

• Don’t leave valuable items (i.e., handbags, electronic devices) unattended and keep them out of sight as much as possible.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and card transactions should be processed in your presence.
• Avoid walking around alone after dark.

Wrapping It Up

Moving from the Netherlands to South Africa is an exciting journey filled with new experiences and opportunities. By diving into the details of visas, finances, healthcare, housing, culture, transportation, and safety, you’re well on your way to a smooth transition. Remember, each move comes with its unique challenges, but with the right mindset and preparation, you’ll be embracing your South African adventure in no time.

Get in touch with AGS Global Solutions Netherlands for your big move to South Africa.

We believe that proper planning and coordination are the foundations of a successful move, and with our office move action plans, we help to minimise the loss of productivity for your business.

Talk to one of our branches today about turning moving offices into “dreamwork”.

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Over the course of an epic 23 days, Andro and four friends traveled north through Southern Africa from the Put Foot Rally’s start in Cape Town: across South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Malawi and ending at the rally’s finish line at a resort in Inhambane, Mozambique.

The 2015 Put Foot Rally saw around 160 like-minded people forming 54 separate crews, travelling through the same countries and reuniting at designated meeting points in each … but free to determine their own routes and travel at their own pace.

“One of the goals of the Put Foot Rally is to break down the stigma that Africa is not accessible,” explains Andro. “After only changing the filters in our 1987 Volkswagen Combi, we travelled the whole way without even getting a tyre puncture!”

Another objective of the Put Foot Rally is to support local communities, and 2015 was the first year that it had two charities: the Put Foot Foundation (supported since the inception of the rally five years ago) and the Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage.

The rally participants also donated school shoes and stationery to over 450 school children – some of which had never owned a pair of shoes before – from Okaukuejo Primary School in Namibia’s Etosha National Park.

Andro lists the donations to the Namibian school children as an undeniable highlight of a journey filled with them: a visit to the Fish River Canyon, the Etosha Salt Pan, the Caprivi Strip, the Victoria Falls and even white water rafting along the Zambezi!

AGS Movers Cape Town also made a sizeable donation towards the Put Foot Foundation, and was represented on the rally through both Andro’s presence and branding on his team’s vehicle.

“I saw a video on YouTube a couple of years ago and decided that I wanted to travel Southern Africa – so close to home, but yet so far out of reach,” recalls Andro.

“I set about telling my friends about the Put Foot Rally, and once we had enough team members so came a year’s planning and the rest is history.”

When asked whether he’d participate in the Put Foot Rally again, Andro’s answer is confident: “I would do anything to do this again. Africa is a beautiful place.”

Photo credits: Photos supplied by Justin Lee Photography (lead image and shoe drop) and Andro du Plessis

Emphasizing our ongoing commitment to the United Nations’ Global Compact since 2009, AGS uplifts local communities in countries our branches call home.

In 2015 delegates from the global removals industry will be travelling to Cape Town, South Africa, for the annual FIDI Conference from 29 March to 1 April. We recently announced that AGS has secured a prestigious Platinum Sponsorship for this conference, demonstrating AGS’s support for FIDI.

Furthering our global commitment to sustainable development, AGS is supporting the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation (DTHF) in South Africa, in an effort to specifically raise funds for the DTHF’s Tutu Tester mobile clinic programme.

AGS’ presence in the 2015 FIDI Conference will raise further awareness of the campaign, coinciding perfectly with the DTHF’s services delivered in Cape Town.

Project overview: Tutu Tester

The Tutu Tester mobile clinic offers a ‘Health on Wheels’ wellness service, providing point-of-care testing and screening for a range of chronic illnesses. These include HIV, Tuberculosis, STIs, diabetes and high blood pressure, as well as family-planning services.

The advanced point-of-care technology allows patients in under-served communities – with limited access to primary healthcare clinics – to receive their results in under 20 minutes.

AGS’ support for the DTHF

AGS will promote the DTHF through various communications, allowing our customers and business associates to join us in our support of this extremely worthy cause on the African continent.

Please look out for more updates on our social media channels – including Twitter and Facebook – and on www.agsmovers.com.

AGS Movers Paris is so passionate about mobility solutions by road that they recently entered a team of ten staff runners into the annual 10km L’Equipe race. Participating for the second time, the AGS team was spurred on by their 109th place finish this year (out of 132 teams) and are already looking forward to participating again next year.

GUINEA

AGS Movers Guinea recently received a letter of appreciation from South Africa’s ambassador to the country. This letter thanks AGS for the charitable donation received from the branch while commemorating International Mandela Day. Demonstrating further commitment to the cause, AGS also transported all donations to the South African Embassy.

SOUTH AFRICA

AGS’ International Movers Johannesburg sponsored the Defence Foreign Relations golf day in August, strengthening AGS’ relationship with senior embassy diplomats and South African government employees attending. While AGS Johannesburg’s German corporate sales executive played golf with Austria’s Ambassador (coming second in the tournament!), the rest of the AGS staff treated teams to tasty refreshments.

MALAWI

When a client recently needed a large boat transported from Malawi by road to Tanzania, AGS Movers Malawi was not deterred by the unusual request (for a land-locked country).

“The client chose AGS because we were the only company that could promise him that we have enough capacity to do this kind of job,” explains Branch Manager Luis Fernandez.

AGS Movers Coussaert sponsored the ‘A la Française’ weekend on May 24-25, hosted in an area of Brussels favoured by French expats. AGS’ popular stand was one of 60 in a market of gastronomy, crafts and creativity celebrating the Belgian art of living à la Française.

UNITED KINGDOM

AGS Movers London participated with a stand in the recent ‘London Totally Expat Show 2014’ trade fair, attended by mobility providers and consultants. A competition at AGS’ stand saw a winner receive a bottle of champagne and a box of chocolates.

SOUTH AFRICA

AGS Movers Johannesburg sponsored the Lycée Français Jules Verne school fête on May 31, also participating with a branded stand. As close on 1000 children attended along with their parents, it is the French school’s biggest annual event.

CZECH REPUBLIC

AGS Movers Prague branch recently participated in the Lycée Français de Prague’s school fair with a unique ‘Ali Baba’ game: children entered an AGS container with flashlights, recorded its contents on AGS packing lists, and the winner received a branded yoyo.

In 2009, the UNESCO declared 18 July an annual international day to honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy of peace and reconciliation.

“People around the world were encouraged to spend at least 67 minutes doing something positive for their communities, just like Nelson Mandela spent 67 years fighting for a democratic South Africa,”

says Renee van der Walt, Director of AGS Movers Johannesburg.

“We wanted to show our support by giving back to our community.”

AGS Movers Johannesburg partnered with Cornerstone Church and assisted in making 1200 sandwiches that were distributed, along with a fruit, to all the pupils at Denver Primary School.

“This wonderful experience left us feeling humbled and blessed,” said Renee. “It has uplifted the entire team, knowing that we have contributed to such a great cause.”

As a German citizen Martin knows about the expectations of his fellow citizens entering a new country and assures a smooth and hassle-free relocation.

Should you require any additional information, you can contact Martin via:
Email: martin.spautz@agsfrasers.com
Call directly: +27 11 541 9000