The Geography of Western Cape, South Africa

VOICE OVER: Rebecca Brayton

The Western Cape shares its borders with the Northern and Eastern Capes, as well as the Indian Ocean to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The dividing point between the Indian and Atlantic Oceans is even found in the South African Province: Cape Agulhas is also the south-western-most point in Africa. Grand mountain ranges, coupled with lush valleys, make up much of the area's landscape. One important element to the scenery, Table Mountain, is notable for its flat top and overlooks Cape Town and Table Bay. In this video, http://www.WatchMojo.com learns more about the geography of the Western Cape of South Africa.

The Western Cape shares its borders with the Northern and Eastern Capes, as well as the Indian Ocean to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The south-western-most point of the African continent is also found in the Western Cape. This point, Cape Agulhas, is also known as the dividing point between the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.

Much of the Western Cape is found within the Cape Fold Belt, which is a range of folded rock mountains. These mountains are not high in comparison with other mountain ranges around the world; however they are quite steep and grand to look at.

Between these mountain ranges, lush valleys are created. Characteristics of coastal areas can be sandy, or rocky and hilly. In the north, the Karoo region is made up of dry plateaus.

Table Mountain is one remarkable element in the landscape of Western Cape. This mountain, which overlooks Cape Town and Table Bay, is notable for its flat top. Measuring 3,563 feet, it is even featured on the flag of Cape Town.

The Western Cape is full of indigenous flora, such as drought-resistant shrubbery and temperate rainforests. In fact the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas is a grouping of several sites rich in plant life, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

Despite this country’s magnificent coastline, it is not just this natural landmark that draws visitors to this South African paradise.

Western Cape South Africa Cape Town travels tourism destinations attraction climate weather geography landscape mountains valleys coast Cape Agulhas Indian Ocean Atlantic Ocean Cape Fold Belt Table Mountain flora

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