It’s Heritage Month, and in celebration of South Africa’s rich diversity of cultures and traditions, First Loyalty PLUS – South Africa’s premier all-round rewards programme – has created a fun quiz designed to help you uncover your perfect South African heritage experience.
“South Africa is a multifaceted land with a storied past,” says Samantha Pillay, director at First Loyalty PLUS. “There is so much to see and do, but each of us has unique interests. From our vibrant cities to the serene bushveld, and from colonial architecture to modern museums, this quiz will help guide you to your ideal cultural adventure.”
1. Which aspect of South African heritage interests you most?
a) Indigenous cultures and traditions
b) Colonial history and architecture
c) Journey to democracy
d) Natural heritage and wildlife
2. What type of cultural experience appeals to you?
a) Traditional music and dance performances
b) Historical museums and monuments
c) Urban cultural exploration
d) Nature walks and wildlife viewing
3. Which historical period of South Africa interests you?
a) Pre-colonial era
b) Early colonial settlements
c) Mid to late 20th century
d) Biodiversity conservation
4. What kind of accommodation would you prefer?
a) Traditional village homestay
b) Hotel or guesthouse featuring classic colonial architecture
c) Hotel or guesthouse near important democracy-related sites
d) Eco-lodge in a nature reserve
5. What type of souvenirs would you want to bring home?
a) Traditional hand-crafted beadwork or local textiles
b) Antiques, South African wine
c) Books or South African artwork
c) Wildlife photographs or indigenous plant products
6. Which activity appeals most?
a) Experiencing a cultural performance or show
b) Guided tours with an expert
c) Exploring modern historical landmarks
d) Going on a safari
7. What kind of local cuisine would you like to try?
a) Traditional indigenous dishes
b) Afrikaans Cape Dutch inspired cuisine
c) Township street food
d) Game bush braai (barbecue) in a natural setting
8. Which language group’s heritage would you like to explore?
a) Nguni (Zulu, Xhosa, Swati, Ndebele)
b) Afrikaans and Cape Malay
c) South Africa is multilingual, and all are part of our history
d) San and Khoi (indigenous hunter-gatherers)
9. What type of landscape would you most like to explore?
a) Scenic rural settings
b) Coastal areas and surrounds
c) Urban cityscapes
d) Savanna and bushveld
RESULTS
If you scored:
Mostly As: An Indigenous Cultural Heritage Experience is for you
Visit: Hluhluwe, nestled in the heart of historic Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal.
Stay at: Gooderson DumaZulu Lodge and Traditional Village (Hluhluwe), SA’s largest cultural village. Observe artisans practising their crafts and stay in one of the 31 rounded huts, each decorated to represent different tribes: Zulu, Swazi, North Sotho, Xhosa, Venda, Tsonga and Ndebele.
Mostly Bs: You’ll enjoy Colonial History and Architecture Tours
Visit: Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, established respectively by Dutch and French settlers in the late 1600s. Explore the Afrikaans Taalmonument in nearby Paarl, the Huguenot Memorial Museum or Rupert Art Museum.
Stay at: Ashbourne Boutique Guest House (Franschhoek). Dating back to 1897, it evokes a sense of a bygone era, reflecting its colonial heritage.
Mostly Cs: Modern History is your thing – explore a Freedom and Democracy trail
Visit: Soweto, Johannesburg played a pivotal role in the struggle for freedom.
Stay at: The Soweto Hotel & Conference Centre, just 3km from the famous and vibrant Vilikazi Street, once home to former president Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu – both Nobel Peace Prize winners.
Mostly Ds: Natural Heritage and Wildlife Safaris is your passion
Visit: Areas surrounding the iconic Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga.
Stay at: Waterberry Hill, near Hazyview. Immerse yourself in South Africa’s stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife, from Big Five safaris to indigenous plant tours.
Image credit: max m/Pixabay