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Topography & Elevation Map of South Africa

South Africa Elevation Facts

Average elevation 1,034 m (3,392 ft)
Highest point Mafadi Peak: 3,450 m (11,319 ft)
Lowest point Atlantic Ocean: 0 m (0 ft)
Elevation range 3,450 m (11,319 ft) from the lowest point to the highest
Highest-elevation city Dullstroom: 2,100 m (6,890 ft)
Lowest-elevation city Durban: 8 m (26 ft)

South Africa is a country located at the bottom of the African continent. The country features a diverse range of landscapes that include mountain ranges, plateaus, and coastal plains. The elevation map of South Africa shows that the country has an average elevation of 1,034 meters above sea level.

Flag of South Africa

The Eastern part of South Africa incorporates the interior plateau known as the Highveld. This region is located at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level. The highest mountains of South Africa, including Drakensberg and Mafadi, are located in this region.

The Western part of South Africa has much lower elevation, featuring the Cape Fold Mountains and coastal plains, while the Great Karoo, a semi-arid region in the south-central interior, averages around 700 meters above sea level. This region is known for having semi-desert areas and semi-arid landscape.

South Africa's climate and weather can be heavily influenced by its topography due to the differences in altitude across the country. The elevation map reveals a range of diverse ecosystems with unique wildlife and vegetation. So, exploring the elevation of South Africa can be an enjoyable experience.

Highest Point in South Africa

The highest point of South Africa is Mafadi, located in the Drakensberg mountain range. Its peak is situated at 3,450 meters above sea level. This mountain range is a famous destination among hikers in South Africa due to the stunning landscapes and unique flora and fauna.

Lowest Point in South Africa

The lowest point in South Africa is the Atlantic Ocean at the country's western and southern coastlines, which lies at sea level. The Orange River, which shares its border with Namibia, reaches the sea at the same level.

Countries with Similar Topography to South Africa

Lesotho, Eswatini, and Zimbabwe are similar to South Africa in terms of high-altitude terrain. Lesotho is known as the 'Mountain Kingdom' and has a lot of commonalities with South Africa in terms of geography, while Eswatini and Zimbabwe both rise into the Drakensberg and the highveld that run along South Africa's eastern escarpment.

Highest-Elevation Cities in South Africa

Dullstroom is the highest-elevation city in South Africa, at 2,100 m (6,890 ft) above sea level. The table below lists the major cities with their elevations, from highest to lowest.

City Elevation Elevation in feet
Dullstroom 2,100 m 6,890 ft
Johannesburg 1,753 m 5,751 ft
Bloemfontein 1,393 m 4,570 ft
Polokwane 1,317 m 4,321 ft
Pretoria 1,312 m 4,304 ft
Kimberley 1,243 m 4,078 ft
Nelspruit 660 m 2,165 ft
Port Elizabeth 60 m 197 ft
East London 46 m 151 ft
Cape Town 17 m 56 ft
Durban 8 m 26 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest point in South Africa?

The highest point in South Africa is Mafadi Peak, at 3,450 m (11,319 ft) above sea level.

What is the lowest point in South Africa?

The lowest point in South Africa is Atlantic Ocean, at 0 m (0 ft).

What is the average elevation of South Africa?

The average elevation of South Africa is 1,034 m (3,392 ft) above sea level, based on the CIA World Factbook.

What is the highest-elevation city in South Africa?

Dullstroom is the highest-elevation city in South Africa, at 2,100 m (6,890 ft) above sea level.

What is the lowest-elevation city in South Africa?

Of the cities listed for South Africa, Durban is the lowest, at 8 m (26 ft) above sea level.

What is the elevation range in South Africa?

Elevation in South Africa ranges from 0 m (0 ft) at Atlantic Ocean to 3,450 m (11,319 ft) at Mafadi Peak, a difference of 3,450 m (11,319 ft).