Physical Geography of Southern Africa

Southern Africa

Consists of 14 countries, with 10 on the mainland and 4 island countries.

Great Escarpment

High steep cliffs running from Angola to Mozambique, forming an almost unbroken U-shape.

Plateau

Stretch of flat land higher than its surroundings, like the Highveld in Southern Africa.

Okavango Delta

Forms an inland delta and swamps in Botswana, where the Okavango River spreads wider.

Big Five

Lions, leopards, elephants, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceroses, known for being dangerous and difficult to hunt.

Kalahari Desert

Occupies much of Botswana basin, blending into Namib Desert, known for its arid conditions and adapted plant and animal life.

Baobab Tree

Symbol of Africa, with a thick trunk and skinny branches, living for hundreds of years and reaching a diameter of 30 feet.

Mineral Wealth

Vast resources in Southern Africa including gold, copper, coal, diamonds, and gemstones, leading to colonization and controversy.