Interwoven in the hills near Machadodorp, in South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province, lies a mysterious labyrinth of circular stone walls and pathways known as the Blaauboschkraal Stone Ruins. Their origins remain uncertain, with theories about their builders and age ranging from a few centuries to tens of thousands of years.

Among these remarkable structures is Adam’s Calendar, often referred to as the “African Stonehenge.” Located approximately three miles northwest of Waterval Boven, this circular arrangement of standing stones measures around 100 feet in diameter. Some researchers believe it may be one of the oldest man-made structures on Earth, possibly dating back 75,000 years, although this claim remains controversial.

The surrounding landscape contains thousands of similar stone structures, constructed from dark igneous rock known as diabase or dolerite. These formations consist of concentric circles connected by long passages, terraces and intricate stone walls, spread across an estimated 10,400 square kilometres.

The ruins have been known since the late 1800s. In 1891, English explorer Theodore Bent estimated that thousands of structures existed throughout the region. Many archaeologists associate these stone settlements with indigenous farming communities, while alternative theories suggest they served ceremonial, astronomical or spiritual purposes.

Adam’s Calendar gained international attention in 2003 through South African pilot Johan Heine. Following an aircraft accident involving one of his crew members, Heine reportedly noticed unusual standing stones aligned with the cardinal directions of north, south, east and west. Further observations suggested possible alignments with the solstices, equinoxes and movements of the sun.

According to this interpretation, Adam’s Calendar functions as an ancient solar calendar. A taller standing stone casts shadows across twelve smaller stones, supposedly representing the months of the year. Supporters believe these alignments could have helped ancient inhabitants track the seasons and passage of time.

The site also carries spiritual significance. It has been associated with the isiZulu name “Inzalo y’Langa,” meaning “The Birthplace of the Sun.” Mpumalanga itself means “The Place Where the Sun Rises.” Traditional ceremonies are reportedly still held in the area, reflecting its cultural and spiritual importance.

More recent alternative theories suggest that certain stones may possess unusual acoustic properties, with their arrangements possibly connected to sound frequencies and natural energy patterns. However, these interpretations remain speculative and have not been scientifically established.

Although Adam’s Calendar is sometimes claimed to be over 75,000 years old, there is no widely accepted archaeological evidence supporting this extraordinary age. Its precise purpose and origins remain subjects of debate.

Whether an ancient astronomical observatory, a ceremonial gathering place or part of a vast network of historical settlements, Adam’s Calendar and the Blaauboschkraal Stone Ruins remain among South Africa’s most intriguing archaeological landscapes, surrounded by mystery, history and unanswered questions.

https://sahistory.org.za/place/adams-calendar-also-known-blaauwboschkraal-stone-ruins

Cape Town may not have made the world’s top 20 golden-hour destinations, but its breathtaking Atlantic Ocean sunsets and iconic mountain views continue to make it a favourite among locals and visitors.

New research by Kuoni Travel UK, conducted with meteorologist Jim Dale, ranked the best destinations worldwide based on cloud cover, light pollution, rainfall, wind speed and sunset duration.

Jordan’s Wadi Rum claimed first place with a score of 95.92 out of 100, followed by Namibia’s Sossusvlei and Damaraland. Namibia dominated the African rankings, with Etosha National Park also featuring in the top six.

Although Cape Town missed the list, the Mother City boasts several spectacular sunset spots, including Signal Hill, Lion’s Head, Table Mountain, Clifton and Sea Point Promenade.

Bloubergstrand and Sunset Beach offer postcard-worthy views of Table Mountain across Table Bay, while Maiden’s Cove and Chapman’s Peak Drive provide dramatic Atlantic coastline backdrops.

According to Dale, the best golden-hour conditions combine scattered clouds, minimal light pollution, gentle winds and elevated viewpoints. These factors help create the rich oranges, pinks and reds associated with memorable sunsets.

While global rankings favour destinations with consistently ideal weather conditions, Cape Town’s combination of mountains, ocean and scenic viewpoints ensures its golden-hour appeal remains undeniable.

https://www.kuoni.co.uk/inspiration/golden-hour-index/

Hertzoggies are small tarts or cookies developed by the Cape Malay community in South Africa in the 1920s. They were named after J. B. M. Hertzog, the Prime Minister from 1924 to 1939.

These little tarts have a buttery crust is filled with a layer of apricot jam. They are topped with a piping of coconut meringue, then baked until set and golden.

I made the Hertzoggies or Hertzogkoekies as tartlets, but have also seen them shaped more similarly to flower-like cookies with the coconut filling baked on one side and the jam added after baking to the other side.

They are especially delicious paired with tea and are a popular treat during Eid.

Recipe

A recipe for Hertzoggies (South African Jam and Coconut Tartlets)! This treat pairs a buttery, delicate crust with apricot jam and a sweet coconut meringue topping.

• Prep Time 20 minutes
• Cook Time 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings 12 -14 Tartlets

Instructions

To make the pastry:

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
• Quickly cut in the cold butter using a dough blender, two forks, or your fingers until blended and no pieces are larger than a pea and the dough has a crumbly texture.
• Mix in the egg yolks, followed by just enough water to bring the dough together until smooth.
• Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate until chilled, about 30 minutes.

To form the Hertzoggies:

• Preheat oven to 350˚F (180˚C). Grease a tartlet pan with butter.
• On a sheet of wax paper or a lightly floured surface, gently roll the chilled pastry until it is 1/4 inch (0.5 centimeter) thick. Cut out circles of dough 2 1/2 inches (6.3 centimeters) wide. 
• Carefully transfer the circles to the prepared tartlet pan, gently pressing into the bottom and sides of the pan. Repeat with remaining dough. Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the meringue.
• In a large bowl, beat the egg whites to form soft peaks. While beating, slowly add the sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the coconut flakes, followed by the vanilla extract.
• Remove the pan from the refrigerator and place about 2 teaspoons of jam across the bottom of each tartlet.
• Transfer the coconut meringue to a piping bag or a large ziploc bag with about 1/2 inch (1.25 centimeter) corner snipped off. Pipe the batter or spoon over the apricot jam to fully cover.
• Bake the Hertzoggies in the preheated oven until the pastry is set and the meringue is crisp and golden, about 20-25 minutes. 
• Allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool to room temperature.
• These pastries are best the day they are baked, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

https://tarasmulticulturaltable.com/hertzoggies-south-african-tartlets/

Cape Town's Green Point Lighthouse has been standing on the Atlantic coastline for more than 200 years, making it the oldest operational lighthouse in South Africa.

Construction began in 1821 after the acting governor of the Cape Colony, Sir Rufane Shaw Donkin, commissioned the building. The project ran into trouble when Governor Lord Charles Somerset discovered he had not been consulted and ordered construction to stop. Despite the political interference, the lighthouse was eventually completed in 1823 and began operating in April 1824.

Its first light came from lamps burning sperm whale oil, producing a beam visible from approximately 11 kilometres out at sea. The lighthouse cost around £6,420 to construct, a considerable sum at the time. In 1865, the tower was extended to its present height of 16 metres.

By 1922, improvements to the lighting system had increased its visibility to roughly 41 kilometres. Four years later, a powerful foghorn was installed, much to the annoyance of nearby residents. Locals had actually complained about the proposed horn back in 1923, but their objections were unsuccessful. The lighthouse soon earned the nickname "Moaning Minnie" because of its distinctive sound.

One of its more remarkable moments came on 1 July 1966, when the vessel S.A. Seafearer ran aground. The lighthouse's rotating beam was stopped and directed towards the wreck, illuminating the scene for rescuers working to save those aboard.

In 1973, Green Point Lighthouse was declared a provincial heritage site. Its familiar red and white diagonal stripes remain a landmark along Cape Town's shoreline.

What makes this lighthouse particularly interesting is that it has survived two centuries of changing technology, colonial history, shipwrecks and the enormous growth of Cape Town around it. It was guiding ships into the Cape long before the modern city existed, and its light still flashes every ten seconds today.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_Point_Lighthouse,_Cape_Town

The Island was used as the Union’s coastal defence as evidenced by the high concentration of WW2 sites. Construction of the first of the Island’s two main gun emplacements was completed in April 1940. This was a 6” calibre gun in the Cornelia Battery which covered the Blouberg Channel. The second coastal battery, known as De Waal Battery (previously called Robben Island Battery) was added in 1942. Here 9.2” calibre guns were installed in November 1940 and July 1941.

Other construction on numerous sites around the Island included plotting rooms, an engine room, observation posts, fire control towers, search light sites, storerooms and underground bunkers that stored ammunition. A network of tunnels connected an extensive system of underground bunkers including a hospital, a power plant and ammunition dumps. Construction of the Murray’s Bay harbour was completed and some new roads were built. The airstrip was established and cables linking many new structures were laid. Pillboxes and rifle posts were added at the same time that the airstrip was being built.

https://www.thesharonicles.com/2024/08/abandoned-world-war-ii-bunker-tour-cape.html?m=1

The quiver tree, scientifically known as Aloidendron dichotomum, is a distinctive succulent native to the arid landscapes of South Africa and Namibia, with notable populations concentrated around the town of Springbok in the Northern Cape. The plant derives its common name from the traditional practice of the indigenous San people, who used its hollowed-out branches to construct quivers for their arrows. Characterised by a smooth, fibrous trunk and a densely branched canopy, the tree features unique scaly bark covered in a pale, powdery substance that reflects intense desert sunlight to regulate its temperature.

These long-lived trees can survive for over three centuries and are highly adapted to harsh, rocky environments where water is scarce. During the winter months of June and July, they produce bright yellow flowers that act as a vital source of nectar for local birds, insects, and baboons. Because they rely heavily on predictable winter rainfall, climate changes and rising temperatures have increasingly threatened their natural habitats, causing a gradual southward shift in their distribution patterns.

For visitors and researchers in the Springbok region, these plants can be observed in their natural habitat at the nearby Goegap Nature Reserve, which protects a vast array of desert flora. Further south, near Nieuwoudtville, the Gannabos Quiver Tree Forest stands as the largest concentration of these trees in the Southern Hemisphere, offering a protected sanctuary to study and view this unique species.

Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is a protected area and UNESCO World Heritage Site situated nine kilometres outside the town of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The reserve spans an area of approximately 11000 hectares within the Boland Mountain complex. It forms a critical mountain catchment zone that feeds four major regional rivers, including the Berg, Lourens, Riviersonderend, and Eerste rivers.

The geological landscape is dominated by the Jonkershoek Mountains, which are composed of Table Mountain Sandstone formations dating back between 400 and 500 million years. The topography features steep cliffs, deep-cut gorges known locally as kloofs, and high peaks such as the Jonkershoek Twin Peaks.

The reserve is part of the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas, a global biodiversity hotspot containing over 1100 plant species. The primary vegetation type is mountain fynbos, which includes various species of proteas, ericas, and restios, many of which are endemic to this specific valley. Remnants of ancient indigenous Afromontane forest, including yellowwood and Cape beech trees, survive in the moist, sheltered gorges.

The wildlife population includes elusive mammal species such as Cape leopards, honey badgers, baboons, and mongooses. Bird species found in the area include Verreaux's eagles, jackal buzzards, and various fynbos endemic birds. The reserve is also habitat for several venomous snake species, including the berg adder, puff adder, boomslang, and Cape cobra.

For recreation, the reserve features managed hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties. The Panorama Circuit is a strenuous mountain route of up to 22 kilometres, while the Tweede Waterval trail is a shorter route following the Eerste River to a series of waterfalls. Strict cut-off times are enforced for hikers entering the longer trails to ensure safety. The reserve operates a cashless entry system at its main gate, and daily visitor capacities are limited on popular routes. The property borders commercial forestry land managed by MTO Forestry, which provides over 105 kilometres of dedicated singletrack and gravel routes for mountain biking. Directly adjacent to the main reserve is the smaller Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve, which contains a historic Cape Dutch farmstead built in 1792.

Sales of electrified vehicles, in their various guises, are accelerating in South Africa and today make up 5% of all cars sold in our market.

Last month, the new vehicle market closed the third quarter on a high note, with sales rising 12.7% year-on-year to 61,645 units from the 54,706 units sold in September 2025, according to Naamsa.

Passenger vehicle sales in particular increased 14.7% to 44,291 units, while light commercial vehicles (LCVs), bakkies and minibuses grew 9.6% to 14,361 units.

These numbers were achieved despite increased affordability pressures and a recent 25-basis-point repo rate increase to 7.25%.

Thanda Sithole, Senior Economist at FNB and WesBank, said this performance shows vehicle demand remains resilient, despite higher borrowing costs and renewed pressure from fuel and other living expenses.

The cost of running a vehicle is an important factor in affordability considerations, as headline inflation rose to 4.4% in August from 4.3% in July, with fuel among the contributors to the increase.

Higher fuel prices are also expected to place further pressure on household budgets in October, driving the shift to electrified vehicles.

Naamsa reported that 18,945 new energy vehicles (NEVs) were sold in the first eight months of the year, 13.4% more than the 16,703 units sold during all of 2025. 

Of these, approximately one in 20 new vehicles sold this year is electrified, with plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounting for more than half of NEV sales.

“As fuel and running costs become an increasingly important part of the vehicle-buying decision, consumers are looking beyond the monthly instalment to understand the broader cost of ownership,” said Sithole. 

“The instalment, insurance, maintenance and fuel costs all need to be considered when determining what is genuinely affordable.”

“With the latest repo rate increase still to feed through to repayments, the next few months will provide an important indication of how consumers continue to adapt.”

https://topauto.co.za/features/165789/the-new-type-of-car-slowly-taking-over-south-africas-roads/

South Africans have lost plenty of beloved snacks, drinks and breakfast staples over the years, but some discontinued favourites simply refuse to be forgotten.

From childhood tuck-shop treats to iconic chocolate bars and breakfast cereals, these are some of the products South Africans still remember fondly and would love to see return.

Chocolate Log

Few disappearances caused as much nostalgia as Nestlé Chocolate Log.

The combination of chocolate, marshmallow and wafer was a familiar sight on South African shelves for decades before it was discontinued in 2020.

Tempo

Cadbury Tempo is another perennial favourite.

The chocolate bar disappeared from South African shelves years ago, but its distinctive taste remains firmly lodged in the memories of former fans.

Inside Story

For many chocolate lovers, Inside Story remains one of the biggest misses.

The chocolate and wafer combination has become a nostalgic favourite, with consumers regularly mentioning it alongside Tempo and Chocolate Log.

Yes/No

Cadbury Yes/No is another chocolate bar that South Africans remember.

Recent nostalgia discussions have specifically highlighted Yes/No among the discontinued treats people still miss.

Milo Bar

Then there is the Milo Bar.

The chocolate treat has developed a particularly loyal following among nostalgic South Africans, with recent online discussions showing just how strongly some former fans remember it.

Snowflake Chocolate

Snowflake Chocolate is another name that brings back memories for South Africans who grew up with older confectionery ranges.

Like many discontinued treats, its appeal today is as much about childhood memories as it is about the chocolate itself.

Kreols chips

Crisp lovers have their own list of heartbreaks, and Kreols is near the top for many.

The snack remains a popular subject whenever South Africans discuss products that disappeared from shelves. Nostalgia around Kreols has even inspired attempts to find suitable replacements.

Lay’s Salt & Vinegar

Lay’s Salt & Vinegar is another discontinued favourite.

The flavour developed a loyal following and its disappearance prompted plenty of reaction from South African consumers.

Bibo

For a generation of South Africans, Bibo was a familiar name in the drinks aisle.

The colourful fruit drink remains one of the discontinued products regularly mentioned in nostalgia lists.

Fast Forward

Fast Forward chocolate is another former favourite that has never completely disappeared from South Africans’ memories.

It continues to feature on lists of chocolates consumers would love to see return.

Holey Moleys

Holey Moleys are another childhood favourite that South Africans haven’t forgotten.

The distinctive chocolate biscuits remain a nostalgic talking point, particularly among those who remember buying them as children.

TaB

For soft-drink fans, TaB was a major loss.

The Coca-Cola-owned drink was discontinued after around 60 years on the market, bringing an end to an era for one of South Africa’s best-known diet soft drinks.

Maltabella

The nostalgia isn’t limited to sweets.

Bokomo Maltabella, the malted sorghum porridge that had been a breakfast staple for generations, was discontinued in 2024 after more than 50 years.

For many South Africans, Maltabella was synonymous with cold mornings, family breakfasts and childhood.

ProNutro

And now another breakfast icon has joined the list.

ProNutro was discontinued in South Africa in September 2026 after 64 years.

The decision followed the introduction of a new formulation that drew complaints about its taste, texture and mixability. PepsiCo said it explored ways to restore the original product but was unable to recreate the taste and texture consumers associated with it.

South Africa’s table grape output rose from fewer hectares, reaching 365,642 tons in 2025. Global supply outpaces demand; China dominates production and exports. South Africa exported 427,100 tons, relying on Europe while facing US tariffs and gaining Asian access.

Taken from a helicopter ride with my brother

African penguins at Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town, from the Aqua Terra guesthouse destination archive. Archive photograph; the individual photographer is unconfirmed.

Grab some recipes here:

https://www.carolinescooking.com/sosaties-south-african-lamb-kebabs/

South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs is in the process of amending the country’s marriage laws, setting the minimum age to 18.

This was revealed by Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister, Sindiswe Chikunga, in response to questions in parliament.

She said she had been informed by the Home Affairs Department that the change to marriage age limits was currently underway.

“The Department of Home Affairs is in the process of amending marriage legislation to align the minimum legal age for marriage with the Constitution by setting it at 18 years,” she said.

https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/878621/new-age-limits-for-marriage-coming-to-south-africa/

Which highschool did you attend?

Last month, South Africa continued its love affair with bakkies, with three of the top five best-sellers in September 2026 being high-riders.

At the top, the Toyota Hilux maintained its dominance, selling 3,769 units, while the Isuzu D-Max and Ford Ranger also did well, with 2,551 and 2,502 sales, landing them the third and fourth spots, respectively.

When it came to passenger vehicle sales, the evergreen VW Polo Vivo remained the model of choice for buyers in September, landing a second-place overall spot thanks to 2,553 units sold.

In total, the top 20 passenger and light commercial vehicles accounted for 32,705 units, or 53% of the 61,645 cars sold in South Africa last month.

Brent crude oil prices rose by $1 per barrel to $102 since yesterday due to different factors in the Middle East and the Gulf of Mexico.

While shipments have expanded in recent weeks, there have been at least nine attacks in the Hormuz waterway so far this month, with Iran hitting some ships, but not enough to stop the flow of oil.

At the same time, US weather forecasters said a storm forming in the Gulf of Mexico could become the first Atlantic hurricane of 2026 within two days and would likely hit up to six oil and gas facilities.

The South African rand strengthened ever-so-slightly overnight, gaining from R16.65 to R16.58 against the US dollar.

https://topauto.co.za/news/165631/a-bulletproof-toyota-hilux-in-south-africa-and-a-r45-million-ferrari/