Here at Native Atlas, we are fueled by our love of beautiful people and places. Today, we kick off our Explore series, where we'll dedicate the blog to places around the globe that inspire us and produce some of our key ingredients. This week, we'll be in one of the most diverse and endearing countries in the world: South Africa.

One journey to South Africa and it's easy to understand why it regularly ranks among the top destination spots in the world. This place is a bucket-list must! Pristine beaches, exotic animals, endless adventure, great wine, and an enduring, vibrant people with a rich history. Scroll through to get a glimpse of its charm, and stay tuned for Part 2, where you'll find out how to bring some of this beauty home. 

Rooibos tea is crushed and laid out to dry in the fields. Photo: Rodger Bosch, www.MediaClubSouthAfrica.comKaroo semi-desert. Carnarvon, Northern Cape province. Photo: Graeme Williams, www.MediaClubSouthAfrica.comRed earth is used to protect the skin from the sun. Central Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal. www.MediaClubSouthAfrica.comQuiver trees, used by the Bushmen to make quivers for their arrows. Photo: Graeme Williams, www.MediaClubSouthAfrica.comDesigner Laduma Ngxokolo creates brilliant, modern clothing steeped in cultural pride. Photo: MaXhosa by LadumaA fruit trade in Johannesburg's city centre. Photo: www.mediaclubsouthafrica.comA guide at Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years.