Standard TimeSAST |
UTC+2 |
Daylight Saving Time
|
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
IANA Time Zone |
Africa/Johannesburg |
Mattatile time compared to Beijing time (China) |
6 hours ahead |
Introduction to Matatiele, South Africa
Matatiele is a border town in the northern part of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, bordering the provinces of Lesotho and KwaZulu-Natal, at an altitude of about 1,600 meters. The name is derived from the Sesotho word "matatiyela" meaning "duck quacking", which is a reference to the abundant population of wild ducks in the local wetlands. As an agricultural and trading center, Matatiyela's main economic pillars are livestock (cattle and sheep farming) and maize cultivation, surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of the Maloti Mountains.
History and Cultural Characteristics
Historically a crossroads of Cosa, Basotho and European settlers, Matatiele retains traces of multiculturalism. The town has a mission station and traditional stone buildings dating from the 19th century, and hosts an annual festival reflecting indigenous crafts and music. The local transportation hub is prominent, with connections to neighboring provinces via the R56 highway, making it an important node for cross-border trade.
Natural and Tourism Resources
The surrounding mountains are ideal for hiking and bird watching, while the waterfalls and rock art sites of the Maloti Mountains attract adventure enthusiasts. As the gateway to Tepeats Nek, the Lesotho border crossing, the town combines ecotourism and border commerce, offering a distinctly rural and borderland South African experience.
Mattatile Sunrise/Sunset Today,
Today is 2026-02-28
Sunrise Time
05:54
Local Time
Sunset Time
18:39
Local TimeTime difference between Mattatile and other cities
Other cities in South Africa
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