From my experience, to travel to any country in Europe all you need is a confirmation of hotel booking, flight booking, bank statement with enough funds to cover your travel expense (on average about $3,000 is recommended for visa for a week), letter from your employer confirming your employment status, travel insurance, two passport sized photographs and completed visa application paper.

For any other requirement, you can visit their website.

Can't say anything about South American countries and South Africa.