South Africa is a country rich in culture and heritage, fast-paced, dynamic and cosmopolitan. It is renowned for its array of natural attractions - from the stretches of untouched beaches, to the rolling mountains and game reserves teeming with some of the world's most magnificent bird and wildlife species. It is also known for gold mining and cities that bustle with life and activity.

It is recommended that a tour of South Africa should last at least 2 weeks - as this is the ideal amount of time to experience the diversity of the country and soak up the magic of this Rainbow Nation. With the FIFA 2010 World Cup™ drawing closer, South Africa is gearing up for a year of excitement and bubbling with anticipation to welcome visitors from all over the world!

You could spend an entire lifetime in South Africa and still not manage to experience all the wonders the country has to offer. That said, if you are embarking on a South Africa tour, be sure to add these world-famous destinations and activities to your itinerary. Bring your binoculars, your camera, an open heart and a spirit of adventure!

Cape Agulhas in the Cape Overberg marks the southern most tip of the African continent and a must-visit destination on your South African tour. This quaint seaside town boasts homely bed and breakfasts and a pristine stretch of coastline. Visit the lighthouse, one of the oldest in South Africa and witness a panoramic view of the ocean. Be sure to keep an eye out for Southern Right whales and bottlenose dolphins - the area's local aquatic residents. Take a quiet stroll to the official Cape Agulhas plaque, a landmark of the place where the warm waters of the Indian Ocean meet the icy waters of the Atlantic.

Another location not to be missed on your tour of South Africa is the De Hoop Nature Reserve, one of the largest areas that has been well maintained and cared for by the Cape Nature Conservation. In this gorgeous area, you'll drive past fields littered with colourful flowering fynbos, the dominant vegetation group of this area. The terrestrial nature of the reserve is an ideal habitat for a number of animals, so be sure to keep an eye out for mountain zebra, the rare bontebok and the ever-present baboons of the area. De Hoop Nature reserve is a birders paradise - so keep your bird book at hand to tick off all the resident species you may come across.

Wind your way along the scenic Garden Route on your South Africa tour - a must visit, beautiful stretch of land. Along this route, you will have the opportunity to explore many costal towns like Knysna, the picturesque seaside town situated on a lagoon. If you are looking for adventure on your tour of South Africa, then be sure to stop by Bloukrans bridge - one of the world's highest and most exhilarating bungee jumps!
Surfing enthusiasts should carry on along the Garden Route to Jeffrey's Bay - where some of the world's most famous surfing events take place. It's a magical place to relax and observe the famed "tube" waves. While in this area, a great idea is to experience the Addo Elephant National Park, where you will have the chance to see the Big 5!

The South African Wild Coast is a rugged stretch of pristine coastline and an ideal spot for anglers and nature lovers to visit. Whether you are looking for a rustic tented beach hut or the excitement of a casino, the Wild Coast will surpass all of your expectations. Braaied fish, boogie boarding and lounging under the sun is mandatory, at least once, on any tour of South Africa!

Another breathtaking place to snap magnificent shots of the wild flowers or merely marvel at the rock formations is the Golden Gate National Park. This park is set on the edge of the Drakensburg Mountains, which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. When you visit, you will see why this majestic natural mountain range is internationally acclaimed. KwaZulu-Natal boasts many hiking trails, including one to the Tugela Falls - this is not only good for the body, but when you witness the water cascading down over the famed "amphitheatre", you will realise it is truly good for the soul. A hike, whether it be in a forest, on a mountain, or even in a game park is also a must on a South African tour.

The city lights will inspire you when you visit the buzzing cities of Cape Town or Johannesburg. Given its rich history derived from the famous gold rush, Johannesburg is worth a few days visit on your South African tour. Not only is it a shopping Mecca, there are also various museums that document the cultural and historical journey of people though the eras. In Johannesburg, you can also go on a township tour of the vibrant Soweto, world-famous for the coverage it received during the apartheid era and now famous for its music and jovial shebeens (local bars). You can even visit the former home of former president and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Nelson Mandela, not to mention taking the plunge and taking a tour of the old goldmines, 700ft underground at Gold Reef City. Cape Town is another must visit city - with Table Mountain, Robben Island, the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and the vibrant V&A Waterfront, you will be in awe for the duration of your stay.

A South African tour is sure to awaken your senses, talk to your soul and leave you with memories of a well-lived adventure. The diversity, the culture and the landscape of the country allow any traveller to find what they are looking for.