Standing proud at the foot of one of the most beautiful countries on earth, it is easy to see why South Africa remains such a popular choice for different types of holidaymaker. From honeymooners to families and pensioners, the country is an ideal destination for British travellers looking for the trip of a lifetime - and a bit of sunshine.

Whether you desire a city break or a wild adventure in the African bush, South Africa has it all and is also home to some of the most welcoming people on Earth. Without a doubt one of the biggest attractions of South Africa is its wildlife. Just thinking about the sun drenched land conjures up images of exotic creatures roaming through dusty plains. Adventurers are unlikely to be disappointed with the reality of the country's animals as it plays host to some of the rarest and most beautiful creatures on earth. For those looking for a trip into the wild, one of the South Africa's numerous national parks would be a good place to head.

One of the most popular of these is the Addo Elephant National Park near Port Elizabeth where visitors can come face to face with African elephants. More than 450 of them now slowly wander within the parks borders, sharing their 164,000 hectare living space with, among others, buffalo, lion, leopard and rhino. Other game parks which are a must for intrepid travellers are the beautiful Mountain Zebra National Park in the country's Eastern Cape and the newly established Camdeboo National Park.

Those looking to get a little closer to nature during their holiday can also take a trip to the splendid Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens which make their home on the slopes of the breathtaking Table Mountain. As well as learning more about the environment and, in particular, conservation in South Africa, visitors will also be able to stroll among some of the country's most striking indigenous plants and shrubs.

Culturally, South Africa is a traveller's dream with tradition and ritual oozing out from every corner of every city and every village. Festivals are a familiar site to foreign visitors to South Africa and few can resist joining the party. Some of the best events are held in the magical city of Cape Town - including the Cape Town festival which kicks off in March. Here, like at many of the hub's major celebrations, music and song are at the heart of the event, with musicians jetting in from across the continent to entertain.

Johannesburg too is a city of colour and excitement with entertainment and cultural provisions on hand for visitors in every corner. The city prides itself on its modern outlook but is still faithful to its history with the powerful Apartheid Museum and Nelson Mandela Square. The city is green in many senses of the word – with a reported six million trees including great oaks and sycamores growing there. Despite its cosmopolitan feel it is an environmentally-conscious hub, housing two botanical gardens, a Lion reserve and the beautiful Zoo Lake park.

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