The beauty of the undulating Drakensberg Mountain range is indisputable, but in addition to travelling through such breathtaking vistas, visit the World Heritage Site of Giant's Castle and the enigmatic Bushman paintings in the vicinity. They're not far, so we set off on foot for a leisurely 3km round hike to the site of the caves to discover this magical legacy of the bushmen (moderate fitness level required). The guide there will share his knowledge of the paintings which date back 2,000 years. There will be a hearty lunch. The return to Durban is via the charming Midlands Meander Route, a community of country crafters and farmers who produce quality wares and live enviable country lives. This rural area is extremely appealing, and you'll find it an appropriate way to unwind after this energetic, energizing day.

We're going right back to our beginnings, to the exceptional World Heritage Site of The Cradle of Humankind. The superb Maropeng Visitor Centre is truly an exciting, world class exhibition, focusing on the development of humans and our ancestors over the past few million years. Then, on with those comfortable shoes...we begin our tour above ground at the nearby Sterkfontein Caves where the famous Mrs Ples and Little Foot skull and skeleton were discovered...then go deep and deeper into the caves, so you feel the history and strong sense of identity. It's a fascinating Centre with superb exhibits.

And then there were lions. Visit a nearby lion park, home to lions and exquisite cheetah, and we have the opportunity not only to watch them, but to interact with lion cubs.

From the beginning of civilization, to the rawness of the wild - you'll have experienced both ends of the spectrum today.

South Africa's largest city remains its financial and commercial heart. It's in this fast-paced metropolis that the country's radical political and social transformation is most evident - this is the "Rainbow Nation" at work. It's a heady experience, with contrasts of every kind round every single corner. The tour sets off for Constitution Hill, home of South Africa's architectural marvel, the Constitutional Court and site of Johannesburg's Old Fort Prison (closed Sundays). Meander through the newly renovated, quaint and quirky suburb of Melville with its vibey shops and trendy restaurants, and stop at Newtown Market, home of Johannesburg Market Theatre. Museum Africa is Johannesburg's premier cultural history museum, reminiscent of a 1950's shebeen or pub, and it's here you'll really sense the soul of the inner city. Return to your hotel via the flipside of the coin, the lush, upmarket suburb of lower Houghton. This is a city of contrasts.

Many South Africans gave much; some gave all, to achieve a truly democratic South Africa. Take this full day tour which shares some of the journey, pain and struggle of those heroes; witness the places, experience the diverse museums where these momentous, tumultuous years have been so well documented.

The day begins at the Hector Pieterson Museum, where we start to unravel the cause of the devastating riots, before travelling past Mandela House, where you have the option of visiting this small museum (own account).

The next significant stop is the fascinating Regina Mondi Church, site of so many of the underground meetings of the then banned political parties. Standing in here, you can feel the tension; picture the intensity, the strain on the faces of those unthinkably brave souls, committed at any cost to changing the way of life of a nation.

Have lunch in Soweto at a local restaurant (own account), before visiting the legendary Apartheid Museum. This is an interactive voyage of discovery, one which takes you from the dark days of "whites only" privilege, through to Nelson Mandela's historic release. The Apartheid Museum is a multimedia experience, with documentary film snippets, texts, sound clips and live accounts, recapturing life in the dark days of South Africa.

It is a fascinating tour, filled with tales of bravery and sadness.

Five cultures in a day, that's what we'll be exploring at the Lesedi Cultural Village, heart and home to families of a range of African tribes, all living harmoniously in true traditional homesteads. You'll be right there experiencing the warmth and hospitality of people from the Zulu, Xhosa, Ndebele, Sotho and Pedi cultures, and you'll find it fascinating! Our multilingual, multi-visual orientation depicts the history of South Africa, and will deepen your understanding of the complexity of our multicultural community. As evening falls, enjoy a traditional African meal, a fine way to round off a day of new experiences and fresh insights.

SOWETO, acronym for South Western Township, is home to over 2 million people, who, despite living in crowded and chaotic conditions, have a tangible sense of community, one which ironically, the ordered, walled, elitist northern suburbs lack. Inside Soweto, visit the Hector Pieterson Museum, and discover the cause of the tragic riots which led to his death; pass Mandela House, and you have time to visit this fascinating little museum (own account). The journey continues to Regina Mondi Church, site of many secret underground meetings of the then banned political parties. Soweto is unlike a suburb you've ever seen or been to, yet the history of struggle encapsulated here is a cornerstone of the South African story.

Wild and wonderful, that's for sure. The day begins early with a professionally guided, closed vehicle game drive into Big Five country: the Pilanesberg National Park. Who knows which of the Big or Little Five you'll see? Close neighbor to this superb natural reserve, is Sun City, one of South Africa's most popular theme resorts, and you'll have full access to the casino. For the really curious, you'll want to visit the Wave, Swimming Pools, and even enjoy a guided tour of the Lost City (own account). It is a fabulously relaxing day.