Africa. The slightest mention of the continent conjures up images of lions loping across the sun-kissed Savannah, elegant gazelle and wildebeest drinking side by side at sparkling waterholes with leggy youngsters at foot, while the beat of the African drum thunders in the distance.

South Africa lives up to the traditional 'mud huts and lions' image of the county, while allowing travellers put off by continent's wilder side the opportunity to experience Africa.

This breathtakingly beautiful, mysterious country does well to dispel the myths surrounding the amazing, but often misunderstood continent.

Post-apartheid South Africa boasts world-class hotels and restaurants and high-class shops, worlds apart from the traditional image of Africa.

After a tug-of-war between the British and Dutch the Union of South Africa was formed in 1910, making Cape Town the legislative capital and Pretoria the administrative capital of the country.

1910 was also the year when a group of laws were introduced to essentially discriminate against the country's black majority.

Turbulent and bloody struggles followed and it was not until the inauguration of Nelson Mandela in 1994 that South Africa began to put its apartheid past behind it.

Today the country, like many other African nations, suffers from the ravages of HIV/Aids, poverty and continuing racial tension, but travellers should not let these inherently African problems put them off experiencing South Africa's rich culture.

An ideal starting point to find out about South Africa’s past is in Cape Town, a city steeped in history. Its attractions include a fortress dating from 1666, the impressive Dutch Reformed Church, and the Old Town House built in 1755, which now contains a rare collection of 17th century Flemish and Dutch paintings.

Famous for its natural harbour and unique plant-life, Cape Town is a must-see. It is also known as South Africa's 'pink' capital and offers a range of gay-friendly venues.

And if you like throwing off your sensible hiking sandals now and then, Cape Town is the place to dance away those balmy African nights and spend a few South African rand.

If city life isn't your thing and you've stolen away to the so-called 'dark' continent for more adventurous pleasures, head out to the South African bush where you can see breathtaking scenery and experience buffalo, zebra and lions up close and personal.

An ideal starting point for bush adventures is Johannesburg, 35 miles south of Pretoria.

Dubbed the 'gateway' to the north of the country, intrepid travellers will find the famous Kruger National Park and the glorious Mpumalanga Lowveld Game Reserve.

Tours can be arranged either on horseback or by 4x4 and guarantee an amazing safari through the South African bush, where sightseers can expect to see a whole host of animals straight out of the Lion King movie.

If you're keener to meet a great white shark than a lion, head to the eastern port city of Durban, located at the base of Drakensberg (Dragon Mountain).

This beautiful city is famous for sprawling sandy beaches, great surf and a refreshing, green landscape - a far cry from the plains of the Serengeti and a great place to cool off after a thoroughly African adventure.