Spot magnificent wildlife in their natural habitat at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park. Photo / Supplied Expand

Spot magnificent wildlife in their natural habitat at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park. Photo / Supplied

Soccer's World Cup circus brings the global gaze to South Africa - but once you're done watching the All Whites, check out some of the country's other wonders. From the new book, Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2010, out now.

1. DRAKENSBERG

Looking for the best high-altitude hiking in South Africa? Then head to Drakensberg, where the 200km-long mountain range has summits that top out at almost 3500m. This dramatic chain acts as a natural border between KwaZulu-Natal and the tiny region of Lesotho. Giant's Castle and Cathedral Peak are serious challenges but the real draw is the region's accessibility and electrifying scenery - tumbling waterfalls, babbling rivers and secret caves seduce with every footstep.

2. RICHTERSVELD TRANSFRONTIER NATIONAL PARK

Lunar landscapes, vast sandy plains and soaring peaks define Richtersveld. Seemingly inhospitable, the park's climate supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. Hikers love the unearthly beauty of the four-day Vensterval Trail, which is likely to reward with glimpses of rock hyrax and jackal buzzard. The less energetic relax by the Orange River, which marks South Africa's border with Namibia and makes a cool retreat from the blistering sun. This is South Africa's wildest national park - pack your adventurous spirit.

3. CAPE TOWN

Great location, temperate climate and cosmopolitan atmosphere - not for nothing is it South Africa's leading destination and one of the world's finest cities. Rich colonial history mixes with a modern vibe and vigorous nightlife scene - be warned, Cape Towners celebrate the "half week", as well as the weekend. Surfers head for the heavy barrels of Kalk Bay Reef, while nature lovers rejoice in the splendour of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, where the mighty Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. And let's not forget the breathtaking vista from Table Mountain.

4. WINELANDS OF THE WESTERN CAPE

Beating the trails around South Africa's national parks is great, but if you're fed up with bush tucker, head to the Winelands region to gorge yourself on the country's finest food and drink. The towns of Franschhoek, Paarl and Stellenbosch are a great place to sink a bottle or two while revelling in the eye-popping backdrop of lush valleys and coastal seascapes. Take a tour of the best vineyards before a hot-air balloon ride under a blood-red sunset. For wine tours, buy a flexible "Vine Hopper" bus ticket at Stellenbosch, one-day ticket R150 (NZ$27).

5. WILD COAST

In an untouched corner of the Eastern Cape lies an unspoilt coastline of crashing waves, verdant forest and tumbling waterfalls. Pull on your boots and hit the hiking trails that weave around secret coves and untouched sandy beaches. Along the way you'll glimpse mysterious shipwrecks where you can scuba dive in search of hidden booty. Venture inland to discover the culture of South Africa's Xhosa people, who settled these coastal regions in the Iron Age. Amid these colourful villages of traditional mud huts exists a way of life unchanged for centuries.