• Grab a pair of binoculars, and begin the day getting to know some of South Africa’s animal species at Kgaswane Nature Reserve, a few minutes’ drive from Rustenburg’s city centre. Travel the reserve’s ring road and meet oribi, reedbuck and kudu – perhaps even the elusive leopard or sly jackal. The sanctuary is well known for its breeding herd of proud sable antelope and its hundreds of species of birds.

  • Pull on a hard hat and the necessary protective clothing, and head off to one of the platinum mines in Phokeng for a surface and underground tour. A knowledgeable guide will escort you on your trip through the belly of the earth and enlighten you on the processing and refining techniques of this precious metal. Note: the mines can only be visited with a recognised tour operator.

  • Lunch at a local shebeen (tavern) and sample pap (maize porridge), stew and morogo (greens and onions), washed down with umqombothi, a home-brewed beer.

  • While in Phokeng, familiarise yourself with one of the principal communities of the Rustenburg area, the Royal Bafokeng. Almost wiped out by the Zulu warrior Mzilikazi (whose grave is found at Phokeng) in the 1800s, and disenfranchised during the years of colonisation, the Bafokeng have reclaimed their place in democratic South Africa and receive royalties from the mining of its minerals. Their new wealth has gone into building schools and clinics, and upgrading infrastructure, including sports facilities such as the stadium in which some of the FIFA 2010 World Cup games will be played. Note: Phokeng is best visited under the auspices of a guide.

  • Drop in at the Paul Kruger Country Museum before heading back to your hotel. Kruger was the President of the Suid Afrikaanse Republiek – one of the states that preceded the Republic of South Africa – back in the 1880s. The museum is located in one of the residences on his farm, Boekenhoutfontein, and displays authentic period furniture.

  • After a quick shower and change, you’ll be ready for the internationally reputed Sun City, 50km drive by road. Enjoy a casual dinner in one of the food courts, or go upmarket at a fine dining venue. Take in a glittering Vegas-style stage performance with long-legged showgirls, and then test your luck in one of the casinos.

Other laid back host cities include Pretoria, Polokwane and Nelspruit – have a look at the day-tripper suggested itineraries.



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