Lure of the Rainbow Nation - touring South Africa with Gullivers

With England's tour only a couple of months away, find out how to make the most of this stunning country, enjoying both the cricket and the culture in equal measure

When the England selectors announced the squad that would tour New Zealand, they gave a clear message that this was the start of a new Test match cycle, building towards the next Ashes series in 2021/22.

With minimal changes anticipated for the South Africa tour, this throws up the mouth-watering prospect of seeing England's finest young talent on display in the Rainbow Nation. Two Lancashire 22-year-olds; leg-spinner Matthew Parkinson and paceman Saqib Mahmood are in the squad. Plus rookie Test openers Dominic Sibley aged 24, and Zak Crawley, 21.

There's also the scintillating prospect of Jofra Archer tearing in on quick southern hemisphere pitches, watching prodigious young batsman Ollie Pope, who boasts the highest average of any English batsman in first-class history to have played more than 30 games, and welcome a return for England's leading wicket taker of all time, Jimmy Anderson.

^{For more unique insight on the Giraffe Tour, watch this exclusive insight with Gullivers' Neil Rayer}

With a history of superb cricket between the two countries, plus incredible hospitality and value for money off the field, there is no better time to book your tour with Gullivers, the UK's most experienced tour operator. Gullivers pride themselves on being as passionate about the cricket as you, providing the authentic cricket experience.

Take Gullivers tour manager Andy Stovold for example. He was a hugely popular member of the Gloucestershire teams of the 1970s and 80s, and loves Cape Town: "I still get the same feeling as when I first went to Cape Town in 1974 with Gloucestershire. You are not just driving into any city, you are driving into a city with such identity. You have the amazing contrast between the high-rise buildings and then Table Mountain behind.

"Plus the Gullivers direct chartered plane makes life so much easier and more enjoyable in getting there. We will fly overnight and because of the similar time zones it means you can get the most out of your first day and explore your new surroundings, without being jetlagged. It's not like Australia where you can feel quite groggy for a few days – in Cape Town you are ready to go upon arrival."

Neil Rayer has worked for Gullivers for more than two decades and will be embarking on his seventh trip to South Africa: "It's an incredible destination with first-class food and drink, unbeatable value and so much to see and do outside of the cricket, from beaches to winelands and safaris.

"Travelling with Gullivers means great tour leaders, fantastic hotels and our unrivalled experience of the country. Plus plenty of laughs with events like an evening with Jonathan Agnew and the Gullivers Cricket Day options, you'll be spoilt for choice!"

Giraffe - 2nd Test Tour

10 nights stay in the 4* Southern Sun Cape Sun hotel in Cape Town. This tour includes return international private charter flights and transfers, full tickets to the 2nd Test at the beautiful Newlands and a dedicated tour manager. Guests also attend welcome drinks and the beach front Cape Town Dinner event, which includes food, drink and traditional African entertainment.  

Oryx - 2nd Test Tour with Winelands extension

This includes return international flights, airport transfers and a dedicated tour manager. Guests stay 11 nights in 4* accommodation, initially based in Cape Town, before an incredible trip to the majestic Winelands of the Western Cape for some fantastic wine tasting with a registered guide. Featuring estates such as Hidden Valley, Blaauwklippen, Zorgvliet, Simonsig, Marianne, Alluvia and La Motte, you will spend two nights in Stellenbosch exploring all that the winelands have to offer.

Rhino - 1st and 2nd Test Tours

Fifteen nights in 4* accommodation based in Centurion and Cape Town – explore Cape Town City, Table Top Mountain, Cape Point and a full day at the Winelands! All tickets to the matches are guaranteed, along with international flights. Included is a Gullivers cricket evening, where guests will have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A with some big names in the game.

Fly business class

For an unforgettable flight, upgrade to business and experience priority boarding, more personal space and comfort to relax, excellent food and drink and larger baggage allowance.

To find out more about Gullivers and the tour packages - visit: www.gulliverstravel.co.uk