Princes 'are planning joint tour of South Africa'

The royal brothers have been fans of the people, wildlife and landscape of the continent since teenagers and are planning a trip to coincide with the football World Cup being staged in the country in June.

Prince William is president of the Football Association and is also keen to support the FA's bid to host the global soccer tournament in 2018.

The second-in-line to the throne's interest in the national team will see him attend an England match during the tournament.

Both princes have charitable interests in Africa which are likely to be highlighted during the tour by visits.

prince Harry co-founded his Sentebale organisation which is helping Aids orphans and other disadvantaged youngsters in Lesotho – a land-locked nation within South Africa.

He has visited the country frequently since setting up the charity in 2006 and last month staged a fundraising polo match in Barbados in aid of its work.

Prince William is royal patron of the Tusk Trust which supports and launches projects across the continent that help to safeguard endangered animals.

A St James's Palace spokeswoman would not verify whether the visit was being planned. She said: "We cannot confirm if Prince William and Prince Harry will be visiting South Africa during the summer.

"However, Prince William and Prince Harry are keen to use the spotlight on South Africa during the World Cup to highlight many other issues that the region is tackling."