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Africa

A continent of breathtaking landscapes and epic wildlife

Zebras at Serengeti National Park

Africa, home to an amazing 54 nations, absolutely deserves a place on every traveller's bucket list. Think towering dunes, rolling savannah, a riveting past, and a tapestry of cultures so vibrant you’ll feel energised at every turn. Then there’s the wildlife. Elephants, leopards, lions… you name it, Africa proudly boasts it. Zebras by the herd. Giraffes galore. And that’s only the beginning. From the legendary Big Five to the cheeky Little Five, plus more birds, bushveld, and curious critters than you ever imagined, Africa teems with life that’ll leave you awe-struck.

You won’t leave Africa with a half-hearted shrug. You’ll take home a brand-new appreciation for the continent that sets the benchmark for wow.

Ready to plan that dream African safari? Connect with an Africa holiday travel specialist to turn that dream into reality.

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Flight time

Flying from Auckland to major destinations in Africa, such as Johannesburg typically takes around 20-24 hours, including at least one stopover.

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Best time to go

For South Africa, the dry winter months from May to October are ideal for wildlife safaris. For East Africa, the dry seasons from June to October and December to March are perfect to witness the Great Migration. North Africa is best visited from October to April.

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Time difference

Africa spans several time zones, but most countries are around 10 to 12 hours behind New Zealand Standard Time (NZST, GMT +12).

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"Tania always covers all the bases and thinks through my plans with me."

Delight

"I had two alter an existing booking and add two new bookings for family do we all meet up. Many flights and an airline change as suggested by Dennis made this work well for us. I was very impressed."

Royden

"My daughter organized it for me and l like the result"

Barbara

Your Africa adventure starts here - Download our Africa Brochure

Packed with expert tips, insider info and bucket-list inspiration for your next unforgettable Africa Small Group Wildlife Tour

Meet our Africa consultants

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Sarah Martelli

Sarah Martelli

House of Travel Rotorua

My love for travel began early - at 19, I left New Zealand with a one-way ticket to London to start my OE, and I've never looked back. I spent eight years living overseas, including four incredible years in London, where I explored Europe extensively. (Barcelona still has my heart!) 

I began my travel career in Melbourne in 2004, and knew I'd found my dream career. Even know, I still smile every day coming to work - I truly LOVE what I do. 

I did step away from the travel industry for a few years to raise my family, but the pull of travel was simply too strong. Coming back confirmed what I already knew: there is nothing else I would rather be doing. No two days are ever the same, and helping to create someone's dream holiday is a true privilege. 

Helping clients plan their adventures brings me so much joy. I specialize in point-to-point Europe itineraries, and I'm especially passionate about tours and cruising. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a multi-generational family holiday, a tailor-made Europe itinerary or a cruising holiday, I'll work with you to create a trip that fits within your budget and needs.

I pride myself on attention to detail and prompt turnaround times with my work. I believe I also go above and beyond for my clients - many now see me more as a friend, because we've built such strong relationships. Whether it's your first trip or your tenth, I'm here to make your journey smooth, exciting, and unforgettable from start to finish.

I'm known for being friendly, bubbly, and a great listener. I'll take the time to understand your needs and offer thoughtful advice and suggestions to make your trip the best it can be. 

I live on our dairy farm in Reporoa with my Husband Mathew and our three young children, who go to school in Rotorua. We are a busy sporting family, so I understand the #mumlife juggle and the importance of taking time out for a well-earned holiday, either as a family or for a lush couples' getaway! 

Some of our favourite family trips have been around Vietnam and to the theme parks on the Gold Coast, and next on our list with the kids in Japan. For my husband and I, a favourite recent trip was to Bali - the beachfront cocktails were amazing! Our next couples' getaway is to Langkawi in Malaysia!

Don't just dream about it - lets start planning. Get in touch today and let me turn your travel dreams into your next boarding pass. 


Sarah

Vanessa Allan

Vanessa Allan

House of Travel Christchurch City

Born and raised in Durban, South Africa; Vanessa has been in the travel industry for 24 years and has proudly called herself a kiwi for the past 5 years. Starting her career in planning holidays for clients, Vanessa quickly found her passion is with business travel - working in this fast past division of travel drives her every day. 

"I love building strong relationships with my clients. I thrive on a good challenge and love to sink my teeth into a big group. Attention to detail and customer satisfaction is paramount to me. I like to think outside the box providing my clients with the best possible solutions to their travel needs." 

When away from the desk, family time is important for Vanessa. Along with her husband she loves to watch and support their teenage son in his sporting endeavors. When off the side-lines she enjoys spending time with family and friends, especially outdoors and finding new and interesting places to dine. 

When Vanessa travels, she loves to experience new cultures, food and wine throughout the world. 

Favourite place to visit: London
Next place on the list to visit: Italy

Vanessa 

Laura Cook

Laura Cook

House of Travel Whanganui

Hey there!

I’m Laura, the smiley face you’ll spot as soon as you walk through our office door. With a serious case of wanderlust, I’ve done it all —lived abroad, cruised the seas, island-hopped, and even cruised around South Africa on the back of a motorbike. But let me tell you about my ultimate love affair Africa!

For three incredible years, I bounced between Australia and South Africa, exploring every corner of the country, often on the back of a motorbike. I’ve sat with elephants for hours, watched big cats hunting, and slept under the stars in the middle of a game reserve. My heart belongs to the wild, and if you’re an animal lover like me, trust me, Africa will capture yours too.

Nothing lights me up more than helping people experience this magic. The more I learn, the more excited I get about sharing these adventures with you! Whether it’s a dream safari, a relaxing cruise, or an off-the-beaten-path escape, I’m here to bring your travel dreams to life.

Let’s make your adventure happen!

Laura

Darryl Sandri

Darryl Sandri

House of Travel Timaru

Darryl has a vast travel knowledge of the world with Europe & Africa continents being personal favourites.

He's been selling both leisure and corporate bookings for 18 years and is well equipped to handle all requirements for personal and business travel.

Darryl

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