Navigation
Back

South Africa

Wild beauty, bold cities and once-in-a-lifetime moments


Wildlife, wine and wonder

South Africa is a country that dazzles with diversity – from wild savannahs to edgy cityscapes to the turquoise coastline and white sands of your dreams.

Watch elephants, giraffes and rhinos roam at sunrise in Kruger National Park, feel the sea breeze on your face at Cape Point, or hike Table Mountain for panoramic views that will leave you utterly speechless.

In Cape Town, colourful neighbourhoods, harbourside precincts and buzzing food markets are brimming with life, while Johannesburg hums with creativity and a bold, artistic spirit.

Food and wine lovers are in for a treat – sip award-winning vintages in the Cape Winelands, feast on fiery Durban curries, discover Cape Malay flavours in Bo-Kaap, and tuck into sizzling braai (barbecue) wherever you go.

Up for adventure? South Africa has it in spades – cage-diving with great whites, hiking, kayaking with penguins, river rafting, cycling and so much more.

Get chatting with our South African specialists – your adventure of a lifetime is calling!

Plane Stabiliser Icon

Flight time

The flight from Auckland to South Africa takes roughly 20 hours with a stopover. It's a bit of a haul but that will immediately be forgotten when you see your first baby elephant or herd of zebra.

Calendar Icon

Best time to go

The best time to visit South Africa depends on where you're headed: May to September is ideal for safaris, spring and autumn shine in Cape Town, and Durban’s coast offers warm, beach-perfect weather year-round.

Watch Icon

Time difference

South Africa is 10-11 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving here so there's a bit of an adjustment to be made.

Meet our South Africa specialists

Carly Dorrington

Carly Dorrington

House of Travel Papamoa

As a passionate globetrotter, I've explored the corners of the world with my three adventurous children and alongside friends and family, indulging in everything from backpacking escapades to luxurious resort retreats and exhilarating cruises.

My journey through the tapestry of travel experiences has been enriched by my upbringing in England and my time spent living amidst the captivating landscapes of Western Australia. It's these diverse backgrounds that have instilled in me a profound love for travel and a deep understanding of the intricacies of exploring different cultures and landscapes.

My journey through countless destinations has ignited a fervent dedication to curating unforgettable travel experiences, not just for myself, but for fellow wanderlust souls seeking to fulfil their travel dreams. Whether you're yearning for the rugged thrill of backpacking, the tranquil family getaways, the opulence of fancy resorts, or the serene luxury of cruising, I'm here to weave together the perfect itinerary tailored to your desires.

I want to take the stress out of the planning so you can focus on the excitement of your trip. I am highly organised and like to ensure everything has been thought of and accounted for. Communicating clearly along the way with you so you feel confident and reassured. 

I would love to help you with your next journey....wherever it may be!


Carly 


Cheryl Edwards

Cheryl Edwards

House of Travel Albany

I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively and live in some amazing cities.

I'd love to inspire you to travel more by drawing on my personal experiences & knowledge to make your dreams a reality

As a travel agent with 30+ (gulp)  years of experience, I’ve learned that no two journeys are ever the same—and that’s what keeps this job exciting.

While travel is one of life’s greatest pleasures, planning it can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s where I come in. I’ll take care of every detail so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories.

"Because life’s too short not to see the world"


Cheryl 

Kyla Strahl

Kyla Strahl

House of Travel Christchurch City

Kyla spent over 6 years crewing on luxury super yachts throughout the Mediterranean, Baltic, Adriatic, Caribbean, Pacific and North Seas; along with several Atlantic Ocean crossings. Moving to more adventure land travel Kyla has experienced India, South America and South Africa as a part of the whopping 57 countries she has explored!

"Whether it be cruising, OE's or travelling with a young family my first-hand knowledge will certainly be an asset when planning your winter break, European adventure, or once in a life time dream holiday!" 

Years in the industry: 7 
No. of countries visited: 57 
Favourite place to visit: Italy
Next place on the list to visit: Plantation Island

"Life is short and the world is wide, the sooner you start exploring it, the better." - Simon Raven


Why I love travel: 

Travelling takes us out of our comfort zone and inspires us to experience new things that we otherwise wouldn't in our normal day to day lives. It enriches your life from meeting new people from all walks of life, trying new food from different corners of the world, and humbles you to appreciate the small things in life. 


My travel tips: 

  • Always have travel insurance
  • Wake up early - whether it be to see the sunrise, or to skip a queue, or get a coffee at the local café. 
  • Make a list of the things you want to experience and pre book as much as you can. 
  • Stay local with everything easily accessible on foot. 


My top 5 favourite destinations: 

  • Italy - rolling hills and crystal blue waters, stunning villages and cathedrals, amazing food and wine. 
  • South Africa - rich cultural experiences, amazing wildlife on safari, breath-taking landscapes. 
  • Croatia - stunning beaches and unbelievable landscapes from the islands in the Adriatic to the Krka National Park. 
  • Mexico - amazing food, fascinating Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and fabulous architecture from ancient temples to the colonial cathedrals. 
  • Canada - my birth land! The people, the rich forests, lakes, mountains and wildlife. 


What's in my suitcase: 

  • First Aid kit as you can never be too prepared. 
  • Travel Diary - make an effort to write down the highlights of your day, you will look back in appreciation. 
  • Sarong or thin, long scarf - will come in handy as a towel or to cover your shoulders when need be. 
  • Small change of local currency - whether it be to buy a bottle of water or a quick snack or to leave a tip. 

Kyla

Kirsty Stalker

Kirsty Stalker

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

Your Travel Adventure Starts Here

With over 14 years of experience in the travel industry, travel and tourism have always been a huge part of my life. I was fortunate enough to spend 8 years working as cabin crew, which gave me the incredible opportunity to explore some amazing destinations and experience different cultures around the world.

My love for travel has continued both professionally and personally, and I’m passionate about creating those same unforgettable experiences for others.

When I’m not busy helping clients plan their next adventure, you’ll find me at home cooking, spending quality time with my young family, or exploring somewhere new with them. I love creating memories, discovering new places and, of course, finding the next destination to add to the list.

I can’t wait to help you turn your travel dreams into reality and plan your next unforgettable adventure.


Kirsty

Our Africa travel blogs

Our fave customer holiday pics in Africa

Follow us!
Subscribe

Want the insider word on all things travel?

Sign up below and be the first to hear about out hottest holiday deals, flights steals, and essential travel hints and tips from out team of travel specialists.

Consultant Consultant Consultant

Experience all things South Africa