Navigation
Back

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.

Plane Stabiliser Icon

Flight time

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

Calendar Icon

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.

Watch Icon

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

"Jan is always very quick to respond to requests for information and follows up really well with any further information one may need for their destination ie.visas, accommodation, other travel arrangements etc."

Gaille

"She is knowledgeable and always a pleasure to deal with"

Fiona

"Lynda was very friendly she made it very easy for 5 family members to travel together. Nothing was a problem. Great communication. Thank you Lynda."

Kathleen

Our fave customer holiday pics in Africa

Follow us!

Meet our Africa consultants

See all See more
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 
Shelley Rich

Shelley Rich

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

I have been a part of the travel industry for over 30 years and still love it!

I love to travel and I often joke with my clients that I live vicariously through them.

Planning the perfect holiday for my clients fills me with joy. I take pride in what I do and love sharing my passion of travel.

Many of my clients have become life long friends. 

Shelley

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, even cruised around South Africa on the back of a motorbike! I am all about the adventure. But let me tell you about my ultimate love affair - Africa!

For three wild years, I bounced between Australia and South Africa, travelled to almost every corner on the bake of a motorbike. I’ve sat with Elephants for hours, seen the big cats hunting, slept under the stars in the middle of a game reserve. My heart belongs to the wildlife, and if you're an animal lover like me, trust me, Africa is the place to be.

They say home is where the heart is, and I left a piece of mine in Africa. Nothing makes me happier than helping others experience its magic. Sure, I'm a newbie in the travel industry, but exploring the world has been my jam since day one. The more I learn, the more excited I get about sharing the adventure with you!

So, whatever you are dreaming of, I'm here to make your travel dreams come true!


Laura

Jo McLaughlin

Jo McLaughlin

House of Travel Papamoa

Hi, I’m Jo and I joined the House of Travel Papamoa team in April 2022 not long after the borders opened and it’s fair to say it’s been crazy busy ever since!  No two days are the same and I thrive working in a fast-paced environment.   I have been working in Travel for around 10 years and started in January 2009 at Flight Centre Mt Maunganui and then moved to Auckland in 2011 to step into a management role to open their new retail store in Royal Oak.  I then moved back to the Tauranga area in early 2013 and opened the Flight Centre in Bayfair.  Opening two of Flight Centre’s stores gave me an incredible learning experience and insight into building a business and taking it to incredible heights!  I was also in charge of training multiple new to the industry staff members.  Before Travel I worked in banking for 4 and half years both in the retail branch and the business banking team. 

I have great attention to detail, excellent communication skills and am down to earth, friendly and approachable.  I love meeting new people and building relationships with my clients.  I love putting together itineraries and working closely with you to find your perfect fit.

I'm passionate about travel to Canada and the UK.  As I lived in Vancouver for 6 months and London for nearly 3 years on Working Holidays.  I’ve also spent 3 weeks in Egypt and over 6 weeks in South America.  I’ve travelled on my own to Asia and then jumped on an Intrepid Cambodia tour.  I have also done a 28 day Topdeck Camping trip around Europe and travelled independently using Eurail passes and the Eurostar. Along with many other exciting adventures!

My partner Duncan and I have two children, a son 10 and daughter 9.  We have been on family holidays to Bali and Fiji, staying at Plantation Island and the Naviti on the Coral Coast.  Duncan and I also experienced a Viking ocean cruise (adults only) and absolutely loved it! I have just returned from visiting Darwin, Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks in the Northern Territory, taking the Ghan from Darwin to Adelaide.  I was very fortunate to take a scenic flight over Uluru and Kata Tjuta – just breathtaking!

We live locally in the Papamoa Hills and own a lifestyle block. We love the outdoors and taking advantage of the many wonderful things on offer here in the Tauranga area.  

I’d love to help you plan your next trip and look forward to hearing from you.  


Jo

Best. Holidays. Ever!

Start here

Let us help you find the perfect holiday or deal. 
Here’s how to get in touch...

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 Africa