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Africa

A continent of beauty and wildlife

Africa, with all its many diverse nations (54 in total!) has a well-deserved place on many traveller’s bucket lists. Formidable landscapes? Check. Fascinating history? Check. An incredible mixed-bag of cultures? Check Check! Oh and then there’s the small matter of wildlife. Lots and lots of wildlife. And it’s not your run-of-the-mill selection of fauna either. Oh no, Africa is home to all the bona-fide cool stuff. Elephants, leopards, lions, you name it, Africa claims it. Zebra! Yes, plenty of zebra. Giraffe! Lots of them. And then another trillion forms of animal life to marvel at. Showcasing everything from The Big Five, to The Little Five, birds, bushveld and enough critters to make you go cuckoo (and yes they have them too).

You definitely don’t go to Africa and walk away with a simple shrug and a “Hmm not bad.” No way. You walk away with a newfound appreciation for the continent that takes first prize for WOW!

Planning an African Safari holiday? Connect with an Africa holiday travel specialist to create your dream holiday, today.

Flight time.

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

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.

Time difference.

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

Our Africa travel blogs

Our favourite River Cruises

River cruising is for everyone! Whether you've done it before, or it's your first time. Here's a list of our favourite river cruises to inspire your next holiday.

On a Solo'ish adventure

Got an inner urge to get out and explore, but none of your travel buddies can make it happen? One big misconception is that you must be single if you’re travelling alone.

Wine, wilderness and an unforgettable African safari

Africa

Quick guide & tips for first-time travellers to Africa

So, if you’re deciding on your next travel destination and haven't made up your mind yet, think about taking a trip to The Mother Continent, especially if it’s your first time.

Witness the wildebeest migration in Tanzania

Tanzania

Lets go somewhere different

Here are five destinations we think everyone should experience in their lifetime.

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

"Nicole was incredible at helping us figure out what was possible for us and our holiday (because we weren't sure when we initially came in) and her enthusiasm was amazing ??"

Paige

"I Firstly gave her incorrect information, and based on that she created a full itinerary for me only for me to change all details. She was so professional and friendly and within a few hours had rejigged everything which was quite perfect. She was brilliant!"

Fiona

"She listens well. She goes the extra mile with finding solutions and her experience is an asset with us being able to relax knowing she is reliable. She is our first go to for all international travel."

Paul

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Meet our Africa consultants

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Loris Sowman

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

I recently joined the team at House of Travel Mt Maunganui after relocating from Hamilton, where I’d previously worked with Calder & Lawson House of Travel.

After many years in the travel industry, what makes this job special to me, is having my clients return from their trips to tell me about their adventures and then wanting to rebook another holiday with me - they do say the best way to overcome the post-travel blues is to already be planning your next one, and I couldn’t agree more!

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

Loris

Erin Phillips

House of Travel Calder & Lawson

I have been in and out of the industry since the 80's I have lived in Australia, Canada, Italy and of course NZ.

I have travelled to some great places but there is still a huge number of countries on my wish list.

There is nothing better than being able to help someone when they are going to a new place...recommend a hotel, restaurant or activity and then have them return to say how much they enjoyed it all.

Erin