Best Time To Visit South Africa

Understanding South Africa Climate

South Africa Climate is as diverse as its landscapes. The climatic variation across its 9 provinces is reflected in its ever-changing landscapes. However, in general, the Climate of South Africa is dry and sunny. While the north of South Africa is warm the south is more on the cooler side.

Elevated plateaus cover most of the country whose climatic conditions are mostly dry. Coming to the coastal areas, while the Indian Ocean side is tropical, the Atlantic coast is comparatively milder. But remember that cold fogs and hot desert winds can always set in.

If we talk about the climate of its different provinces, we will see that The Western Cape experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

The Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal regions have a subtropical climate with warm temperatures and moderate rainfall year-round. The interior of the country, including areas like the Free State and Northern Cape, have a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters.

When is the Rainy Season in South Africa? The rainy season in South Africa varies with the location. While the Cape Town and the Western Cape areas receive rains in the winter (June to August), the rest of the country gets them in summer (November to March), but the thunderstorms don’t last long.

Good To Know: Many tourists coming to South Africa Destinations prioritize its lively festivals, the annual migration, and the wild animal's breeding season over the weather. So, whether your interest lies in these events or others, this South Africa Travel Guide will provide you with all the information on the Best Time to Visit South Africa.

When is the Best Month To Visit South Africa?

The answer to the above question depends exactly on where you are heading during your South Africa Safari and Tours.

• If you are traveling to the east, that is the region where the main national parks are situated, the Best Time to Visit South Africa for game viewing is during the winter months extending from May to September. This is the dry season in the eastern part and wildlife is easier to spot because of scarce vegetation and animals congregating around water resources. Here, in the eastern part, we are mainly talking about places like Kruger National Park and KwaZulu-Natal Province.
• And, if you are traveling to the west, Cape Town, and around, the Best Time To Visit South Africa is during the summer months (November to March). The Cape Town dry and wet seasons are opposite to that of the eastern region of the country. These seasons apply to the entire Western Cape and surrounding regions.

Key Point to Remember:

Considering everything, it has been established that “September” is the Best Month to Visit South Africa, if you want to experience the best of everything that the country has got to offer to its guests. We will explain this in detail in the later section.

Coming back, let’s now understand more about the travel seasons of South Africa. Here we will talk about the peak season, shoulder season, and low season of the country as a whole.

• Peak Season:

  The peak or high season of South Africa is during the summer months, from November to March, owing to its location in the Southern hemisphere. This is the time when schools are closed and beaches are full and cities are alive with crowds.

• Shoulder Season:

  The shoulder season for tourism in South Africa generally refers to autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November).

• Low Season:

  Though winters (May to September) are generally considered the low season in South Africa, certain regions do attract visitors because of ideal weather conditions.

Travel Seasons for South Africa

Visiting South Africa In Summer- November To March

• Summers are characterized by varying weather conditions, such as dry or wet, and hot or humid temperatures, depending on the location you are visiting on South Africa Trip.
• Coastal areas are warm and sunny, while the northern part may experience frequent thunderstorms. The Western and Eastern Cape enjoy a Mediterranean climate.
• Summers in South Africa are peak season for a reason. With its stunning landscapes, from Cape Town and the Winelands to the captivating Garden Route, as well as the birding and birthing season in Kruger National Park, the country offers a perfect mix of culture, leisure, wildlife, and adventure.

Handy Tips

The school holidays in December coincide with the peak tourism season, so to avoid any last-minute rush, book your South Africa Safari Packages in advance to secure the most popular activities and attractions for yourself and your loved ones.

Visiting South Africa In Autumn-March To May

• As summer warmth fades, autumn ushers in mild temperatures ranging from 20-23 °C, offering a pleasant atmosphere for travelers.
• The coasts continue to attract sun-seekers and rivers and lakes are filled to the brim. The air around is crisp and clear. Most of South Africa remains warm, and rainfall in the northern region diminishes.
• The brief transition between summer and winter provides two months of fantastic weather and diverse activities without the bustle of the peak season.
• It's an ideal time to explore various regions, like the tranquil and sunny Cape Town and the Garden Route, the bustling Winelands during harvest season, and the increasing wildlife sightings at national parks such as Kruger and Madikwe. Moreover, the Kalahari's lush greenery offers stunning savannah views.

Handy Tips

Travellers coming for South Africa Tours should make it a point to book festival or event tickets ahead of time. Search for accommodation and travel deals in Cape Town and its surroundings, as the peak season crowds disperse. Also, make sure to pack a jacket, as the sunny days may give way to windy or cooler evenings.

Visiting South Africa In Winter-May To September

• Winter in South Africa spans from May to September, with mild and sunny days featuring average temperatures between 10-15°C.
• Winter vacations in South Africa offer a pleasant climate, marked by cool spells and ample sunshine.
• Rainfall decreases during this time, with only occasional showers that won't spoil your plans.
• Although winter is considered the low season, South Africa remains an attractive destination due to the outstanding wildlife experiences available. From big game sightings at Kruger and Phinda to whale watching off Hermanus' coast, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure.
• Apart from safaris, winters in South Africa are famous for witnessing the wildflowers of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and other events.

Handy Tips

Pack comfortable daywear as well as a few layers to keep yourself warm when temperatures drop. Since this is the low tourist season, book early for great deals on travel and accommodation.

Visiting South Africa In The Spring-September To November

• During the spring months of September to November, visitors can enjoy mild temperatures averaging around 14-16°C.
• Springtime in South Africa features a mix of cooler and warmer days, with temperatures gradually rising as the season progresses.
• This pleasant weather allows for a variety of indoor and outdoor activities throughout the country's diverse regions such as admiring the renowned Namaqualand flowers, exploring the blooming Cederberg Mountains, relaxing in the Cape Winelands, and whale watching in Hermanus.

Handy Tips:

South Africa can become quite busy during the spring months, so it's advisable to book early. Also, pack some warm layers to prepare for cooler days that may arise. A table showing differences between the summers, winters, spring, and autumn in South Africa.

South Africa offers interest plenty of opportunities to see and do a variety of activities throughout the year. And with our assorted South Africa Safari Packages, it is all the easier to travel to this beautiful and incredible destination.

Climate Guide For Various South Africa Destinations

We organize South Africa Tours to various destinations such as Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Kruger National Park, and many other prominent locations. The climatic variations in these regions over different months are represented below for your quick reference. Do have a look to get a sense of the temperature and rainfall of the place you wish to visit.

Best Month To Visit South Africa-Month-By-Month Guide

South Africa Travel In January

Weather

South Africa’s hottest month is January. The maximum attainable temperature is 32°C(89.6°F). Despite the tropical downpours, it is one of the Best Months to Visit South Africa because of the beautiful beaches and spectacular sunsets.

Attractions

• The best month for beach holidays along South Africa’s coast (Kwa-Zulu Natal can be avoided as it can be hot and humid).
• Though game viewing is challenging across South Africa National Parks, tourists flock to the parks and reserves to witness the lush green African bush where lots of baby animals play around. January also offers some of the best light for fulfilling your photography dreams.

Events

Battle of Isandlwana and Battle of Rorke’s Drift Anniversaries and Cape Town Minstrel Carnival.

South Africa Travel In February

Weather

Summers continue through February in South Africa. The temperatures in Cape Town are still hot in the month, although sea breezes coastal towns cool. As February is a part of peak tourist season, hotels are far booked in advance.

Attractions

• Escape to the coastal province of Eastern and Western Cape to feel the sea breeze and experience the pleasant weather.

Events

Ultra South Africa, Up the Creek Festival, Cape Town Pride Week.

Travel Tip:

Avoid the festive crowds by traveling to South Africa in February. Still, the month is busy and can be pre-booked.

South Africa Travel In March

Weather

South Africa’s hottest month is January. The maximum attainable temperature is 32°C(89.6°F). Despite the tropical downpours, it is one of the Best Months to Visit South Africa because of the beautiful beaches and spectacular sunsets.

Attractions

As the lush summer vegetation starts clearing out, March is a good time for game viewing in the national parks and game reserves in the country.

Events

Dance Umbrella in Johannesburg, Cape Town Carnival, and Cape Town International Jazz Festival.

South Africa Travel In April

Weather

A steady 23°C (73.4°F) average temperature and reliable weather are the hallmarks of April. You can take pleasure in warm days and chilly nights. A visit to Cape Town is recommended right now. At the end of April, sporadic downpours signal the start of winter.

Attractions

Ideal conditions for hiking the Drakensberg Mountains, and game viewing in national parks.

Events

Afrika Splashy Fen Music Festival Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal and Pink Loerie Mardi Gras & Arts Festival Knysna, Garden Route.

South Africa Travel In May

Weather

SOUTH AFRICA TRAVEL IN MAY The Best Time to Visit South Africa for Safari starts after May. In Cape Town and Johannesburg, temperatures can reach 20°C (68°F) during this dry season. Evening temperatures only drop to 16 °C (60.8 °F), so it continues to be pleasant and comfortable.

Attractions

Great time to visit Cape Town and ideal conditions for game viewing in national parks. In short, May is a great month to combine regions during South Africa Tours.

Events

Franschhoek Literary Festival, Western Cape.

South Africa Travel In June

Weather

In June, South Africa experiences the cool winter air. Beginning this month, lows of 4.1°C (39.4°F) and highs of 18°C (64.4°F) are experienced in Johannesburg and Cape Town, respectively. In the mountains, it also begins to snow. Watching a game at this time is recommended.

Attractions

Optimal time for game-viewing in the South Africa National Parks.

Events

Soup, sip, and bread festival in Durbanville.

South Africa Travel In July

Weather

In places like Cape Town, the daytime high temperature in July is around 18°C (64.4°F), and it drops to a chilly 7°C (44.6°F) at night. The hottest spots can reach 30°C (86°F). As the start of the wet season, keep in mind that July also has a few brief periods of rain.

Attractions

Best month to see southern right whales from Hermanus and Plettenberg Bay. You can also go for Kruger National Park Safari as game viewing is superb around this time.

Events

National Arts Festival in Grahams town, Open JBay surf competition, and Oyster Festival in Knysna.

South Africa Travel In August

Weather

South Africa is nearing the end of its winter season, with cities like Johannesburg experiencing lows as low as 6°C (42.8°F). It can become as hot as 27°C (80.6°F) in hotter locations. Wildflowers also begin to bloom at this time.

Attractions

Visit Western Cape and Northern Cape Town to see the wildflowers. Good time to watch the whales off the coast of South Africa.

Events

Namaqualand wildflower season, and Jomba! contemporary dance festival.

South Africa Travel In September

Weather

September is one of the coziest months. As springtime approaches, you can look forward to bright, warm days with highs up to 29°C (84.2°F) in hotter regions. The ideal time to go to the beach and watch games is now.

Attractions

Ideal time for combining safari trips to the national parks along with visiting the beaches.

Events

Arts Alive International Festival, Johannesburg, Whale Festival in Hermanus, Festival of Motoring Johannesburg, Winelands Chocolate Festival, and King Shaka Day celebrations.

South Africa Travel In October

Weather

In South Africa, October brings pleasant average daily temperatures of 16°C (60.8°F) with highs as comfortable as 28°C (82.4°F). In South Africa, spring is in full swing. Safaris and multi-regional travel are ideal during this dry season.

Attractions

Combine a coastal safari trip with an inland game drive in October for the best possible experience.

Events

South African National Gold Panning Championship in the line of watery channels by Blyde River, Soweto Beer Festival, Durban Bierfest, and Macufe African Cultural Festival.

South Africa Travel In November

Weather

The spring season ends in November. Significant temperature increases begin, along with longer, brighter days. Average temperatures reach 25°C (77°F). The ideal time to explore South Africa's beaches is right now. The rainy season has officially started.

Attractions

It is the best time to visit inland areas like the Free State.

Events

Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts in Cape Town, Trance parties such as Endless Daze in Western Cape, and Ficksburg Cherry Festival.

South Africa Travel In December

Weather

The average maximum temperature in places like the North-East's Kruger National Park in December is 32°C (89.6°F). The temperature in Johannesburg and Cape Town ranges from 14°C (57.2°F) to 26°C (78.8°F). In South Africa, it is now summer. With the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms, it becomes hot and muggy.

Attractions

December is a festive period in South Africa, so it’s a great idea to go on excursions along the coast.

Events

Mother City Queer Project party, appletiser summer sunset concert in Kirstenbosch gardens, AFROPUNK music festival, and Durban Street Food Festival.

Best Time To Visit South Africa Based On Activities

Best Time for South Africa Wildlife Safari

• The Best Time for South Africa Safari is the dry season, which corresponds to the winter months extending from May to October.
• With low grass, better visibility, and dry conditions, it is easier to spot wildlife as they congregate around the watering holes.
• Even the temperatures are low, which is ideal for going on game drives.
• That being said, November to April (summers) is also ideal for a South Africa Safari Trip because of the low accommodation cost and lush green vegetation which becomes a playground for the baby animals.

Key Tip

Early morning game drives in the dry months can get quite cold in the open vehicles, so remember to bring some layers to protect yourself if coming for South Africa Safari Vacation in the peak dry season. And, consider malaria prevention if coming for South Africa Safari in the wet summer months.

Best Time to Visit South Africa for Cape Town Tours

• The Best Time for Cape Town Tours is between October and April when the weather is warm and sunny.
• Where January is the hottest month; March offers fewer crowds and great weather.
• Winter months (June and July) are colder with rain and wind but also offer a quieter city experience. Also, they mark the beginning of the Whale season.
• September brings excellent surfing opportunities and chances to see wildflowers
•  December to February have dry, sunny days with occasional tropical thunderstorms. Beaches and year-end celebrations are best enjoyed during these months which makes them the Best Time to Visit Cape Town.

Best Time to Visit the Cape Winelands

• The Best Time to Travel to South Africa for visiting the Cape Winelands is during February and March which also marks the autumn harvesting season in the country.
• The vines are heavy with grapes and vineyards host festivals featuring grape stomping and barrel-rolling which are thoroughly enjoyed by wine enthusiasts.
• In May, numerous wine festivals take place in Cape Town and neighboring towns.
• From June to August, South Africa experiences winter, with temperatures as low as 6°C (42.8°F) in Stellenbosch.

Best Time to See Wildflowers in South Africa

• Wildflowers in South Africa are best viewed between late August and September. You can combine whale watching, wildlife safaris, and multi-region trips along with wildflower watching around this time on South Africa Tours.
• Spring season begins around these months, with rising temperatures but chilly mornings and evenings. Also, the rains end in South Africa around September.
• West Coast National Park and Namaqualand are the best places that offer glimpses of wildflowers as they spread across the coast of the country.
• Their display intensifies further up as you move forward to the N7 in Springbok, Kamieskroon, Port Nolloth, and Garies.

When To Visit South Africa for Whale Watching

• The whale-watching season starts in June, with August being the best month.
• Whales migrate from Antarctica to South Africa for calving during the winter months.
• Hermanus, a 1.5-hour drive from Cape Town, offers excellent land-based whale watching.
• Hermanus Whale Festival takes place between late September and early October, featuring live music, food stalls, and craft markets.

Best Time to Visit South African Beaches

• November is the Best Month to Visit South Africa for its beaches. As the month begins, springs in the country are bygone, and thereafter, the temperatures rise significantly.
• March is the month that offers good surfing conditions. It provides the perfect weather for beach relaxation in Cape Town up until March. But keep in mind, that these hot summers may be accompanied by tropical rains. Be prepared!
• KwaZulu-Natal coast has sunny weather year-round. So, you can visit these beaches at any time, including winter months (June to August)
• The best surfing spots duringSouth Africa Tour Holidays are available from March to September. Popular surf locations include Jeffrey's Bay, Muizenberg, Wildcoast, and Big Bay. Choose your preferred location as per your skills or adventure levels.

Remember

The East African current offers a more pleasant, warm surfing environment; however, if you plan to surf near Cape Town, remember to bring your wetsuits for a comfortable experience

Best Time to Visit South Africa for cultural and historical experiences

• Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a political prison, and present museum and is a poignant reminder of the country’s past. Its best visited during the summer months of November to March when the weather is warm to enjoy yourself on a ferry ride.
• The Apartheid Museum can be visited year-round as it is an indoor attraction, However, try and visit during the shoulder season when the weather is mild with fewer tourists around.
• The Cradle of Humankind, near Johannesburg, can be visited in the dry months of May to October when the weather is cool and the risk of heavy rainfall is low. You can take on guided tours to explore the outdoor areas around this time.

Best Time to Visit the South for exploring the entire country

• South Africa is a vast country with significant climate variation from region to region. Hence the best time for South Africa Tours will solely depend on activities of interest.
• Still, the Best Time to Visit South Africa for multi-region trips is in September and October. These months are suitable for beach time, safaris, wildflower viewing, surfing, and whale watching.
• The Cradle of Humankind, near Johannesburg, can be visited in the dry months of May to October when the weather is cool and the risk of heavy rainfall is low. You can take on guided tours to explore the outdoor areas around this time.

Why September & October are best for South Africa multi-region trips?

Hermanus Whale Festival occurs between late September and early October. Also, Kruger National Park Safaris and Safaris in Sabi Sands are optimal in September as the dry weather conditions provide opportunities for spotting the Big Five. While the Winelands are best visited in February and March, the area still can be visited all year around, including September and October. Plus, the KwaZulu-Natal coast is great in these months for beach holidays.

Festivals In South Africa Around Which You Can Plan South Africa Tours

South Africa boasts a myriad of exciting festivals. And, what better than planning your South Africa Trip around the time coinciding with some of these lively events? These wide varieties of events include annual music gatherings and urban park concerts.

Attending such festivals will only enhance your South Africa Travel experience. While Johannesburg and Cape Town often dominate the events calendar, the most significant cultural celebration – the National Arts Festival – occurs in the more remote location of Grahamstown.

Here, we are providing you with a list of some prominent festivals that are organized in South Africa around a given time of the year. Take a look at the lists which also lays down the time of the year as well as a brief description of the festival so that you can plan your next South Africa Tours around the time of the specific event that you wish to attend.

Uncover South Africa's Wonders Across Seasons

When planning your South Africa Tours, it is essential to consider your personal preferences and interests, as the ideal time to visit may vary depending on the specific activities and locations you wish to explore. For instance, wine enthusiasts may prefer to visit the Cape Winelands during the harvest season, while history buffs might find the cooler winter months more suitable for visiting museums and historical sites.

So, to make the most of your holidays, carefully consider the Best Time to Visit South Africa. You can also try and explore its different regions and engage in specific activities, taking into account your likings and needs. With thoughtful planning and investing in a meticulously curated South Africa Safari Packages, you can create a memorable journey through this incredible country.