Best Time To Visit South Africa

Dec-Mar

is Peak Season

What To Expect

  • Expect warm and dry weather with temperatures averaging around 25-30�C.
  • High demand of hotels, tourist rush.
  • Look forward to popular events such as the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival and The National Arts Festival.
Apr-Jun

is Moderate Season

What To Expect

  • Enjoy the transition from summer to winter with temperatures around 15-20�C.
  • Moderate costs for accommodations as tourist inflow reduces.
  • Experience seasonal events like the Knysna Oyster Festival and Franschhoek Literary Festival.
Jul-Nov

is Off Season

What To Expect

  • Encounter chilly, wet weather with temperatures oscillating between 10-15�C.
  • Take advantage of lower prices in hotels and resorts.
  • Witness unique sights like the annual sardine run and wildflower bloom in the Western Cape.

Best Time to Travel South Africa


South Africa in Summers

The best season to visit South Africais during the warm summer months. The South Africa weather in summer averages around 20-30°C, providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Top places to visit and include in your South Africa itinerary are Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope, Kruger National Park, and the beautiful beaches of Cape Town. The Cape Town International Jazz Festival in March is also a major attraction for music enthusiasts. During summer, the country experiences a surge in South Africa tourism, and hence, the availability of resorts and hotels are plentiful but often booked in advance.


South Africa in Winters

Winter in South Africa brings mild and dry weather, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. This is an excellent time for wildlife viewing, particularly in the northern game reserves where animals gather around water sources. In July, the iconic Durban July Horse Race attracts a vast number of visitors. Despite being off-peak season, plenty of accommodation options from luxury safari lodges to city hotels are readily available.


South Africa in Monsoons

Monsoon season in South Africa, known as the shoulder season, experiences moderate South Africa weather with temperatures between 15-25°C, with occasional rainfall. This is the best time to visit for those who prefer fewer crowds. During this period, you can explore the scenic Garden Route, the vineyards in the Cape Winelands, and the stunning Drakensberg Mountains. Johannesburg's Joy of Jazz Festival in September is a highlight for music lovers. The availability of resorts and hotels is good during this time, with some offering off-season discounts, providing value for money.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit South Africa?

Ideally the best time to visit any place is considered when the weather conditions are delightful. For South Africa, you can choose to go in December, January, February and March which is the peak season and April, May and June which is the moderate season. Both will serve you well to unwind from your tedious routine.

What are the activities you can explore during the peak season and moderate season in South Africa?

In the peak season months December, January, February and March you will experience this is South Africa's winter season. Expect cooler temperatures, particularly in the evenings, with averages between 0 to 20 degrees Celsius. The weather is generally dry, making it the best time for wildlife viewing, particularly in the Kruger National Park wherein around moderate season i.e. April, May and June you will enjoy autumn and spring offer mild weather with temperatures averaging between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. Whatever that suits your calendar, South Africa awaits you for a good time.

How is the weather of South Africa in peak season?

The weather of South Africa in peak season is this is South Africa's winter season. Expect cooler temperatures, particularly in the evenings, with averages between 0 to 20 degrees Celsius. The weather is generally dry, making it the best time for wildlife viewing, particularly in the Kruger National Park. It means you can easily plan a trip in this season for maximum fun during this season.

MonthTemp (Max/Min)Rain (mm)Weather Opinion
Jan29°/18°114
PeakPeak
Feb29°/18°91
PeakPeak
Mar28°/17°78
PeakPeak
Apr25°/14°52
ModerateModerate
May23°/12°22
ModerateModerate
Jun20°/9°14
ModerateModerate
Jul20°/8°18
OffOff
Aug22°/10°15
OffOff
Sep25°/12°24
OffOff
Oct27°/14°58
OffOff
Nov28°/16°82
OffOff
Dec29°/18°94
PeakPeak