Weather in South Africa

Planning a trip to South Africa? You’ll need more than just sunscreen and safari boots! South Africa’s weather can surprise you, ranging from hot, sunny days to chilly mornings, rain and even snow (yes, it’s possible)! Even more surprising is that different parts of the country have totally different climates, varying from tropical to desert-like to Mediterranean. So, if you’re packing for an adventure, here’s what you need to know about the weather in different regions. Whether you’re off to spot wildlife in Kruger or exploring Cape Town, the weather will play a key role in shaping your trip. Let’s break it down!

Weather in the Western Cape Province (Cape Town and Surrounds)

Cape Town has a maritime climate, with a noticeable difference between summer and winter temperatures. Expect summer highs of around 25°C (77°F) and winter lows of 7°C (44°F). The infamous southeastern wind keeps things cool during the hot months, and in winter, occasional snow may sprinkle the higher mountain ranges. If you’re hiking on Table Mountain, brace yourself for the “Table Cloth,” – a cloud cover that adds moisture to the often dry surroundings. This moisture is essential for plant species on the summit, especially during the long, dry summer months.

Weather in the Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces (Kruger National Park and Surrounds)

This region experiences tropical weather in the lower regions (called the Lowveld), with warm temperatures and high summer rainfall (remember to pack insect repellent and malaria medication!). In these lower regions, June and July are coolest and most dry, with a pleasant 20°C (68°F). The higher regions (or Highveld), on the other hand, see more temperature extremes, swinging between 8°C and 26°C (46°F and 79°F).

Weather in the Gauteng Province (Johannesburg and Pretoria)

Gauteng is the region where summer means thunderstorms (complete with thunder, lightning, and a little hail action). Temperatures are nice though, with summers in Johannesburg averaging 17°C to 28°C (63°F to 82°F), with Pretoria getting slightly more rain. Winter months? They’re mild, with lows of 5°C (41°F) and highs of 19°C (66°F). Just pack layers if you’re heading there in the cold July and August months.

Weather in the KwaZulu-Natal Province (Durban and Surrounds)

The beaches of KwaZulu-Natal offer warm vibes almost year-round. Summers are humid and hot, while winters stay mild. Average water temperatures of 23°C (73°F) mean you can hit the surf most of the time. The wettest months are October to January – you might want to pack an umbrella for those.

Summer Fun (November to March)

October marks the start of South Africa’s hot season, particularly in places like Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Richtersveld National Park and the Kruger National Park, where afternoons can reach 31°C (88°F). While rainfall can occur during this time, it’s generally brief and offers a welcome relief from the heat. Other summer destinations include Durban and Pretoria, which also experience warm temperatures, often exceeding 28°C (82°F). Cape Town, with temperatures around 26°C (79°F) in December and January, remains a sunny option. It’s mostly dry and breezy, suitable for beach days or hiking Table Mountain!

Winter Wanderlust (May to August)

As summer transitions to winter, South Africa experiences a diverse climate. In the Western Cape, regions like Cape Town see average temperatures drop to around 20°C (68°F) in May and further down to an average of 17°C (63°F) in June and July. During this time, Cape Town receives significant rainfall, with 134 mm in May and 153 mm (the peak of its rainy season) in June. Meanwhile, in Johannesburg, temperatures hover around 20°C (68°F) in May, dropping to 17°C (63°F) in June and July, with light rainfall averaging 21 mm in May and reducing to just 9 mm in June.

No matter the season, South Africa promises unforgettable experiences, from wildlife encounters to cultural adventures. Plan your visit to align with your interests, and you’ll surely leave with cherished memories!