Best Time To Visit South Africa

Overview

The month falls right in the middle of South Africa’s summer season. It’s a popular time to travel for locals and tourists alike. Cape Town is bustling and celebrates the Kaapse Klopse Carnival. Average daytime temperatures range from the high 20s to mid-30s. Kruger experiences rain, which makes wildlife spotting difficult. 

Overview

Summer temperatures continue in February, and while not as crowded, it’s still a busy time of the year. In Kruger, the rains turn the landscape green, and it’s a good time for birding and photography. Temperatures in the big cities hover in the mid to upper 20s.

Overview

The country transitions into autumn during this month. Temperatures drop by a few degrees, and rainfall levels decrease. This period is considered the shoulder season. It’s quieter in the cities, but excellent weather conditions make it one of the best times to visit South Africa.

Overview

Pleasant temperatures and dry weather conditions make April an ideal time to visit South Africa. Apart from Easter weekend, when accommodation is tough to find, it’s an excellent month to visit South Africa’s cities and national parks. Heat and rainfall levels decrease in Kruger.

Overview

There’s plenty of sunshine and good weather to go around in May. Kruger begins to dry up by the end of the month, setting the stage for unforgettable wildlife experiences. Temperatures in the Western Cape are in the low 20s, and the region sees an uptick in rainfall levels.

Overview

The month signals the start of winter. This period is marked by cooler temperatures across the country. Rainfall levels increase in Cape Town and the Winelands region, while the rest of the country faces dry conditions. It’s peak safari season, and you will need to plan in advance if you want to experience the country’s diverse wildlife.

Overview

Fabulous wildlife viewing opportunities continue to make it prime safari season. Dry weather conditions prompt animals to gather around watering holes. Mornings and evenings can get chilly, so pack layers if you visit during this month. It is also the start of the whale watching season.

Overview

August marks the transition from winter to spring. The West Coast starts donning the colours of the season as flowers begin to bloom. Temperatures rise as the month progresses. Apart from Cape Town and Winelands, which still see wet days, the rest of the country is dry and experiences mild temperatures.

Overview

September offers a mix of activities – beaches, cities, safaris, flowers, whale watching and more, making the month one of the best times to visit South Africa. Expect to see the Western and Northern Cape countryside covered in a carpet of flowers. There is a decrease in rainfall in Cape Town and the Winelands, while Kruger and Johannesburg see a slight increase. 

Overview

It’s a colourful time to visit the country. The hues of spring are still evident on the West Coast, and game reserves are full of newborns and young animals. Rains in Kruger start to turn the surroundings green, yet weather conditions do not affect your chances of spotting wildlife much. Cape Town is headed towards dry days, as is the Cape Wineland region.

Overview

The month marks a shift in temperatures and weather patterns. Rains are more frequent in Kruger, Johannesburg and the KwaZulu Natal coast. Vegetation becomes thicker, which makes spotting animals challenging. On the other hand, the Western Cape experiences plenty of sunny skies and dry days. It’s the last month of the whale watching season. 

Overview

The weather in Cape Town is holiday-perfect, with pleasant temperatures in the low to mid-20s and plenty of sunny days. Rains in the Kruger turn the scenery green, and the landscape is breathtaking. It’s one of the busiest times of the year, so plan your travel well in advance.