When To Visit South Africa

Weather in South Africa

Being in the Southern Hemisphere, South Africa experiences distinct seasons, with winter falling from May to August and summer beginning in December. The country has a diverse geography, including flat plains, mountains and arid regions, so it can be difficult to give an overview of the weather in South Africa. The general rule of thumb when going on holiday to South Africa is that it is warmer in the north and cooler in the south, so consider what conditions will suit your preferences.

Summer in South Africa is characterised by pleasantly warm temperatures and lower rainfall, making it the peak tourist season. In-land areas like Johannesburg and the Kruger National Park can experience highs of 30°C during the day, so be sure to pack breathable clothing and plenty of suncream. Coastal regions in South Africa are much milder in summer, with areas like Cape Town and Durban experiencing temperatures from 20°C to 30°C.

Winter in South Africa typically lasts from June to August, but milder temperatures can be felt as early as May. The country is much cooler in these months, especially in the mornings, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Winter is also the low season for tourism, so there are fewer visitors, which makes it a great time for cheap holidays to South Africa.

You can expect some rainfall in the winter, particularly in coastal areas like Cape Town. Overall, the skies will be cloudy and bouts of rain could impact safari plans. January and February are the wettest months, with frequent downpours in northern regions like Kruger National Park.

Best Time to visit South Africa

Holidays in South Africa promise an adventure like no other, with lush national parks, idyllic beaches and unique animal encounters. But when is the best time to visit South Africa? This will change from traveller to traveller, as the ideal time to visit will depend on your own preferences and interests. However, there are some key periods that are optimal for South African safari holidays.

May to September is much cooler, with the most pleasant temperatures occurring in June. This winter period offers better conditions for spotting large game, making it the best time for safaris in South Africa. Alternatively, the warmest temperatures can be experienced in January, providing optimal conditions for South Africa beach holidays.

Holidays to South Africa between July and November are also highly recommended as this is the best time for whale watching. Southern right whales migrate from Antarctica to the warmer waters of South Africa's coastline to breed and calve during this time, giving visitors the chance to see these incredible animals breaching the azure waters. Hermanus, located along the Western Cape, is one of the best places for whale watching in South Africa, known for its close encounters with whales from the shore or via boat tours.