When is the Best Time to Visit South Africa?

Because it’s in the Southern Hemisphere, South Africa’s seasons are opposite to Europe’s, with June, July and August being the main winter months. However, just because it’s winter, that doesn’t mean the weather in South Africa is cold; temperatures are typically in the high 20s during this time, especially in the northern parts of the country around Johannesburg. The Western Cape may get some rainfall during the winter, while inland regions are often dry.

In the summer months (December to February), temperatures soar, averaging around 30-37°C nationwide. This is the rainy season in northeastern regions like KwaZulu Natal, while the southwest remains relatively dry and it’s the peak tourist season for Cape Town and around.

Shoulder seasons spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are the best times to visit South Africa in our opinion. The transition between seasons brings pleasant temperatures which hover around mid-20s to mid-to-high 30s, and little rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities, beach time, and wildlife safaris. You can also combine safari adventures in the north and exploring Cape Town or the Garden Route in the south while getting the best weather throughout.

South Africa: A Seasonal Overview

The best time to travel to South Africa depends on what you’d like to see and do. From spotting game in the national parks to exploring the Western Cape’s dramatic beaches, there’s something to enjoy all year long.

Here are some of our top ways to enjoy South Africa’s stunning natural sites and bustling cities throughout the year.

Wildlife Watching in South Africa

The best months to visit South Africa for wildlife watching are between May and September, which make up the dry, winter season. During this type of weather, animals gather around waterholes, making spotting them easier in national parks like Kruger, Marakele and Kalahari national parks.

South Africa’s whale watching season also falls within this time and is a particular highlight when visiting. Along the coast, from June to November, you’ll see the incredible animals as they migrate to South Africa’s warmer waters from the Antarctic. A trip to Hermanus, along the Garden Route or the Eastern Cape between June and September, will give you front-row seats to the unforgettable show. However, you can still see whales right up to December. If you’re planning a honeymoon to South Africa, we’d recommend going between June and September.

Exploring South Africa’s Coastal and Wine Regions

South Africa’s wine region flourishes during the harvest season, which is usually between February and April. The weather in South Africa in February, in particular, offers up gorgeous hot days, which are even more inviting during the British winter. So, as well as being a hive of activity, the beautiful sunshine makes Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl look their best and creates a perfect setting for tasting the delicious wines and incredible food that the areas are known for.

Meanwhile, coastal exploration around Cape Town and the Garden Route is best enjoyed during the warm months of September to April. While the beaches in South Africa are beautiful, they are often windy, and the water is rough. Instead, these regions offer abundant opportunities to be amongst wildlife and explore stunning nature reserves. Visit the Cape Peninsula to marvel at penguins on Boulders Beach or encounter seals at Hout Bay. Further along the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay and Knysna beckon with rugged coastlines and dense forests, providing ideal settings for hiking and birdwatching.