South African Weather – What You Need to Know
South Africa’s weather and seasons: TLDR
South Africa boasts some of the best warm sunny weather all year round and although we only have winter for around 3- 4 months, we enjoy sunshine 90% of the time. This makes South Africa and Cape Town one of the best locations for motorcycle tours and travels. The Cape region has a somewhat Mediterranean climate, while the rest of the country has a more tropical climate.
- Autumn/Fall – 1 March – 31 May.
- Winter – 1 June – 31 August.
- Spring – 1 September – 30 November.
- Summer – 1 December – 28/29 February.
When are the summer months in South Africa?
Summer in South Africa is mid-October to mid-February. Our summer months fall over the last and first quarters of the year, while our winter months are from about April through to August, although we do occasionally have warmer days throughout our winter. It’s for reasons like these that makes our beautiful country such a great destination for motorbike road trips. During the summer temperatures can range from high 20’s up to 40 degrees Celsius, depending on which region you are in. Cape Town gets quite dry during the summer months and Kwa-Zulu Natal, on the other hand, gets quite humid and has the warmer Indian Ocean. Summer 2019 in the Southern Hemisphere will begin on Sunday, 22 December and ends on Friday, 20 March 2020.
When are the winter months in South Africa?
Winter in South Africa is June to August. It is generally dry and cool, with snow falling in the mountainous regions. The Cape is however wet as it gets most of its rain in winter being a Mediterranean climate.
When is it Spring in South Africa?
September to October is springtime and the weather can be good, although rain is common.
When is it Autumn/Fall in South Africa?
Autumn in South Africa is March – May.
When is the High Season in SA?
This is between the months of November and March.
When are the Peak Times?
Peak tourist times are generally early December to mid-January and around Easter.
When is the best time to Book Accommodation?
Coastal and national-park accommodation books up months in advance. In popular holiday spots, accommodation prices can rise by 50% or more.
When is the Shoulder Season?
The travel period between peak and off-peak seasons are between April – May and between September – October.
When are the Sunny Seasons?
Ideal Sunny seasons are between autumn April to May and Spring is September to October.
When are the best times for Wildlife Watching?
Optimum wildlife-watching conditions are from autumn April to May onwards. Many people say that Winter is ideal for wildlife watching.
When is the wildflower season?
Wildflower season late August to early September.
When is the best time for Whale Watching?
The best time for whale watching in South African waters is from June to November along the Cape south coast, but its been noted that some will already be as far north as KwaZulu-Natal. Peak calving season is between July and August, but whales can be seen through September and October.
When is the Low Season?
Low Season is between June and August. Rainy season in Cape Town and the Western Cape is in this period. Prices are generally low in the period. It’s also a good time to visit arid areas such as the Karoo. Contact GS Africa today for any more information or queries and we would love to be of assistance to ensure that you motorcycle rental or bike travel experience is as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Find Motorcycle Rentals for Tours in Cape Town, South Africa
