What’s the climate like in South Africa?
The current climate of South Africa features average monthly temperatures ranging from highs of 28°C during the day to lows of 19°C. The average yearly temperature is around 24°C. At night, temperatures in the colder months average around 8°C and in the warmer months around 17°C.
The highest temperature recorded in South Africa in recent years was 42°C in March 2015. The lowest daytime temperature recorded was 11°C in August 2020.
On average, South Africa receives 605 mm of precipitation each year. For comparison, UK gets 701 mm of precipitation annually.
The climate of South Africa is based on weather data from Cape Town. Other spots, like Krugerpark, Johannesburg or Stellenbosch, might have different weather. You can check out all destinations in South Africa for a full picture of the climate.
Check out the weather for South Africa 
Best time to visit South Africa?
The best time to visit South Africa for sunny weather is January through May and July through December. During this period, you'll have good temperatures and not too much rain, making it a great time to visit South Africa. In the other months of the year, there's too much rain or the temperature isn't ideal for a visit if you want sunny and pleasant weather.
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Climate Table of South Africa
The climate table of South Africa shows the average temperatures, precipitation, and UV index per month. The table gives an overview of the average day and night temperatures in degrees Celsius, the total amount of precipitation in millimetres, the total snowfall in centimetres, and the UV index for each month. Precipitation is always measured as water, even if it's snow or hail.
Click on the month name to see more weather details, like daily averages, temperatures, and precipitation for the past years in that month.
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Weather experiences in South Africa
Good
April in South Africa was pleasant! Changeable but generally... more
Willeke
Good
Lots of sunshine, all with pleasant temperatures around 20 d... more
Lars de Vreugd
Average Temperature per Month in South Africa
This graph shows the average maximum temperatures per month in South Africa. The temperatures are shown in degrees Celsius and the average is calculated based on the recorded temperatures per month from past years.
Average Precipitation per Month in South Africa
This graph shows how much precipitation South Africa gets on average per month. Precipitation is always measured as water, even if it's snow or hail. This makes it easy to compare how much has fallen, regardless of the form of precipitation. The amount of precipitation is measured in millimetres and the average is calculated based on the recorded precipitation per month from past years.
Average UV Index per Month in South Africa
This graph shows the average UV index per month in South Africa. The UV index indicates the intensity of ultraviolet radiation and ranges from 0 to a maximum of 11.
Yearly Temperature in South Africa
This graph shows the average yearly temperature in South Africa. The yearly temperature, expressed in degrees Celsius, is the average of all twelve monthly temperatures summed up for that year.
Total Yearly Precipitation in South Africa
This chart shows the total yearly precipitation in South Africa over the past few years. The total yearly precipitation, measured in millimetres, is the sum of all the rain that fell in the twelve months of that year.
More Climate Info About South Africa
Because of its size and location near the southernmost tip of Africa, South Africa has a wide temperature range throughout the year. The climate is subtropical, meaning warm to hot all year round with only brief cold spells in winter. The typical temperature in South Africa ranges from around 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, depending on the region and time of year.
Spring (September to November)
Between the extremes of summer heat and winter cold, South Africa has a short spring from September to November. During this time, temperatures are usually between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius, but this can vary from area to area.
During this time of year, storms and other types of bad weather are more common and intense across the country.
Summer (December to February)
Summer in South Africa peaks in the months of December, January and February. Temperatures usually range from mid-20s to mid-30s during this time, but in the north and inland areas they can go much higher.
At this time of year, humidity levels rise across the country, making the already unpleasant heat much worse.
Fall (March to May)
The South African autumn season, covering the months of March to May, is a transitional period between the country's scorching summer and cold winter. At this time of year, temperatures are usually between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius.
At this time of year, precipitation increases in the country, which can lead to an increase in the frequency and intensity of storms and other forms of extreme weather.
Winter (June to August)
The South African winter (June-August) is the period when temperatures drop the most. Usually temperatures at this time of year are between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius, but in some regions they can be considerably lower, especially at higher altitudes.
Part of the country may see temperatures below freezing and perhaps snowfall due to cold fronts advancing from the South Atlantic.
Climate variations by region
The weather in South Africa varies from area to area, and the country's many regions all have their own character. For example, the Western Cape has a Mediterranean climate, making winters hot and wet and summers extremely hot and dry.
Eastern areas such as KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape have a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and moderate, dry winters. The northern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga have the same hot, dry climate as the rest of the country.
The northern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga have the same hot, dry climate as the rest of the country.
Best Time to Visit South Africa
As a tourist destination, South Africa has a lot to offer, from beautiful natural landscapes and national parks to bustling cities and interesting cultural sights. There is a lot of variety and activity in this country, so choosing the right time to visit can be a challenge.
The months of September to April, South Africa's spring and summer seasons, are often considered the best time to visit the country. The weather is mild and dry, perfect for outdoor excursions such as safaris, walks and trips to the beach. The average temperature is between the low and mid 20s, with occasional heatwaves into the high 30s.
South Africa is a huge country with a wide variety of climates, so the ideal time to travel there varies from region to region.
Cape Town, in the Western Cape, has rainy winters and dry summers typical of the Mediterranean climate. November to March is summer in this part of the world, with pleasant, sunny weather and average temperatures of 25 to 28 degrees Celsius.
While the west experiences cold, wet winters and hot, humid summers, the east, home to the Kruger National Park and the Drakensberg Mountains, has a subtropical climate. Temperatures hover around 20-22 degrees Celsius from May to August, making this the ideal season to explore the region.
When to travel to South Africa is ultimately determined by your interests and personal preferences. Spring and summer are ideal if you want to go on safari and other outdoor activities, while winter is preferable if you want to escape the heat and crowds. Visiting South Africa will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your life.
Weather experiences in South Africa
The weather in South Africa is rated an average of 2,8 out of 5 stars by 6 visitors. Have you been to South Africa? Share your weather experience to help other visitors.
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Weather experience:Bad
Rainy and cloudy— This text is automatically translated to English
Willeke – was here in AprilApril in South Africa was pleasant! Changeable but generally sunny, a bit cool with a few showers. Perfect for combining relaxation and outdoor adventure!— This text is automatically translated to English
Lars de Vreugd – was here in May
Lots of sunshine, all with pleasant temperatures around 20 degrees. A few rainy days, but generally balanced. Apart from periodic cold weather at night, there were no serious obstacles.— This text is automatically translated to English
Sacha Hoogstrate – was here in January
Although the days were hot, the nights were cool and comfortable. Sometimes it rained, but that added to the beauty of nature.— This text is automatically translated to English
Jelte – was here in July
Contrary to my expectations, the evenings were quite cold. A good jacket is a must!— This text is automatically translated to English
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Average Weather in South Africa by Month
Click on a month below to see detailed weather info for South Africa. Based on historical weather data, you can see the average temperature, precipitation, wind, and UV index for each day of the month.
