The best time to travel to South Africa

Climate and seasons in South Africa

South Africa is a country of contrasts, not only in its landscape and culture, but also in its climate. The seasons in South Africa are the opposite of those in Europe, making it a year-round destination. Here you will find an overview of the four seasons and the different climate zones in the most important regions of the country.

Seasons and temperatures

Climate zones in South Africa

But it's not just the seasons that play a decisive role when it comes to the weather - the three climate zones, all of which run through the vast expanse of South Africa, are also important. This means that when it comes to the best time to travel to South Africa, the seasons are not the only thing to consider. The weather conditions also vary depending on the region.

• Cape Town: Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
• Garden Route: Mild climate, pleasant all year round, with slightly more rainfall in winter.
• Kruger National Park: Tropical climate, hot summers with rainy season, dry winters.
• Johannesburg: Subtropical highland climate, hot summers with occasional thunderstorms, cool, dry winters.
• Durban: Subtropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters.

The best times to travel by region

Cape Town

Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit is from October to April, when the days are warm and dry. During these months you can enjoy the beautiful beaches, climb Table Mountain or experience the lively atmosphere of the city. Summer (December to February) is ideal for beach visits and outdoor activities, while spring (September to November) is particularly appealing as the flora is in full bloom. Winter (June to August) is rather rainy and chilly, but perfect for wine tasting and cozy evenings in front of the fireplace.

Garden Route

The Garden Route, with its beautiful landscapes and towns, is best visited in the African spring months of October and November. At this time, it is not yet too hot and the rains are less frequent. In terms of dryness, the months of December to February are also the best time to travel in South Africa, but you won't exactly be traveling alone due to the high season. If you prefer a quieter time, you should opt for spring or the fall months of April and May. In winter, the average temperature is around 17 degrees.

Kruger National Park and northern regions

The Kruger National Park scores with its high animal density and awaits its guests with a variety of safari tours. Whether it's a hike or a classic game drive, a day trip, a sunrise or night game drive or a tour lasting several days - you will find some great offers here. Panoramic drives to mountains and valleys are another highlight. Varied activities such as zipline tours or mountain bike trips are also possible here.

Those who are drawn to exciting safari experiences will have the most fun in the African winter (June, July, August) through to spring (September and October, possibly also November). This is because the least rain falls in this region during this time. This also attracts the animals to the waterholes, so that you can specifically visit these hotspots for wildlife spotting. But beware: while the days are pleasantly warm, the nights are cold.

Durban and the east coast

Durban and the east coast of South Africa are characterized by their subtropical climate. The best time for a beach vacation is from December to February, when the temperatures are high and the water is warm. These months are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and water sports such as surfing and diving. For those who prefer a milder climate but still want to enjoy the coast, the months of June to August are ideal. During this time, the temperatures are more pleasant and the region continues to offer numerous activities and sights.

Johannesburg and the highlands

Johannesburg and the surrounding highlands have a subtropical highland climate, with hot summers and cool, dry winters. South Africa's best time to visit this region is in spring (September to November) and fall (March to May), when temperatures are mild and weather conditions are stable. These months are ideal for sightseeing, cultural experiences and outdoor activities in the nearby nature reserves.

The perfect travel time for various activities and experiences in South Africa

Discover the best months to experience your dream activities in South Africa. Whether it's safari adventures, beach vacations, hiking in spectacular landscapes or culinary delights in the wine regions, this section will show you when to enjoy your favorite activities and how to get the most out of your trip.

Safari and game viewing

The best time for safaris and game viewing in the Kruger National Park and other game reserves is from June to November. During these months it is the dry season and the animals congregate around the few remaining waterholes, making sightings easier. The vegetation is sparser, making the animals more visible. September is particularly recommended, when the weather is still mild but animal sightings are particularly successful due to the low water levels. In addition to the Kruger National Park, the Madikwe Game Reserve and the Timbavati Game Reserve are also worthwhile destinations for a safari at this time of year.

Beach vacation and water sports

The best time to travel to South Africa for a beach vacation and water sports such as surfing, diving and snorkelling is from December to February. During these summer months, the temperatures are high and the water is pleasantly warm.

Surfers have good opportunities on the South African coast all year round. However, beginners should make their first attempts in December or January due to the moderate swell. From May to September, on the other hand, high waves are to be expected.

Those who prefer a classic beach vacation are best off in the Eastern Cape or around Durban: The Indian Ocean is warmer than the Atlantic on the west coast. In principle, you can also get your money's worth here all year round. However, the most ideal time is the African spring to fall. The south coast is very Mediterranean - hot, sunny and dry summers are the rule here.

Hiking and other outdoor activities

The best months for hiking and outdoor activities in South Africa's impressive mountains are from September to November and from March to May. These months are characterized by mild temperatures and stable weather conditions, which are ideal for long hikes and explorations. South Africa has a number of mountains and trails that make for great hikes. Here is a selection of the most beautiful areas:

Drakensberg Mountains

The Drakensberg Mountains in the east are ideal for beginners and advanced hikers alike. Thanks to the diverse flora and fauna, a breathtaking backdrop awaits you here that you won't be able to get enough of. Steep rock faces and rock paintings round off the adventure. In terms of weather, you can expect hot African summers with cool evenings and cold winters. Accordingly, the African spring and fall months are the best time to travel to this region in South Africa. Two other interesting hiking areas in the wider area are the Blyde River Canyon and the Kruger National Park.

Garden Route

The climatically already described Garden Route attracts visitors with coastal walks and primeval forests. The landscapes alternate along this route: sand dunes, cliffs and lagoons meet densely overgrown (mountain) forests. Mammals and wild birds bring wild life to the region. But that's not all - restaurants and bars, water sports facilities and cultural attractions are also a regular feature of this tour.

Table Mountain and Lions Head

Table Mountain in Cape Town also has beautiful hiking trails that offer impressive views of the city. Nature lovers in particular will get their money's worth here with the natural trails. Lions Head, located in the south-west of Cape Town, is for demanding hikers: after scaling the rock faces, however, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Cape Town, Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles.

Whale watching

Although there are also good opportunities for whale watching all year round, the period between June and November is the best time to visit. This is when the whales come to the warmer waters on the South African coast. You have the best chance of spotting whales between July and October. Hermanus on the Garden Route is considered the "whale capital". Another recommended place is Plettenberg Bay. False Bay near Cape Town and the De Hoop Nature Reserve also offer spectacular views of whale activity. The animals often come close to the coast, so that you have a good view from the shore. Alternatively, there are also boat tours that bring you really close to the action.

Wine tours and culinary experiences

Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Constantia or Paarl - there are several wine regions in South Africa. South African wines score particularly well thanks to the diversity of varieties. When autumn arrives in South Africa, it is time to harvest the magnificent grapes: the grape harvest in the southern hemisphere takes place in March and April. And the wine festivals begin in the following months: whether classic festivals, wine tours (on foot, by bike or on the traditional Franschhoek streetcar) or picnics by the river - there is plenty on offer for wine lovers. Tasting the fine wines paired with experiencing nature is an unforgettable experience in South Africa.

Overview of some wine festivals:

• Stellenbosch Wine Festival (February)
• Bites & Sites Food and Wine Tour in Stellenbosch (daily)
• Dellheim Wine Farm in Stellenbosch: Picnic by the river (season starts in October)
• Sip & Cycle bike tour in Franschhoek (ongoing dates)
• Hopp-on-Hopp-off tour in Franschhoek (daily)
• Cap Classique and Champagne Festival in Franschhoek (December)
• Durbanville Wine Valley (October)

Other events in South Africa

In addition to all the wine festivals, the fun-loving South Africans also have other festivals up their sleeves. We would like to introduce you to two of them in more detail.

Coon Carnival

It's not just the Germans and Brazilians who use the carnival as an opportunity for extended parties - the Cape Town Carnival is also legendary. Every year on February 2, the history of the Cape is celebrated: Dented trumpets, whistles and umbrellas - these are the tell-tale signs that it's on again. The carnival clubs in Cape Town take over the city and celebrate a second New Year, so to speak. However, the origins of the whole thing lie in the country's sad history: It all started with popular parades after the abolition of slavery. Ultimately, Nelson Mandela finally ushered in the rainbow culture with his "Mardi Gras costume" as a coon (from Racoon = raccoon). South Africans celebrate their mixed culture every year with the Coon Carnival.

Knysna Oyster Festival

The Knysna Oyster Festival takes place in June under the motto "For a shucking good time!". With culinary delights, the South African joie de vivre and various attractions such as music and sporting events, cooking competitions and art and craft markets, this is almost ten days of living, celebrating and enjoying. All age groups and interests get their money's worth here - which makes for a colorful mix of offers and visitors.

Practical tips for your trip to South Africa

In addition to the best time to travel to South Africa in terms of weather, region and activities, the advantages and disadvantages of the high and low seasons, price aspects and recommendations for the right clothing are also crucial for a successful trip.

High season versus low season: the pros and cons

The high season in South Africa starts in mid-December and runs until the end of January. Due to the summer season, a correspondingly large number of tourists can be expected - and South Africans are also on vacation at this time. For surfers, however, the ideal surfing conditions (especially for beginners) are an advantage.

The classic low season is from June to August. The main advantages include the low number of tourists and the lower prices. Good sightings for safaris are an added bonus. Overall, the period from May to November is ideal for safari tours. This is also the best time to go whale watching - with the top months being July to October. Those who prefer cooler weather are also better advised to travel to South Africa during this phase of the year.

From February to May, the temperatures are mostly pleasant, there are fewer tourists and the trips are more affordable.

Price differences for accommodation and flights

Prices naturally vary depending on the standard of accommodation. However, it can be said that the standard of South African accommodation is generally considered to be quite high. There is also a price advantage in booking early. The types of accommodation range from hostels to simple and upmarket double rooms as well as tented camps, bungalows, resorts and lodges (especially in the national parks) to guesthouses and luxury hotels. The Kruger National Park is more expensive compared to cities such as Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. In the high season, prices can easily double. Christmas and New Year's Eve are considered the most expensive times to travel.

As far as flights are concerned, there are only a few direct flights from Germany. As expected, these are more expensive than those with a stopover. There is also the choice between Economy Class, Premium Eco and Business Class. With Lufthansa, for example, prices range from 800 to 3,000 euros (booking one year in advance).

Recommended clothing depending on the season

In addition to summer clothing for the warm to hot regions, you should bring warm or long tops and pants, especially for the nights. Long clothing is also suitable as sun or mosquito protection. Breathable fabrics are ideal in warm temperatures. A waterproof and windproof jacket for rainy days is also recommended.

To be spontaneously prepared for any weather, the classic onion look is helpful: several layers are easy to take off and can be stowed in your rucksack (which you can of course also carry with you). Sturdy footwear including padded socks for hikes and safaris are important to ensure you can walk long distances comfortably and without pain. A sun hat or other headgear is also a good idea to avoid sunstroke. Sunglasses with UV protection are also important.

In the wilderness, you should be as inconspicuous as possible, which is why your clothing should be in natural tones if possible. Long pants are also advisable in the bush. As you will be out and about a lot, comfortable clothing is an advantage. If you are planning beach days, you will of course also need swimwear. For restaurant visits (both in and out of the hotel), it may be a little more chic.

Please note: The military look, i.e. camouflage prints, are prohibited in South Africa.

The packing list for the right clothing at a glance:

• Waterproof and windproof jacket
• Short and long tops (natural shades, breathable)
• Shorts and long pants (natural tones, breathable, also something warmer for the nights)
• Sturdy shoes
• Light shoes
• Sun hat, cap or bandana
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Beachwear including sandals, flip flops or similar

South Africa is a fascinating destination that offers unforgettable experiences at any time of year. Whether you want to explore the impressive wildlife on a safari, relax on beautiful beaches, travel through picturesque wine regions or enjoy the diverse outdoor activities - South Africa has something to suit every taste and interest.

Choosing the best time to travel depends on your personal preferences and planned activities. With the right planning, you can ensure that your trip will be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that you will remember for a long time to come.

Be enchanted by the diversity and beauty of South Africa and start planning your dream trip today. Our experts are on hand to help you create your tailor-made trip and provide you with unforgettable experiences.