Climate of South Africa — Month by Month
Country-wide average for South Africa. Part of Southern Africa, Africa.
Located in Southern Africa, Africa, South Africa has a seasonal climate. Country-wide average temperatures range from 10.8°C / 51.4°F in July to 21.2°C / 70.2°F in January, with annual rainfall totalling around 557 mm / 21.9 in — driest in July (22 mm / 0.9 in), wettest in December (68 mm / 2.7 in). These are national averages; regional variation can be substantial, especially in geographically diverse countries. For city-level detail see the cities section below, and for state or province breakdowns follow the subdivisions link if available.
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| Month | Temperature | Rainfall | Matches |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21.2°C70.2°F | 65 mm2.6″ | — |
| February | 21°C69.8°F | 62 mm2.4″ | — |
| March | 19.5°C67.1°F | 58 mm2.3″ | — |
| April | 16.5°C61.7°F | 45 mm1.8″ | Sunny & Mild |
| May | 13.5°C56.3°F | 32 mm1.3″ | — |
| June | 11°C51.8°F | 25 mm1″ | — |
| July | 10.8°C51.4°F | 22 mm0.9″ | — |
| August | 12.8°C55°F | 28 mm1.1″ | — |
| September | 15.8°C60.4°F | 35 mm1.4″ | Sunny & Mild |
| October | 17.8°C64°F | 55 mm2.2″ | — |
| November | 19.2°C66.6°F | 62 mm2.4″ | — |
| December | 20.5°C68.9°F | 68 mm2.7″ | — |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit South Africa?
The best months to visit South Africa for sunny, dry weather are April, September. The warmest month is January (21.2°C / 70.2°F average), and the driest is July (~22 mm / 0.9 in rainfall).
What is the climate of South Africa?
South Africa has country-wide monthly average temperatures ranging from 10.8°C / 51.4°F in July to 21.2°C / 70.2°F in January. Annual rainfall averages about 557 mm / 21.9 in, with the wettest month being December (68 mm / 2.7 in) and the driest July (22 mm / 0.9 in). Regional variation within South Africa can be significant — see subdivision or city pages for detail.
What is the hottest month in South Africa?
The hottest month in South Africa is January, with a country-wide average temperature of 21.2°C / 70.2°F.
What is the coldest month in South Africa?
The coldest month in South Africa is July, with a country-wide average temperature of 10.8°C / 51.4°F.
When does it rain most in South Africa?
The wettest month in South Africa is December, averaging about 68 mm / 2.7 in of rain. The driest is July with about 22 mm / 0.9 in.