Best Time to Visit South Africa
South Africa is at its sunniest and driest in April–September.
The best time to visit South Africa for sunny, dry weather is April and September — 2 months of the year match our sunny profiles at a country-wide average. The drier half of the year covers April–October, while the wetter half runs through November–March. Country-wide monthly temperatures range from 10.8°C / 51.4°F in July to 21.2°C / 70.2°F in January, and monthly rainfall from 22 mm / 0.9 in (July) to 68 mm / 2.7 in (December). South Africa's climate is broadly seasonal. These are national area-weighted averages from long-term climate normals — regional variation within South Africa can be substantial, especially for large or geographically diverse countries. Below, every month is classified against our five weather profiles so you can match your travel window to your preferred weather.
Recommended months
| Month | Temp | Rain | Feels like |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | 16.5°C61.7°F | 45 mm1.8″ | Sunny & Mild |
| September | 15.8°C60.4°F | 35 mm1.4″ | Sunny & Mild |
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit South Africa?
The best time to visit South Africa for sunny, dry weather is April, September. The warmest month is January (21.2°C / 70.2°F country-wide average) and the driest is July (about 22 mm / 0.9 in). These months combine warmth with low rainfall based on long-term climate normals.
When is the rainy season in South Africa?
The rainy season in South Africa runs through November–March, when monthly rainfall exceeds the national annual median of about 55 mm / 2.2 in. The wettest single month is December, averaging 68 mm / 2.7 in.
What is the dry season in South Africa?
The drier half of the year in South Africa covers April–October, when monthly rainfall stays at or below the annual median of about 55 mm / 2.2 in. The driest single month is July with about 22 mm / 0.9 in.
What months should I avoid visiting South Africa?
The least comfortable months for travel in South Africa — based on our climate data — are January, February, May, June, July, August, November, December. These are South Africa's wettest or coolest months. Rainfall peaks at 68 mm / 2.7 in in December, and temperatures bottom out at 10.8°C / 51.4°F in July.
Is there a shoulder season in South Africa?
Shoulder-season months in South Africa — moderate weather, lower rainfall than the wet season — include January, February, March, October, November, December. These are typically the quietest and cheapest months for travel, and often deliver decent weather without the peak-season crowd.