South africa is a fascinating country with a stunning range of landscapes and a unique blend of cultures. It has a diverse array of tourist offerings with visitors flocking to tour its vineyards, surf its waves and see its wildlife. With so much to do spread across such a large area its important to know the best time to visit South Africa so you can make the most of your holiday.
When is the best time to visit South Africa?
South Africa is a year-round destination but most travel planing is done around its wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from April to October. The wet season runs November to March, this is also the hottest and most humid time of year. The wet season is also high season for tourists, especially at Christmas. However, when you visit South Africa depends on what you want to do.
Best time to visit South Africa for safari
In general, the best time to visit South Africa to go on safari is during the dry season, from April to October. This is when water is scarce and the animals are forced to congregate around the few remaining watering holes. This, combined with the lower grass levels, make the animals easier to spot. The dirt roads are also easier to navigate during the dry season.
Best time to visit South Africa for birdwatching
South Africa has more endemic species than any other country in Africa. The wet season is the best time for bird watching, and migratory birds are present. To catch the paleo-arctic migratory species it is best to visit South Africa in November. For those looking to catch the intra-African birds, plan your trip for around mid-October. Most species of birds return by February or March.
Best time to visit South Africa for whale-watching
July to November is when the Southern Right whales, Bryde’s and Humpback Whales migrate to the Western Cape’s southern coastline. Frequently sited along the Cape Overberg Coast this is one of the best opportunities for land-based whale-watching in the world. Of course, you can always get out on a boat and watch them from the water too.
Best time to visit South Africa for surfing
South Africa is an epic year-round surf spot but peak surf season is from April until August. During these months the big winter swells from the South Indian Ocean hit the shores.
Best time to visit South Africa for the beaches
If you want to take a dip, without having to wear a wetsuit, the best time to visit South Africa is during the summer months between November and March. This is when the sea temperature is at its highest. It’s also when the beaches are most crowded.
Best time to visit South Africa for wine tours
If you are planning to visit South Africa’s wine regions in conjunction with a hold in Cape Town then the best time to visit is during the hot, dry summer months of November to April. This also happens to be the perfect beach weather.
March to April are ideal months to take a wine tour with the colours autumn making the vineyards particularly beautiful. If you time it right, you might be able to join in with the harvest festivities in April.
Regional variations
The wettest season in South Africa’s Western Cape province is winter, which is the opposite to most or places in South Africa.
Summer is warm and generally dry in Cape Town but winter can be cold. If you are planning to visit Cape Town in July or August, pack a raincoat and lots of layers.
Durban is situated in the northeast province of KwaZulu-Natal and has a tropical climate and is warm all year round. Winters here are usually mild, sunny and dry. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons to visit Durban.
Johannesburg has hot and humid summers that coincide with the rainy season, which brings spectacular thunderstorms. Winters in Johannesburg are moderate, with dry, sunny days and chilly nights.
The cheapest time to visit South Africa
Prices are quite consistent throughout the year. They really only rise during the peak times of Christmas and Easter. During this period, prices soar for accommodation, activities and flights and coastal and national-park accommodation books up months in advance. The low season is June to August and shoulder season is sunny autumn (April to May) and pleasant spring (September to October).
