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The climate of South Africa
The current climate in South Africa features temperatures ranging from a high of 28°C to a low of 19°C throughout the year. 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.
Average temperatures and precipitation
This chart shows the average monthly maximum and minimum temperatures (in degrees Celsius) and average monthly rainfall (in millimeters) for South Africa.
Temperature records
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.
Rainfall amount
On average, South Africa receives 605 mm of precipitation each year. For comparison, New York gets 1142 mm of precipitation annually.
The climate in South Africa is based on weather data from Cape Town. Other places, like Krugerpark, Johannesburg or Stellenbosch, might have different weather. You can check out all destinations in South Africa to get the full picture of the climate.
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 nice 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.
Find affordable vacations to South Africa
Climate Table of South Africa
The climate table of South Africa shows the average temperatures, rainfall, and UV index per month. The table provides an overview of the average day and night temperatures in degrees Celsius, the total amount of rainfall in millimeters, the total snowfall in centimeters, and the UV index for each month. Rainfall is always measured as water, even if it's snow or hail.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
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| Temp. max (°C) | 28 | 28 | 26 | 24 | 22 | 19 | 19 | 19 | 20 | 24 | 24 | 26 |
| Temp. min (°C) | 18 | 18 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 17 |
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| Precipitation (mm) | 12 | 8,8 | 37 | 36 | 62 | 136 | 95 | 81 | 65 | 23 | 26 | 23 |
| UV Index | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 |
Click on the month name to see more weather details, like daily averages, temperatures, and precipitation for the past years in that month.
Popular destinations in South Africa
Discover the climate of these popular destinations in South Africa.
Temperature charts
These charts display the average temperatures in South Africa. The temperatures are shown in degrees Celsius and are calculated based on data from the past 10 years.
Average Temperature per Month in South Africa
Yearly Temperature in South Africa
Precipitation charts
These charts show the average amount of precipitation in South Africa. Precipitation is always measured as water, even when it falls as snow or hail. The amount of precipitation is displayed in millimeters, while snowfall is shown in centimeters.
Average Precipitation per Month in South Africa
Total Yearly Precipitation in South Africa
UV index chart
This chart 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.
Average UV Index per Month in South Africa
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.
Rainy and cloudy
WillekeApril in South Africa was pleasant! Changeable but generally sunny, somewhat cool with a few showers. Perfect for combining relaxation and outdoor adventure!
Lars de VreugdLots of sunshine, all with pleasant temperatures around 20 degrees. A few rainy days, but generally balanced. Other than periodic cold weather at night, no serious obstacles.
Sacha HoogstrateAlthough the days were warm, the nights were cool and comfortable. Sometimes it rained, but that added to the beauty of nature.
JelteContrary to my expectations, the evenings were quite cold. A good jacket is a must!
Have you been to South Africa?
Share your weather experiences in South Africa.
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.