South Africa climate and temperatures

The climate of South Africa is a hot semi-arid (steppe) climate (Köppen: BSh), hot with low precipitation. Monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C in winter (June–August) to a maximum of 34°C in summer (December–February). The average annual temperature is around 28°C.

During the winter months, nighttime temperatures can drop to an average of 1°C, while summer nights average around 18°C.

Popular destinations in South Africa

• Addo
• Addo Elephant National Park
• Adelaide
• Afrikaskop
• Albanie
• Augrabies Falls National Park
• Badplaas
• Bailey’s Cottage
• Begha Mouth
• Bergville
• Bloemfontein
• Blue Lagoon

View all destinations in South Africa

Climate table of South Africa

The climate table below gives you a clear overview of the climate in South Africa by month, from average temperatures and rainfall to UV levels. This makes it easy to see when the weather best suits your travel plans.

Best time to visit South Africa

The best time to visit South Africa is May, August, September en October. During this period, temperatures are usually pleasant to warm and there is relatively little rainfall. Between May and October, average high temperatures range roughly from 23°C to 30°C, while rainfall remains limited. For a sun or beach holiday, March, April, September en October are the most suitable months. It is often warm to hot and relatively dry during this time. For a city trip, round trip, or active holiday, April, May, June, July, August en September are often more comfortable, as it is warm without the heat becoming too intense. The warmest month is January, with an average daytime temperature of around 34°C. The driest month is August, with about 7 mm of rainfall, while February is usually the wettest month of the year, with approximately 58 mm. Snow plays virtually no role in the climate here.

Average temperature per month

This chart shows the average daytime (maximum) and nighttime (minimum) temperatures per month in South Africa. The figures are based on climate data from recent years and are presented in degrees Celsius, so you can clearly see the temperature range for each month.

Average rainfall per month

This chart shows the average monthly rainfall in South Africa. The figures are based on long-term climate data and are displayed in millimeters, so you can immediately see which months are drier or wetter.

Average UV index per month

This chart shows the average monthly sun intensity in South Africa. The UV index ranges from 0 (no UV radiation) to 11+ (extreme). A higher UV index means you can burn more quickly, making proper sun protection increasingly important.

Average annual temperature

This chart shows the average annual temperature in South Africa based on data from the past ten years. It allows you to see at a glance how the climate is evolving and whether there are clear warming trends.

Average annual rainfall

This chart shows the average annual rainfall in South Africa over the past ten years. It allows you to see at a glance how much rain falls each year and whether there are clear fluctuations between the years.

Weather experiences in South Africa

The weather in South Africa is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8 visitors. Have you been to South Africa? Share your experience with the weather to help other visitors plan their trip.

Average weather per month

Click on a month below and discover what the weather in South Africa is typically like. For each period, you can instantly see the average temperature, rainfall, wind, and UV index. Thanks to years of historical weather data, you’ll know exactly what to expect during your trip.

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December