What’s the Weather Like in Cape Town, Kruger, and the Garden Route?

• Summer (Dec–Mar): Hot and dry, 25–35°C. The Cape Doctor wind can be strong in the afternoons.
• Winter (Jun–Aug): Cool and wet, 12–18°C. Rain brings lush scenery and cosy evenings.
• Shoulder (Sep–Nov, Apr–May): Warm but not scorching, fewer crowds, and great for flowers and wine.

💡 Pack layers. You can go from sunshine on the beach to jacket weather on Table Mountain in the same day.

• Dry Winter (May–Sep): Sunny, 22–27°C. Nights drop to 8°C. Vegetation thins, making wildlife easier to spot — this is peak safari season.
• Rainy Summer (Oct–Apr): Hot and humid, 32–38°C, with dramatic thunderstorms. Bush is green, birdlife thrives, and many animals give birth.

💡 Avoid peak summer if you don’t like heat. Photographers love it for the skies and colours.

• Summer (Nov–Mar): Pleasant, 22–28°C. Ideal for hiking and beaches.
• Winter (Jun–Aug): Mild, 12–20°C. Rain showers happen but rarely ruin plans.
• Year-round: Expect quick changes — locals say “four seasons in a day.”

💡 Always carry sunscreen and a light rain jacket.

• Cape Town + Garden Route: Best Sept–Nov or Feb–Apr.
• Kruger safari: Best May–Sep, but Dec–Feb is good for greenery and newborn animals.
• All three together: Sept–Nov and Apr balance conditions across regions.

There’s no single “best” time for South Africa. The right time depends on what you want: wine and culture, safari, or coastal landscapes.

When you understand the seasonal patterns, you can match your trip to your priorities and travel with confidence.