South Africa

See all trips in South Africa South Africa OVERVIEW

Travel guide

To consult

GMT TIME

+2 h

LANGUAGE

ANGLAIS/ZOULOU

CURRENT TIME

WHEN TO TRAVEL

Currency

Rand sud-africain (ZAR)

VISA REQUIREMENTS

CONSULT

Travel guide

To consult

GMT TIME

+2 h

LANGUAGE

ANGLAIS/ZOULOU

CURRENT TIME

WHEN TO TRAVEL

Currency

Rand sud-africain (ZAR)

VISA REQUIREMENTS

CONSULT

BEST TIME TO VISIT
South Africa

South Africa (Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger National Park):

Best Time: May to September for wildlife viewing, and November to March for beach activities.

Month	Best Time	Average Time	Worst Time
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

Climate:

Western Cape (Cape Town): The best time to visit is during the dry, warm summer months from November to March, perfect for beach visits. May to August brings cooler weather and rain.
Kruger National Park and Safari areas: The best time for wildlife viewing is the dry season (May to September), when animals gather around waterholes. The summer months (October to April) can be hot and wet.
Johannesburg and Highveld: The best time is during the mild winter months (May to September), which are dry and sunny. Summer months (October to April) can be rainy, but it's still a good time to visit with warm temperatures.

Worst Time: The wet season from October to April in safari areas can make wildlife harder to spot, and the rainy winter in the Western Cape (May to August) may limit outdoor activities.

Western Cape (Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Hermanus):

Best Time: November to March

Month	Best Time	Average Time	Worst Time
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

Climate: Cape Town enjoys warm, sunny weather from November to March, making it perfect for beach activities, wine tasting, and outdoor adventures. From May to August, expect cooler, rainy days, with winter bringing lower temperatures and storms.

Kruger National Park and Safari areas:

Best Time: May to September

Month	Best Time	Average Time	Worst Time
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

Climate: The dry winter season (May to September) is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources, and vegetation is sparse, making them easier to spot. From October to April, the park experiences its rainy season, with lush vegetation but fewer wildlife sightings.

Key:

Green: Best time to visit.
Red: Worst time to visit, due to extreme weather like rain or cold.
Orange: Average time to visit, decent weather but with some drawbacks.

This guide should help you plan your South African trip, whether you're aiming for safari experiences or beach vacations!

WHAT TO DO IN South Africa

South Africa, a country of extraordinary diversity, offers a kaleidoscope of travel experiences that span from vibrant cities to untamed wilderness. Cape Town, set against the iconic Table Mountain, dazzles with its historic charm, cultural richness, and the breathtaking Cape of Good Hope. The Garden Route unfolds a scenic tapestry of coastal wonders, ancient forests, and charming towns. Kruger National Park, a wildlife haven, invites safari enthusiasts to witness the majesty of the Big Five amid diverse ecosystems.

Johannesburg and Soweto showcase a powerful narrative of resilience and transformation, while Durban's golden beaches and multicultural vibe add coastal allure. The Drakensberg Mountains offer a tranquil escape with stunning landscapes and ancient rock art. Stellenbosch and the Winelands promise a sensory delight with world-class vineyards and picturesque landscapes. The vibrant streets of Soweto and the historic Robben Island provide glimpses into South Africa's poignant past. In Addo Elephant National Park, the trumpeting giants roam freely in a malaria-free safari setting. This captivating blend of landscapes, cultures, and wildlife makes South Africa an immersive and unforgettable destination for all types of travelers.