Best Time to Travel to Cape Town, South Africa

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When to Visit Cape Town

Planning a trip to Cape Town? You're in the right place! We know choosing the best time to visit Cape Town can feel overwhelming, with so many factors to consider. That's why we've put together this guide to help you make an informed decision.

We’ll discuss the weather, what to pack, and the best things to see and do. You’ll find out when the beaches are busiest, when the hiking trails are clearest, and even when you can spot whales. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear idea of when to visit Cape Town.

Ready for a South African adventure? Start your search for flights to Cape Town using the search form at the top of the page.

Summer (December to February)

Summer is the peak season in Cape Town. You can expect crowds and higher prices for flights and accommodation. But there's a reason for that: the weather is fantastic! You’ll enjoy hot days, clear skies, and perfect beach conditions. Without a doubt, it’s the best time to travel to Cape Town if you like swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

You can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking up Table Mountain, exploring the vibrant V&A Waterfront, or taking day trips to wine regions like Stellenbosch. Plus, the city comes alive with festivals and events during this time.

However, the downside is that it gets really busy, especially over Christmas and New Year. Popular beaches can be packed, and restaurants and attractions might have long queues. If you're not a fan of crowds or high prices, you might prefer to visit in the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn.

Cape Winelands, South Africa, in the autumn

Autumn (March to May)

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit Cape Town. It's not as packed as summer, but the weather is still pretty good. Sunny days with a slight chill in the air make it a perfect time for exploring.

One of the best things about autumn is the Cape Winelands. The vineyards look amazing with the changing leaves. It's harvest time, so you can try some fresh wine and maybe even catch a grape-stomping party. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are lovely places to visit, with plenty of wineries to choose from.

You can still enjoy the beaches in the autumn, but maybe with a sweater in the evening. Clifton and Camps Bay are always popular, but if you want something quieter, we recommend Noordhoek or Fish Hoek. We’d argue that these are two of the best places to travel in South Africa!

Hiking is fantastic in autumn. Table Mountain is perhaps the most popular hike in Cape Town, and there are lots of other trails to explore. The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is beautiful this time of year, too.

Overall, autumn is a great time to visit Cape Town. It's a bit quieter than summer, but still plenty to see and do.

Whale watching in Cape Town during the winter

Winter (June to August)

Winter might not be the first season that comes to mind for a Cape Town trip, but we think it has its own special charm. It's the low season, and definitely the quietest time to visit. You'll find fewer crowds at popular spots, which means less waiting and more time to enjoy yourself. Plus, prices for flights to South Africa and hotels tend to be lower, so you can treat yourself a bit more!

One of the biggest draws of winter in Cape Town is whale watching. These massive creatures migrate to the warmer waters to have their babies. It's an incredible experience to see them up close! You can take boat trips from places like Simon's Town or Hermanus. These tours usually last a few hours and the guides know the best spots to see the whale pods up close.

The weather is mild compared to other parts of the world in winter, so you can still enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and exploring. Expect daytime temperatures around 15-18 degrees Celsius (59-64°F). Evenings can be cooler, so pack a warm jacket. Don’t forget your raincoat, as winter in Cape Town can be a bit rainy!

Spring (September to November)

In our opinion, spring is the best time to visit Cape Town. The city starts to come alive again after the quieter winter months. The days get longer and the weather becomes milder. It's the perfect time to explore the outdoors.

Hiking up Lion's Head or Table Mountain is a must, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the city and coastline. We also recommend taking a drive along the scenic Chapman's Peak Drive. It's one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world. Stop for a picnic with a view, or find a cosy spot to watch the sunset.

Similar to autumn, spring is an excellent time to visit the Cape Winelands. The days are perfect for wine tasting and enjoying lunches outdoors. We recommend hiring a car and exploring the region. You can't go wrong with a visit to Fairview, known for its quirky atmosphere and delicious cheese, or Babylonstoren, a stunning farm with beautiful gardens and top-notch wines.

Book Flights to Cape Town

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to go to Cape Town?

The best month to visit Cape Town depends on what you want to do.

December to February: Perfect for beach lovers with hot, sunny weather. It's peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices.
March to May and September to November: Enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Ideal for hiking and wine tasting.
June to August: Cooler with potential rain, but this is whale watching season and offers lower prices.

What is the rainy season in Cape Town?

Cape Town's rainy season is from around April to August. While it's not constantly pouring, you can expect more showers and cooler temperatures compared to the rest of the year. The heaviest rain typically falls in June and July.

What is the hottest month in Cape Town?

February is the hottest month in Cape Town. Expect warm, sunny days perfect for the beach. However, be aware that this is also the peak tourist season, so prices might be higher.

What are the windiest months in Cape Town?

December and January are the windiest months in Cape Town. While the wind can be refreshing on hot days, it can also be quite strong at times. Pack a windbreaker if you're visiting during these months!

Which month is best for safari in South Africa?

The best time for a safari in South Africa is between May and September. This is the dry season, meaning wildlife is easier to spot as they gather around waterholes. Vegetation is thinner, offering better visibility. Plus, the weather is pleasant, which makes it comfortable for game drives.