Climate in South Africa

The Republic of South Africa is located on the southern tip of the African continent . The popular travel destination not only has a diverse landscape, but also many different climatic zones . From the desert climate to subtropical climate conditions to the Mediterranean climate, there is everything in South Africa. The elevation and ocean locations have a major influence on the climate in the various regions of South Africa. The west coast and thus the region around Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate. The South African summer is warm and dry. The winters are comparatively cool and humid due to the Benguela Current. In the Cape Town region, most of the rain falls in the months of June to September of the South African winter. On the east coast, where Durban is also located, the Agulhas Current ensures humid and warm weather. The current from the Indian Ocean increases the amount of precipitation in the eastern coastal zone. The interior with Johannesburg is noticeably drier. This is where it usually rains most often in the South African summer. The summer months are hot and the winter months are mild. In the higher elevations of the country, the nights are cold at this time of year and frost can occur. You see, the climate in South Africa differs depending on the region.

Climate table South Africa – Cape Town

Best travel time for South Africa

Due to its location in the southern hemisphere, the seasons in South Africa are opposite to those in Austria. That means, when winter sets in in Austria, the South African summer begins. Once summer has arrived here, winter sets in in South Africa. The seasons of spring and autumn also run in opposite directions. According to health-beauty-guides, this begs the question of when is the best time to travel to South Africa . Due to the different climatic conditions, there is no clear answer to this. The optimal travel time depends on which region you want to visit in South Africa, what you want to see and experience and what kind of vacation you want to enjoy. Many choose to travel to South Africa during the high season. It prevails in the months of December and January in the South African summer . During this time, many Austrians escape the cold winter and travel to the African state. The landscape shows itself in all its splendor, the temperatures are high in summer and rainfall is rare. Because of this, these months are teeming with tourists. In addition, the locals have holidays. The sights and beaches are popular with tourists and locals alike. Another feature is the increased prices in the high season. In addition, the hotels and excursions can be booked out quickly. Who of the large gathering of people on his Africa vacation want to escape, can switch to all other seasons. The rule is: A trip to South Africa is worthwhile all year round. Nevertheless, depending on the planned activities and regions, you should prefer or ignore a few months.

Best travel time for safaris in South Africa

On these safaris you are out at night or in the early morning hours when it can be extremely fresh. Be sure to pack a thick sweater or jacket for this. Since the South African winter is considered the best travel time for safaris in South Africa, for example in the world-famous Kruger National Park, you should decide on a tour early. Otherwise they are fully booked. But also for safaris: You have the chance to observe the wild animals of South Africa on a tour all year round – even in the high season with hot temperatures of around 35 degrees Celsius! For this reason, everyone has to define the best travel time for a safari for themselves.

Climate table Kruger National Park