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When To Visit South Africa and South Africa Travel

South Africa Weather

Exploring the Diverse Climates of South Africa

South Africa enjoys a temperate and pleasant climate, with warm sunny days most of the year. Let us not forget that South Africa is famous for her sunshine after all. Summer runs from December to February, when most of the country is characterised by warm to hot weather. Winter runs from June to August, when most of the country has mild days and cool to cold evenings. As with the rest of the World, South Africa's weather has become rather unpredictable with climate change; it is always best to be prepared when travelling around the country.

Cape Town Weather

Cape Town has a more Mediterranean based climate, with hot and dry summer and cool and wet winters. Summers in and around Cape Town offer long hot days with temperatures sitting anywhere between 25 and 35 degrees Celsius while evenings are balmy. Summer and Autumn are the most popular seasons for travel here. Cape Town traditionally is a winter rainfall region; it is during this time that cold fronts blast past the Cape with high winds and heavy rain. The days before and after the cold fronts are very pleasant with little to no clouds and very little wind, temperatures over these days are generally in the late teens and early twenties.

Kruger National Park Weather

Summer in the Kruger National Park is characterised by hot, humid and sunny days that are often broken by late afternoon thunderstorms. It is not uncommon for daytime temperatures to go over the 40 degree Celsius mark. Summer offers the best for birding and viewing all the newborn wildlife. Winter is without question the most popular season for travelling in and around the Kruger National Park, days are warm and the evenings are on the coolish side but nothing extreme. Winter offers better chances of seeing wildlife as they tend to gather around water while the bush thins out due to lack of rain.

Madikwe Game Reserve Weather

Madikwe has a similar weather pattern as to that of the Kruger National Park albeit dryer and with a slightly higher average temperature. Summer days can be sweltering while the nights remain rather balmy, afternoon thunderstorms quite often break the heat of the day. Summer is best for birdlife and general wildlife sightings. Winters in the Madikwe offer up rather pleasant daytime temperatures while nights can get down to just above freezing. Warm clothing is a must when travelling here in winter. Madikwe winters are the best for wildlife sightings and the best months being May through to September.

South Africa Weather Websites

The following websites offer the latest in news updates and are updated every few minutes;

South Africa Weather Apps

The following Apps are available for both Android and IOS; these are in our opinion the best. These Apps feature African countries and cities.

WeatherBug

Yahoo! Weather

AccuWeather

South Africa Weather Charts

Johannesburg Temperature Chart

Johannesburg Average Rainfall Chart (mm)

Cape Town Temperature Chart

Cape Town Average Rainfall Chart (mm)

Durban Temperature Chart

Durban Average Rainfall Chart (mm)

Knysna Temperature Chart

Knysna Average Rainfall Chart (mm)

Port Elizabeth Temperature Chart

Port Elizabeth Average Rainfall Chart (mm)

Skakuza Temperature Chart

Skakuza Average Rainfall Chart (mm)

Map of Lodges in and around South Africa

South Africa Travel Topics

The Perfect Kruger National Park Honeymoon Safari

Embarking on the perfect Kruger National Park honeymoon safari offers an unparalleled blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and luxurious romantic escapes in one of Africa’s most iconic wilderness destinations. The Greater Kruger area, encompassing both the national park and its adjoining private reserves like Sabi Sand and Timbavati, provides newlyweds with exclusive access to the Big Five, rare wildlife sightings, and world-class cuisine paired with rejuvenating spa treatments. Beyond the captivating game drives and wildlife, Kruger seamlessly integrates with other South African highlights to create a truly bespoke honeymoon journey. Many couples combine their safari with cosmopolitan stays in Cape Town, exploring Table Mountain and the Winelands, or extend their trip to the breathtaking Victoria Falls or pristine beaches of Mozambique.

Best Kruger National Park Safari Itinerary

Embarking on a safari in Kruger National Park is an adventure that promises the awe-inspiring beauty of African wildlife and landscapes. For those plotting their first journey into this majestic wilderness, understanding the daily rhythm of safari life is essential. Early morning game drives are your golden ticket to witnessing the park's inhabitants in their most active states, as the cool air and rising sun stir them to life. Our Kruger National Park itineraries are designed for every type of traveller. Whether you want an intimate, three-night stay in a private reserve or a nine-day exploration of diverse ecosystems—including stops in Johannesburg and the Panorama Route—there's an itinerary for you.

Luxury Safari Lodges in the Madikwe Game Reserve

Nestled in the heart of South Africa's vast wilderness, Madikwe Game Reserve stands as a beacon of luxury and exclusivity for those seeking an unparalleled safari experience. As our latest blog post delves into the opulent world of Luxury Safari Lodges within this remarkable reserve, we invite you on a journey to discover the epitome of high-end bush hospitality. In this haven of serenity and wildlife conservation, discerning guests find their expectations surpassed by personal attention, privacy, and unmatched game viewing opportunities. Madikwe’s luxury lodges offer a sanctuary where elegance meets wilderness, catering to those who yearn not just for a holiday but for an encounter with nature that leaves a lasting imprint on their soul.

Best Eco-Friendly Lodges In Kruger National Park

Embarking on a safari adventure through the majestic landscapes of Kruger National Park is a dream for many wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. However, in an age where sustainability and conservation are more important than ever, choosing eco-friendly lodges that prioritise minimal environmental impact while providing luxurious comfort is essential. The Greater Kruger area, known for its breathtaking biodiversity and sprawling wilderness, offers a selection of such accommodations. These eco-friendly safari lodges not only ensure an unforgettable safari experience but also demonstrate how luxury and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.

Kruger Game Reserves

Embarking on a safari adventure in the heart of South Africa’s majestic landscapes is an experience that beckons travellers from all corners of the globe. The Kruger National Park, a beacon of natural beauty and wildlife preservation, offers an escape into a world where nature reigns supreme. Since its establishment in 1898, this iconic destination has not only played a pivotal role in wildlife conservation but has also become synonymous with the ultimate safari experience. In our latest blog, "Kruger Game Reserves", we delve deep into the heart of what makes this region so captivating. Beyond the vast expanses of public land lies a collection of private game reserves such as Sabi Sands and Timbavati, each offering an unparalleled luxury safari experience. These reserves are renowned for their high concentrations of wildlife and provide guests with exclusive lodging options that promise comfort amidst the wild.

Top 10 Day Trips In Cape Town

Cape Town, a jewel at the tip of Africa, is a city brimming with an eclectic mix of landscapes, history, and culture that beckons travellers from around the globe. It's a place where the rugged mountains meet the endless ocean in an explosion of natural beauty, making it not just a destination but an experience. Each destination has been carefully selected not only for its unique beauty and charm but also for the story it tells—a story that adds another layer to Cape Town's rich tapestry. In our latest blog post titled "Top 10 Day Trips in Cape Town," we're about to take you on a journey beyond the well-trodden paths of Table Mountain and Robben Island to discover hidden gems that offer unforgettable experiences. Embarking on these day trips will allow you to explore stunning vineyards that seem to stretch into eternity, beaches with penguin colonies that look almost too whimsical to be real, and quaint towns whose cobblestone streets whisper tales of days gone by.

Kruger National Park Travel Bucket List

Nestled in the heart of South Africa, Kruger National Park stands as a beacon for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Its vast landscapes, teeming with an incredible variety of life, offer a sanctuary not just for the animals that roam its plains, but also for the human spirit seeking connection with the wild. Our latest blog post, "Kruger National Park Travel Bucket List," is, without a doubt, the most essential guide for anyone preparing to embark on a journey through this iconic reserve. It will spectacularly navigate you through the rich tapestry of experiences that await in this magnificent corner of the world.

10 Best Hotels In The Cape Winelands

Nestled amidst the rolling vineyards and majestic mountains of South Africa's Western Cape, the Cape Winelands region is a picturesque haven for wine lovers and travelers seeking tranquility and beauty. With its rich history, splendid architecture, and world-renowned wines, this enchanting locale offers more than just exquisite tastings. For those planning an unforgettable getaway in this serene landscape, choosing the perfect place to stay is paramount. Our curated list of the top 10 hotels in the Cape Winelands promises to guide you to accommodations where stunning views meet exceptional service, ensuring your visit is nothing short of magical.