The weather in southern Africa is as diverse as its people and landscapes. Sceneries differ from sunny, sandy shores to snowy mountain peaks. The time you travel greatly determines the experience you will have during your holiday. When is it too wet for biking? When is it too hot for hiking? All four seasons offer wonderful holiday experiences. This guide helps you decide which one is the most ideal for you.
AFRICAN SUMMER (November to March) The Mediterranean climate in and around Cape Town is pleasantly warm and dry around this time of the year. Other parts of the region have a more sub-tropical climate: warm to hot days with cooling, short afternoon showers. Namibia, Botswana and northern parts of the region can be uncomfortably hot during summer months.
AFRICAN AUTUMN (March to June) Autumn is a pleasant time to visit southern Africa. Days in the northern part of the region (Botswana, Namibia) aren’t as hot as in summer and nights aren’t as cool as in winter. Precipitation is lower in autumn than during summer. Autumn is also harvest time for South African wines and a popular time for festivals throughout the region.
AFRICAN WINTER (June to August) With the exception of the Cape region, winter is the dry season. This makes it a fantastic time for safaris and game viewing. Due to the scarce rainfall you can spot an abundance of wildlife around the waterholes and vegetation isn’t as dense as it is in summer. Winter is also a great time for beach fun in KwaZulu-Natal and Mozambique.
AFRICAN SPRING (August to November) Spring is the time of the year to go whale watching and the Cape provinces are covered under a colourful blanket of blooming fynbos shrubs and daisies. Throughout the region mild climates can be expected with little rainfall. Like autumn this season is excellent for travellers who enjoy strenuous activities.
Cloud Photo taken in Hluhluwe-Umfolozi NP in the month october.
Summer in the Cape is usually pleasantly warm. The hottest days are often cooled down by the famous south-easterly wind; called the Cape Doctor as it helps to keep the region free of pollution. Whilst water temperatures in the Atlantic are low once you reach the Indian Ocean the sea is more bather friendly. This circular itinerary takes in the highlights of the Western and Eastern Cape. From ZAR 9,810.-
A not–to-be-missed treat in spring is the extraordinary view of miles of beautiful, blooming Namaqualand flowers. The Northern Cape temperatures are pleasant this time of year. Other highlights include the West Coast and Hermanus, both very popular whale watching spots in spring. From only ZAR 7,500.
Looking for a great breakaway, experiencing all the best this season has to offer: whales, wine & wild flowers? Look no further and book this special combination offer, combining 2 nights in Hermanus with another 2 nights in Paternoster (can be split over 2 weekends), for up to 8 people sharing, from only ZAR 195 pp per night (4 nights)
