Many countries have seasons in which they are best enjoyed and seasons in which their finest features are simply amiss, or the weather is so bitterly unpleasant, it may dampen the vacation completely. South Africa is one of those marvelous jewels that provide something wonderful to do and see in each month of the year, there is absolutely no completely “off” season. If you have a very specific activity in mind, it may be best to ensure you book your vacation in South Africa according to the most appropriate season for that activity. Here is a month-by-month breakdown of what South Africa has to offer.

January

January is technically midsummer, the days are long, hot, and happy. In Cape Town, you would typically experience dry weather and sunsets that occur around 10 PM. The rest of the country outside of the Western Cape generally gets summer rainfall, so expect a few wet days.

Game drives are marvelous in Shamwari, while Kruger and Sabi Sands could potentially be rather wet and rainy, however, your chances of seeing the young wildlife that were born in spring will be greater at this time.

February

Another hot month! The world will still be beautiful, green, and extremely lush. Unfortunately, this can make it more difficult to spot animals on a game drive. February is a bird watcher’s paradise as the migratory birds are present and although the season is still fairly wet (except in the Western Cape), the rains are generally only in the afternoons for an hour or two. February is a good month to visit as the schools have started again and most of the locals are back at work, leaving the wonderful tourist destinations much quieter and more peaceful.

March

Still the best season for a beach vacation in Cape Town, you can enjoy the dry weather and late sunsets from rooftop bars and restaurants. The weather is still warm enough for a fantastic time outdoors without sleeves, but it has cooled down enough for wonderful walks on the amazing hikes this country has to offer.

As the vegetation begins to die down in other regions, the game drives are more rewarding as the wildlife is seen more easily. Another great activity for the month of March is a visit to Chimp Eden in Mpumalanga. Chimp Eden is a rehabilitation center for chimpanzees where they are taught how to climb trees and forage, as well as all the other necessary skills to survive in the wild.

April

The sea might have a chilly bite to it in the Cape at this point, but KwaZulu-Natal will still offer long sunny beaches and warm oceans. Less chance of rainfall and ever-receding vegetation at the game parks will make this a better month for game drives. The days are sunny and welcoming while the nights envelop you in cold fingers, making the experience of snuggling under the sheets absolutely glorious. Kruger, Madikwe, Pilanesberg, and KwaZulu-Natal are particularly great moving into the cooler months.

May

We’re now heading into the best season for game drives. The vegetation is dry and barren inland and the likes of lions, cheetah and much more are highly visible. If you’re after the wildlife thrill, this is your season. Many areas in the Western Cape see their rainy months now making it a better time to visit the Drakensberg Mountains instead. The weather gets chilly, although nowhere near cold by American standards, in fact, it’s ideal for vacationing as the midsummer sting is gone and the winter bite hasn’t arrived yet.

June

June is wintery, although clear skies and crisp mornings make the ideal conditions for game drives. The wildlife viewings become more common and predictable as they are restricted to areas with water. The warm earthy hues of reds, golds, and browns make wonderful backdrops for the photography enthusiasts and the dry winters guarantee you a safari with agreeable weather. The school vacations in June could see the safari parks becoming busier but this shouldn’t be disruptive in any way.

July

The deeper we get into winter the further the vegetation dies back and the better the wildlife sightings are. One of the shyest species, the leopard, is most likely to be seen in July. Animals are further forced to group together around the ever-dwindling water supplies. Experienced rangers will accurately predict what the general movements of the animals are like, affording vacationers the best sightings possible. The winter will generally give you temperatures of around 65°F at midday while the nights drop to a chilly 32°F. The early mornings and evenings will be rather cold, it is best to pack in anticipation of both cold temperatures and the midday heat.  

August

The temperatures are getting warmer without any rainfall as yet, meaning elephant, rhino and lions are now easily seen. Cape Town will welcome you now with an array of marine life to behold. If you’re a wine-drinker, a tour of the Cape Winelands will never go amiss either. Stellenbosch is the heart of great wine country and if you’re a keen hiker, a trip to the Tsitsikamma forest is absolutely essential.

September

It’s whale season! Hop to Hermanus where you will find the entire town abuzz with excitement. The whales arrive in dribs and drabs from around May, but September and October are the best months to enjoy their splendor as the majority would have arrived. The whale festival, a series of shows and events is also held around this time of year.

September is also the start of spring, the promise of rain hangs in the air if it hasn’t started to deliver as yet. At the safari parks, the vegetation has been eaten down during the winter months and the big cats are spotted with ease. The warmer days enjoy temperatures of around 75°F while the evenings are still slightly nippy.

October

Another great month for a safari but do be prepared for the odd downpour of rain in the afternoon. Many animals give birth during this month and this is also the season for the rejuvenation of the vegetation. This will once again make it a little more difficult to see the newborns and their parents.

The Drakensberg is fantastic, as always. Mountainous hikes to caves to view the san art paintings on the wall will make phenomenal memories. The increased rain will provide hiking trails alive with lush scenery and treasures of all natures.

November

A November safari is great, although sightings will be sparser as the animals have an abundant supply of food and water and plenty of foliage to hide behind. Nevertheless, the drives are fantastic and sightings are well worth it. The chill is officially leaving the air too!

The wildflowers in the Cape are a sight to behold. September and October are usually the busiest months, therefore it is recommended to go in November instead when the crowds have largely dispersed.

December

The prime vacation season in South Africa, prices are slightly steeper and the best attractions are rather busy. Nevertheless, these factors have little influence over the pleasure of your vacation. Temperatures are cooking at midday, making beach trips exceptional. A safari is a popular plan for most families during December. Ensure you book in advance, and expect a fairly busy park, wherever you go. It’s incredibly hot but most parks have luxurious facilities. While wildlife may be less easily sighted, the magnificent bushveld provides ample photography opportunities.

There is never a dull month in South Africa. Mother nature is ever-abundant in providing beauty and plenty of outdoor activities all-year. As if that isn’t all you could ask for, the local culture and the fantastic cuisine will keep you hanging on at each spot you visit.

The only way you can really be sure to get the most out of a limited time period is to see the country with those who know exactly where to find the hidden gems, based on your personal interests and wishes. For more information on creating a tailor-made itinerary to surpass your wildest hopes and dreams, get in touch, we’re here to show you the best of Africa!