Weather and climate in Cape Town

Cape Town has a mild Mediterranean climate which makes it an ideal year-round destination. Sizzling hot Summers and wet, rainy Winters can be expected.

Winter normally kicks in at the beginning of May and ends roughly August time.


Summer hits in full force during November and ends in March. Visitors tend to flock to Cape Town during December; which a great time of year but the only drawback is the strong South-Easterly wind which tends to make its unwelcome appearance during December.

For me, the ideal months in Cape Town are February and March. By then the South-Easter dies down and the average temperature is about 28 degrees celsius. Many tourists actually find this time of year too hot, which is why I suppose visitors flock to our shores in December/January time. Autumn and Spring offer a varying mix of rain and sunshine, and offer a great mild climate for those who aren't used to the more sweltering months of February/March.

Winter...brr

Average minimum of 7.0 °C (45 °F) and maximum of 17.5 °C (63 °F)

Winter in this city can be strange. Today it's 28 degree's celsius, the sun is shining and I'm wearing a t-shirt (quite a funky one). Yet a week ago there were thunderstorms, lightening and it was pretty gloomy. The temperature drops to about 16 degrees during Winter but crisp, clear and sunny days can be expected.

It's not uncommon to have a pattern where it rains for 4 days, produces clear skies for 3 days, is extremely hot for one day and then another 4 days of cold, wet weather.

Winter does have its perks. There are the most spectacular sunsets and great diving and surfing conditions can be found along the coast. Surfing in Cape Town in Winter is better than it is in Summer. Winter is great  for those who enjoy clear skies, cool nights and don't mind occasional rainy days. Our Winter is very similar to a British Summer!

It's advisable to bring a rain jacket, beach wear and warm clothes if you arrive in Cape Town during Winter. During an icy spell the mountain peaks inland might even be covered in snow.

Another bonus about a Cape Town Winter? We host a variety of wine tasting festivals and vineyard events!

Summer...aah

Average maximum 26.5 °C (80 °F)

Summer in Cape Town is uplifting! The city is on a permanent holiday vibe and high. Especially come December time. During the Summer visitors can expect tranquil, sweltering hot days. Remember, January and February can get very hot.


If you're not used to the sun and can't handle the heat then November and December are probably ideal for you.

December is jam packed with visitors so be prepared for crowds. Get to the beach early and make reservations at restaurants.

Summer brings about great beach festivals, boat trips, sunset cruises and ideal swimming weather.

Enjoy the weather in Cape Town. We do!

Climate websites...great for geeks!

Here are a few reliable South African weather websites and apps.

http://www.weathersa.co.za/web/
http://www.windguru.com
http://www.accuweather.com