South Africa’s Regional Climates

Why go

Use regional weather, not a national average, to choose dates and pack. The Cape’s dry summers and wetter winters contrast with the greener south coast, colder high plateau winters and hot, dry northwestern landscapes. Wind also matters around the Cape.

Useful to know

• For a Cape and Highveld trip, check each region’s forecast separately.
• Pack for elevation if heading from the coast to the Highveld or Drakensberg.
• Leave flexibility for wind on exposed Cape coastal stops.