Understanding weather in Africa is confusing. As safari experts, we've been talking about this for so long I think we are often in danger of forgetting the confusion and at times adding to it!

So here it is, a blog where we try and demystify it, and at the same time talk in plain English. 

South Africa is in the southern hemisphere so their winter happens during the British summer months. 

APRIL THROUGH TO THE END OF SEPTEMBER (SOUTH AFRICAN WINTER)

Start by drawing a horizontal line across the middle of a map of South Africa.

The Kruger, Johannesburg, Pretoria and Madikwe

The Kruger, Johannesburg, Pretoria and Madikwe are to the north of this line. They have HOT & DRY winters and it is really unlikely to rain. This means the grasses and leaves are dry and brown, there is not a lot of water.

In order to survive the animals need to come to water daily to drink. Therefore head to water and you are usually rewarded with amazing game viewing. As it is dry the grass dies and is easier to see the wildlife as they are less hidden. It is winter, but the days are comfortably hot with bright blue skies. It is short and T Shirt weather during the day. However, the minute it gets dark the temperatures drop as there are no clouds to keep the land warm. Keep yourselves warm and pack and wear beanies, scarves, gloves, warm jackets. Guests that packed their thermal skiing baselayers are the warmest and happiest guests on nightime safaris. However many lodges do provide blankets and hot water bottles!

Cape Town, Winelands and Garden Route

South of your line at this time of year is about exploring and discovering. It’s a time of roaring fires, red wine, scarves and chocolate tastings. Your days can be spent wine tasting, driving the spectacular coastline in search of whales and learning about the culture. The South Africans look forward to this time of year when they can enjoy some respite from the heat of their summer. In reality for the British, it is nothing more wintery than your average summer day in the UK. Just don’t bother packing your bikini.

OCTOBER THROUGH TO END OF MARCH (SOUTH AFRICAN SUMMER )

The Kruger, Johannesburg, Pretoria and Madikwe

About once or twice in this season you get rain that might set in for days. However, for the best part it is usually short, sharp, afternoon thunderstorms that arrive after hot and humid days. These rains mean that the vegetation is green and lush, it means that there is water to be had most places, so the wildlife is more wildly spread. This is what is called the Green Season. You have to have more patience on safari at this time of year, as the bush is thicker, and it is can be more challenging to spot things.

However, it is also the time when the babies are born, the flowers are out and the bush is alive with frogs, butterflies, bugs and dragonflies. Migrant birds arrive, the trees are in full bloom. It looks like the Garden of Eden. 

Cape Town, Winelands and Garden Route

South of the line the weather is more like the Mediterranean. Long, warm days and balmy evenings. 

As the rugged scenery will attest, this part of the country can take a coastal battering from cold currents and winds throughout the year. Cape Town really only experiences proper heat in February when the winds die down. If you really love the heat, head away from the coast and inland to the Winelands and the Route 62.

Is it beach weather? Yes, you are going to return looking relaxed and tanned. 
Is it the place to lay out on a sun lounger from dawn to dusk? No, it isn’t  - there is so much else to explore. 
Will you enjoy a couple of hours in the sun after a day of exploring?  Most definitely.

CONTACT

Call us for expert advice on where and when to travel

Give our knowledgeable team a call on 01904 866 033 or email: africa@knightonreeve.co.uk.