Things to Do in Johannesburg in January

January Weather in Johannesburg

26°C (79°F) High Temp

15°C (59°F) Low Temp

125mm (4.9 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Peak summer energy - locals are out enjoying long daylight hours (sunrise 5:30am, sunset 7:15pm) with vibrant street life and outdoor markets operating extended hours
Spectacular thunderstorms clear the air - daily 2-4pm lightning shows are breathtaking from rooftop bars, followed by dramatically clearer skies and cooler evenings
Lush green landscapes - the Witwatersrand hills and Delta Park are at their most beautiful after summer rains, perfect for photography and morning walks
Festival season kicks off - outdoor concerts at Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, weekend braai culture in full swing, and Christmas holiday atmosphere extends into New Year

Considerations

Intense afternoon storms can disrupt outdoor plans - expect 60% chance of daily 2-4pm downpours that can flood streets and shut down activities for 30-45 minutes
Extreme UV exposure - UV index hits 11+ requiring constant sun protection and making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable or dangerous
High humidity creates energy-sapping conditions - walking more than 1km (0.6 miles) in direct sun becomes exhausting, limiting exploration to early morning or late afternoon

Best Activities in January

Apartheid Museum and Constitutional Hill Complex Tours

January's afternoon storms make indoor cultural experiences ideal between 12-5pm. Air-conditioned museums provide respite from 30°C+ (86°F+) heat while offering profound historical context. Morning visits (8-11am) allow for comfortable outdoor courtyard exploration before temperatures peak.

Booking Tip: Book timed entry tickets online 5-7 days ahead to secure morning slots (8-11am). Museums typically cost R150-250 ($8-13) entry. Combine both sites in one day using Uber between locations. See current guided tour options in booking widget below.

Cradle of Humankind Cave Explorations

Underground Sterkfontein and Wonderwerk caves maintain cool 18°C (64°F) temperatures year-round, perfect escape from January heat. Post-rain landscapes above ground are lush and dramatic. Early morning departures (7am) avoid afternoon storms and traffic.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost R800-1200 ($42-63) including transport from Johannesburg. Book 10-14 days ahead as January is peak season. Tours usually include Maropeng Visitor Centre. Check current cave tour availability in booking section below.

Maboneng and Braamfontein Walking Food Tours

Evening food walks (5-8pm) perfectly capture post-storm cooler temperatures and vibrant street food culture. January's extended daylight means excellent photography opportunities. Local summer foods like boerewors rolls and fresh mielies are abundant.

Booking Tip: Evening tours typically cost R400-600 ($21-32) per person. Book through established operators with local guides for safety. January requires advance booking due to holiday visitors. Current food tour options available in booking widget.

Lion & Safari Park Morning Game Drives

Early morning drives (6:30-10am) avoid dangerous afternoon heat and storms. Animals are most active in cooler morning temperatures. January's lush vegetation after rains creates ideal viewing conditions and photography backgrounds.

Booking Tip: Morning game drives typically cost R350-550 ($18-29) entry plus vehicle fees. Book online 3-5 days ahead for guaranteed morning slots. Located 1 hour (45km/28 miles) north of city center. Current safari options in booking section below.

Gold Reef City and Mining Museum Complex

Underground mine tours stay cool at 16°C (61°F) while surface theme park benefits from extended summer operating hours. January school holidays create lively atmosphere. Indoor exhibits provide storm shelter during afternoon downpours.

Booking Tip: Full-day passes typically cost R200-320 ($11-17). Combination tickets include underground tours and surface attractions. Book midweek to avoid weekend family crowds. Current ticket options and packages available in booking widget below.

Johannesburg Rooftop Bar and Skyline Sunset Experiences

Post-storm evening skies (6-8pm) create spectacular sunset photography opportunities from Carlton Centre observation deck or Ponte Tower area. Cooler evening temperatures after daily storms make rooftop venues comfortable. Clear air after rain offers best city skyline visibility.

Booking Tip: Observation deck entry typically costs R40-80 ($2-4). Rooftop bar experiences range R150-400 ($8-21) including drinks. Book guided evening tours for safety in downtown areas. Current sunset and skyline tour options in booking section below.

January Events & Festivals

Every weekend throughout January

Summer Sunset Markets

Weekly evening markets at Neighbourgoods Market and various parks feature local crafts, food vendors, and live music. Extended daylight hours and post-storm cooler evenings create perfect market conditions.

Mid to Late January

Johannesburg International Mozart Festival

Annual classical music festival featuring international and local artists at various indoor venues across the city. Air-conditioned concert halls provide elegant escape from summer heat.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches dangerous 11+ levels requiring reapplication every 90 minutes

Lightweight waterproof jacket or compact umbrella - daily 2-4pm storms produce heavy downpours lasting 30-45 minutes

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity conditions that create uncomfortable sticking

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - afternoon rains create slippery surfaces on Johannesburg's steep hills

Portable phone charger/power bank - afternoon storms can cause brief power outages affecting charging opportunities

Insect repellent containing DEET - standing water after rains increases mosquito activity, especially in evening hours

Light sweater for air-conditioned spaces - museums and malls maintain 18-20°C (64-68°F) creating significant temperature contrast

Quick-dry day pack - sudden storms require waterproof storage for electronics, passports, and cash

Electrolyte supplements or powder - high heat and humidity increase dehydration risk during walking tours

Cooling towel or bandana - provides relief during unavoidable midday heat exposure when moving between locations

Insider Knowledge

Time outdoor activities for 6-11am window - locals know afternoon storms hit like clockwork at 2-4pm, making morning exploration essential for comfort and safety

Use Gautrain for storm shelter - the airport rail system connects major districts with air-conditioned stations providing perfect weather refuges and tourist-friendly security

Book accommodations in Sandton or Rosebank over inner city - these areas have better drainage systems and covered walkways for navigating January's daily downpours

Pack layers for dramatic temperature swings - morning starts at 15°C (59°F), peaks at 30°C+ (86°F+) by noon, then drops 8-10°C (14-18°F) during afternoon storms

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities after 2pm - afternoon thunderstorms are virtually guaranteed and can trap tourists in unsafe areas with poor drainage

Underestimating UV exposure at 1,750m (5,741ft) elevation - Johannesburg's altitude intensifies sun damage even during brief outdoor walks

Walking long distances in midday heat - many tourists attempt 2-3km (1.2-1.9 mile) walks between attractions during peak 30°C+ (86°F+) temperatures causing heat exhaustion