Things to Do in Johannesburg in June
June weather, activities, events & insider tips
June Weather in Johannesburg
Is June Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hiking weather with clear skies - daytime temperatures of 17°C (63°F) ideal for Magaliesberg trails and Cradle of Humankind walks without overheating
- Minimal rainfall at 7.6 mm (0.3 inches) means outdoor markets like Neighbourgoods Market and weekend festivals run uninterrupted
- School holidays haven't started - attractions like Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill have shorter queues and better photo opportunities
- Winter wildlife viewing peak - animals gather at waterholes in nearby reserves, and clear air provides stunning city skyline views from Carlton Centre Top of Africa
Considerations
- Nights drop to 4°C (40°F) requiring warm layers - many rooftop bars and outdoor dining close early or become uncomfortable after 7pm
- Morning frost delays garden visits - Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens best visited after 10am when temperatures rise
- Air quality can worsen due to coal burning for heating in townships - sensitive individuals should monitor pollution levels daily
Best Activities in June
Cradle of Humankind Cave Tours and Fossil Site Exploration
June's cool 17°C (63°F) days make the 1.5-hour underground Sterkfontein Caves tours comfortable without the summer heat. Clear winter air provides excellent visibility across the 47,000-hectare UNESCO site. Fossil dig demonstrations and Maropeng Visitor Centre outdoor exhibits are pleasant in mild weather.
Apartheid Museum and Constitutional Hill Historical Tours
Indoor attractions perfect for June's variable weather days. Reduced school holiday crowds mean better access to exhibits and audio guides. Cool temperatures make the 2-3 hour walking portions comfortable. Constitutional Hill's outdoor prison sections are pleasant in 17°C (63°F) weather.
Magaliesberg Mountain Hiking and Nature Trails
June offers perfect hiking conditions - cool mornings warming to comfortable 17°C (63°F) by midday. Crystal clear winter air provides spectacular views across the range. Minimal 7.6 mm (0.3 inches) rainfall means trails are dry and safe. Wildlife more active in cooler temperatures.
Gold Reef City and Mining History Experiences
Theme park rides comfortable in mild June weather - no summer heat exhaustion concerns. Underground mine tours naturally climate-controlled. Historical gold panning demonstrations enjoyable outdoors in 17°C (63°F) temperatures. Shorter queues during winter months.
Soweto Cycling and Township Cultural Tours
Cool June weather ideal for 3-4 hour cycling tours without summer heat stress. Clear winter air means better photographs of street art and historical sites. Locals more active outdoors during pleasant daytime temperatures. School term time offers authentic community interactions.
Johannesburg City Centre Walking and Architecture Tours
Perfect weather for 2-3 hour walking tours of Maboneng Precinct and Carlton Centre. Cool 17°C (63°F) temperatures comfortable for exploring indoor markets and outdoor art installations. Clear winter skies provide stunning photography opportunities from rooftop viewpoints.
June Events & Festivals
Johannesburg International Mozart Festival
South Africa's premier classical music festival featuring international orchestras and local talent. Indoor venues perfect for June's cool evenings. Multiple venues across the city including Linder Auditorium and Wits Great Hall.
Winter Warmer Food Festival
Local restaurants and food vendors showcase hearty winter dishes and warming beverages. Held in heated marquees and indoor venues. Features traditional South African comfort foods and international winter specialties.