Things to Do in Johannesburg in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Johannesburg
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Jacaranda season transforms the city into purple wonderland - over 70,000 jacaranda trees bloom from mid-October through November, creating Instagram-worthy streets especially in Pretoria Road and Sandton
- Perfect hiking weather with cool mornings (13°C/55°F) warming to comfortable 25°C (77°F) - ideal for Johannesburg's 2,000+ hiking trails without summer's scorching heat
- Summer rainfall season begins, washing away winter dust and creating lush green landscapes, while storms are typically brief afternoon affairs lasting 30-45 minutes
- School holidays haven't started yet (begin mid-December), meaning popular attractions like Gold Reef City and Johannesburg Zoo have smaller crowds and shorter queues
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms hit 60% of days between 2-6pm, often disrupting outdoor activities and making rooftop venues like Marble Restaurant temporarily close their terraces
- High UV index of 8 at 1,753m (5,751 ft) altitude means sunburn risk is extreme - you'll burn in 15 minutes without SPF 50+, even on cloudy days
- Humidity jumps from winter's 30% to 70%, making the highveld feel sticky and uncomfortable for visitors from drier climates, especially during midday hours
Best Activities in November
Township Cultural Tours
November's warm weather and longer daylight hours (sunrise 5:15am, sunset 6:45pm) create perfect conditions for exploring Soweto and Alexandra. The jacaranda blooms extend even into township areas, creating beautiful backdrops. Post-storm air is crisp and clear, offering excellent photography conditions. Local schools are still in session, so you'll see authentic daily life rather than holiday emptiness.
Johannesburg City Centre Walking Tours
November's mild temperatures make walking tours comfortable, while recent urban regeneration projects shine in the post-rain cleanliness. The 2024-opened Park Station precinct and revitalized Mining District are best explored on foot. Cool mornings (13°C/55°F) are perfect for the 3-4km (1.9-2.5 miles) routes through Maboneng, Newtown, and Constitutional Hill.
Cradle of Humankind Day Tours
November's clear post-storm skies offer stunning views across the 47,000-hectare UNESCO site. The Maropeng Visitor Centre's outdoor exhibits are comfortable to explore in 25°C (77°F) weather. Sterkfontein Caves maintain constant 16°C (61°F), providing welcome relief from humidity. New fossil discoveries announced in 2024 make this especially current.
Gold Mine Tours
Underground mine temperatures remain constant 25-30°C (77-86°F) year-round, but November's surface weather makes the above-ground portions at Crown Mines or Gold Reef City comfortable. The contrast between cool morning air and warm underground tunnels is less jarring than in winter. Post-rain air clarity enhances views from mine headgears.
Johannesburg Zoo and Lion Park Visits
November marks the start of breeding season for many species, making animal viewing more active and interesting. The 55-hectare Johannesburg Zoo's animals are most active during cool mornings before seeking shade. Recent upgrades to the African Plains exhibit (opened 2024) are best enjoyed in mild weather before daily storms hit.
Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill Tours
November's excellent natural lighting through the museum's skylights enhances the photographic exhibits, while comfortable walking temperature makes the extensive outdoor sections at Constitution Hill pleasant to explore. The 2-3 hour indoor/outdoor combination works perfectly with November's afternoon storm pattern - you'll be indoors during typical 3-6pm storm window.
November Events & Festivals
Jacaranda Festival
While officially centered in Pretoria, Johannesburg's 70,000+ jacaranda trees create spectacular purple canopies throughout November. Local photographers organize 'Jacaranda Walks' through suburbs like Parktown, Houghton, and parts of Sandton. Street vendors sell jacaranda-themed crafts, and many restaurants create purple-themed menus celebrating the blooms.
Johannesburg Summer Season Cultural Events
Various cultural venues like the Market Theatre, Joburg Theatre, and outdoor venues in Newtown start their summer programming. Expect more evening outdoor concerts and festivals as weather becomes conducive to after-work events, though specific programming varies year to year.