Johannesburg - When to Visit

When to Visit Johannesburg

Year-round climate guide & best times to travel

Johannesburg enjoys a subtropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city experiences warm, rainy summers from October to March, characterized by afternoon thunderstorms and lush green landscapes. Winters (May to August) are dry, sunny, and cool, with crisp mornings and pleasant afternoons, though nights can be quite cold. The high altitude (1,753m above sea level) moderates temperatures year-round, preventing extreme heat even in summer. The rainy season brings most of the annual precipitation between November and February, with dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that clear quickly. Winter months are virtually rain-free with brilliant blue skies and excellent visibility. Spring (September-October) and autumn (March-April) serve as pleasant transition periods with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, making them ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Best Time to Visit by Travel Style

Beach & Relaxation

April to May and September to October offer the most comfortable weather for outdoor relaxation with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall.

Cultural Exploration

May to August provides perfect conditions with sunny days, comfortable temperatures, and low rainfall ideal for walking tours and museum visits.

Adventure & Hiking

April to September offers the best hiking conditions with dry weather, clear skies, and comfortable daytime temperatures.

Budget Travel

June to August is low season with better accommodation deals, though it's also the coldest period with potential frost.

Month-by-Month Climate Guide

January

Peak summer with hot days and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The city is lush and green, but humidity can be high and storms can be intense.

26°C (79°F) High Temp
15°C (59°F) Low Temp
125mm (5in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View January Details →

February

Continued summer conditions with regular afternoon storms and high humidity. Green landscapes are at their most beautiful, but outdoor plans may be disrupted by rain.

26°C (79°F) High Temp
15°C (59°F) Low Temp
90mm (3.5in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View February Details →

March

Transition from summer to autumn with decreasing rainfall and more stable weather. Temperatures remain warm but humidity begins to drop, making it more comfortable.

24°C (75°F) High Temp
13°C (55°F) Low Temp
85mm (3.3in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View March Details →

April

Excellent autumn weather with mild temperatures, minimal rainfall, and comfortable conditions. One of the best months for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

21°C (70°F) High Temp
9°C (48°F) Low Temp
55mm (2.2in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View April Details →

May

Beautiful autumn month with crisp, sunny days and cool nights. Minimal rainfall and excellent visibility make it perfect for all outdoor activities.

19°C (66°F) High Temp
5°C (41°F) Low Temp
15mm (0.6in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View May Details →

June

Peak winter with cold nights and warm, sunny days. Virtually no rainfall and brilliant blue skies, though early mornings can be frosty.

16°C (61°F) High Temp
2°C (36°F) Low Temp
8mm (0.3in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View June Details →

July

Coldest month with potential frost at night but glorious sunny days. Dry conditions and excellent air quality make it ideal for outdoor exploration despite the cold.

17°C (63°F) High Temp
2°C (36°F) Low Temp
5mm (0.2in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View July Details →

August

Still winter but temperatures begin to rise slightly. Continued dry, sunny conditions with cold nights and pleasant afternoons perfect for daytime activities.

19°C (66°F) High Temp
5°C (41°F) Low Temp
8mm (0.3in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View August Details →

September

Spring begins with warming temperatures and continued dry conditions. Excellent weather for all activities with comfortable days and cool but not cold nights.

23°C (73°F) High Temp
9°C (48°F) Low Temp
25mm (1in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View September Details →

October

Beautiful spring weather with warm days and occasional light showers. The first green shoots appear, and conditions are ideal for outdoor activities.

24°C (75°F) High Temp
12°C (54°F) Low Temp
65mm (2.6in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View October Details →

November

Late spring transitioning to summer with increasing rainfall and humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms become more frequent, but mornings are usually clear and pleasant.

25°C (77°F) High Temp
14°C (57°F) Low Temp
105mm (4.1in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View November Details →

December

Summer arrives with hot days and regular afternoon storms. Holiday season brings crowds, and the combination of heat and humidity can be challenging for some visitors.

26°C (79°F) High Temp
15°C (59°F) Low Temp
115mm (4.5in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View December Details →

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