Johannesburg - When to Visit

When to Johannesburg

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Johannesburg Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview -1°C 6°C 14°C 22°C 30°C Rainfall (mm) 0 66 132 Jan Jan: 25.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 132mm rain Feb Feb: 25.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 102mm rain Mar Mar: 24.0°C high, 13.0°C low, 94mm rain Apr Apr: 21.0°C high, 10.0°C low, 43mm rain May May: 19.0°C high, 7.0°C low, 20mm rain Jun Jun: 17.0°C high, 4.0°C low, 8mm rain Jul Jul: 17.0°C high, 4.0°C low, 3mm rain Aug Aug: 20.0°C high, 6.0°C low, 5mm rain Sep Sep: 23.0°C high, 9.0°C low, 15mm rain Oct Oct: 25.0°C high, 11.0°C low, 69mm rain Nov Nov: 25.0°C high, 13.0°C low, 102mm rain Dec Dec: 25.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 130mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Johannesburg experiences a subtropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city sits at high altitude (5,751 feet), which moderates temperatures year-round, keeping them pleasant even during summer months. The wet season runs from October through March, with peak rainfall occurring in December and January (around 5 inches monthly), while the dry season spans April through September with minimal precipitation, particularly June through August receiving less than 0.3 inches monthly. Winter months (June-August) are notably dry and cool, with temperatures dropping to the 40s°F at night, while summer months (December-February) are warm and humid with afternoon thunderstorms common. The consistent 70% humidity throughout the year, combined with the altitude, creates a comfortable climate that rarely becomes oppressively hot or cold.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
April through September during the dry season when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are mild to warm. The clear skies and low precipitation make this ideal for outdoor relaxation.
Cultural Exploration
May through August when temperatures are cooler (62-68°F highs) and rainfall is at its lowest. The comfortable weather and clear skies are perfect for walking tours and outdoor cultural sites.
Adventure & Hiking
April through September during the dry season when trails are less muddy and weather is predictable. May through August offer the coolest temperatures for strenuous activities.
Budget Travel
June through August during the dry winter season when tourist crowds are typically lower. The minimal rainfall and cooler temperatures make it an excellent value period.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

Peak summer with warm temperatures and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. This is the wettest month of the year with lush, green landscapes but expect daily humidity and regular rainfall interrupting outdoor activities.

77°F High
58°F Low
5.2 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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February

Continued summer conditions with warm temperatures and substantial rainfall. The wet season remains in full swing with high humidity and frequent afternoon storms, though slightly less rain than January.

78°F High
58°F Low
4.0 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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March

Late summer transitioning toward autumn with decreasing rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures. Still experiencing regular precipitation but the intensity begins to diminish as the wet season starts winding down.

75°F High
56°F Low
3.7 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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April

Pleasant autumn weather with significantly reduced rainfall and comfortable temperatures. The transition from wet to dry season makes this an excellent time for outdoor activities with mild days and cool nights.

71°F High
51°F Low
1.7 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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May

Dry season begins with minimal rainfall and cooler temperatures. Clear skies dominate with crisp mornings and pleasant days, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.

67°F High
45°F Low
0.8 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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June

Peak dry season with very little rainfall and cool winter temperatures. Sunny days with chilly mornings and evenings characterize this month, requiring layers but offering excellent weather for most activities.

63°F High
40°F Low
0.3 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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July

Coldest and driest month of the year with minimal precipitation and cool temperatures. Clear, sunny days with frosty mornings make this winter month perfect for those who prefer cooler weather and guaranteed sunshine.

62°F High
39°F Low
0.1 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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August

Late winter with continued dry conditions and gradually warming temperatures. Still very little rainfall with pleasant days and cool nights, marking the end of the coldest period.

68°F High
43°F Low
0.2 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
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September

Spring arrives with warming temperatures and continued dry conditions. Pleasant weather with minimal rainfall makes this an excellent transitional month before the wet season returns.

74°F High
49°F Low
0.6 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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October

Early wet season with increasing rainfall and warmer temperatures. The return of precipitation brings relief from the dry winter, though storms are still relatively infrequent compared to peak summer months.

77°F High
53°F Low
2.7 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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November

Wet season intensifies with substantial rainfall and warm temperatures. Regular afternoon thunderstorms return as summer approaches, bringing humidity and lush green landscapes back to the region.

77°F High
55°F Low
4.0 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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December

Peak summer returns with heavy rainfall and warm temperatures. Holiday season coincides with the wettest period, featuring daily humidity, frequent thunderstorms, and lush vegetation throughout the city.

77°F High
58°F Low
5.1 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
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Activities in Johannesburg