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Why South African Winter Still Wins (Even Without Double-Glazing)
Every June, Europeans scramble for seaside loungers, smugly convinced we’re huddling beside drafty windows because—gasp—South Africa has no double-glazing, under-floor heating, or toasty seat-warmers.
Yet here’s the punch-line: our ‘dead of winter’ often serves up 22 °C lunches on a sun-soaked patio, lion sightings under crystal skies, and braais that need more ice for the drinks than logs for the fire.
Sure, a 6 °C sunrise can nip your nose, but by mid-morning you’ll be peeling off layers faster than a kid with birthday wrapping paper.
Continue reading and we’ll show you exactly where to chase a mid-year tan—no thermostat, Nordic parka, or seat-warmer required.
The inland areas like Gauteng, North West, and Limpopo have many pleasant and warm, sunny days. Daytime highs often reach between 17°C and 25°C.
Cape Town is the exception to mild winters in South Africa. It is mostly wet (because it is the rainy season) and gets quite chilly, especially in July. But this makes for cosy fireplaces, sipping red wines (at some of the best wine farms in the world) comforting food and warm hospitality.
It is rather strange having my bestie (Petra) living on a different continent and hemisphere than me. While we’re layering up in South Africa, she’s sunbathing in Germany and vice versa. And the best part is when I call to complain about feeling so cold, she curiously asks, “What’s the temperature like?” I say, “12 degrees,” and she laughs, “Bernie, that’s NOT cold!”.
When Is Winter in South Africa?
Winter in South Africa runs from June to August. It’s our cooler season, but don’t expect snow or grey skies like in European cities. We still get bright sunny days and blue skies, especially away from the coast.
Winter spans 1 June – 31 August. Inland mornings start at 5-10 °C, yet midday highs climb to 17-25 °C. KwaZulu-Natal’s coast stays subtropical; Cape Town swaps sun for cosy rainstorms.
When is it the rainy season in South Africa?
- Western Cape: Rainy in winter (May to August). Think Cape Town and the Winelands.
- Gauteng, North West, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga: Dry in winter. Rain in summer (November to March) with late afternoon thunderstorms.
- KwaZulu-Natal: Warm winters with summer rainfall (October to March).
- Eastern Cape: Mostly dry inland. Some coastal areas have rain in winter.
- Northern Cape: Dry all year. Winter is sunny and crisp, particularly early morning and late afternoons.
Also look at the table below for a quick glance to the rainy seasons in South Africa.
Region | Rainy Months | Winter style |
Western Cape | May – Aug | Cool, wet, perfect for wine-estate fireplaces |
Gauteng, Limpopo, North West, Free State, Mpumalanga | Nov – March | Crisp, dry, big-sky days |
KwaZulu-Natal | Oct – Mar | Dry, warm coast in winter |
Northern Cape | Rarely get rain | Sunny desert days, starry nights |
Here is our list op top 10 places for a winter getaway in South Africa
So you may be wondering what the weather is like in South Africa during Winter? Well it depends a lot in what province you are. In general, South African winters are much milder than European winters. Many parts of the country have lovely weather for winter getaways.
1. Durban & the North Coast, KwaZulu-Natal
Durban, with its subtropical climate, stays warm all year. This is the time to enjoy golden beaches (without the crowds), spicy Indian curries and delicacies, and lazy days in luxurious accommodation at a fraction of the price.
Why winter wins in Durban & the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal – Warm Indian Ocean, uncrowded beaches, hotel rates you’ll brag about.
Temperature tips:
- Day temperature 23-26 °C
- Night temperatures15-17 °C
- Sea temperature ± 21 °C.
- Pack swimwear and a light jersey for sunset strolls.
Where to stay in Kwa-Zulu Natal in winter
- The Oyster Box – iconic red-stripe loungers, legendary curry buffet.
- Teremok Lodge & Spa – eight chic suites, stroll to the Umhlanga promenade.
2. St Lucia & iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
This coastal town feels tropical in winter. You can cruise the estuary, watch hippos from your lodge, or go on a bush safari without having to book days in advance.
Why winter wins in St Lucia & iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Fewer mosquitoes, glass-calm estuary cruises, same-day safari permits.
Temperature tips:
- Day temperature 22-25 °C
- Night temp ratures13-15 °C.
- Hoodie for dawn boat rides, shorts by brunch.
Where to stay in St Lucia & iSimangaliso Wetland Park in winter
Lidiko Lodge – 12 garden suites, walk to hippo-spotting boardwalks.
3. Maputaland Coast (Kosi Bay & Thonga Beach), KwaZulu-Natal
For off-the-grid luxury we recommend this region of South Africa.
This northern stretch of coastline is remote, wild, and warmer than most of the other regions in South Africa. Think reefs, turtle tours, sunsets, and eco-friendly comfort.
Why winter wins in Maputaland– Remote reefs, turtle tracks, crystal-clear snorkelling.
Temperature tips:
- Day 2temperature 4-27 °C
- Night temperature around 16 °C
- Flip-flops all day, fleece for dune-top stargazing.
Where to stay in Maputaland in winter
- Thonga Beach Lodge – barefoot luxury on a private dune-forest beach.
- Kosi Forest Lodge – canoe safaris, candle-lit dinners.
4. Sodwana Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
Sodwana is one of Africa’s top diving destinations. It’s sunny, sandy, and quiet in winter — a hidden gem.Why winter wins in Sodwana– Peak dive visibility, mellow surf, no crowds.
Temperature tips:
- Day temperature 23-26 °C
- Night temperature 14 °C
- Water temperature 21-23 °C.
- 5 mm wetsuit perfect for diving
Where to stay in Sodwana in winter
- Mseni Beach Lodge – forest chalets with private beach access.
- Sodwana Bay Lodge – dive-centric, sociable vibe.
5. Pilanesberg & Sun City, North West
This malaria-free region is about two hours from Johannesburg. The Sun City resort complex and Pilanesberg game reserve is great for golf and safari lovers who want a bit of glam. Although the main hotel in the Sun City complex is in desperate need of long-overdue maintenance and refurbishment, it still provides for a great winter escape. Nature lovers will enjoy walking through magnificent gardens and admiring the abundant bird and aquatic life.
Why winter wins in Pilanesberg – Malaria-free Big 5, golden grass for easy sightings, perfect tee-off temps.
Temperature tip – Day 20-24 °C • Night 6-8 °C. Layers for dawn drives; T-shirt by brunch.
Where to stay in Pilanesberg and Sun City in winter
- The Palace – lush gardens, waterfalls, royal décor.
- Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge – AWESOME Big 5 game reserve, fantastic guided or self-drive safaris, underground hide at a busy waterhole
6. Waterberg, Limpopo
- Day temps 22-25 °C
- Night temps5-7 °C.
- Beanie for sunrise; sundress by lunch.
Where to stay in the Waterberg in winter
- Sediba Luxury Safari Lodge – cliff-edge suites, starlite boma dinners. (Read our article.)
- Elephants Crossing – romantic canvas tents, intimate game drives. (Also read our article about Elephants-Crossing)
7. Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga & Limpopo
Although the mornings can be a bit chilly in Mpumalanga (several regions of the Kruger National Park), temperatures may sometimes dip below 10 degrees, but most afternoon temperatures can easily rise to between 24 and 28 degrees.
Why winter wins in the Kruger National Park– Sparse bush, scarce water, headline predator sightings.
Temperature tips:
- Day 24-28 °C
- Night 7-10 °C.
- Neutral layers, SPF 50, binoculars.
Where to stay in the Kruger National Park
- You have a wide choice of SANParks rest camps to ultra-luxury private concessions camps—winter discounts abound.
- We have a wide variety of articles on our website that describes each rest camp in Kruger including when to go, where to stay and how to do a self-dive to Kruger. Click here to read our Kruger National Park Articles.
8. Paternoster & the West Coast, Western Cape
The sea sparkles in the sun, and the air is crisp but clear. Think seafood, art galleries, and fireside wine.
Why winter wins on the west coast of South Africa– Calm seas, art galleries, storm-watching by a log fire.
Temperature tips:
- Day 17-20 °C
- Night 8-10 °C.
- Jeans, chunky knit, wind-breaker.
Where to stay on the west coast in winter
- Abalone House & Spa – quirky chic, rooftop hot-tub deck with sea views.
9. Augrabies Falls & the Green Kalahari, Northern Cape
Winter in the Northern Cape is everything we love — clear skies, golden light, and tranquility. The weather in winter is dry, warm during the day, and perfect for slow travel. The Augrabies Falls are powerful in winter, especially after summer rains, and the views are unforgettable.
Upington is a great base to experience wine tasting on the Orange River, and dreamy desert drives.
The Kgalagadi Trans-frontier Park which is part of SANParks is a vast, untamed wilderness. The park is known for its red dunes, dry riverbeds, and spectacular predator sightings. Winter is the best time to visit — the days are mild, the skies are crystal clear, and wildlife is easy to spot around waterholes. Similar to the Kruger National Park there are several camps for guests to overnight with varied types of accommodation.
Why winter wins in the northern Cape– Dramatic waterfalls, golden desert light, Orange River vineyards.
Temperature tips:
- Day 22-27 °C
- Night 6-8 °C
- Hydrate and carry lip balm—air is bone-dry.
Where to stay in the northern Cape in winter
- Tutwa Desert Lodge – earthy elegance, guided game drives.
- African Vineyard Guesthouse – canal-side vines, indulgent spa, bird-lovers paradise
10. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Northern Cape
Why winter wins in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park – Red-sand panoramas, Milky Way photo-ops, legendary black-maned lions.
Temperature tip
- Day 21-25 °C
- Night 4-6 °C
- Thermal base for dawn, shorts after breakfast.
Where to stay in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
- Rustic SANParks wilderness camps
- Dune-top Xaus Lodge for epic sunsets and incredible stargazing.
Essential Winter-in-South Africa Packing List
- Light layers + warm fleece or down vest
- Wide-brim hat & high-SPF sunscreen (UV index still high)
- Swimwear & 5 mm wetsuit for dive spots
- Closed walking shoes and flip-flops
- Camera with spare battery—cold dawn drains power
Final Thoughts about winter in South Africa
We’ve been there, stayed there, and can’t wait to help you enjoy the best experiences in South Africa. Follow Travel Buddies Lifestyle for more luxury travel ideas, small group ladies tours, and honest reviews from women who travel well — and love doing it together.
And…if you’re only ticking off one winter escape this year, we would choose Cape Town. Yes, it’s cooler and rainy, but that’s the charm: crackling fireplaces in heritage wine-estate tasting rooms, velvet-smooth cabernet swirling in your glass, and plates of comforting slow-braised lamb while rain drums a cosy rhythm outside.
South African winter delivers sunshine almost everywhere, yet in the Mother City, even the storm clouds feel romantic. See you next to the fireplace! 🔥🍷
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Your travel buddies, Bernie and Petra
