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Cape Town

Coastal Cape Town rewards visitors with a gorgeous setting, sweeping beaches and a rich heritage. With the Cape Winelands close by and boasting an active fishing harbour it is no surprise that Cape Town is a foodie’s dream with amazing dishes and drinks available at incredibly reasonable prices. Stroll the V&A Waterfront or head down to Camps Bay for the relaxed cafe culture before heading out to Boulders Beach to join the colony of penguins as they dip in and out of the sea. Cape Town’s coastal views are dominated by the outline of notorious Robben Island, the former prison that housed Nelson Mandela. It is now a museum and well worth the visit. Of course no stay could be without a ride up Table Mountain and from here you can enjoy a livening walk or just enjoy those panoramic views of the city.

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What you’ll love most about Cape Town

  • Ascend the iconic Table Mountain via cable car or hike, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains
  • Explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront, with its bustling shops, gourmet restaurants, lively entertainment, and the informative Two Oceans Aquarium
  • Take a ferry to Robben Island, where you can tour the former prison that held Nelson Mandela and learn about South Africa’s history and fight for freedom
  • Relax on the pristine beaches of Camps Bay, with its white sands, clear waters, and backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, perfect for sunbathing and swimming
  • Visit the nearby Cape Winelands, including Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, to taste world-class wines, enjoy gourmet dining, and admire scenic vineyard landscapes
  • Stroll through Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, nestled against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, showcasing diverse plant species and beautiful walking trails
  • Boulders Beach penguins - South African Tourism

  • Couple enjoying the view of Cape Town from Table Mountain - South African Tourism

  • Exploring Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden in Cape Town - South African Tourism

  • Picturesque view over Cape Town from Table Mountain - South African Tourism

  • Driving by Chapman's Peak on South Africa's Western Cape - South African Tourism

  • Camps Bay coastal cruise - South African Tourism

  • Late evening view over Cape Town, South Africa

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 29℃
  • 29℃
  • 27℃
  • 25℃
  • 22℃
  • 20℃
  • 20℃
  • 20℃
  • 21℃
  • 24℃
  • 25℃
  • 27℃
  • 3
  • 2
  • 2
  • 6
  • 9
  • 10
  • 10
  • 10
  • 8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 4

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Summer in Cape Town is in full swing, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 29°C. This is a prime time to explore the iconic Table Mountain, where you can enjoy breathtaking views after a scenic cable car ride. The beaches, particularly Camps Bay, are lively, and the Cape Town International Jazz Festival draws music lovers from around the globe.

February

February continues the summer heat, with temperatures reaching 19°C to 27°C. This month is perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking in the Cape Point Nature Reserve or enjoying the stunning beaches of Clifton. The Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts offer live music in the beautiful botanical gardens.

March

Temperatures begin to cool slightly, ranging between 17°C and 27°C. The Cape Town Carnival takes place this month, with vibrant parades and cultural celebrations. Wine enthusiasts can visit the Cape Winelands, where grape harvests are in full swing and wineries offer tastings.

April

With temperatures around 15°C to 25°C, April brings crisp, pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring Cape Town’s rich history at Robben Island or strolling through the Company’s Garden. The Cape Town International Film Market and Festival is also a key event for movie buffs.

May

Autumn sets in with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 22°C, and the city experiences fewer crowds. It’s a great time to visit V&A Waterfront for shopping and dining, or take a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak to admire the stunning coastal views. The Cape Town Art Fair is a must-see for art lovers.

June

Winter approaches, with temperatures dropping to 10°C to 20°C. The cooler months are ideal for exploring the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, with its colourful houses and rich cultural history. Visitors can also enjoy the quieter beaches or indulge in a meal at one of Cape Town’s renowned restaurants.

July

With temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C, July is the heart of winter, and Cape Town experiences more rain. It’s a good time for a whale watching tour in nearby Hermanus, as it’s peak season for southern right whales. The Cape Town International Film Festival also offers an exciting cultural experience.

August

The winter weather continues with temperatures between 9°C and 20°C, but the city still offers plenty to explore. It’s a great time for wine tasting in Stellenbosch and Paternoster, with fewer crowds. The Winter Wine Festival in the Winelands showcases the best local wines.

September

Spring begins to show its colours with temperatures rising to 21°C. The arrival of wildflowers in the Cederberg region creates a stunning landscape. The Cape Town International Kite Festival takes place this month, with kite flying over the beaches and along the coast.

October

Temperatures range from 13°C to 24°C, and Cape Town starts to warm up again, making it ideal for a city tour or exploring the picturesque Hout Bay. Two Oceans Aquarium is a family favourite, and the Cape Town Marathon attracts runners from across the globe.

November

Spring is in full bloom, with temperatures between 16°C and 25°C. This is a fantastic time to enjoy the outdoors, with the Cape Town Open Tennis Tournament and outdoor activities like mountain biking in Tokai Forest. The city also celebrates World Travel Market Cape Town, attracting tourism industry professionals.

December

Cape Town’s summer season officially begins, with temperatures reaching up to 27°C. This is the peak tourist season, perfect for a sunset cruise along the Atlantic Seaboard or visiting the vibrant Greenmarket Square for local crafts. The city’s beaches and outdoor attractions are at their busiest, with events like the New Year’s Eve celebrations at the V&A Waterfront bringing in large crowds.

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