Best Time to Visit Cape Town: Season-by-Season Guide for 2025 & 2026

Q: When is the overall best time to visit Cape Town?

The sweet spots are March–May and September–October, offering mild weather, thinner crowds, and lower hotel rates while still catching harvest season or spring blooms.

Q: Is Cape Town worth visiting in winter (June–August)?

Yes—winter is low-cost and crowd-free, plus it’s peak southern-right whale season and many restaurants run hearty winter-special menus.

Q: What months are best for whale watching?

Southern right whales arrive from June and linger into December, with the Hermanus Whale Festival held the first weekend of October.

Q: When does the Cape Doctor wind blow strongest, and does it ruin beach days?

The southeasterly “Cape Doctor” peaks in December–February. It clears the air but can whip sand on exposed beaches—head to wind-sheltered Bantry Bay or Boulders Beach on blustery days.

Q: Which months see the biggest crowds and highest prices?

Late December through February is peak tourism; hotels average roughly US$140–180 per night and popular attractions sell out quickly.

Q: When is the wine-harvest season in the Cape Winelands?

Harvest starts in February, peaks in March, and tapers off by late April—ideal for grape-stomping festivals and fresh vintage tastings.

Q: Where can I see the famous spring wildflowers, and when do they bloom?

Wildflowers carpet reserves near Darling, West Coast National Park, and Namaqualand from mid-August to late September.

Q: How do I combine Cape Town with a safari, and what’s the best timing?

For Kruger National Park or Botswana’s Okavango Delta, aim for June–October (dry season) right after or before a Cape shoulder-season stay for top wildlife viewing and smoother logistics.

Q: Does it rain a lot in Cape Town?

Rain peaks in June and July (about 7–8 wet days each month) and drops to almost none in January–February.

Q: Are there real budget deals in low season?

Yes—winter hotel promotions often slash rates by 30–40 %, and shoulder-season packages frequently bundle flights and stays at steep discounts.

Craig Howes
Jul 9
8 min read

Reviewed July 2025

Best Time to Visit Cape Town is a question with many answers, depending on whether you're chasing sunlit beaches, whale-watching moments, wildflowers, or wine harvests. I've lived here for years, and each season has its own magic. This guide helps you pick the perfect time to visit, with local insight, traveller quotes, and practical tips.

Kogel Bay beautiful sunset in Winter, Mountains light up by golden rays — Kogel Bay at Sunset in Winter. Photo Craig Howes

TL;DR – Best Time to Visit Cape Town

Summer (Dec–Feb) – Hot, dry, windy (Cape Doctor), peak crowds & prices. Ideal for beaches, festivals (Jazz Fest, Pride), and full Cape vibe.
Shoulder Seasons (Mar–May & Sep–Nov) – Mild weather, fewer tourists, and better deals. Best for vineyards, hiking, wildflowers, and whale-watching (Sept–Nov)
Winter (Jun–Aug) – Rainy (July wettest), cool, low-cost season. Great for whales, museums, cozy dining, and local culture .
Cost & Crowds – Most expensive Dec–Feb; cheapest Jun–Aug; shoulder offers best value with moderate rates (~$100–130/night) .
Safari Combo – Best sync with Kruger/Botswana in Jun–Sep dry wildlife season or shoulder seasons (Mar–May, Sep–Nov)
Overall Picks –
- Best all-rounder: Mar–May or Sep–Nov, balanced weather, value, and activities.
- Best for beach lovers: Dec–Feb.
- Best for budget & whales: Jun–Aug.

Aerial view of a clifton beach coastline with white sandy beach, clear blue water, houses, roads, and lush greenery. A boat is on the water. — Clifton Beach in Summer. Photo Craig Howes

Quick-Answer Chart: Month-by-Month Overview

Month	Temp (°C)	Rainy Days	Price Level	Crowds	Best For
Jan–Feb	18–29	1–2	Very High ($140–180 avg/night)	Very High	Beach, Pride, Jazz Fest, Clifton sunsets
Mar–May	17–25	3–6	High → Moderate ($100–130)	Moderate	Wine harvest, fundraisers, trails
Jun–Aug	13–21	7–8	Low ($70–100)	Low	Whale-watching, indoor culture, deals
Sep–Nov	12–25	2–5	Moderate ($80–120)	Moderate	Wildflowers, Hermanus whale fest, kite-wave

Atzaro Cape Town rooftop pool with beautiful view of Cape Town and Ocean — Atzaro Cape Town Luxury Boutique Hotel and Villa. Photo Craig Howes

Hotel pricing sourced from BudgetYourTrip & Kayak:

Mid-range avg: $79/night, high‑season peak ~$147
Peak season (Dec–Feb): ~$140–180; cheapest: June–August ~$70–100 .

“We stayed in August—the prices were amazing, and we spotted whales from the shore in Hermanus.” – Reddit traveler

People gather near "The Blue Peter" sign by the ocean at sunset. Relaxed atmosphere, warm colors, and mountains in the background. — Iconic Blue Peter at Sunset in Summer

Cape Town Summer (Dec–Feb): Festival Season & Beach Bliss

Weather: Warm (up to 29 °C), clear skies, with gusty southeasterly winds known as the "Cape Doctor" Source wikipedia-derived average .
Crowds: Peak, book well in advance.
Highlights: Clifton & Camps Bay beaches; Rugby Test matches; Cape Town Pride; Cape Town International Jazz Festival.
Local tip: Book the Cable Car early on calm, clear mornings for the best views—and beat the winds before mid-day.

A person in a sun hat bends over lush green and red plants in a vibrant garden at Babylonstoren. Sunlight filters through leaves, creating a serene scene. — Babylonstoren Harvest time. Photo Craig Howes

Cape Town Autumn (Mar–May): Harvest & Hiking Season

Weather: Mild and soothing, cooling from March to May.
Crowds: Shift to moderate.
Highlights: Winelands harvest, Table Mountain golden light, cultural events.
Insight: Fall is a great shoulder season to combine with safari trips; it's less crowded and well-priced

Three people play Scrabble at a wooden table near a lit fireplace. Candles and wine glasses set a cozy ambiance. Green tiles are visible. — Cosy Restaurants and Hotels with Fireplaces, This is Atzaro Cape Town

Winter (Jun–Aug): Rain, Whales & Cozy City Life

Weather: Cool (average max 21 °C), ~7 rain days in June .
Crowds: At their lowest.
Highlights: Whale watching (June–Nov) off False Bay & Hermanus; museum days; surf season; winter fare at top restaurants.
Costs: Hotel rates drop to around $70–100/night
Local tip: Bring a waterproof layer—you'll still find clear hiking days.
See Best Hot Tubs and Pizza Accommodation

“Every June and July, the first southern right whales arrive between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. Craig Howes

The West Coast Wild Flowers in Bloom. Late Aug-Early Sep, west coast national park, langebaan — The West Coast Wild Flowers in Bloom. Late Aug-Early Sep

“West Coast National Park boasts a popular and colourful flower season annually between August and September.” -San Parks

See our Guide to seeing the wild flowers in Cape Town

Spring (Sep–Nov): Blooms, Breezes & Whales

Weather: Warming trend, fewer rainy days. (Via SA Weather Service)
Crowds: Pick up mid-season.
Highlights: Namaqualand wildflowers, Hermanus Whale Festival (early Oct), kite festivals, scenic hikes.
Local tip: Sunrise at Table Mountain sees winds start late morning—you'll beat the Cape Doctor again.

Chef's hands artfully plating an elegant dish with greens on a textured plate. Dark table surface, dim lighting, and simple kitchen setup. — Fine Dining in Cape Town is great with winter specials

Best Time for Specific Interests

Cape Town Beaches & Pools: Jan–Feb for best sun and sea.
Hiking & Cycling: Mar–May or Sep–Nov—mild conditions, fewer crowds.
Whale Watching: June–Nov, with Hermanus Whale Festival in early October
Wine & Food Tours: Apr–May, harvest vibes, restaurant specials.
Photography: Autumn golden hour; spring bloom and moody winter skies.

Two whales swimming in clear turquoise ocean, creating swirling patterns in the water. The mood is serene and peaceful. — Whale season in Cape Town and Hermanus. Photo Craig Howes

“We believe education is imperative if we are to help protect our marine ecosystem … The Hermanus Whale Festival helps us reach many people.” — Wilfred Chivell, CEO Marine Dynamics

See Guide to Whale Watching in South Africa

Price & Crowd Calendar

High season (Dec–Feb): ~$140–180/night; flights high, crowds thick.
Shoulder (Mar–May, Sep–Nov): $100–130, combine sun, wine, flowers.
Low (Jun–Aug): $70–100—great deals but rainy spells possible.

Booking tips from Expedia/Kayak:

Cheapest stay: Saturday nights in low-season KAYAK
Best deal booking window: about 24 days ahead

Colorful beach huts line at Saint James beach, sandy shore beside rocky pools under a cloudy sky, with distant mountains in the background. — Saint James Beach Huts at Sunrise

Key Events & Festivals

Month	Event
Dec–Jan	Minstrel Carnival, festive concerts
Feb	Cape Town Pride, Jazz Fest
Mar–Apr	Winelands harvest events
Jun–Nov	Whale season (Hermanus Festival early Oct)
Sep–Nov	Spring festivals & kite season

Rain-Day Indoor Itinerary

Zeitz MOCAA, V&A Waterfront aquarium & escape rooms
Kirstenbosch Conservatory guided walks
Winelands wine tram with indoor tasting venues
Historic District Six Museum & Company’s Garden tearooms

Boulders Beach Penguins gather on a sandy beach by the ocean, surrounded by rocks and small houses in the background under a partly cloudy sky. — Penguins at Boulders Beach. Photo Craig Howes

Combine Cape Town with Safari: Kruger, Botswana & Local Reserves

Bringing together Cape Town’s vibrant city life with a bush safari creates a truly unforgettable South African journey. Whether you choose a nearby private reserve, Kruger National Park, or Botswana's iconic Okavango Delta, here’s how to make the most of both worlds.

Want to plan Cape Town and Safari?

Plan Safari

Cape Town adn Safari, Split image: Left shows a coastal town with mountains and ocean waves at sunset. Right depicts a safari setting with a person watching elephants. — Combine Cape Town and Safari

“For safaris it’s June to September, the dry winter months when bush coverage is more sparse and it’s easier to spot the wildlife.” — The Times travel desk

Why This Combination Works

Cape Town and safari destinations offer stunning contrast, from urban ‑ oceanside sophistication and vineyards to raw bush wilderness. Travellers say:

“Waking up in Cape Town and falling asleep to the sound of hippos in the Delta — it’s the most extraordinary contrast I’ve ever experienced” African Safari Mag

African Safari Mags Trip, Cape Town to Okavango Delta

Best Time Windows

September–October: Cape Town blooms into spring, while Kruger (South Africa) and Botswana enjoy dry, wildlife-rich conditions. Ideal overlap.
April–May: Milder weather in Cape Town with safari-friendly conditions (slightly transitioning) in Kruger. A quieter, budget-savvy option

Avoid full winter (June–August)—base is great for safaris, but Cape Town sees more rain,and high summer (Dec–Feb) when Kruger is humid and lush .

Lion Sands in Sabi Sands Kruger National Park. Canopied bed on a wooden deck under a starry night sky, lit by lanterns. Cushioned seating and trees enhance the serene outdoor ambiance. — Lion Sands in Sabi Sands Kruger National Park

Safari Routes & Timing

1. Cape Town → Kruger National Park

When: May–September is prime wildlife season (dry and great for sightings)
Travel: 2.5‑hour flight to Skukuza/Hoedspruit + transfer.
Duration: Minimum 3 nights (2 full safari days) — 7–10 days total

See best time to Visit Cape Town and Kruger National Park

“Early October—Kruger first, then the Cape—was magical,” reports one TripAdvisor

2. Cape Town → Okavango Delta Safari (Botswana)

When: September–October or June–August, but longer stays (7‑10 nights) recommended .
Travel: ~2h 35m flight to Maun, then light aircraft or helicopter to safari lodges
Highlights: mokoro water safaris, megafauna, remote wilderness experience.

See best time to Visit the Okavango Delta

Atzaro Okavango Luxury Safari in Okavango Delta (Botswana). A Short Flight from Cape Town

3. Cape Town → Local Reserves (Aquila, Inverdoorn, Sanbona)

When: Year-round, optimal Mar–May & Sep–Nov to avoid Cape Town’s peak or rainy seasons
Travel: Easily reachable by day-trip (2–3 h drive).
Best For: Quick wildlife fix, family-friendly, and conservation-conscious travel with fewer logistics.

Franschhoek Wine Tram is great in Winter

Expert & Local Voices

“The whales start arriving in June, and long after November.” — Cape Town Tourism

“Hermanus Whale Festival runs the first weekend of October—great shore viewing.” — official Cape Whale Coast info whalehermanus.com

Cape Town CBD City skyline enveloped in clouds at sunrise, with smoky building tops. Mountains in the distance under a clear sky; warm, soft tone. — Cape Town Fog is magical in Autumn and Spring. Photographers Paradise. Photo Craig Howes

Every season in Cape Town brings a unique charm, from summer beach days to winter whale-spotting. Decide what’s drawing you, warmth and festivals, blossoms and hiking, quiet savings and whales, and time your visit accordingly.

Take the next step: Download our Free Seasonal Planning Guide and start building your dream Cape Town itinerary. Sign up now to unlock exclusive local tips and an interactive trip calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When is the overall best time to visit Cape Town? The sweet spots are March–May and September–October: you’ll enjoy mild weather, thinner crowds, and lower hotel rates while still catching harvest season or spring blooms.

2. Is Cape Town worth visiting in winter (June–August)? Yes, winter is low-cost and crowd-free, plus it’s peak southern-right whale season (June–November) and many restaurants run hearty “winter specials.”Cape Town Tourism Low Season Traveller Expect daytime highs around 17 °C and cooler, wetter evenings.

3. What months are best for whale watching? Southern rights arrive from June and linger into December, with the Hermanus Whale Festival held the first weekend of October. Cape Town TourismCape Town Tourism

4. When does the Cape Doctor wind blow strongest, and does it ruin beach days?The south-easterly “Cape Doctor” peaks in December–February. It clears the air but can whip sand on exposed beaches, head to wind-sheltered Bantry Bay or Boulders Beach on blustery days.

5. Which months see the biggest crowds and highest prices? Late December through February is peak tourism; hotels average US $140–180 per night and popular attractions sell out.

6. When is the wine-harvest season in the Cape Winelands? Harvest starts in February, peaks in March, and tapers off by late April—ideal for grape-stomping festivals and fresh vintage tastings.

7. Where can I see the famous spring wildflowers, and when do they bloom? Wildflowers carpet reserves near Darling, West Coast National Park, and Namaqualand from mid-August to late September; locals on Reddit recommend Tienie Versveld as an easy day trip.Reddit

8. How do I combine Cape Town with a safari, and what’s the best timing? For Kruger or Botswana’s Okavango Delta, aim for June–October (dry season) right after or before a Cape shoulder-season stay, wildlife viewing is at its best and logistics are smooth with 2-3-hour flights. Source African Safari Mag. See Cape Town and Safari

9. Does it rain a lot in Cape Town? Rain peaks in June and July (about 7–8 wet days each month) and drops to almost none in January–February.

10. Are there real budget deals in low season? Yes, winter hotel promos slash rates by 30–40 %, and shoulder-season packages often bundle flights + stays at steep discounts.

11. How hot does it get in summer? Daytime temps average 28 °C but can spike above 40 °C during January heat waves, always pack sunscreen and hydrate.Cape Town Tourism

12. What’s the best time for hiking, trail-running or cycling? April–May and September–November offer cooler mornings, clear skies, and fewer gusts—perfect for Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, or Chapman’s Peak rides.

About the Author

Craig Howes is a seasoned Capetonian travel writer, photographer, and founder of CityofCapeTown.info. With over a decade exploring every corner of the Mother City, Craig shares his best local insights, from hidden beaches to favourite vineyards, to help travelers experience Cape Town authentically.

Craig Howes, with Chloe and Ryan Howes on top of Lions Head at sunrise — Craig Howes, with Chloe and Ryan Howes on top of Lions Head

About City of Cape Town (About Us)

City of Cape Town (www.cityofcapetown.info) is your definitive insider’s guide to South Africa’s iconic city. Curated by locals, our platform blends practical advice with genuine experiences, connecting you directly with Cape Town’s best attractions, food spots, hidden gems, and adventures. Our mission is simple: help you explore, discover, and live like a local.