When is the Best Time to Visit Johannesburg, South Africa?

With its vibrant centre, excellent attractions and things to do for a range of ages, Johannesburg is an excellent place to visit all year round. From historical monuments to excellent eateries and great shopping, you will find something for all here. 

For those planning a trip to Johannesburg, you might also be interested in partaking in a safari adventure. With this in mind, below is more information on the best time to visit the city, alongside some added tips for those seeking the impressive wildlife here. 

The Weather in Johannesburg 

Whether you’re organising a quick visit to Johannesburg, or have a longer break planned, the weather is something to take into consideration. This can affect several aspects of your trip, from tourist attractions to spending outdoors on safari, the right climate makes all the difference. 

The climate in Johannesburg is the opposite of the northern hemisphere. Where you would usually enjoy summer from June to August in Europe, this is the winter season in the city. September to November is spring, December to February is summer and March to May is autumn. 

Winters in Johannesburg are generally dry with mild temperatures of around 17°C. Summers tend to be much hotter, averaging around 26°C, with the occasional thunderstorm. You can also expect more rain in summer. Spring and autumn tend to offer the perfect middle ground with average temperatures of 23°C. No matter when you decide to visit here, you’re sure to find something in the city for all to enjoy! 

The Best Month to Visit Johannesburg

When deciding on the best time of year to visit Johannesburg, knowing the different seasons will help determine when to book your trip here. Below is a little more information so that you can choose the perfect time for you.

September to November (Spring)

If you’re seeking warmer weather, plenty of sunshine and some excellent events, September is an amazing time to visit Johannesburg. Check out popular music festivals, bustling markets and more throughout the city during this time. This creates a lively atmosphere for tourists to enjoy, all whilst providing great weather. 

October allows guests to marvel over the bright colours that flood Johannesburg as the jacaranda trees begin to bloom. With pretty landscapes, pleasant average temperatures of around 23°C and bars and restaurants throughout, this is a great time to enjoy all that the city has to offer.  

For those looking to make the most of a festive break, November in Johannesburg is ideal. This is when the Christmas markets start popping up around South Africa. There are also plenty of lights and decorations scattered around Johannesburg, allowing a lovely setting for all to enjoy. 

December to February (Summer) 

If you’re hoping to enjoy some seclusion and tranquillity, December provides a relatively quiet time to visit Johannesburg. Many of the locals vacate the city to enjoy the festive season, making it great for those seeking a quieter time to relish all that Johannesburg has to offer. Temperatures average around 25°C in December, meaning you can also appreciate some winter sun during this time. 

Johannesburg offers a vivacious atmosphere in January as the New Year celebrations continue. You will find plenty of walking trails around the city, with January being the favoured month to get out and active. Be sure to pack lots of light clothes, as this is also one of the hottest months to visit Johannesburg. 

February brings a lively atmosphere as summer is now in full swing. Spend some time at the lovely street cafes and indulge in the many tasty eateries around Johannesburg. The city tends to be quite busy during this time with locals and tourists relishing in the warm temperatures and vibrant setting. 

March to May (Autumn) 

March brings lots of public holidays for South Africans, meaning that Johannesburg is generally quieter during this time. As locals head out of the city to enjoy some time off work, tourists can make the most of the historical attractions and activities around Johannesburg with ease. Temperatures remain at a warm 24°C, so be sure to pack your summer clothes. 

For a true sense of tradition and culture, April is an excellent time to visit Johannesburg. With Family Day, Freedom Day and Easter Celebrations, you will find some great events and restaurants catering to the holidays. There is an average of 10 days of rain throughout April, so it is also worth packing a light raincoat. 

May marks the start of winter in Johannesburg, meaning temperatures drop to an average of 18°C. This is an excellent time to enjoy the numerous indoor attractions such as the Apartheid Museum and much more. Stroll through the vibrant streets and enjoy some period seeing the sights. Plus, with a cooler climate, visitors can spend more time walking around Johannesburg without the warmer temperatures. 

June to August (Winter) 

The climate is generally mild throughout winter with temperatures averaging around 17°C. This provides a stark contrast to that of winters in the northern hemisphere. It is also the driest season, great for those looking to spend more time outdoors. 

July and August are also known for being popular months to encounter some of the wildlife around South Africa. Pilanesberg National Park is approximately 2 and a half hours from Johannesburg, providing guests with the perfect opportunity to spot the fascinating Big 5. 

Due to the excellent climate and ideal conditions for wildlife viewing, winter is often a busier time to visit South Africa. A great way to balance your time here is to spend a few days in the city and then head to Pilanesberg where you can relish in luxury accommodation and breathtaking safari adventures. This allows guests to experience the best of both worlds when seeking the finest time to visit Johannesburg. 

Summary 

Johannesburg gives visitors a true sense of what a South African city has to offer. Plus, with so much happening here throughout the year, it comes as no surprise that so many choose it for a jam-packed getaway. No matter when you choose to visit, you’re sure to find something for all when staying in this beautiful part of South Africa.