Best time to visit South Africa

Clear skies, deep turquoise water, and the almost constant presence of the sun – February in Cape Town and surrounds is the ideal time for beach days, water sports, and wine farm visits. In contrast, you’ll have a wet safari upcountry in the Kruger region.

February is the last month of summer in South Africa. In Cape Town and the Western Cape, this is usually the hottest time of the year, while safari destinations continue to see a lot of rainfall, filling up watering holes in the wilderness. Migratory birds are still present in game reserves and national parks, and you may see baby animals poking their heads out of the lush vegetation.

Weather in February

Kruger National Park and surrounding areas are green thanks to the rains, which start around October. Water sources are abundant, so finding wildlife during game drives can be more challenging compared to the dry season. However, temperatures are still hot with highs of 34 °C/93 °F coupled with high humidity. In Cape Town, temperatures can reach highs of 29 °C/84 °F and lows of 18 °C/64 °F. This is coupled with bright blue skies and little to no rain.

Average Weather in February

Destinations to Visit in South Africa During February

Table Mountain National Park

Table Mountain is a Natural World Heritage Site partly due to the incredible plant life and tree species that aren’t found anywhere else on Earth. Take on the hiking trails or wander along the nature paths to enjoy the spectacular views all around you. Remember to bring water and sunscreen with you, as February is a hot month.

Tswalu Kalahari Private Wildlife Reserve

Tswalu is a year-round safari destination, with exciting sightings no matter the month. Summer brings dramatic thunderstorms and showers, causing the landscape to flourish. This is the time of the year when animals have their young – so you may see adorable newborns – and migratory birds make an appearance.

The Garden Route

If you dream of spending days relaxing on pristine beaches and going on watersports adventures, the Garden Route in February is fantastic! The warm weather in the Western Cape makes iconic destinations like Plettenberg Bay and Knysna perfect coastal retreats for beach holidays.

Activities to Do in South Africa in February

• Birdwatching safaris
• Photographic safaris
• Beach days and water sports

March ushers in autumn in South Africa; temperatures and rainfall start to drop in the Kruger region. With the wet weather tapering off, safaris become more enjoyable. The landscapes are still lush from the recent rains, and migratory bird species can continue to be spotted. This month can see a lot of tourists in game reserves and parks due to the local school holidays.

Cape Town is in a transition during this time of the year – it’s not uncommon to feel as if you’re experiencing all four seasons in one day! There are still hot days for beach days and water sports.

Weather in March

Kruger National Park and surrounding areas are green thanks to the recent rains. In March, rainfall drops significantly, which creates more pleasant safari experiences. Water sources are abundant, so finding wildlife during game drives can be more challenging compared to the dry season. Temperatures are still hot, with highs of 33 °C/91 °F coupled with high humidity. In Cape Town during March, temperatures can reach highs of 25 °C/77 °F and lows of 14 °C/57 °F. Rain starts to increase this month.

Average Weather in March

Destinations to Visit in South Africa During March

Kgalagadi National Park

Just after the rainy season, when the rivers are flowing and the watering holes are full, is the best time to go to Kgalagadi National Park, home to lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and the rare pangolin. From March to May (the end of the wet season), the surrounding environment is lush, and wildlife can be seen gathering around water sources.

Tswalu Kalahari Private Wildlife Reserve

As Tswalu Kalahari Private Wildlife Reserve is a year-round destination, March, the end of the rainy summer season, is still a fantastic time to visit for a desert safari in South Africa. Located in the Kalahari, this time of the year sees much less rain and cooler temperatures. As this is part of calving season, you may spot adorable baby animals while exploring.

Activities to Do in March

• Game drives
• Birdwatching safaris
• Photographic safaris
• Desert safaris
• Bush walks, hiking, and walking safaris

April brings with it the end of the wet season and the beginning of milder temperatures across South Africa’s safari destinations. The landscapes are still thriving after the rainy months, so a safari during April will take you across lush environments and thick vegetation. This is the start of the best time to go on safari in South Africa!

In contrast, Cape Town begins to enter into its low season, with lower temperatures meaning beach days are few and far between. The cooler weather can make nature walks and hiking trails more enjoyable. There are generally fewer international tourists during this time of the year, but over the Easter holiday you’ll find many South African travellers on long weekend getaways.

Weather in April

Kruger National Park and surrounding areas are still green from the rainy season, but soon the landscapes will start changing as the rains lessen in April. Expect clear skies and chillier temperatures in the mornings and evenings. During the day, temperatures can rise as high as 31 °C/88 °F. Water sources are abundant, so finding wildlife during game drives can be more challenging compared to the dry season. In Cape Town, temperatures can reach highs of 23 °C/73 °F and lows of 12 °C/54 °F.

Average Weather in April

Destinations to Visit in South Africa During April

Addo Elephant National Park

Addo is considered a year-round destination, offering incredible wildlife sightings whenever you choose to go on a South African safari. You may still see a few migratory bird species in the park in April. In terms of big game, Addo is home to a vast population of elephants and the rest of the Big Five; however, leopards and black rhinos are rare.

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Kwandwe is a year-round safari destination in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. April still sees a few northern African and European bird migrants. Thanks to Kwandwe’s strides in rhino conservation, the reserve is a haven for white and black rhinos; safari-goers are offered unique rhino conservation experiences to participate in. Another popular species here is the cheetah – sightings of this big cat are common, as are sightings of lions.

Kruger National Park

April is on the cusp of the dry season – safari-goers can enjoy Kruger without large crowds. As the rains lessen, animals are easier to spot among the thinning vegetation and watering holes. Kruger is an iconic safari destination thanks to its impressive biodiversity and populations of Big Five members.

Activities to Do in April in South Africa

• Game drives
• Walking safaris and hiking
• Animal tracking on foot
• Desert safaris

May is the start of the dry season across South Africa’s prime safari destinations. Rainfall has decreased, leading to vegetation and watering holes drying up. These conditions are ideal for wildlife viewing! During game drives across the plains, you’ll see animals more easily, especially gathering around the last remaining water sources.

Rain clouds have moved into Cape Town at this time of the year. You can expect regular rainfall and cold temperatures across the city and surrounding areas. While a few sunny days may occur, beach days are almost nonexistent – unless you’re a surfer. Waves along the coast are large and consistent from May to the end of winter.

Weather in May

Daytime temperatures in Kruger National Park and surrounds can reach a high of 28 °C/82 °F and a low of 12 °C/54 °F, with very chilly conditions in the early mornings and evenings. The dry weather opens up more opportunities to explore the wilderness, such as horseback riding safaris. With an average rainfall of only 0.6 in this month, you’ll enjoy clear skies during game drives and walking safaris. Cape Town’s temperatures can reach a high of 20 °C/68 °F and a low of 9 °C/48 °F, with an average rainfall of 2.8 in.

Average Weather in May

Destinations to Visit in South Africa During May

Kruger National Park

For a classic Big Five safari, you can’t go wrong with Kruger National Park. This iconic safari destination sees the start of the dry season in May, paving the way for incredible wildlife sightings, including of lion prides and white rhinos.

Phinda Private Game Reserve

May is the start of the best time of the year to go on a safari at Phinda in KwaZulu-Natal. This Big Five South African safari destination sees minimal rain this month, making wildlife easier to spot. This reserve is well-known for its healthy population of cheetahs; sightings of this graceful big cat are common.

Madikwe Game Reserve

The start of the dry season brings excellent game viewing opportunities to Madikwe. This game reserve is one of the best places for African wild dog sightings, as it houses three packs, so you have a good chance of seeing these endangered animals during your South African safari.

Activities to Do in May in South Africa

• Surfing along Cape Town’s coast
• Game drives in national parks and game reserves
• Walking safaris and animal tracking
• Horseback riding safaris
• Stargazing and sleep-outs under the stars

The dry season continues into June in Kruger National Park and surrounds. Reduced rainfall further dries out the land and reduces the amount of water sources, causing wildlife – from large herds of elephants to hyena packs – to congregate around the remaining waterholes.

As the vegetation turns from lush green to dry golden hues, animals are more easily seen as they traverse the vast plains in search of food and water. This is the time of the year when seeing the Big Five (in Big Five safari destinations) is often accomplished in just one or two days.

In Cape Town, temperatures continue to plummet and rainfall increases. Surfers will enjoy getting out into the ocean at coastal destinations, as big waves are consistent. June is also the start of whale-watching season in Hermanus.

Weather in June

Daytime temperatures in Kruger National Park and surrounds can reach a high of 25 °C/77 °F and a low of 9 °C/48 °F, with very chilly conditions in the early mornings and evenings, so warm clothes are a must for game drives. The dry weather opens up more opportunities to explore the wilderness, such as horseback riding safaris. With an average rainfall of only 0.2 in this month, you’ll enjoy clear skies during game drives and walking safaris. Cape Town’s temperatures can reach a high of 18 °C/64 °F and a low of 8 °C/46 °F, with an average rainfall of 3.7 in.

Average Weather in June

Destinations to Visit in South Africa in June

Hermanus

Starting from June, Hermanus sees a member of the marine Big Five travel close to the shore: the southern right whale. These whales migrate to the waters of Hermanus to breed and nurse their young. Watch by land, air, or boat as these gentle giants breach and lobtail.

Tswalu Kalahari Private Wildlife Reserve

Tswalu offers safari-goers a sublime desert adventure complete with a star bed experience (sleeping beneath the open sky) and visiting meerkat families. This time of the month sees cold early mornings and evenings, brilliant blue skies, and golden grasses drying out. During a safari here, you have the chance to spot unique desert-adapted species such as black-maned lions and oryxes.

Pilanesberg National Park

Winter is the dry season at Pilanesberg National Park. The weather makes it the perfect opportunity for a safari in South Africa since the wildlife tends to be more visible as they’re in search of water sources. The park also houses the Big Five for those who have these majestic animals on their wish lists.

Activities to Do in June in South Africa

• Surfing along Cape Town’s coast
• Whale watching by boat and along the coast
• Game drives in national parks and game reserves
• Walking safaris and animal tracking
• Horseback riding safaris
• Stargazing

Imagine vast dry stretches of savannah, the golden grasslands rippling in the breeze. A lion hunkers down in the vegetation, its eyes fixed on the impala herd in front of it. You’re about to witness one of the most dramatic encounters in Africa…

July is in the middle of the dry season; the land has had a couple of months to dry out after the rainy season. Landscapes have thinned out and watering holes have decreased – this sets the stage for excellent wildlife viewing. Temperatures in Kruger and surrounds are cold during early morning and evening game drives, so wear warm clothing.

At the bottom of the country, in Cape Town, July brings some of the coldest temperatures and highest rainfall of the year. You can expect low-season prices, regular rainstorms, and fewer tourists. Hermanus’ whale-watching season is in full swing; watch these giants lobtailing and breaching from the shore and during marine safaris.

Weather in July

Daytime temperatures in Kruger National Park and surrounds can reach a high of 24 °C/75 °F and a low of 11 °C/52 °F, with very chilly conditions in the early mornings and evenings. The dry weather opens up more opportunities to explore the wilderness, such as horseback riding safaris and walking safaris. Cape Town’s temperatures can reach a high of 18 °C/64 °F and a low of 7 °C/45 °F, with an average rainfall of 3.3 in.

Average Weather in July

Destinations to Visit in South Africa in July

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve

July is one of the best months for a safari at Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. The lack of rain over the last couple of months (the dry season starts in May) dries out the land, thinning out vegetation and making wildlife (including the Big Five) far easier to spot. Watering holes also decrease, causing a multitude of animals to gather on the banks of rivers and dams.

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve

Africa’s oldest proclaimed nature reserve, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, is a Big Five safari destination renowned for rhino conservation. The dry winter season, between June and September, is the best time for game drives and walking safaris. During a bush walk, you’ll get closer to the smaller animals and flora that call this park home and learn to identify wildlife tracks.

Manyeleti Game Reserve

Manyeleti offers a tranquil safari experience with exceptional stargazing opportunities. As it shares unfenced borders with Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, and Timbavati, wildlife sightings are spectacular. Due to the low light pollution in the area, stargazing is a not-to-be-missed activity that can be done year-round.

Activities to Do in July in South Africa

• Whale watching by boat and along the coast
• Game drives in national parks and game reserves
• Walking safaris and animal tracking
• Horseback riding safaris
• Stargazing

15 DAYS

Exclusive Safari & Once-in-a-Lifetime Antarctic...

South Africa Cape Town

Price on Request

9 DAYS

A Grandiose Journey through Cape Town, the Wine...

South Africa Cape Town Franschhoek Sabi Sands

Price on Request

9 DAYS

Bush & Beach Safari in Timbavati and Mozambique

Southern Africa South Africa Timbavati Mozambique Vilankulo

Price on Request

Imagine relaxing on your own private patio overlooking a watering hole. With your cup of coffee in hand, you watch as a herd of elephants approach, dipping their trunks into the precious water, a rare resource in the dry month of August.

Winter progresses at this time of the year, continuing to thin out the vegetation and dry up smaller water sources. Mornings and nights are cold – during game drives, wrap up in jerseys and jackets.

In Cape Town, temperatures continue to be low and rainfall high. It’s the low season, so the city and wine routes see fewer travellers. Along the coastal towns like Hermanus, whale watching is in full swing.

Weather in August

Daytime temperatures in Kruger National Park and surrounds can reach a high of 26 °C/79 °F and a low of 13 °C/55 °F, with very chilly conditions in the early mornings and evenings. The dry weather opens up more opportunities to explore the wilderness, such as horseback riding safaris and walking safaris. Cape Town’s temperatures can reach a high of 18 °C/64 °F and a low of 8 °C/46 °F, with an average rainfall of 3.1 in.

Average Weather in August

Destinations to Visit in South Africa in August

Phinda Private Game Reserve

If you want to witness the grace of a cheetah crossing the African plains while on safari, Phinda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal is the perfect choice. This lush wildlife haven is famous for its regular sightings of cheetahs during their exclusive game driving experiences, especially during the dry season. Go from woodlands, grasslands, and forests to rivers and mountain ranges to see a range of wildlife.

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve

Sharing an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands fosters an ecosystem that allows big game to thrive. Stylish, luxury lodges dot the reserve, ensuring that you can immerse yourself in the African wilderness in the most exclusive way possible. May to September is the best time to visit Sabi Sands – the minimal rainfall creates ideal game viewing conditions.

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Enjoy the clear skies of the winter season in Timbavati. Large herds of antelope species, which serve as prey for the region’s predators, can be spotted here; keep a watch out for big cats lurking on the edges of these herds. Safari vehicles in Timbavati are able to go off-road for closer sightings, so you’re able to go deeper into the savannah during your safari here.

Activities to Do in August in South Africa

• Whale watching by boat and along the coast
• Game drives in national parks and game reserves
• Walking safaris and animal tracking
• Horseback riding safaris
• Stargazing

September is the start of spring in South Africa! Dry conditions still dominate across the top safari destinations – the dried-out bush is excellent for spotting wildlife. This is the end of the dry season, so temperatures and rainfall slowly start to increase. The slightly warmer conditions make morning and evening game drives less chilly.

In Cape Town, spring sees rainfall decreasing and temperatures increasing. The shift in rainfall and boost of sunshine cause a stunning array of wildflowers to bloom across Namaqualand. Whale watching at coastal destinations like Hermanus is still excellent.

September is the best month to combine a safari with a Cape Town holiday. The weather is great for wildlife viewing, and there are more sunny days in Cape Town. Tourist hotspots and safari lodges aren’t yet too crowded; you can have a more secluded holiday before the busy December-January period.

Weather in September

Daytime temperatures in Kruger National Park and surrounds can reach a high of 28 °C/82 °F and a low of 15 °C/59 °F, with slightly cold conditions in the early mornings and evenings. The dry weather opens up more opportunities to explore the wilderness, such as horseback riding safaris and walking safaris. Cape Town’s temperatures can reach a high of 19 °C/66 °F and a low of 9 °C/48 °F, with an average rainfall of 1.6 in.

Average Weather in September

Destinations to Visit in South Africa in September

Addo Elephant Park

The months from May to September are the best time for a safari at Addo Elephant Park because of the concentrated wildlife sightings and cooler weather. As the name suggests, the highlight of Addo is their over 600 elephants, so you’ll see herds of these gentle giants while exploring the park.

Namaqualand

Namaqualand is a semi-desert region that sprawls across the Northern Cape; it’s famous for its display of wildflowers during spring. Namaqualand boasts a rich floral biodiversity – over 1,000 of its plant species are found nowhere else on earth. Nature lovers will enjoy the remote beaches and scenic hiking trails in this region.

Tswalu Kalahari Private Wildlife Reserve

This reserve can be explored via game drives, nature walks, horseback rides, and photographic safaris. Imagine a land of vast savannah, golden grasses rippling in the wind, and dunes extending into the horizon – this is where Tswalu is focusing on unhurried safari adventures, conservation, and nature-based tourism, best experienced during the dry months.

15 DAYS

Exclusive Safari & Once-in-a-Lifetime Antarctic...

South Africa Cape Town

Price on Request

9 DAYS

A Grandiose Journey through Cape Town, the Wine...

South Africa Cape Town Franschhoek Sabi Sands

Price on Request

9 DAYS

Bush & Beach Safari in Timbavati and Mozambique

Southern Africa South Africa Timbavati Mozambique Vilankulo

Price on Request

Activities to Do in September in South Africa

• Whale watching by boat and along the coast
• Exploring the flower route
• Game drives in national parks and game reserves
• Walking safaris and animal tracking
• Horseback riding safaris
• Stargazing

Calling all birdwatchers! If you want your South African safari to be focused on spotting a range of brilliant bird species during game drives and walking safaris, October is the start of the ideal birding season.

The first rains of summer begin in October. The dry landscapes quench their thirst, turning the golden savannahs and arid plains greener and more vibrant. Watering holes start getting replenished, and grazing habitats increase, giving wildlife the chance to spread out.

Avian migrants from North Africa and Europe begin popping up in national parks and game reserves, creating ideal conditions for birdwatching safaris in South Africa. With the rain, the dust of the dry season settles, creating better backdrops for photography safaris, too.

In contrast, the rainfall in Cape Town and surrounding areas begins to subside. Temperatures also begin to rise as spring progresses, making beach and wine farm excursions more pleasant. This is also a perfect time to explore the flower route in Namaqualand and go whale watching along the coast.

Weather in October

As the first rains fall on Kruger and surrounds, the temperatures begin to heat up. Top safari destinations in South Africa can reach a high of 30 °C/86 °F and a low of 17 °C/63 °F – conditions can still be slightly cold in the early mornings and evenings. Rainfall is usually concentrated in short bursts during afternoons, so it shouldn’t negatively impact morning and evening game drives. Cape Town’s temperatures can reach a high of 21 °C/70 °F and a low of 11 °C/52 °F, with an average rainfall of 1.2 in.

Average Weather in October

Destinations to Visit in South Africa in October

Madikwe Game Reserve

A premier destination for Big Five safaris in South Africa and ideal for first-time safari goers, Madikwe Game Reserve offers luxury in the wild. The diverse ecosystems – which range from open savannahs and rocky hills to riverine forests – create habitats for a variety of bird species. October, with the start of the green season, welcomes in migratory species, many of which can be seen in their vibrant breeding plumage.

Pilanesberg National Park

The Pilanesberg offers good game viewing conditions in October. With the first of the summer rains, you’ll be able to see the landscape shift into vibrant shades of green. A safari here will take you through a unique mix of flora, weaving between Kalahari and the lowveld environments. Along with migratory bird species, baby animals may start making appearances.

Grootbos Nature Reserve

This Western Cape eco-reserve begins to warm up in spring. A stay here can include nature walks in a myriad of landscapes and exploring caves where the ancient Khoi San lived. Close to the coast, from Grootbos you can hop on a boat for a marine Big Five safari, during which you could spot great white sharks, southern right whales, bottlenose dolphins, Cape fur seals, and African penguins.

Activities to Do in October in South Africa

• Whale watching by boat and along the coast
• Exploring the flower route
• Game drives in national parks and game reserves
• Photographic safaris
• Birdwatching safaris

Imagine travelling across vibrant green grassland in an open safari vehicle. As the sun rises, you can feel the environment warm up. You stop for morning coffee; dew drops glisten on the greenery, and the sounds of birds are all around you. This is a green season safari in South Africa.

As the summer season progresses in the country’s iconic safari destinations, rainfall and temperatures increase. Watering holes and grazing lands are now plentiful, causing wildlife to disperse. While big game may be more difficult to spot, this is prime time for birders. European and North African avian migrants fly into game reserves and national parks, giving safari-goers a whole different perspective on the African wilderness.

In contrast, Cape Town continues to see rainfall decrease. Hot, sunny days are now the norm – ideal conditions for relaxing on the region’s Blue Flag beaches. This is also a perfect time of the year to explore the wine estates that dot the Western Cape – wine tasting and gourmet lunches in a serene wine farm setting is a beautiful way to spend time in this coastal city.

Weather in November

The summer rains increase in Kruger and surrounds, along with the temperatures and humidity. Top safari destinations in South Africa can reach a high of 31 °C/88 °F and a low of 18 °C/64 °F – conditions can still be slightly cold in the early mornings and evenings. Rainfall is usually concentrated in short bursts during afternoons, so it shouldn’t negatively impact morning and evening game drives. Cape Town’s temperatures can reach a high of 24 °C/75 °F and a low of 13 °C/55 °F, with an average rainfall of 0.6 in.

Average Weather in November

Destinations to Visit in South Africa in November

Samara Karoo Private Wildlife Reserve

The transition spring months – September to November – can be a fantastic choice for a Samara safari. Game viewing is still good and the weather is temperate. A must-do experience is cheetah tracking on foot, an activity that will take you across the terrain with a guide in search of these big cats. You’ll spend time watching these incredible animals in their natural habitat.

Balule Game Reserve

Sharing unfenced borders with Kruger National Park, Balule offers authentic safari experiences, including birding. November is the perfect time of the year to see the migratory birds that come to the reserve. There are over 250 bird species here, including the trumpeter hornbill, purple-crested turaco, and black-collared barbet.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

This is an ideal safari destination if you’re looking for a less crowded experience. In order to maintain the park’s pure wilderness experience, the number of vehicles that travel the trails is strictly controlled. This seclusion is taken to the next level in the green season. The park has a list of over 300 birds, with more than half of these species being migrants.

Activities to Do in November in South Africa

• Whale watching by boat and along the coast
• Beach days in Cape Town
• Game drives in national parks and game reserves
• Photographic safaris
• Birdwatching safaris

The best time for an African safari depends on what you want your safari to include. If you want to combine lush wilderness landscapes with a Cape Town beach holiday, December is a great month.

South Africa in December is in the grip of the holiday season. Festivities coincide with school holidays, meaning tourism hotspots can get crowded. Summer’s wet conditions continue to permeate across Kruger and surrounds, welcoming migratory bird species to national parks and game reserves – this is the best time to visit South Africa for birding safaris. Evenings are warm, creating stunning environments for outdoor dinners and nighttime game drives.

The best time to visit Cape Town, South Africa, is December. Restaurants and wine farms are buzzing with activity – the sun is out, temperatures are warm, and there’s little to no rain, making al fresco wine tastings and dining must-dos. It’s an excellent time for going to the beach, participating in water sports, and taking on the hiking trails around the region.

Weather in December

An African safari in December is often characterised by wet conditions. The summer rains increase in Kruger and surrounds, along with the temperatures and humidity. Top safari destinations in South Africa can reach a high of 32 °C/90 °F and a low of 19 °C/66 °F – conditions can still be slightly cold in the early mornings and evenings.

This is one of the wettest times of the year with torrential downpours in the afternoon. A South Africa safari in December can still be rewarding, though, with more newborn animals present and beautiful lush conditions.

Cape Town’s temperatures can reach a high of 25 °C/77 °F and a low of 15 °C/59 °F, with an average rainfall of 0.7 in.

Destinations to Visit in South Africa in December

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Thanks to the Great Fish River that flows through the game reserve, Kwandwe is able to support an abundance of wildlife, including over 300 bird species. Birdwatchers can also enjoy a more secluded safari experience here thanks to the low guest-to-land ratio. In the wet summer months, migratory bird species from northern Africa and Europe arrive, creating an even more exciting birding environment.

The name “Kwandwe” is an isiXhosa word that means “place of the blue crane”- this is the national bird of South Africa, and the reserve is home to an impressive population of this vulnerable species.

Garden Route

If lying on the beach and participating in watersports is what you’re looking forward to the most on your South African holiday, December is a fantastic choice. Summer is in full swing along the Garden Route. Make sure to stop at Plettenberg Bay’s Robberg, Central, and Lookout beaches, which are known for their perfect white sand.

Go on boat tours to spot pods of dolphins and whales in the waves. Plett is also South Africa’s smallest wine-growing region – tour the wine farms here to taste unique vintages and bubbly.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

November to March is also an incredible time of the year to visit this KwaZulu-Natal park, as this is when you can see sea turtles nesting along the beach. For birders, there are over 500 species of birds around the park, with many waterbirds at Lake St. Lucia.

One of the top 10 diving destinations in the world, Sodwana Bay in the park is a must-visit for travellers who want to scuba dive and snorkel. The expansive coral reef systems here contain over 1,200 species of fish, including scorpionfish, sharks, rays, slingers, and octopuses, to name a few.

Activities to Do in December in South Africa

• Beach days in Cape Town and along the Garden Route
• Game drives in national parks and game reserves
• Photographic safaris
• Birdwatching safaris

Enquire now to start planning your South Africa safari.