One of the most popular cities in Africa, Cape Town has no shortage of fun adventures, thanks to its beautiful and diverse landscapes, from a stunning coastline to majestic mountains to lush valleys and rolling hills. The town has a long, interesting history, having been founded by Jan van Riebeeck in 1652, and historic sites like Company Gardens, the oldest garden in the country, established the same year the city was founded, is a brilliant walk back in the past. While it’s a major economic hub, and Africa’s second-largest financial center, its reputation remains in its spectacular landscapes and vibrant culture. So, when is the best to visit Cape Town? Read on to find out…
Summer December Through January Is The Best Time To Visit Cape Town
The weather is perfect for enjoying the great outdoors, from water activities to mountain adventures
There is no bad to visit Cape Town, but the peak summer months, between December and February, are considered the perfect times to enjoy traveling to the city. These months come with long, sunny days, with daily temperatures hovering at 75°F. You can enjoy a range of fun outdoor activities, from hiking the Lion’s Head to exploring the Boomsland Cave, which is a perfect caving adventure for less-experienced spelunkers. This is the best time to enjoy water activities on Cape Town’s sandy beaches, from surfing to swimming and sunbathing. Cape Town summer markets, like the annual My Cape Town Market, come alive with incredible market experiences, from food and drinks to arts and crafts as well as a great entertainment scene. The season also brings clearer skies, which make for epic views.
Tip: This season is the most popular time to visit Cape Town. It coincides with school holidays, which makes it important to book your flights and accommodations well in advance.
June To August Is The Cheapest Time To Visit Cape Town, South Africa
Flight, accommodation, and other travel deals are cheaper during this time of the year
The off-season (between June and August) can also be the best time to visit Cape Town for budget travelers. Since not many people choose to visit Cape Town during this season, you can enjoy great deals on flights, accommodations, tours, and excursions. There are still many beautiful attractions and fun outdoor activities you can enjoy at that time of the year, thanks to the pleasant daytime temperatures, which hover in the low 60s. It’s the onset of the whale-watching season, which starts in June and peaks between August and October.
Visit Cape Town In Springtime When It’s In Bloom
The town is bursting in color between September and November
Another fun opportunity for budget travelers is visiting Cape Town between September and November, when its landscapes are lusher, thanks to all the flowers in bloom. While it’s not as cheap as in winter, it’s more affordable as summer crowds haven’t arrived yet. You can book a month or two before your travel date to reduce your budget. High temperatures average 73°F, so you can always enjoy spending time outdoors. It’s a great time to hike the Table Mountain for scenic views.
The best time to visit Cape Town depends on what you want to experience and your budget. But overall, summer offers the best travel adventures, as it’s full of outdoor recreational opportunities, the best weather, the most breathtaking views, and festivals. But it’s also the most crowded. Budget travelers should visit the town in winter. It’s the rainy season there are still fun things to enjoy, including whale watching, and you’ll also enjoy great travel deals.
