Cape Town is a fantastic city to visit and if you’re considering a trip in December, you’re in luck! December marks the start of summer in South Africa and you can expect to see warmer weather rolling in through all of Cape Town. So let’s dive into Cape Town weather in December, as well as tips for planning a trip this time of year!
Summer Temperatures in Cape Town
You can generally expect warm weather in December in Cape Town!
Most days the average highs will hover around 24/25ºC (77 ºF) and the lows will be around 15ºC (59ºF).
Sounds great, right?
While the temperature is pretty ideal, you should also keep in mind that Cape Town is a notoriously windy city! That means it’s always going to feel a little bit cooler because of the wind.
November is definitely worse for the wind than December but you can expect high winds here and there throughout the month.
The buildings in Cape Town are also built to keep the cool air in (there is absolutely no insulation in comparison to the buildings in Canada!) so it can feel even cooler inside at times. This is great when temperatures reach the high 20s and into the 30s but not ideal if you get cold like I do in temperatures under 20.
All in all, the Cape Town weather in December is great so you can expect to have some solid beach days and some years are warmer than others with extremely hot days nearing Christmas!
What to Pack for December in Cape Town?
As I mentioned, it can get windy so you’ll want to pack a few layers with you for your Cape Town holiday!
Generally, you can pack for a summer vacation since the December weather is peak summer. And make sure you have at least a few bikinis on hand (you won’t want to miss out of the incredible beaches that surround the city!).
You probably won’t need more than one sweater/jacket and maybe a cardigan to throw over your dress in the evening and maybe one pair of pants as well.
Don’t worry if you forget something, as Cape Town has many great shopping spots!
The V&A Waterfront is the closest shopping centre in the city and there are plenty of local markets with great finds as well. I personally love shopping at the markets and vintage/thrift stores around the city if I can to find clothes that are a little more unique.
You’re bound to find at least a couple of pieces that you truly love so don’t pack your suitcase or backpack all the way! I always try to leave space for a few items to bring back with me.
Cape Town’s Holiday Season: Things to Watch Out For
December is a great time to visit Cape Town because of the holiday season!
Locals often refer to December as the “festive season“ because there are so many festivities going on.
South Africa also has 11 official languages and Cape Town is a melting pot of many different cultures so you’ll hear of various holiday festivities taking place besides just Christmas!
And while this time of year is happy and exciting, you should also know that crime rates jump up around December.
Why?
Well, you’ll see for your own eyes as soon as you get to Cape Town that there is an obvious difference between the rich and the poor. The class divide is something you face every day in Cape Town because it is so prevalent.
I’ve come to learn from locals that thieves will target tourist hotspots more than usual in December because they know more tourists are around with money, smartphones or other valuable items to steal.
I don’t mention this to put you off visiting Cape Town!
I just strongly believe it’s important to know about the safety aspect before planning a trip there so you can avoid potential danger.
Read my Cape Town Safety Guide here for more tips and feel free to DM me on Instagram if you have any specific questions.
Is Cape Town More Expensive in December?
In short – yes.
December is the start of peak season in South Africa and Cape Town specifically, so you can expect prices to be higher than they would in other seasons.
With that said, Cape Town is still a very affordable city if you’re earning in USD, CAD, EUR or GBP (or any stronger currency).
One thing to keep in mind: it can be seen as extremely rude to refer to Cape Town as ‘cheap’, even if it feels affordable to you. Locals don’t earn very much and many struggle to make ends meet.
If you catch yourself thinking everything is really cheap, instead of saying that out loud, help locals who are struggling by tipping well when you’re going out to eat, in an Uber or on a tour. A $10 tip might not feel like much to you but it can go a long way for someone struggling to make a decent living in Cape Town.
How Long Should You Spend in Cape Town?
The minimum amount of time I’d recommend for Cape Town is 1 week.
With that said, you can certainly see it in a shorter amount of time but trust me when I tell you, you will want to stay for much longer!
I got to Cape Town with the intention of staying for a few weeks and somehow ended up living there for nearly 6 months.
There are simply SO many things to do in and around the city that you can very easily get caught up and never want to leave (I’ll be sharing more about how to extend a tourist visa for South Africa soon).
The Best Time to Visit Cape Town
Honestly, you can never really go wrong with a trip to Cape Town!
HOWEVER …
To get the absolute most out of your trip I’d highly recommend visiting between November – April.
I love going in peak season because that’s when the weather is hottest and best for beach days and overall activities, but you can also save a lot if you choose to travel in off-peak season (winter) or during one of the shoulder seasons (October/November or April/May).
You still have warm weather in months like October when it isn’t quite summer yet. It’s also a great way to see Cape Town on a budget!
Cape Town Weather in January
The vibes in Cape Town are always high in January!
This time of year, you can expect hot days and warm nights with a cool breeze. January is typically the hottest month in Cape Town but it varies from year to year.
If you’re planning your trip around the beach and the best month to maximize your beach days, January might be it.
February has similar weather as well, considering they’re both the middle of summer.
Johannesburg Weather in December
If you’re already going to be in South Africa, you might be considering a trip to Johannesburg as well.
Johannesburg in December has a mix of warm summer days and the refreshing promise of afternoon thunderstorms.
As one of South Africa’s largest cities, “Joburg,” as it’s affectionately called, experiences daytime temperatures averaging between 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F).
Mornings are often clear and sunny, ideal for exploring the city’s cultural and historical landmarks, while afternoons may bring brief but heavy showers. These storms are characteristic of Johannesburg’s highveld climate and often clear up quickly, leaving behind dramatic skies and cooler evenings.
If you’re heading to Johannesburg in December, pack light, breathable clothing, along with a rain jacket or umbrella for those occasional downpours.
Safari at Kruger National Park
A highlight for many visitors to Johannesburg is the opportunity to go on safari at Kruger National Park, located about a 4-5 hour drive away.
December marks the start of the wet season in Kruger, transforming the park into a lush, green landscape teeming with life. While the dense vegetation can make wildlife slightly harder to spot, this is an excellent time for birdwatching, as migratory birds flock to the region.
Additionally, many animals give birth during this time, which gives you a chance to see adorable young wildlife in their natural habitats.
Temperatures in Kruger range from 20°C to 33°C (68°F to 91°F) in December, so be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen during game drives.
Despite the heat and occasional rain, December safaris are unforgettable, with dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife experiences making it well worth the trip!
Things to do in Cape Town in December
You’ll have no trouble finding incredible things to do during your time in Cape Town!
Here are some memorable Cape Town experiences I’d highly recommend:
- See Penguins at Boulders Beach – Where else will you have a chance to see penguins up close in the wild?! I’ve been to Boulders Beach many times and it’s always such a special experience. You can see them waddle on by on the beach and even swim next to them (but please make sure you don’t touch them!).
- Paraglide Off Signal Hill – This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and opportunity you should 100% take if you have the chance! You’ll enjoy scenic views of Lion’s Head, Table Mountain, all the beaches and city from above. Just make sure you give yourself a couple of days to ensure the wind conditions are right when you’re booking.
- Hop on the Iconic Wine Tram – I did this experience last December and LOVED it! You hop on a bus that takes you to Frranschoek (wine country) and then get to board the wine tram that takes you between the different wineries in the area. You can choose to get off the tram throughout and hop back on when you feel like it. I visited 4 different wineries (see the Reel I shared above) and had the best time with my group of friends.
- Outdoor Cinema Date – Whether you’re travelling solo or with a friend/partner, treat yourself to a date at the Galileo Outdoor Cinema at Kirstenbosch for a movie night! I’ve never been to a better outdoor cinema because the views are outstanding PLUS you can explore the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens for up to 2 hours before the movie plays (included in the price of your movie ticket).
- Jump off the Tallest Bridge Bungee – If you’re looking for even more adrenaline, you need to go bungee jumping off Bloukrans Bridge! It’s a couple of hours from Cape Town but you’ll pass by the area if you’re driving along the garden route. I didn’t think I was going to go ahead and do it myself but I did and it was such an insane experience!
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens – Of the many outdoor activities in Cape Town, a day trip to Kirstenbosch might be my favourite. You can spend hours walking around, hiking or even stay until the evening in the summer months when they run the Galileo Open Air Cinema!
- Visit the Cape Winelands – You’ll never regret wine tasting in South Africa! You can find some of the best wineries just a short drive from Cape Town. Stellenbosch is a popular area nearby and I highly recommend checking out the Franschhoek wine tram if you have a chance!
- Whale Watching – Whale watching is a popular activity to do in Cape Town in December, however, I’d take your time to research beforehand and see if it’s something you’d want to do. It’s a challenge to find ethical places to whale watch so that’s important to remember.
- Road Trip Along the Garden Route – The Garden Route is an iconic road trip that goes between the Western Cape and Eastern Cape. I did this road trip for my first time in South Africa at the end of November/early December and had a great time. If you end up going in December, I’d plan to go at the start of the month before local tourism picks up around the holidays!
Where to Stay in Cape Town?
Let me guess …
You’re dying to visit the Mother City now?
As a Cape Town fanatic, I totally get it. It’s certainly one of the top destinations in the Southern Hemisphere!
If you feel the same way, you’re going to need to book some accommodation.
Here are some hotels I’d recommend staying at based on different areas around the city:
V&A Waterfront:
- Radisson RED V&A Waterfront – Looking for a hotel with a rooftop pool? This one will not disappoint! I stayed here for a couple of days and loved the breakfast they offered and the overall vibe. Nightly rates start at $187.
- City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront – If value for money is the one thing you’re after, this might be your best bet. It’s certainly not the fanciest hotel in Cape Town but is a solid option if you’re travelling on a budget. Nightly rates start at $101.
Camps Bay:
- South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel – Camps Bay is arguably one of the nicest areas of Cape Town and this hotel does not disappoint! With an infinity pool overlooking the beach and modern, yet cozy rooms, you’ll never want to leave. Nightly rates start at $211.
- POD Camps Bay Boutique Hotel – For a more luxurious option in Camps Bay, this hotel is jaw-dropping! Enjoy a private infinity pool overlooking the beach at sunset, thoughtfully designed rooms with a large bathtub, gym facilities, a full bar and more. Nightly rates start at $418.
Sea Point:
- Protea Hotel Cape Town Sea Point – Sea Point is such a stunning neighbourhood with so much to see and do in the area! This hotel has a rooftop pool, ocean views and simple but clean rooms. Nightly rates start at $199.
- Elements Luxury Suites – This hotel is another great option for Sea Point! They’re perfect for longer stays since there’s a fully equipped kitchen plus a gorgeous outdoor seating area, overlooking the water. Nightly rates start at $198.
Kloof St:
- Villa Viva Cape Town – This is another great budget option if you want to be based near Kloof St. I spent around 2months at Villa Viva as a guest and then volunteer so I’m very familiar with the property! It’s honestly in one of the best neighbourhoods and you can’t really beat the price, especially since they have a pool! Nightly rates for private rooms start at $53 (dorm prices are even cheaper).
- Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel & Spa – If you’re after an even nicer spot in the area, you will fall in love with this hotel! It’s become well-known for its iconic rooftop views but the rooms are also very quaint and well thought out, with many that have Table Mountain views! Nightly rates start at $215.
Planning a Trip to Cape Town?
Don’t forget to get travel insurance before you leave!
I’ve been in some sticky situations during my travels so now I make sure I always have it. I’ve been using SafetyWing for 2.5 years now and love them.
Get SafetyWing travel insurance now.
Final Thoughts on Cape Town Weather in December
As you can see, Cape Town’s weather in December is pretty great!
It’s one of the best times of the year to visit Cape Town so you can’t go wrong with a trip to this magical city in December.
I’ll be back shortly with a new blog but in the meantime, you can follow my adventures as a full-time traveller and digital nomad on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube!
Cheers,
Amy xx