What To Expect from Johannesburg Weather All-Year-Around

If you’re planning to visit Johannesburg, it’s important to know that the city experiences a subtropical highland climate which is why the weather temperature remains relatively stable throughout the year. Most visitors and tourists prefer to travel during the winter months to escape the summer heat, but no matter what season you’re visiting, it’s important to pack accordingly. In this blog post, we’ll explore the weather in Johannesburg all year round to help you plan for your trip.

Summer (December to March)

During the summer months, Johannesburg experiences a subtropical climate with the temperature ranging from 15 to 28°C. Although the summer days are long and sunny, there are occasional thunderstorms in the afternoon or evening which lower the temperature and cool things down a bit. The city usually experiences a couple of heatwave days where the temperature can rise above 35°C, but it’s not too frequent.

If you’re planning to visit Johannesburg during the summer, make sure to pack light and airy clothes, a hat or cap, sunglasses, and sun cream. It’s also important to stay hydrated throughout the day and carry a water bottle with you.

Autumn (April to May)

Autumn in Johannesburg is usually quite mild, with temperatures ranging between 10 to 25°C. The days are mostly sunny but there are a few days when it’s cloudy and overcast. An occasional light rain shower can happen in late afternoons.

If you’re traveling to Johannesburg during the autumn season, make sure to bring along a mix of warm and cool clothes as temperatures can vary throughout the day. It’s a great time to pack a light cardigan or light jacket for the chillier evenings.

Winter (June to August)

Winter in Johannesburg is the driest time of the year with temperatures dropping to around 4°C at night and a maximum of 18°C during the day. The morning temperature can be quite chilly, hence carrying a jacket is a must to keep warm. The city does experience occasional frost in the morning, but it’s rare.

It’s important to carry layers of clothing while traveling in Johannesburg during the winter months, including a warm jacket, a scarf, a beanie, and good quality boots to keep warm.

Spring (September to November)

Spring in Johannesburg is quite short but pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 10 to 25°C throughout the day. The city experiences less rainfall as compared to other seasons, and most days are sunny.

If you’re planning to visit Johannesburg during the spring season, like in autumn, it’s important to pack clothes for both cooler and warmer weather. A light windbreaker jacket, walking shoes, and a hat can come in handy while exploring the city.

Conclusion

Although Johannesburg has a stable and predictable climate all year around, it’s important to pack according to the season you plan on traveling. The city is beautiful and offers a lot for tourists, no matter what season you visit. We hope our guide will help you plan and pack accordingly for your next Johannesburg trip! If you are curious about activities that Johannesburg has to offer, you will find a list of current tours and attractions here.

The Insider’s Guide to Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg is a city that boasts a rich history, vibrant culture and diverse ethnicities. It is the economic hub of the country and offers tourists a mix of urban modernity and African authenticity. If you’re planning a trip to Johannesburg, then there are numerous attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to enjoy. Here’s a thorough guide to help you make the most of your trip to Johannesburg.

Local Attractions

Johannesburg has multiple attractions that cater to a variety of interests.

– Apartheid Museum: This museum is an essential visit that traces the history of apartheid in South Africa. It is an emotional experience that leaves a lasting impact on visitors.
– Nelson Mandela Square: This public square is located in Sandton, one of the wealthiest suburbs in Johannesburg. With its towering statue of former President Mandela and upscale shops and restaurants, it is a popular hangout spot for tourists and locals.
– Cradle of Humankind: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site located 50km from Johannesburg. It is home to a large number of early hominid fossils and is a must-visit for culture and history enthusiasts.
– Gold Reef City: This amusement park showcases the history of Johannesburg’s gold rush and offers various thrilling rides and entertainment options. It is a perfect spot for families to spend a day.
– Lion Park: This wildlife reserve allows you to get up close and personal with lions, cheetahs, and other African animals. It is an excellent opportunity to experience the African bush without having to leave the city limits.

Dining Spots

Johannesburg offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to a range of palates. Here are some dining spots you must visit:

– Moyo: This African-themed restaurant offers a unique dining experience with live music, traditional dance performances, and face painting for guests. The menu consists of African staples like bobotie, chakalaka, and pap.
– Marble: Located in the trendy neighborhood of Rosebank, Marble is an excellent spot for meat lovers. It has an open-fire kitchen that specializes in steaks, ribs, and grilled dishes.
– The Potato Shed: This laid-back restaurant is set in a converted potato shed and offers fantastic burgers and craft beer. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for a casual night out.
– The Blackanese: This fusion restaurant combines African and Japanese cuisine to create unique dishes. The black rice sushi and ramen bowls are highly recommended.
– The Four Seasons Hotel: The hotel’s culinary team’s cuisine is led by Chef Dirk Gieselmann, offering guests a luxurious dining experience that includes African-inspired dishes and rare wine.

Cultural Experiences

Johannesburg offers numerous cultural experiences for visitors. Here are a few to explore:

– Soweto Township tour: Soweto is the largest township in Johannesburg and is famous for its rich history and vibrant community. The Apartheid Museum offers daily tours that take visitors through the streets of Soweto, where they can interact with locals and see historical landmarks.
– Market Theatre: The theater was established in 1976 and is located in the vibrant Newtown district. The venue showcases the best of contemporary African theatre and is a must-visit for theatre lovers.
– Constitution Hill: This historically significant site was once a notorious prison that held Mandela, Oliver Tambo, and many other anti-apartheid activists. It has been transformed into a museum that traces South Africa’s history and the ongoing struggle for human rights.
– Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens: Located in Roodepoort, the botanical gardens offer a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. They are home to an array of indigenous flora, birdlife and small mammals, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely picnic.

Local History

Johannesburg has a complex and tumultuous history that is fascinating to explore. Here are some historical sites you can visit:

– Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial: The museum and memorial are dedicated to the memory of Hector Pieterson, a 13-year-old who died in the June 16 Soweto Uprising. It offers insight into the apartheid system and its impact on ordinary South Africans.
– Mandela House: The house in Soweto where Mandela lived for over 15 years has been transformed into a museum. It offers a glimpse into the life of one of the world’s most famous icons.
– Origins Centre Museum: This museum is located at the University of the Witwatersrand and showcases the evolution of humans and their culture in Africa.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to explore Johannesburg’s lesser-known spots, here are a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Jozi X Adventure Centre: This adventure center in Bryanston offers visitors a range of activities, including zip-lining, paintball, and obstacle courses.
– Emmarentia Dam and Johannesburg Botanical Gardens: This park is a beautiful spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk. There is an extensive rose garden, an herb garden, and a Shakespeare garden to explore.
– Neighbourgoods Market: This vibrant market in Braamfontein is open on Saturdays and offers a selection of food, drink, and crafts from local vendors.
– Jozi Walks: The annual Jozi Walks program takes visitors on walking tours of different neighborhoods and offers them a unique insight into the different communities that make up Johannesburg.

Conclusion

Johannesburg is a bustling city with a rich history, culture and attractions. There is something in the city for everyone, and visitors can easily spend weeks exploring the various offerings. With this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip and enjoy all that Johannesburg has to offer.