Local guide
The best time to visit Cape Town
A plain guide to Cape Town's seasons, the wind, the whales and the quiet months locals secretly love.
Summer (December to February)
Long, dry, hot days and late sunsets. It is also the busiest and windiest time. Book early and plan beach days for the mornings.
Autumn (March to May)
Our pick. The wind drops, the sea is often calm and the light goes soft and golden. Harvest season in the Winelands too.
Winter (June to August)
Green, quiet and cheaper. Rain comes in fronts, with bright clear days in between. Good for wine, food and cosy fires.
Spring (September to November)
Wildflowers and fynbos in bloom, and whales in False Bay and along the coast towards Hermanus.