Thinking about a trip to Johannesburg? Timing really matters if you want the weather on your side. The city sits high up on a plateau, so it feels milder than a lot of South Africa—less sweltering, less sticky.
If you want the most comfortable weather, plan for spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). Days stay warm, nights cool off, and you won’t have to deal with those heavy summer downpours.
You get the best of outdoor life during these months. Parks and gardens burst with color, and the air feels fresh—perfect for walking tours, festivals, and open-air markets. Wildlife reserves nearby are easier to explore, too, since the skies stay clear and temperatures are just right.
If you get a handle on Johannesburg’s climate throughout the year, you’ll have a much better trip. Maybe you want mild days, or you’re hoping to dodge the wet season, or you’re just looking to catch a great event—knowing the weather patterns helps you plan for a smoother, more enjoyable visit.
Overview of Johannesburg’s Climate
Johannesburg sits up on a high plateau, which gives it a distinct climate compared to cities on the same latitude. Summers feel warm and stormy, winters are cool and dry, and the sun sticks around most of the year.
Subtropical Highland Climate Explained
Johannesburg’s subtropical highland climate comes from its altitude—about 1,753 meters (5,751 feet) above sea level. That height keeps the heat in check, even though it sits in the subtropics.
You’ll notice mild daytime highs through most of the year. Nights cool down a lot, thanks to the thinner air. Humidity usually stays low, so both the warm and cool seasons feel more comfortable.
Summer brings rainfall, mostly in the form of quick, intense afternoon thunderstorms. These storms roll in, pour down, and then clear away, leaving blue skies behind. Winters stay dry and sunny, which is pretty rare for a subtropical spot.
So, you get this interesting mix of altitude, sun, and seasonal rain that makes Johannesburg feel both temperate and subtropical at once.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Summer runs from December to February. Days get warm, averaging highs near 26°C (79°F), and afternoon thunderstorms often cool things off. Nights don’t usually drop below 15°C (59°F).
Autumn, from March to May, brings drier air and cooler nights. Daytime temps range from 24°C (75°F) in March to 18°C (64°F) by May. This season feels comfortable and steady, and you won’t run into big crowds.
Winter, from June to August, keeps things sunny and dry. Days average about 16°C (61°F), but nights can dip to 5°C (41°F). You might see frost, but snow is basically unheard of.
Spring, from September to November, warms up fast. September stays dry and mild, but October and November get wetter. Jacaranda trees bloom, turning the city purple—a seasonal highlight for sure.
Temperature and Rainfall Trends
Johannesburg’s yearly temperatures usually swing between 2°C (36°F) at night in winter and 26°C (78°F) on summer days. You won’t see wild extremes—no deep freezes or crazy heat waves.
The city gets about 700–800 millimeters (27–31 inches) of rain each year, mostly between October and April. January tends to be the wettest, while June and July are the driest.
Even during the rainy season, you’ll see lots of sunshine. Most rain falls in short afternoon bursts, so you still get plenty of clear skies.
Mild temperatures, clear seasons, and reliable sunshine make Johannesburg one of the more comfortable places in South Africa for year-round travel.
Best Time to Visit Johannesburg for Ideal Weather
Johannesburg’s climate stays pretty mild, but some months just feel better—less rain, more comfortable temps. If you plan around these times, you’ll get the most out of sightseeing, outdoor fun, and cultural events.
Recommended Months for Pleasant Conditions
March to May and September to November are the sweet spots. Temperatures usually hover between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F), so it’s easy to explore the city or wander through parks.
Autumn (March–May) means warm days and cool nights, while spring (September–November) brings mild weather and blooming jacarandas. Fewer crowds, too—December and January get busier.
If you love dry, sunny days, May through September works well. That’s winter in Johannesburg, with highs around 16°C (61°F) and chilly nights. The air feels crisp, and skies stay clear, which is great for sightseeing.
Weather Highlights by Season
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Days are warm to hot, averaging 25–27°C (77–81°F), with heavy afternoon storms.
- Autumn (Mar–May): Temps drop to 18–24°C (64–75°F), and things dry out as the season goes on.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Dry and sunny, with highs near 16°C (61°F) and cold nights down to 5°C (41°F).
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Mild to warm, 20–25°C (68–77°F), and rain picks up later in the season.
Every season has its perks. Winter skies are the clearest. Spring and autumn balance mild weather with less rain. Summer feels festive but wetter, so you’ll want to keep an umbrella handy.
Avoiding Rainy and Crowded Periods
The wettest months are December through February, when thunderstorms hit often. If you’d rather skip the rain, avoid this stretch. Showers don’t last all day, but they can mess with your plans.
December school holidays make Johannesburg busier, with locals traveling and hotel prices jumping. Autumn and winter see fewer crowds, which is perfect if you like quieter spots.
For better deals and fewer tourists, May to September is your best bet. Clear skies, dry air, and lower prices make it a good time for exploring places like Constitution Hill or taking a day trip to a reserve.
Seasonal Breakdown: What to Expect Each Time of Year
Johannesburg’s subtropical highland climate brings clear wet and dry seasons. You get warm, rainy summers, crisp dry winters, and mild transitions in between. Each season offers something different, depending on whether you’re after sightseeing, festivals, or just a quieter trip.
Summer: Warm Temperatures and Rainfall
Summer runs from December to February. Temperatures usually sit between 15°C (59°F) at night and 26–28°C (79–82°F) during the day. The heat isn’t unbearable, but humidity spikes with frequent afternoon storms.
Rainfall peaks now, with short, heavy showers. Storms clear out fast, leaving the air fresh and skies bright. Pack light clothes, sunscreen, and a rain jacket.
The city’s gardens and parks look their best now—think lush and vibrant. The Johannesburg Botanical Garden, for example, really shines. Still, heavy rain sometimes delays travel, so stay flexible.
Autumn: Mild Weather and Fewer Tourists
Autumn goes from March to May. Days stay warm, with highs around 22–25°C (72–77°F). Nights start to cool off.
Rain drops off sharply, so the weather feels more stable. You’ll get dry air, clear skies, and great walking conditions. Perfect for city tours, museums, and markets.
After summer, crowds thin out. Lines at attractions get shorter, and hotel prices sometimes drop. Bring a light jacket for evenings, especially in late autumn when it can dip below 10°C (50°F).
Winter: Dry and Cool Conditions
Winter hits from June to August. This is the driest time of year, with almost no rain. Days stay sunny and crisp, with highs near 16–20°C (61–68°F). Nights can get cold, sometimes dropping to 4°C (39°F).
The air gets really dry, so pack moisturizer or lip balm. Smog sometimes builds up because of the still air, but generally, the skies stay clear.
It’s a great season for outdoor sightseeing, since rain won’t spoil your plans. Wear layers—mornings and evenings are chilly, but afternoons warm up.
Spring: Blooming Flora and Comfortable Days
Spring stretches from September to November. Temperatures rise, with highs around 22–26°C (72–79°F). Nights feel cooler than summer, but not as cold as winter.
Rain comes back in late October, but showers are usually short. Jacaranda trees burst into bloom, painting the city purple—honestly, it’s a photographer’s dream.
You’ll get good weather for walking tours, gardens, and open-air events. Bring a sweater for nights and maybe an umbrella later in the season. Spring balances mild temperatures, beautiful scenery, and manageable crowds.
Monthly Weather Overview in Johannesburg
Johannesburg’s high-altitude subtropical climate brings clear seasonal shifts. Summers mean heat and afternoon storms. Winters are sunny but chilly at night. The in-between months are mild and comfortable. Rain mostly falls in the warmer months, while the cooler months stay dry.
January to March: Hottest and Wettest Months
From January through March, Johannesburg heats up and gets the most rain. Daytime highs often reach 24–27°C (75–81°F). Nights cool to around 14–16°C (57–61°F).
Afternoon thunderstorms hit regularly, bringing short, heavy rain. Humidity climbs, making the heat feel stronger. January is usually the wettest month, with about 100 mm (4 inches) of rain.
Clouds build up in the afternoon, but they clear quickly. Mornings usually stay bright. If you’re planning outdoor activities, do them early to dodge the storms. The UV index peaks, so don’t forget sunscreen.
Tourism picks up during this time, especially with holidays, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
April to May: Transition to Cooler, Drier Days
By April, autumn settles in. Temperatures drop, with highs from 18–24°C (64–75°F). Nights feel cooler, dipping to 8–12°C (46–54°F). Rainfall falls off sharply, so things dry out compared to summer.
Skies clear up, humidity drops, and it’s great weather for walking tours, markets, and eating outside. April keeps some warmth, but May feels much cooler, especially after sunset.
This time is often one of the most pleasant for visitors. You’ll get steady weather, no big rains, and no sweltering heat. Crowds shrink, and hotel rates usually fall compared to the busy summer.
Public holidays in late April and early May bring local festivities, so you can catch cultural events along with the good weather.
June to August: Coldest and Driest Period
Winter hits Johannesburg from June through August. Most days feel sunny and dry, with average highs of 16–19°C (61–66°F). Nights can get pretty cold, dropping to 4–7°C (39–45°F), and you might even see frost in some spots.
Rain barely shows up during these months, usually staying below 10 mm (0.4 inches). The air feels crisp and clear, so visibility is fantastic. Most days, you’ll get those bright blue skies, which really make sightseeing a treat.
Even though afternoons are comfortable, you’ll definitely want warm clothes for mornings and evenings. Not every place has heating, so packing layers is a smart move.
Travelers who come now will notice fewer crowds and better prices. If you like dry conditions and don’t mind chilly nights, this is a solid time to visit.
September to December: Warming Up and Increasing Rain
Spring and early summer bring a real change. September starts off mild, with highs near 22°C (72°F), but by November and December, days often climb to 25–27°C (77–81°F). Nights aren’t as chilly, usually sitting at 12–15°C (54–59°F).
Rainfall starts picking up, especially after October. Showers don’t last long, but they can dump a lot of water fast. Storms really ramp up in November and December, with rainfall topping 100 mm (4 inches) some months.
September stays pretty dry for spring, so you get warmth without much rain. That’s also when Johannesburg’s jacaranda trees bloom, painting the streets purple.
By December, the festive season means more rain and bigger crowds. If you’re coming now, book your stay early and get ready for afternoon thunderstorms. Still, mornings usually start sunny, so you’ll have time to get out before the storms roll in.
Tips for Planning Your Visit Based on Weather
Johannesburg’s weather flips pretty clearly between dry winters and wet summers. What you pack, what you do, and even which events you check out all depend on the season. Planning ahead just makes the trip smoother.
Packing Essentials for Each Season
Johannesburg winters (May–August) stay dry with sunny days and cold nights. Bring layers—a light jacket works for daytime, but you’ll want a warm coat or sweater at night. Gloves and scarves help in June and July when it gets close to freezing.
Summer (November–February) gets warm and sometimes humid, with afternoon thunderstorms. Pack breathable clothing, a light rain jacket, and sturdy shoes for wet ground. Don’t skip the sunscreen or a wide-brimmed hat—the sun can be intense, even if it’s cloudy.
Spring (September–October) and autumn (March–April) feel pretty mild. A mix of short sleeves and a light sweater usually does the trick. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, since exploring often means being outside.
Quick guide:
| Season | Daytime Wear | Evening Wear | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Light jacket | Warm coat | Gloves, scarf |
| Summer | Light clothes | Light sweater | Rain jacket, sunscreen |
| Spring/Autumn | Mixed layers | Light sweater | Comfortable shoes |
Outdoor Activities and Weather Considerations
Johannesburg’s dry winter gives you clear skies, so it’s the best time for wildlife viewing in nearby reserves. Cooler weather also makes walking tours and open-air markets more pleasant.
Summer turns the landscape lush, but heavy afternoon showers are common. If you want to hike or visit gardens, go in the morning before storms are likely. Tossing a compact umbrella or rain jacket in your bag isn’t a bad idea.
Spring and autumn bring balanced weather for most outdoor fun. Parks like the Johannesburg Botanical Garden look great with spring flowers or autumn colors. These seasons work well for day trips, cycling, and open-air cultural spots.
Events and Festivals Influenced by Climate
Johannesburg keeps the events coming all year, but the weather changes the vibe. In winter, you can check out indoor cultural stuff like museum shows and comedy festivals, which fit the cool, dry days.
Summer gets lively with outdoor concerts, food festivals, and holiday markets, though organizers often plan around afternoon rain. December and January bring a bunch of festive events spilling into parks and public spaces.
Spring and autumn offer a nice middle ground, with plenty of arts, music, and food festivals happening outside in the mild weather. These seasons highlight the city’s gardens and public spaces, so they’re pretty popular for cultural gatherings and performances.
How Johannesburg’s Weather Compares to Other South African Destinations
Johannesburg has a subtropical highland climate—mild temps and summer rain. Other parts of South Africa feel different, from Cape Town’s Mediterranean weather to the dry heat in the interior. These differences can really affect when you’ll find each place most comfortable.
Differences in Climate Across South Africa
South Africa’s size and geography create several climate zones. Johannesburg sits on the Highveld plateau, about 1,753 meters above sea level. That elevation keeps things moderate, even in summer. Most rain falls between October and March, usually in afternoon storms.
Cape Town, on the other hand, has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, while winters turn cool and wet. Coastal breezes keep things cooler than inland.
Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal coast get a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot, humid, and rainy, but winters stay mild and pretty dry.
The interior, around the Karoo, feels semi-arid. Days heat up, but nights cool fast since there’s not much humidity. Johannesburg’s altitude helps it avoid those big swings.
Quick comparison of average annual rainfall:
- Johannesburg: ~859 mm
- Cape Town: ~515 mm
- London (for perspective): ~701 mm
So, Johannesburg gets more rain than Cape Town, but it’s not as humid as Durban.
Why Johannesburg’s Weather Stands Out
You’ll probably notice Johannesburg’s climate feels more balanced than what you get in a lot of other South African cities. The city sits in a subtropical highland, so days are warm but almost never unbearably hot.
Nights cool off just enough for a good night’s sleep. Honestly, it’s kind of refreshing.
Cape Town has those long, gloomy stretches of winter rain, but Johannesburg doesn’t really deal with that. Rain here usually shows up for a short visit, then the sun pops right back out.
It’s great if you hate canceling your outdoor plans. You can count on the weather to cooperate most of the time.
If you compare it to Durban, you’ll notice the humidity in Johannesburg stays much lower. The sticky heat that clings to the coast just isn’t a thing here, not even in midsummer.
The air feels cleaner too, with less haze hanging around. That’s something locals really appreciate.
Sunshine is another big deal. Johannesburg gets over 3,000 hours of sunshine every year, which is actually more than a lot of coastal cities.
You end up with bright, cheerful days almost all year. That’s tough to beat if you’re someone who needs their daily dose of sun.