Due to its coastal position, lying between the Indian and Atlantic oceans, Cape Town enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate for most of the year. Summers can be very hot, although often moderated with a cool sea breeze and mid-winter can be very cold with snow falling in the surrounding mountains. However, whichever time of year you choose to visit Cape Town, remember that the city is known to have four seasons all in one day. If you plan to go hiking or be outdoors, check the weather forecasts!
This week’s forecast
Cape Town weather in season
Summer
Cape Town enjoys a long summer from mid October to March. Temperatures vary from mid 20's to mid 30's with little rain over the period. The south-easterly wind, known as the Cape Doctor, blows fairly often, more so in November and December than in February and March. Days are long and perfect for sightseeing, evening entertainment, sundowners and long days on the beach.
Autumn and Spring
Many visitors choose to visit the Cape during spring in September and autumn in April. Days are pleasantly warm, cooling in the evening which is often more enjoyable for those not accustomed to the heat. In Spring the famous West coast flowers put on a dazzling display of colour and whale watching is at its best. In autumn, the colours of the many vineyards in the Constantia valley and Stellenbosch are a beautiful sight.
Winter
In the past Cape winters were long and rainy, however weather patterns have changed and days of rain are now interspersed with days, even weeks, of mild weather and sunshine. This has become known as the Cape's 'secret season'. If you're prepared to take your chances with the weather, winter proves to be a more affordable time to visit Cape Town as accommodation and other tourist activities are generally cheaper.
For more detailed weather information and long-term weather forecasts, visit www.weathersa.co.za.
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