South Africa in December: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

With warm, sunny days and immense scenic beauty, December is an excellent time to visit South Africa’s popular sites, breathtaking trails, and sandy beaches.

Long, dry days in the north and northeast of the country are ideal for capturing wildlife at waterholes in game reserves, while rivers buzz with activities like rafting and fishing.

The eastern coastline beams with beach-break adventure, while the sun sets late over iconic Table Mountain, which rises above the glistening Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town, South Africa’s “Mother City”.

Summer is in full swing in December in South Africa, so the weather is warm throughout the country, with some regions seeing several consecutive bright days and glistening starry nights.  Highs in the northern part of the country can reach 90°F, while coastal cities and towns sit between 70 and 83°F.

The province of KwaZulu-Natal sees captivating afternoon thundershowers, the sky filled with thunder and lightning, while rain offers a welcome reprieve from the heat of the day. Mild humidity creeps in at the end of December, inviting you to step out onto beaches and into refreshing swimming pools.

Beachfront cafés and bustling vineyards in and around Cape Town invite guests to sit back and savor local culture displayed at waterfronts, with delicious wines served under rooftops of intertwined vines in the Cape’s Winelands.

Cape Town • Best Place for Great Weather

Discover a region of South Africa that is not only gorgeous in landscape, but offers no rainfall in summer and a plethora of exciting activities and locations to explore. The days are warm, with mild evenings and a dramatic sunset most days, around 8pm.

Early mornings are an idyllic time to set out for a walk on the promenade or head up iconic Table Mountain or Lion’s Head on a hike, capturing views of the City Bowl and glistening Atlantic Ocean.

Average daytime temperatures are around 75°F and blue skies add to the chilled ambiance on any of the popular beaches. Find your spot in sandy bliss, or simply sit and feel the sun on your face as you sip your favorite cocktail in a restaurant in Camps Bay.

Garden Route • Best Place for Families with Children

The Garden Route is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush forests, and majestic mountains. Families can enjoy scenic drives along the coast, go hiking in nature reserves, or simply relax on the golden beaches.

The region offers a variety of exciting outdoor activities suitable for families with children of all ages. You can go whale watching, bungee jumping, and ziplining, or explore the adventure trails in the Tsitsikamma National Park.

Your family can enjoy a visit to an ostrich farm in Oudtshoorn or spend time in a

game reserve or national park such as Botlierskop or Gondwana for a chance to see elephants, zebras, lions, and wonderful birdlife.

Franschhoek • Best Place for Romantic Scenery

With its breathtaking scenery, charming ambiance, and world-class wine experiences, Franschhoek is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway or honeymoon.

The town presents a romantic ambiance with its Cape Dutch architecture, tree-lined streets, and quaint cafés and boutiques. The historic Huguenot heritage adds to the old-world charm, transporting visitors to a bygone era. Add boutique accommodation, as well as fine dining and award-winning restaurants, and you have painted the perfect picture for romance.

Franschhoek is home to several stunning spa and wellness retreats, offering couples the opportunity to indulge in rejuvenating treatments and therapies in a tranquil and romantic setting.

Panorama Route • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

The off-the-beaten-path Panorama Route's unique combination of stunning natural beauty and varied accommodation options make it an excellent choice if you are seeking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more tranquil holiday experience in December.

While South Africa's peak tourist season generally falls during the summer months (December to February), the Panorama Route tends to be less crowded than other tourist hotspots. Leave the bustle of the larger cities and coastal destinations behind.

Find yourself immersed in a haven of outdoor discovery, with the region offering activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives. These options lend themselves to smaller groups and a more dispersed experience, reducing the likelihood of encountering large crowds.

Embrace Carols By Candlelight

In December, outdoor candlelit carol concerts are held in various locations throughout South Africa, such as the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town. These events feature choirs, musicians, and audiences joining in traditional Christmas carols. Town squares come alive with the sound of Christmas music, and talent weaves its way through church pews, stadiums, beaches, and parks.

Listen to the Soweto Gospel Choir Concert

Beautiful sounds fill the air as the world-renowned Soweto Gospel Choir performs a special concert in Soweto, Johannesburg, on December 16. It's an uplifting and energetic celebration of gospel music and African culture. Celebrating the sweet sound of freedom and unity, the songs are warm and uplifting, haunting and touching, unique and inspirational.

Experience the Mapungubwe Arts Festival

The Mapungubwe Arts Festival takes place in the national park of the same name in December. It showcases the rich cultural heritage and artistic expressions of local communities through various art forms, including music, dance, and crafts.

From warm days spent on the beach, to early-morning hikes up iconic mountain passes, there are myriad outdoor activities, dining experiences, and concerts to take in when you visit South Africa in December.

For more inspiration on planning the perfect fall trip, explore our South Africa safaris or find new ideas and insights with our South Africa travel guide, invaluable resources to ensure an unforgettable journey.