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

With fewer crowds compared to peak travel seasons, June is an ideal time to explore South Africa's iconic attractions, such as Table Mountain and the Kruger National Park, at a more leisurely pace. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in outdoor activities, from hiking and safaris to water sports, without the scorching summer heat. Many festivals also take place during June, including the National Arts Festival in Makhanda and the Knysna Oyster Festival.

June represents the start of winter in the Southern Hemisphere and South Africa. The Kruger National Park and the north experience warm, dry days around 77°F, with cool nights. Cape Town averages a pleasant 63°F, but you will need an umbrella because the region does experience rainfall at this time of the year. The KwaZulu-Natal beaches boast temperatures around 75°F. Much of the interior is mild, with clear skies. Snowfall may occasionally dust the Drakensberg mountains, but overall, June's moderate, sunny weather makes it an ideal time for coastal and inland travel.

Cape Town • Best Place for Sightseeing

With its stunning natural scenery and rich culture, Cape Town offers unparalleled sightseeing in June. Take a cable car up iconic Table Mountain for panoramic city and harbor views. Stroll along the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood's cobblestone streets lined with bright buildings. For a somber look into history, visit Robben Island, where former president Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. The lively V&A Waterfront's shops and restaurants also provide excellent retail, dining, and people-watching opportunities.

Durban • Best Place for Great Weather

Durban's subtropical climate makes it a haven for warm, sunny weather in June. Average highs around 75°F and lows of 60°F create perfect conditions for enjoying the city's iconic golden beaches, where the Indian Ocean's waters beckon swimmers, surfers, or those who simply want to relax on the sand. Low rainfall and sunshine also make this an ideal time to explore Durban's parks, waterfront promenades, and vibrant outdoor markets.

Kruger National Park • Best Place for Families with Children

Dry June conditions make for excellent wildlife viewing in the Kruger National Park. The lack of stifling heat makes it more comfortable than the summer months for kids to enjoy spotting the Big Five on safaris, taking part in junior ranger programs and cultural village tours, during which they can try their hands at local arts and crafts, or partake in river rafting and tubing. Family-friendly beach towns and lodges that cater to families by offering the likes of kiddies’ clubs can also be found in the regions surrounding the park, making a South Africa trip with children run seamlessly in the area in June.

The Karoo • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

For a true escape from the crowds in June, head to the vast, semi-desert Karoo. This expansive, sparsely populated area spanning the Western and Eastern Cape offers wide open spaces devoid of tourist hordes. Small Karoo towns like Graaff-Reinet, Prince Albert, and Nieu-Bethesda provide bases from which to experience the region's tranquil beauty. Enjoy blazing sunsets, starry night skies, rocky landscapes dotted with wildlife, and the warm hospitality of this off-the-beaten-path gem without jostling with masses of visitors.

Stellenbosch • Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

Stellenbosch is an excellent choice for honeymooners or couples visiting South Africa in June. The region is home to many luxurious wine estates that offer romantic accommodations, including historic Cape Dutch manor houses and modern boutique hotels surrounded by vineyards. With the quieter winter season, many wineries offer more personalized and intimate wine-tasting experiences. Stellenbosch is also renowned for its world-class restaurants, so there is no shortage of candlelit dinners you can enjoy. With its breathtaking landscapes, you can take scenic drives, hikes, or bike rides to soak in the natural beauty and rural charm of the region, or relax at world-class spas.

Wine Tasting in the Winelands

June is a great time to visit the breathtaking Cape Winelands as the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed experience when visiting wineries and restaurants. By June winemakers have also had time to process newly harvested grapes, so many offer tastings of their latest vintages. From intimate, family-run estates to grand, historic cellars, each offers a unique glimpse into the art of winemaking. Knowledgeable sommeliers and winemakers eagerly share their expertise, guiding you through the nuances of each varietal, from the bold and full-bodied pinotage to the crisp, refreshing chenin blanc.Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, the Cape Winelands promise an unforgettable journey for the senses.

Hiking in the Drakensberg

The Drakensberg, known as the "Barrier of Spears" or "Dragon Mountains”, is a stunning mountain range that stretches for over 1,000 kilometers across the eastern regions of South Africa. This awe-inspiring natural wonder spans from the Eastern Cape through Lesotho and into the KwaZulu-Natal province, where it forms a formidable barrier along the country's border with the Kingdom of Lesotho. The Drakensberg is a hiker's paradise, boasting a wealth of trails that wind through its dramatic landscapes, from fertile valleys and crystal-clear streams to towering basalt cliffs and jagged peaks. Marvel at San rock art that adorns the park's sandstone caves and overhangs, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region's earliest inhabitants.

Township Tours in Cape Town

June marks the start of the dry winter season in many parts of South Africa, providing ideal weather conditions for outdoor township tours without excessive heat or rainfall. Township tours offer you a unique opportunity to gain insight into the rich culture and resilient spirit of the country’s diverse communities. Many townships mark historic events in June, including Youth Day, which commemorates the 1976 youth uprising in Soweto, when youngsters took to the streets to protest against the apartheid government making Afrikaans compulsory as a medium of instruction in schools. Cooler temperatures make it more comfortable to explore townships on foot while interacting with locals. As the month falls outside peak travel periods, it allows for a less crowded, more immersive township experience.

From spotting the Big Five on safari to sipping wines in the Cape Winelands, hiking the Drakensberg to exploring the Karoo's wide open spaces, June provides the perfect window for incredible travel experiences across South Africa. With optimal weather, fewer crowds, and amazing activities on offer, June truly showcases the best of the rainbow nation's diversity.

For more inspiration on crafting your dream June journey through South Africa's varied landscapes and attractions, dive into our South Africa tours and vacations or our South Africa travel guide.