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

March is an excellent month to visit South Africa as it offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to your diverse interests. If you’re a nature enthusiast, you can catch the tail-end of the whale-watching season, while oenophiles can immerse themselves in the grape harvest celebrations across the country's renowned Winelands. Additionally, March falls within the shoulder season, making it an ideal time to enjoy fewer crowds and more affordable rates.

The weather in South Africa in March is generally mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the country. With autumn's arrival in the Southern Hemisphere, temperatures range from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit, offering a comfortable respite from the peak summer heat. Light rain is common, keeping the landscapes lush and green. However, rainfall is typically brief, allowing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures under sunny skies.

Cape Town • Best Place for Sightseeing

Cape Town shines as the ultimate sightseeing destination in South Africa in March. With its iconic Table Mountain as a backdrop, the city's mild autumn weather creates idyllic conditions for exploring vibrant neighborhoods like the Bo-Kaap, historic landmarks like Robben Island, and stunning coastal scenery. March also brings fewer crowds, making it easier to appreciate the city's attractions without the peak-season hustle and bustle. From taking the cable car up Table Mountain to strolling along pristine beaches, Cape Town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Durban • Best Place for Great Weather

Durban is nestled along the warm Indian Ocean and boasts some of South Africa's most delightful weather in March. This coastal city in the KwaZulu-Natal province enjoys sunny days with average highs around 80°F, making it perfect for beach days or outdoor explorations. The water temperatures remain invitingly warm and the air carries just the right amount of humidity to keep things comfortable. With minimal rainfall, you can bask in Durban's subtropical climate, soaking up the beautiful late summer atmosphere.

Garden Route • Best Place for Families with Children

The scenic Garden Route that stretches along the Western Cape is an ideal destination for families with children visiting South Africa in March. The mild autumn weather along this coastal region creates perfect conditions for outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, and exploring the area's breathtaking beaches and nature reserves. Family-friendly towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay offer a laidback vibe, while still providing ample opportunities for activities like whale watching, birdwatching, and visiting animal sanctuaries. The Garden Route's blend of natural wonders and kid-friendly attractions makes it a delightful choice for a memorable family vacation.

Kruger National Park • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

The Kruger National Park is South Africa's flagship wildlife reserve and is an excellent destination to avoid the crowds in March. As the country transitions from the peak summer season to the quieter autumn months, Kruger experiences a lull in visitor numbers. This makes March an ideal time for you to experience a more intimate and tranquil safari experience, with improved chances of spotting the renowned Big Five and other fascinating wildlife. The park's vast landscapes remain lush and green, providing ample opportunities to explore the diverse ecosystems without the overcrowding that can occur during peak times.

Franschhoek • Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

The charming town of Franschhoek is nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands and offers an idyllic escape for couples and honeymooners visiting South Africa in March. As the grape harvest reaches its peak, the entire region takes on a festive atmosphere with wine festivals, tastings, and celebrations. Indulge in romantic vineyard picnics, hot-air balloon rides over the rolling landscapes, and cozy up in boutique wine estates. Quaint Franschhoek exudes an undeniable romantic allure, complete with world-class dining, art galleries, and opportunities to simply bask in each other's company amidst the stunning autumnal scenery.

Grape Harvesting in the Winelands

Immerse yourself in South Africa's world-renowned Winelands as the annual grape harvest takes place. Many wineries offer hands-on experiences, allowing you to pick grapes alongside locals and winemakers. Follow this up with joyous crush celebrations and tastings of the just-pressed juice. The air is thick with the aroma of ripened fruit and a palpable energy fills the vineyards as the culmination of a year's hard work comes to fruition. Participating in this centuries-old tradition is a truly immersive way to connect with South Africa's wine heritage, as you learn the intricacies of viticulture from the experts themselves.

Safari in Untamed Wilderness

With March marking the start of shoulder season, encounter South Africa's iconic wildlife with fewer crowds. The bushveld remains lush from summer rains, making it easier to spot animals congregating around waterholes. Experience thrilling game drives at renowned parks, with lighter tourist traffic allowing for a more intimate safari experience and increasing your chances of observing the animals' natural behaviors undisturbed. Your knowledgeable guides will be able to take you off the beaten path, revealing the bush's hidden gems and providing a deeper understanding of this fragile ecosystem.

Hiking the Drakensberg

Embark on scenic day hikes or multi-day treks through the towering Drakensberg mountain range. Crisp autumn temperatures and vibrant foliage make this an ideal time to explore the craggy peaks, dense forests, and gushing waterfalls of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Drakensberg's vast network of trails offers something for every level of hiker, from leisurely strolls to challenging multi-day adventures that take you deep into the heart of this ancient mountain kingdom. As you traverse the winding paths, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas, opportunities to spot rare flora and fauna, and a chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Zulu people who have called these mountains home for centuries.

From world-class cities and fertile Winelands to unspoiled wilderness and dramatic mountain scenery, March unveils South Africa's multifaceted charms. With its idyllic weather, vibrant events, and thinner crowds, this transitional month provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable African adventure.

For more inspiration to help you craft your dream March getaway in South Africa, explore our South Africa travel guide or our South Africa tours and vacations.