Weather · DecemberSouth Africa weather in December
Temperature, rain, what to pack, this month's events and prices
December in South Africa: an average of 22°, about 4 mm of rain for the month. Roughly 13h 36m of daylight, with light from about 05:19 to 18:55. December is comfortable for a trip to South Africa — good weather without the peak. A reasonable balance of price and experience.
South Africa in December
December in South Africa, what works
Good weather for city walks, museums, markets and easy hikes. Bring a layer for the evening. Not really beach weather, but great for covering ground on foot.
What to pack: Layers: a shirt, a thin sweater and a light jacket for the evening. Comfortable closed shoes.
Holidays & events in South Africa
- 16 DecemberDay of Reconciliation
- 25 DecemberChristmas Day
- 26 DecemberDay of Goodwill
On public holidays banks and offices close, some sites change hours and transport shifts, but it's also the best way to see living tradition.
Thailand, Peak dry season and peak tourism — beautiful, but full and pricey.
Argentina, Full summer, Patagonia accessible, the holidays in Buenos Aires.
New Zealand, Summer opening, long days, before the January rush.December in South Africa, FAQ
Do I need a coat in South Africa in December?
Can you sit outside at cafés in South Africa in December?
Does it snow in South Africa in December?
How many hours of daylight in South Africa in December?
Is December a good time to visit South Africa?
South Africa — flights & hotels
Check prices for your dates. Booking early is well below the last-minute price.
Check flight prices to South Africa, every airline at once.
Rates in South Africa shift daily. See what your night costs now.
About this page
Written and checked by the Around the World team. We compare prices across the major providers, cross-check official sources, and update when something changes. We have no stake in any one provider — links are affiliate links, and the price is the same for you.
Sources: Climate: Open-Meteo 1991-2020 · Daylight: astronomical calculation · Holidays: date-holidays dataset