When is the best moment to travel to South Africa? The answer varies depending on your interests, preferences, and the weather. This country, offers multiple experiences, from exciting safaris to sunny beaches and vibrant cities. In South Africa, it is essential to research beforehand the climatic conditions for every season of the year. With that information is possible to take the best of this country in Africa.

Discover when to visit South Africa depending on your tastes and interests. We will analyze the disadvantages and advantages of each season, the most favorable climate, and relevant activities in different regions of the country. In addition, find here which visas are offered to visit South Africa. Get ready to fall in love with the beauty in the culture of this country at the perfect time for you.

Welcome to South Africa!

South Africa is the furthest country on the African continent, extremely famous for its unique topography. This country stands out because it has great natural beauty and cultural diversity, becoming one of the favorite destinations for travelers around the world.

The remoteness of South Africa is thousands of kilometers away from major African cities. For instance, Cairo and Lagos. Additionally, it is more than 6,000 miles or 10,000 kilometers from most of East Asia, Europe, and North America.

Currently, South Africa operates a relatively stable mixed economy. The main economic sectors are their fertile agricultural lands, tourist attractions, and abundant mineral resources. As a result, they have a highly evolved intellectual capital.

Location

South Africa is that it is the 24th largest country in the world, and it is located on the southern tip of the African continent. This country has very large coastlines, both along two important oceans, the South Atlantic and Indian Ocean. 

The interior of South Africa consists of a large plateau. In most places, it is almost flat and has an altitude of between 1,000m and 2,100m. The altitude is highest in the east and slopes gently to the west and north. Thanks to this, you can enjoy beautiful safaris throughout the country through the different South African cities.

In addition, this plateau is surrounded by the Great Escarpment which has a very high eastern section called the Drakensberg. It is interesting to mention that this is a tourist attraction for those who want to do sports activities in South Africa.

Climate

South Africa has generally a temperate climate due to being around the Atlantic and Indian oceans on three sides. Another factor that contributes to this type of climate is its average elevation which increases constantly towards the north and further inland.

Furthermore, this varied topography and oceanic influence is what produces a wide variety of climatic zones as the extreme Namib Desert in the far northwest. It is also possible to visit a lush subtropical climate in the east along the border with Mozambique.

Winters in South Africa occur between June and August, being March the fall season. During the winter, the southwest has a climate similar to the Mediterranean area. In other words, wet winters and hot, dry summers, housing the famous bush biome.

On the other hand, on the south coast, rainfall is distributed more uniformly throughout the year, creating a spectacular green landscape.

Main towns

South Africa has three main cities that serve as capitals. The first is Pretoria, the executive capital, and the second is Cape Town, the legislative capital. Finally, the last one is Bloemfontein, which is its judicial capital.

Many people often ask themselves where is Cape Town, which is common as it is one of the capitals of the country. You can find it on the coast of Table Bay, the City Bowl area of ​​Cape Town, the oldest urban area in the Western Cape. 

If you are one of those who wants to know if Cape Town is safe, you have to know that the answer is yes. South Africa is generally safe for tourists.

Additionally, you can find Johannesburg, which is the largest urban area in the country and a center of commerce. It is the capital of the Gauteng province and began as a gold mining settlement in the 19th century.

One of the things to do in Johannesburg is to visit Mandela's former residence. That is the current Mandela House museum.

Johannesburg is the most populated city in South Africa and is part of a group of megacities. In addition, it is one of the 100 largest urban areas in the world. If you want to know where Johannesburg is located, you can find it within the Witwatersrand hills.

Finally, another important city is Durban, the port on the Indian Ocean, and is a major industrial center. In addition, East London and Port Elizabeth are important industrial, commercial, and cultural centers. 

Culture

South Africa, has many ethnic groups, traditions, languages, and religious beliefs. 

Religion plays an essential role in South African families. There are even religious meetings every week and attendance is mandatory.

Currently, there are 11 official languages ​​in South Africa and many people speak them fluently. For example, Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho, and Afrikaans.

Regarding gastronomy, meat is a staple food in South African cuisine. But everything will indeed depend on ethnic origin. Generally, South Africans enjoy barbecuing, slowly grilling spicy chops, steaks, and sausages over hot charcoal.

Additionally, a large part of the population enjoys a dried meat sandwich called Bilton or a corn porridge with meat or vegetables. Another interesting food is milk tart, a cake similar to custard, one of the favorite desserts among South Africans.

Safaris in South Africa

The best time to visit South Africa for a safari is May to September. The main safari parks are located in the east of the country and around this time, is their dry season. That means less vegetation and more opportunities to observe wildlife.

Fall: March to May

Among the best March vacation ideas is taking a safari in South Africa. During this time, you will be able to see a wide variety of wildlife. In April, you can expect clear weather and cooler temperatures, especially at night.

On the other hand, May is the month that marks the end of summer, that is when the rains begin to decrease. As a result, temperatures are pleasant much more than in April.

In addition, it is considered one of the best times to visit Cape Town because summer is coming to an end. That is, temperatures drop and there are sporadic rainy days again.

One of the best places to visit in South Africa is to go on a safari during this time. Animals during this time are more active, compared to summer. That is, it is much easier for you to view them and get breathtaking photos.

Spring: September to November

This is another of the best times to enjoy a safari. Especially, because you can observe wildflowers and whale watching.

Regarding the weather, during the spring season, the heat increases a little and the first rains relieve the dry weather. In November, you can find very high maximum temperatures and frequent rains, specifically in the afternoon hours.

If you want to know the things to do in Cape Town South Africa, a spring safari is a good idea. September has always been seen as a good month for safaris. It has excellent conditions for observing wildlife.

The most beautiful thing to enjoy is the sunrise while on a morning safari due to the warmer temperatures.

Festivals in South Africa

South Africa is extremely famous for its magnificent landscapes, beautiful coastline, and game parks. What not many people know is that it also hosts fantastic festivals throughout the year. You can find everything from lively jazz concerts to oyster and cheese festivals.

So you can know when it is best to visit South Africa to see the best festivals, read on.

Freedom Day: This is one of the most important national holidays of the year. It is April 27 and commemorates the anniversary of the first non-racial elections in 1994.

Cape Town Jazz Festival: This annual festival is one of the largest on the South African music scene. So, if you want to know where to stay in Cape Town to celebrate this festival you have to search months in advance.

Tickets usually sell out very quickly, so you have to plan. Its celebration is for at least two days at the end of March.

Knysha Oyster Festival: You can find a beautiful lagoon and there is delicious seafood, which is why Knysha is one of the most popular destinations on the Garden Route. This annual winter festival held in July offers much more than oysters.

South African Cheese Festival: In April, takes place the annual cheese festival where is possible to enjoy lots of local artisan products and international cheese makers.

These are just a few of the many festivals you can find in South Africa. You can see that the best time to go celebrate these events is between March and April. That is, in autumn. 

When to go Wine and Food Tasting

From January to March, the vineyards are alive thanks to the energy of the harvesters and winemakers. To enjoy this, you have to explore the regions of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. There you can participate in grape picking, winery tours, and even stomp on the grapes.

This is the best opportunity to delve into the essence of wine making and taste the freshest wines. That is, those coming from barrels.

During the fall splendor of April and May, it is a great choice for fall splendor. At this time, the weather remains pleasant, with slightly hot days and many cooler ones. In other words, the ideal time to explore vineyards and enjoy luxurious wine tastings.

Winter in South Africa is a spectacular time to do winemaking. From June to August, the vineyards will be generally serene landscapes, wrapped in a misty atmosphere. It is common knowledge that cooler weather brings out the strong flavors of red wines. That is to say, red wine fans have to visit this country at this time.

On the other hand, spring in South Africa, between September and October, is a time of rebirth and renewal. You can enjoy some fresh and refreshing white wines, the tastiest to enjoy with seafood. For instance, Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc are the ones that stand out the most.

Also, a great plan is to enjoy a picnic with your bottle of white wine and observe the blooming beauty. Another option is to attend wine festivals and visit wineries to be part of the joyful spirit of the season.

Finally, in the summer, between November and February, you can enjoy outdoor events from many wineries. This way, you will be able to go to concerts while having a glass of wine while watching the sunset.  

List of Visas Available to Go to South Africa

Initially, you have to know that many countries are exempt from applying for a visa to South Africa. If you do not come from one of these countries, in this nation there are many types of visas for many purposes, among which it is worth highlighting.

• South Africa Tourist Visa (e-Visa): This is a type of tourist visa for international travelers who want to visit South Africa for a short period for tourism.
• Visitor visa: A South Africa visitor visa is for visitors who want to sightsee in the country for a maximum of 90 days. It is important to note that this is by far the most popular visa.
• Business visa: If you want to invest or work in the South African economy, and you are an eligible citizen, you can apply for this visa for a maximum of 90 days.
• Work Visa: The South Africa work visa is specifically for foreigners with specific skills in demand in the country. Its duration may vary depending on the applicant's job.
• Medical visa: It is specific to foreigners to undergo medical treatment in South Africa. This visa lasts for a maximum of six consecutive months.
• Student Visa: The South African Student Visa is for all international students who intend to reside in South Africa while studying. It can be at any primary, secondary, high school, or university level. This visa is valid while you are on the course.
• Transit visa: Any foreigner who passes through South Africa as a stopover to reach one of its neighbors receives transit permits. The duration of this visa is approximately three days or less.
• Family visa: It is special for family members of citizens or permanent residents who intend to reside in South Africa. 

Conclusion

Visiting South Africa will be an unforgettable experience if you follow this guide to the best attractions in the country. Especially to know when it is ideal to enjoy each of these activities. Rest assured that you will not regret living this experience with all this information.

You may realize that, to be able to enter South Africa you will need a visa. There is no better company to help you with all this procedure than Find Your Visa.