Due to its coastal position, Cape Town enjoys a temperate Mediteranean type climate for most of the year. Summers can be very hot, although often moderated with a cool sea breeze and mid-winter can be very cold with snow falling in the surrounding mountains. However, whichever time of year you choose to visit Cape Town, expect a surprise or two - Cape Town is known to have four seasons all in one day.

Summer

Cape Town enjoys a long summer from mid October to March. Temperatures vary from mid 20's to mid 30's with little rain over the period. The south-easterly wind blows fairly often, more so in November and December than in February and March. Days are long and perfect for evening entertainment, sundowners and long days on the beach.

Autumn and Spring

Many visitors choose to visit the Cape in its 'off-season' during spring in September and autumn in April. Days are a pleasant temperature, cooling towards evening, but often more enjoyable for visitors not accustomed to the heat. In Spring the famous West coast flowers put on a dazzling display of colour and whale watching is at its best. In autumn, the colours of the many vineyards in the Constantia valley and Stellenbosch are a beautiful sight.

Winter

In years gone by the Cape winters were long and rainy. In recent years however, weather patterns have changed and days of rain have been interspersed with a day, even weeks, of mild weather and sunshine. This has become known as the Cape's 'secret season'. If you're prepared to take your chances with the weather, winter proves to be a more affordable time to visit Cape Town as accommodation and other tourist activities are generally cheaper.