Autumn in Cape Town is pretty much here, and while there are many who wish that we could eke out just a little bit more summer, this time of year is quite special indeed.
April and May typically fall into the autumn season; marked by gloriously vivid scenery, warm pleasant weather and crisp, cool mornings and evenings. In the southern hemisphere, much like our northern counterparts, this time also represents harvesting and the transition from summer to winter.
Mostly though, autumn is a time to get outdoors and enjoy a more chilled pace of life.
Why We Heart Cape Town Autumn
So what makes this time of year great? Here are a few reasons for starters…
1. Scenery – yes, we have already brought up the scenery (twice!), but even to a born-and-raised local, the views are quite something to behold. Cape Town is known for its changing seasons, and watching the countryside transform into a landscape of red, orange, gold and brown is simply magical. Even in the City Centre, you will notice the trees and parks take on their pretty autumn colours. Take a drive out to the Winelands or the West Coast, and you will see even more transformation.
2. Weather – all the way up to May, the average temperature tends to be around 18 degrees Celsius during the day. This is an average however – you can easily enjoy scorching hot sunny days that are perfect for the beach. There may be some chilly days too of course. The summer winds drop down notably, and with the wet season a while away, this is a pleasantly mild time of year to explore the city and its surrounds.
3. Hiking and Walking – if it’s outdoor stuff you’re keen for, this is a great time to head to Kirstenbosch Gardens or Table Mountain for a good walk or hike. Kirstenbosch showcases the autumn scenery beautifully, and with loads of paths to follow, you can enjoy anything from a gentle stroll to a more challenging hike. Table Mountain’s lower paths, especially on the Signal Hill side, are also fantastic at this time of the year. Other good walking spots include Silvermine Nature Reserve and Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve too (both on the False Bay side).
4. Food and Wine – harvest time means one thing in this part of the world… loads and loads of perfectly ripe grapes in the vineyards! Of course, wines are created and barrelled at all sorts of times. But that doesn’t change the fact that the Cape Winelands is where you want to be in autumn. On cooler days, fireplaces add a cosy warmth. On warmer days, you can eat outside and look out at the vineyards under the shade of an ancient oak or plane tree. Good food, good wine, good vibes.
5. Activities – there’s plenty else to do besides wine tasting of course. White shark diving is excellent from now until spring, with good visibility for spotting sharks. You can also check out the scenery from a whole new perspective with abseiling, paragliding or even a helicopter flight. Check out the comedy circuit around Long Street during the evenings, or stop past Neighbourhood bar for a pub quiz night. Families, older travellers, couples and single travellers of all ages and stages will find lots to do – day and night; indoor and outdoor.
Those are some of the reasons that we adore autumn. What about YOU? Share your favourite Cape Town Autumn Awesomeness below and lets us know what makes this season a good one.
