Well-known for its stunning scenery and an abundance of year-round events, Cape Town is one of the most popular destinations in South Africa. The good news is that some of the biggest attractions in the city are free. For example, you can admire the colorful houses in Bo-Kaap, stroll along the V&A Waterfront, hike around Table Mountain National Park, or spend a day on one of the city’s beaches without spending a dime. Although the Mother City is an amazing holiday destination throughout the year, the best time to visit Cape Town on a budget depends on what you are after.
Weather in Cape Town
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South Africa’s Mother City has a warm Mediterranean-style climate with year-round seasonal variations. During the peak of summer, the temperature can get as high as 35°C in the city, while the spring and autumn seasons offer ideal conditions for exploring the natural beauty and landmarks around the city. The winter season can be described as rainy, but there are plenty of indoor activities in and around the city to keep you entertained.
Autumn and Spring in Cape Town
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The best time to visit Cape Town on a budget is in autumn and spring when accommodation rates are lower and flights to South Africa are cheaper. Autumn is definitely the best time to visit the Cape Winelands and explore numerous wine estates and farms. This time of year is also ideal for mountain bike trails and hiking. During the spring season, the temperature settles around 20°C and this is an ideal time to admire a variety of flower species at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. To help you decide when to go to Cape Town without having to spend too much cash, we’ve created a list of the best months to visit the city on a tight budget.
Cape Town in February
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While both December and January are the peak of the tourist season, February in Cape Town also offers perfect weather and an abundance of events to look forward to. Expect to find shorter queues everywhere, as well as cheaper accommodation rates. If you are into sports, you can go and see a cricket game at the Newlands Stadium. You can also see a movie under the stars at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens or attend an outdoor concert.
Cape Town in March and April
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March is when most of the summer holiday crowds have left the country. This time of year is also known as the shoulder season and this is a time when many big events are taking place in the Mother City including the Easter Weekend, Cape Town Cycle Tour, and Two Oceans Marathon. Keep in mind that these events are quite popular and if you wish to save a buck, book accommodation long in advance or plan your visit around them at a lower price. Temperatures in March and April range between 15°C and 27°c and this time of year is ideal for outdoor activities.
Cape Town in September and October
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September is the start of spring in the Mother City. This is the best time to visit Cape Town for whale watching and seeing flowers in bloom. Although there can be little rain, temperatures range between 13° and 21°c. There are also dozens of excellent music festivals in spring, and since it’s the shoulder season, the prices are still low and there are fewer tourists on the streets.
