What is the weather like in Johannesburg throughout the year?

Johannesburg experiences varying weather throughout the year. The warmest month is December with average highs of 25°C. The coolest month is June.

What is the weather like in Johannesburg in May?

Johannesburg in May scores 66/100 based on 30 years of climate data. Recommended for planning your trip.

Who should visit Johannesburg in May?

May in Johannesburg is ideal for: Families with children, Elderly travelers, Outdoor enthusiasts, Photographers, Cultural tourists.

Best Time to Visit Johannesburg | 30-Year Weather Analysis

Why May is the Best Time to Visit Johannesburg

Is May a Good Time to Visit Johannesburg?

👍Recommended for planning your trip(66/100)

Short Answer

May is Johannesburg's peak season for good reason: 19°C temperatures and 6% rain probability. But expect crowds (100% of annual maximum) and premium prices.

Decision Factors

Vaccinations required

Yellow Fever

Peak tourist season

100% of annual peak - expect crowds and peak prices

Excellent dry conditions

Only 6% rain probability - ideal for outdoor activities

Health precautions needed

Be aware of: Leptospirosis, Melioidosis, Schistosomiasis

Comfortable humidity levels

57% humidity - pleasant conditions

Plenty of sunshine

9.6h of sunshine daily

Good For

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
Families with children
Comfortable 18.9°C temperatures and low 6% rain risk
👴
Elderly travelers
Comfortable 18.9°C temperature range with manageable humidity
🥾
Outdoor enthusiasts
Ideal hiking conditions: 18.9°C, 6% rain chance
📸
Photographers
9.6h sunshine, 78% clear skies for golden hour shots
🏛️
Cultural tourists
Comfortable conditions for exploring museums and sites

Who Should Avoid

💰
Budget travelers
Peak season means premium prices everywhere

Warmest

December

25°C avg

Coolest

June

16°C avg

Driest

July

1% rain

Wettest

December

39% rain

Planning Your Trip to Johannesburg, South Africa

Wondering when is the best time to visit Johannesburg? Based on our analysis of 30 years of NASA satellite weather data, the ideal months to travel to Johannesburg are May, August, September. During these months, you'll experience optimal temperatures around 19°C with only 6% chance of rain.

The Johannesburg climate varies throughout the year. December is the hottest month with average highs of 25°C, while June is the coldest at 16°C. If you're planning outdoor activities or sightseeing in Johannesburg, avoid December when rainfall peaks at 39% probability.

For the best Johannesburg weather experience, we recommend visiting during July for the driest conditions or the shoulder months of May and August for a perfect balance of weather and fewer crowds.

Johannesburg Weather by Month: Climate Guide

Click any month to explore detailed daily forecasts for Johannesburg

🏆 85-100: Excellent👍 70-84: Great👌 55-69: Good🤔 40-54: Fair⚠️ 0-39: Challenging

When to Visit Johannesburg: Travel Style Guide

Personalized Johannesburg travel recommendations based on 30-year weather data

Beach Lovers

Warmest months with comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities

JanuaryFebruaryOctober

Budget Travelers

Shoulder season with good weather and lower prices

FebruaryMarchApril

Photography

Best light conditions with clear skies

JulyAugustJune

Honeymoon

Perfect conditions for a romantic getaway

JanuaryFebruaryMarch

Johannesburg Weather FAQ: Your Questions Answered

What is the best time to visit Johannesburg?

Based on 30 years of weather data, the best months to visit Johannesburg are May, August, September. These months offer the optimal combination of pleasant temperatures (19°C avg) and low rainfall (6% chance).

When is the hottest time of year in Johannesburg?

December is historically the warmest month in Johannesburg with average highs of 25°C. If you prefer cooler weather, consider visiting in June when temperatures average around 16°C.

When is the rainy season in Johannesburg?

December typically sees the most rainfall in Johannesburg with a 39% chance of rain. For the driest conditions, plan your visit in July when rain probability drops to just 1%.

How accurate is the Johannesburg weather forecast?

Our Johannesburg climate analysis is based on 30 years of NASA POWER satellite observations (1995-2024), providing highly accurate historical averages. While weather can vary year to year, these long-term patterns are excellent indicators for planning your trip to Johannesburg.

What should I pack for Johannesburg?

Packing depends on when you visit. In December (warmest month), pack light summer clothes for 25°C weather. In June (coolest month), bring layers for 16°C temperatures.

Is Johannesburg good for a destination wedding?

Yes! The best months for an outdoor wedding in Johannesburg are July (only 1% rain chance) and May for optimal weather conditions. Avoid December when rain probability peaks at 39%.