Wondering about the weather in Johannesburg in July? Similar to June, this low season winter month sees the city experience mild daytime temperatures that average around 17°C (63°F) and little rainfall. The average temperature of the coldest month (July) is of 10.7 °C. In Johannesburg, the climate is subtropical, with mild, sunny winters (when, however, nights are cold) and pleasantly warm summers, usually sunny, but with some afternoon thunderstorms.
For more detail, read on to find out everything you need to know about visiting South Africa's second biggest city in July. Spoiler alert: the cool, dry weather is ideal for blending urban exploration with outdoor adventuring.
Johannesburg lies at 1,740 metres above sea level, and has an annual rainfall of 760 millimetres. Here's a detailed look at what you can expect.
10 things to know BEFORE visiting Johannesburg, South Africa (essential tips)
Is July a Good Time to Visit Johannesburg?
Sitting in the city’s winter season, July is an excellent time to visit Johannesburg if you’re not keen on hot weather and want to avoid rain. Sitting within the winter low season, Johannesburg experiences a quieter tourism period in July.
It’s also worth knowing that July continues to see very little rainfall, which means dry sunny days that invite visitors to explore the city on foot. In fact, July is the month with the fewest wet days in Johannesburg, with an average of 0.5 days with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation.
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This means less crowded attractions and a more laid-back vibe around the city. In practical terms, you’ll have more space - and won’t have to queue - at must-see attractions like Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, and the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens.
So, remember to pack accordingly - bring warm clothing for the cold mornings and evenings.
Average Temperatures in Johannesburg in July
July, the coldest month of the year, is generally a mild month. However, there are remarkable differences between night and day. The average temperature is of 10.7 °C, with a minimum of 3.6 °C and a maximum of 17.8 °C.
Daily high temperatures increase by 3°F, from 61°F to 64°F, rarely falling below 54°F or exceeding 70°F. The lowest daily average high temperature is 61°F on July 4.
Daily low temperatures increase by 2°F, from 36°F to 38°F, rarely falling below 30°F or exceeding 43°F. The lowest daily average low temperature is 36°F on July 5.
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On the coldest nights of the month, the temperature usually drops to around -2.5 °C. On the warmest days of the month, the temperature usually reaches around 22 °C.
Here are the average temperatures of Johannesburg:
| Month | Min (°C) | Max (°C) | Mean (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14.6 | 26.3 | 20.4 |
| February | 14.4 | 26.3 | 20.3 |
| March | 13.2 | 25 | 19.1 |
| April | 10.2 | 22.7 | 16.4 |
| May | 7.1 | 20.4 | 13.7 |
| June | 4.2 | 17.9 | 11 |
| July | 3.6 | 17.8 | 10.7 |
| August | 6 | 20.8 | 13.4 |
| September | 9.4 | 24.6 | 17 |
| October | 11.4 | 26 | 18.7 |
| November | 12.5 | 25.8 | 19.2 |
| December | 14 | 26.1 | 20.1 |
| Year | 10 | 23.3 | 16.65 |
The figure below shows you a compact characterization of the hourly average temperatures for the quarter of the year centered on July.
Johannesburg Skyline
Read also: Johannesburg in February: Weather Guide
Rainfall in July
Precipitation amounts to only 5 mm, and all occurs in one day. The average sliding 31-day rainfall during July in Johannesburg is essentially constant, remaining about 0.1 inches throughout, and rarely exceeding 0.5 inches. The lowest average 31-day accumulation is 0.1 inches on July 14.
Johannesburg is typically bone dry in July. You're not likely to see a thunderstorm during your trip.
Sunshine Hours in July
There are on average 9 hours of sunshine per day in July. So, the sun shines 86% of the time. The day lasts on average 10 hours and 40 minutes.
Over the course of July in Johannesburg, the length of the day is gradually increasing. From the start to the end of the month, the length of the day increases by 22 minutes, implying an average daily increase of 44 seconds, and weekly increase of 5 minutes, 10 seconds.
The shortest day of the month is July 1, with 10 hours, 32 minutes of daylight and the longest day is July 31, with 10 hours, 54 minutes of daylight.
Wind Conditions in July
The average hourly wind speed in Johannesburg is essentially constant during July, remaining within 0.2 miles per hour of 7.9 miles per hour throughout.
The hourly average wind direction in Johannesburg throughout July is predominantly from the north, with a peak proportion of 33% on July 29.
You're unlikely to experience any strong winds. Expect a light breeze that picks up slightly at times in July.
Humidity in July
The chance that a given day will be muggy in Johannesburg is essentially constant during July, remaining around 0% throughout.
Things to Do and See in Johannesburg in July
Here are a few suggestions of rewarding things to see and do in Johannesburg - and beyond - in July:
Uncover History
Visiting the Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the very best things to do around these parts. Just 50 km northwest of Johannesburg, it’s one of the world's richest hominid fossil sites, with fossils discovered in the Sterkfontein Caves being over 4 million years old.
Meanwhile, back in the city itself, history buffs won’t want to miss visiting the Apartheid Museum, where exhibits provide insights into the country's path to democracy, and Constitution Hill.
Hike, Bike, and Stroll
Take advantage of July’s cooler temperatures by exploring the natural beauty that surrounds the city. For example, trails in the Melville Koppies and Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve offer great opportunities to hike and mountain bike.
Meanwhile, back in town, be sure to stroll the glorious grounds of the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens.
Get Your Adventure On at Gold Reef City
Located on the site of a gold mine that closed in 1971, Gold Reef City amusement park is themed around the 1886 gold rush. Alongside hosting tonnes of thrilling rides and attractions, it also houses a museum dedicated to Johannesburg's gold mining history.
Travel Tips for Visiting Johannesburg in July
Select units of measurement for the temperature and rainfall tables (metric or imperial).
The best months to visit Johannesburg are probably April, September and October, since they are mild months, not as rainy as summer and not as cold as winter.
However, on closer view, Johannesburg can be visited throughout the year, since the summer is not too hot and it's sunny, even though it is disturbed by thunderstorms, while the winter is almost always mild and sunny during the day, although nights are often cold.
The UV index will be moderate at this time of year, so not something to worry about for the average person. However, if you're going to be outside for long periods it's worth wearing a broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Remember that bright surfaces, such as water and sand increase UV exposure.
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