December in South Africa marks the arrival of summer, bringing diverse weather conditions across the country. For Johannesburg, this means warm days and the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. This article provides a detailed overview of Johannesburg's weather in December, offering valuable insights for planning your trip.
Johannesburg Skyline
What to Expect from Johannesburg Weather in December
December is full summer in South Africa, bringing hot, sunny weather across much of the country. Inland cities such as Johannesburg and Pretoria experience slightly warmer temperatures, reaching the mid-30s degrees Celsius (approximately 95 degrees Fahrenheit), creating favorable conditions for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
However, December is also the wettest month in the northern regions, witnessing frequent afternoon thunderstorms in Johannesburg. Despite the potential for rain, the days are long, and the atmosphere is festive, making it a popular time to visit.
Johannesburg experiences gradually decreasing cloud cover during December, with the percentage of time that the sky is overcast or mostly cloudy decreasing from 37% to 32%. The clearest day of the month is December 30, with clear, mostly clear, or partly cloudy conditions 68% of the time.
Read also: Johannesburg in February: Weather Guide
Temperature Details
The warm season lasts for 5.7 months, from September 27 to March 17, with an average daily high temperature above 75°F. The hottest month of the year in Johannesburg is January, with an average high of 78°F and low of 59°F.
Daily high temperatures increase by 2°F, from 76°F to 78°F, rarely falling below 67°F or exceeding 84°F. Daily low temperatures increase by 3°F, from 56°F to 59°F, rarely falling below 51°F or exceeding 63°F.
Here's a look at average temperatures in Johannesburg during December:
- Average High: 26.1°C (79°F)
- Average Low: 14°C (57°F)
These temperatures make December one of the best times of year to visit Johannesburg for general outdoor tourist activities.
Rainfall in December
A wet day is one with at least 0.04 inches of liquid or liquid-equivalent precipitation. In Johannesburg, the chance of a wet day over the course of December is essentially constant, remaining around 53% throughout.
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The average sliding 31-day rainfall during December in Johannesburg is essentially constant, remaining about 3.7 inches throughout, and rarely exceeding 6.3 inches or falling below 1.8 inches.
The month with the most wet days in Johannesburg is December, with an average of 16.4 days with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation. Based on this categorization, the most common form of precipitation throughout the year is rain alone, with a peak probability of 55% on December 17.
Sunshine Hours
The length of the day in Johannesburg varies over the course of the year. In 2025, the shortest day is June 21, with 10 hours, 30 minutes of daylight; the longest day is December 21, with 13 hours, 47 minutes of daylight.
There are on average 8.5 hours of sunshine per day in December. So, the sun shines 62% of the time.
Crowds and Costs
December in South Africa is a busy and lively time because of school breaks and lots of people visiting from places like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Kruger National Park. This creates a festive vibe with bustling streets and lively markets. But, because so many people are travelling, things like places to stay, activities, and meals can cost more.
Read also: Weather Guide: Zambia in July
To manage costs, it's important to plan and book in advance. If you prefer a quieter visit, going in early December before it gets super busy might be a good idea. On the other hand, from mid-December to mid-January, things get really busy because of school holidays, so places like game parks and beaches get crowded.
A special day to note in Cape Town is December 26 when locals traditionally head to the beaches, so accommodation rates go up.
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What to Wear
With an average high of 30°F (-1°C) and a low of 19°F (-7°C), it generally feels freezing cold and breezy. With that in mind, most people would dress in something toasty like a thick winter coat with gloves.
Packing list
Things to Do in Johannesburg in December
If you’re looking for memorable things to do in Johannesburg, December offers no shortage of options. With warm weather, festive energy, and long daylight hours, this is the month for getting outdoors, joining the celebrations, and making the most of the country’s wild and urban contrasts.
- Cultural Exploration in Soweto: Gain insights into South Africa's history and culture by visiting Soweto in Johannesburg.
- Cradle of Humankind Exploration: Unearth the mysteries of human evolution by exploring the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Lesedi Cultural Village: Immerse yourself in the diverse cultures of South Africa by visiting the Lesedi Cultural Village.
Plan Your Trip
The weather in South Africa in December is classic summer: hot, dry days in the south and coastal regions, with afternoon thunderstorms more common up north. It’s a great time to build a South Africa itinerary that blends beaches, wildlife, and culture.
Visiting South Africa in December is fantastic with its varied landscapes, warm weather, and festive vibes. While there might be more people and higher expenses, the mix of cultural events, breathtaking scenery, and tons of activities make it a memorable trip.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average High Temperature | 26.1°C (79°F) |
| Average Low Temperature | 14°C (57°F) |
| Average Rainfall | 105 mm |
| Average Rainy Days | 14 |
| Average Sunshine Hours per Day | 8.5 |
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