Weather in Johannesburg in April

Wondering about the weather in Johannesburg in April? This month heralds autumn in the city, which means low rainfall and daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). All the better for enjoying outdoor activities without the intensity of summer heat or the unpredictability of rains. For more detail, read on to find out everything you need to know about visiting this South African city in April.

Is April a good time to visit Johannesburg?

Yes, April is a great time to visit Johannesburg. This mild early autumn month offers something of a sweet spot between the extreme heat of summer and the chill of winter.

In addition, April sees the city transition from its rainy summer season into the drier winter months. This means a very low chance of rain. And, even if it does fall, rain comes in the form of short, refreshing showers.

All that considered, the weather in Johannesburg in April makes it one of the best months for travellers who want to explore the city on foot, in comfort. You can pretty much guarantee mild, pleasant weather for your trips to everywhere from Johannesburg Botanical Gardens and Emmarentia Dam, to touring the city’s incredible street art.

Keen to visit Johannesburg? Browse our customisable South Africa itineraries, or talk to our local experts.

Average temperatures in Johannesburg in April

April is autumn in Johannesburg — a month that sees the city sees experience comfortably mild weather, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Just be aware that night-time temperatures typically drop to around 10°C (50°F), so it's advisable to pack warmer clothing for the cooler evenings.

Want a bigger picture of the weather? Read up on when to go to South Africa.

What about the crowds and cost?

Sitting in a transition period between the busy summer season and the cooler winter months, April sees Johannesburg enter a quieter period for tourism.

This means fewer crowds at major attractions and landmarks, and a more relaxed, personal experience in museums, galleries, and cultural sites. 

With smaller crowds comes lower costs — April’s decreased tourist numbers means you stand a better chance of finding better deals on accommodation and tours.

Unforgettable customisable Johannesburg itineraries

If you’re thinking of heading to Johannesburg — or elsewhere in South Africa — browse our customisable South Africa itineraries before booking your trip.

Curated with the guidance of a local expert, they eliminate all the hassle of planning and booking. Check out these sample itineraries for inspiration.

• City Life and Safari - South African Gems (17 days): this diverse itinerary kicks off in Cape Town, where you'll explore the likes of Table Mountain and Robben Island before venturing to the Winelands. The trip concludes in epic style with a three-day safari in Kruger National Park before taking to you Johannesburg.
• Cape Town and the Garden Route - a luxury guided tour (7 days): Cape Town and the Garden Route have it all — from fascinating cultures and exhilarating safaris, to incredible chocolate and wine tasting experiences. Encompassing the coastal city of Cape Town, the Cape Peninsula and Knysna, this trip winds up in Mossel Bay, where you'll get to go on game drives.
• Explore the North of South Africa: Sun City and Madikwe game reserve (7 days): if you’re short on time, this trip takes in stacks of unforgettable experiences close to Johannesburg. After having fun at the fantastical Lost City theme park, you’ll head to Madikwe, where you'll go on a 4X4 game drive.

What to do and see in Johannesburg in April

Offering pleasant autumn weather, visiting Johannesburg in April means you can look forward to enjoying a range of outdoor activities, with plenty of cultural experiences also on hand. 

Here are some suggestions of things to do and see in Johannesburg in April.

Hike and bike

Take advantage of the cooler temperatures to explore the natural beauty that surrounds Johannesburg. 

For example, trails in the Melville Koppies and Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve offer great opportunities to hike and mountain bike.

Editor’s tip: book a hot air balloon trip for a bird's-eye view of the Gauteng landscape.

Visit Johannesburg Botanical Gardens and Emmarentia Dam

With the weather in Johannesburg in April being ideal for strolls and picnics, do exactly that in the glorious, expansive 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.

Discover contemporary culture

To experience Johannesburg's contemporary urban culture and creative vibe, head to the vibrant urban neighbourhood of Maboneng. 

Meanwhile, art-lovers won’t want to miss visiting the Johannesburg Art Gallery and the Goodman Gallery to see impressive collections of South African and international art.

Editor’s tip: if you’re in Jo’burg over a weekend, visit the Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein on Saturday — a great place to sample local food and pick up local crafts.

Uncover history

To better understand South African history, visit the Apartheid Museum, where immersive exhibits provide insights into the country's path to democracy.

The same is true of  Constitution Hill. Formerly a prison that played a significant role in South Africa's history, it’s now museum and offers tours that explore South Africa's journey to democracy.

Editor’s tip: tour Soweto to learn about the history of South Africa's most famous township. Highlights include visiting the former home of Nelson Mandela.

Still deciding if you want to visit? Read our first-timers guide to Johannesburg.

Visit Johannesburg in different months

To be better informed before booking your trip, find out what to expect of the weather in Johannesburg around the year.

• January: being one of the rainiest times of the year, January sees Johannesburg look lush and green. It’s also hot, and subject to afternoon thunderstorms.
• February: love warm weather, smaller crowds, lush scenery, and don’t mind rain? February is a good month to visit Johannesburg.
• March: as summer tails off and autumn begins, March’s mild weather is ideal for exploring the city and its wilder surroundings.
• May: marking the transition to the city’s mild winter season, expect clear sunny days, low rainfall, and small crowds.
• June: this low season winter month brings mild daytime temperatures, crisp evenings, little rainfall and the same small crowds you’ll experience in May.
• July: similar to June, expect cool-to-mild daytime temperatures, chilly mornings and evenings, little rainfall, and low visitor numbers.
• August: this low-season month sees the city shift to spring — expect clear days, cool nights and rewarding dry-season wildlife-watching experiences.
• September: heralding the true start of spring, this pre-peak-season month sees warmer weather, blooming landscapes, and clear, sunny skies.
• October: shoulder-season October sees the city in full spring mode, with warmer temperatures and blooming flowers, thanks to the rise in rainfall. 
• November: this month brings warmer temperatures, increased humidity and rainfall, and greener landscapes as the region shifts from late-spring to summer.
• December: while this hot summer month is peak season across the wider country, many residents of the city head to the coast for their summer holidays.