Weather in Johannesburg in July

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. 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.

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. These conditions are all the better for discovering the city’s urban landscapes and history, and the surrounding region. 

With cool daytime temperatures, you can look forward to enjoying outdoor activities, like visiting the Apartheid Museum, exploring the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens, and taking a walking tour of Maboneng.

In addition, the cooler weather in July results in fewer tourists, which in turn means you might be able to travel on a tighter budget.

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

Average temperatures in Johannesburg in July

The weather in Johannesburg in July means cool-to-mild daytime temperatures that average around 17°C (63°F), with night-time temperatures dropping to around 4°C (39°F). So, remember to pack accordingly — bring warm clothing for the cold mornings and evenings.

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.

Editor’s tip: for a bigger picture of the weather, read up on when to go to South Africa. And if you are also planning to visit Cape Town read our guide to the best time to visit Cape Town and prepare for your trip.

What about the crowds and cost?

Sitting within the winter low season, Johannesburg experiences a quieter tourism period in July. 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. It’ll also make it a lot easier to reserve a table in restaurants, or to book a room in your preferred hotel. 

Related, this being low season, you can also expect to pay less for accommodation. The same goes for flights as airlines adjust their rates to attract travellers during the off-peak season.

That said, be aware that prices for day-to-day expenses in Johannesburg remain consistent throughout the year — they’re not subject to seasonal tourist fluctuations.

To be fully prepared for your trip, be sure to check out our tips for visiting South Africa.

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 July

Thanks to its mild weather and low season lack of crowds, visiting Johannesburg in July means you have ample opportunity to make the most of the city’s historic sites, cultural attractions and outdoor activities in more authentic style. And all for a lower price, too.

Here are a few suggestions of rewarding things to see and do in Johannesburg — and beyond — in July

Uncover history

In our view, 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.

Understandably very popular, visitors in July will have all the more space to appreciate the site’s wonders.

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.

Editor’s tip: taking a guided bike tour of Soweto is one of the best ways to learn about the history of South Africa's most famous township and the wider city. Highlights include visiting the former home of Nelson Mandela.

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.

Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best holiday destinations in July.

Discover local culture in art and craft markets

As is often the case, spending time in local markets is a great way to soak up the spirit of a destination.

In the case of Jo’Berg, head to the Rosebank Sunday Market, and Bryanston Organic and Natural Market for South African art, crafts, and cuisine.

Editor’s tip: if you’re in Jo’burg over a weekend, visit the Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein on Saturday.

Go star gazing

Given that the clear winter skies provide excellent conditions for observing the stars and planets, visit the Johannesburg Observatory for an evening of stargazing. Book a night-time tour in advance.

Go wild at the Lion and Safari Park

Just an hour or so from Johannesburg in the Gauteng region, the Lion and Safari Park enables visitors to experience some of the thrills of African wildlife without venturing far from the city.

Alongside the lions, you’ll also get to see cheetahs, spotted hyenas, African wild dogs, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and warthogs, all of which roam in larger enclosures that mimic their natural habitats.

Still deciding? Read our first-timers guide to Johannesburg to help you make up your mind.

Before you head to South Africa, also be sure to read our guide on whether South Africa is safe, which contains everything you need to know about travel safety.

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.
• April: this early autumn month offers a sweet spot between the extreme heat of summer and chill of winter.
• 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.
• 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.