Weather in Johannesburg in November

Want to find out about the weather in Johannesburg in November before booking your trip? This month sees a transition from late spring to summer, which means warmer temperatures, increased humidity and rainfall, and greener landscapes. For more detail, read on to find out everything you need to know about visiting South Africa's second-biggest city in November.

Is November a good time to visit Johannesburg?

If you love warmer weather and lusher landscapes, November is an excellent time to visit Johannesburg.

As the region shifts from late-spring to summer, the arrival of rain adds vibrant green hues to the scenery, as seen when you explore the city’s gardens and parks.

Related, as the warmer weather and rain bring the natural surroundings to life, November is a rewarding time to take wildlife and nature tours in nearby game reserves.

Just be aware that it can be pretty humid, and you should expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms. That said, these showers are typically short and provide refreshing respite from the heat.

Another bonus of visiting in November is that it falls in the shoulder season, just ahead of the December and January peak season period. 

As a result, if you visit Johannesburg in November, you can enjoy many peak-season perks — a lively vibe, a full range of trips and tours — without the crowds and hiked costs that come during the main high season months. But more on that below.

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

Average temperatures in Johannesburg in November

November sees Johannesburg experience warm early-summer temperatures. In terms of the numbers, the average daytime temperature ranges from 24°C to 27°C (75°F to 81°F).

Meanwhile, night-time temperatures are significantly cooler, ranging from 13°C to 16°C (55°F to 61°F). 

Given this day-to-night drop, and the likelihood of experiencing rain — usually short-lived afternoon thunderstorms — you’ll want to pack layers and a light raincoat to handle the varied weather conditions.

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?

As touched on above, November falls just ahead of the region’s December and January peak season period. So, while crowds will be noticeably bigger than if you visit in, for example, July through to August, they remain at a reasonable level.

In practical terms, this means you shouldn’t struggle to book a room in your preferred accommodation, or a spot on the tours you most want to take. Just be mindful of the fact that visitor numbers — and prices — will increase as the month moves towards December.

With that in mind, it’s wise to book accommodation and any special activities or tours in advance.

Still thinking about where to vacation in November? Read the Rough Guide about the best places to travel in November and choose the right one for you.

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.

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

What to do and see in Johannesburg in November

With the city hotting up for summer, visiting Johannesburg in November is a dream for culture vultures who like the weather warm, and nature lovers who like their landscapes to be lush and green. With that in mind, here are some of the best things to see and do in Johannesburg in November.

Editor’s tip: to avoid thunderstorms, try to schedule outdoor activities for the morning, and head to the likes of galleries and museums in the afternoon. 

Explore the lush outdoors 

Visit the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens, Emmarentia Dam and the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden to picnic, stroll and watch birds in beautifully green surroundings.

Prefer to walk on the wilder side? You can hike and bike in the Melville Koppies and Klipriviersberg Nature Reserves. 

Venture to nearby safari and wildlife parks

Plan to visit a few nearby game reserves or the Lion and Safari Park for the chance to see wildlife within easy reach of the city

The start of the rainy season brings fresh foliage and more active wildlife.

Uncover urban culture, street art and local food

Discover Johannesburg's vibrant street art and urban culture scene with a guided tour through areas like Maboneng, Newtown, or Braamfontein.

We also suggest devoting time to the city’s outdoor markets to sample some local culture and cuisine. Don’t miss the Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein and the Rosebank Sunday Market. 

Editor’s tip: find a local restaurant that has a garden terrace to enjoy divine al fresco dining.

Discover history

Take advantage of the gorgeous warm weather to discover Johannesburg's rich history through visits to the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, and the Mandela House in Soweto. 

We especially recommend booking a guided bike tour of Soweto to learn about the history of South Africa's most famous township.

Still making up your mind? Read our first-timers guide to Johannesburg.

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.
• 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. 
• 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.