Weather in Johannesburg in October

Want to wise up on the weather in Johannesburg in October before booking your trip? Spring has sprung, which means warm days, mild nights, and some short showers as the summer rain season comes on the horizon. For more detail, read on to find out everything you need to know about visiting South Africa's second-biggest city in October.

Is October a good time to visit Johannesburg?

Yep — October is a good time to visit Johannesburg. This month sees the city in full spring mode, with warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and greener landscapes.

The weather in Johannesburg in October is generally pleasant, with warm days and cooler evenings that provide ideal conditions for varied outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Just be aware that this month marks the start of the summer rain season, so you might experience occasional afternoon thunderstorms. That said, these are usually short-lived and provide a refreshing break from the daytime heat.

October also sees the city play host to cultural events— we’re talking art festivals, outdoor concerts, and food markets.

In addition, though visitor numbers increase on those seen through winter and early spring, October sits outside the region’s main high season (December and January).

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

Average temperatures in Johannesburg in October

In October, Johannesburg experiences average daytime temperatures between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84°F), with occasional showers (bring a raincoat and brolly) taking the edge off mid-day heat.

Note that nights are significantly milder, with temperatures ranging between 10°C (50°F) and 14°C (57°F). 

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 mentioned above, as the weather warms up, Johannesburg starts to see an increase in visitors in October.

In essence, this is a transitional, shoulder-season month. While you will see an increase in fellow tourists at top attractions compared with previous months, October remains quieter than during the peak summer months of December and January.

While this slight increase in tourism can bring a lively atmosphere to the city, it also means prices start to rise. So, book accommodation and tours in advance to make sure you secure what you want, at the best price.

Set on taking a trip at this time of year? Read up on the best places to visit in October.

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.

Looking for more options for an autumn holiday? Check out our list of the best destinations for an unforgettable holiday in October.

What to do and see in Johannesburg in October

October’s blend of warm days, cooler evenings and greener landscapes set the stage for a range of rewarding experiences in Johannesburg. By which we mean heading out of town to hike and watch wildlife in reserves, visiting galleries and museums when rain showers strike, and keeping an eye out for seasonal events.

Hike, bike and walk in nature 

October’s warm weather is ideal for enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds Johannesburg.

For example, you could hike in the Melville Koppies Nature Reserve, and bike or walk on the wild side in Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve.

Watch wildlife

Love wildlife lovers won’t want to miss visiting nearby game reserves and wildlife parks in the Gauteng region. Being the start of the rainy season, October sees the landscape emerge with fresh greenery, which makes wildlife more active and visible.

For example, just an hour or so by car from Johannesburg, 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, warthogs — and more.

Uncover culture and nature in galleries, gardens and markets

For a varied day out, spend the morning walking Johannesburg Botanical Garden (or head fifteen miles out of town to visit the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden) before heading back to hit the galleries and museums. 

We recommend the Johannesburg Art Gallery, Wits Art Museum, and contemporary art spaces in the Maboneng Precinct.

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: discover the city’s incredible street art on a tour.

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. 

Editor’s tip: book a guided bike tour of Soweto to learn about the history of South Africa's most famous township.

Keep an eye out for al fresco entertainment 

Look out for festivals, outdoor concerts, and cultural events happening around the city — October often features a variety of events celebrating local art, music and food.

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.
• 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.