South Africa in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in South Africa

32°C (91°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Prime spring weather with 32°C (91°F) days and 20°C (68°F) evenings - perfect for outdoor activities without winter's harsh winds or summer's scorching heat above 40°C (104°F)
Jacaranda season transforms Johannesburg and Pretoria into purple wonderlands - over 70,000 trees bloom simultaneously, creating Instagram-worthy canopies that locals specifically wait for each November
Baby animal season in Kruger and private reserves - November births mean active wildlife viewing with 60% higher predator activity as mothers hunt more frequently, plus green landscapes from recent rains
Shoulder season pricing with 25-40% lower accommodation costs compared to December-January peak, yet warm enough for all activities including swimming and game drives starting at 5:30am

Considerations

Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms hit 40% of days between 2-6pm, often with dramatic lightning that can disrupt safari drives and outdoor activities for 30-60 minutes
High humidity at 70% makes 32°C (91°F) feel like 37°C (98°F), particularly uncomfortable for those from dry climates - locals avoid strenuous outdoor activities between 11am-3pm
Mosquito season peaks with increased malaria risk in Lowveld regions including Kruger - prophylaxis essential and evening game drives require long pants and repellent

Best Activities in November

Kruger National Park Safari Drives

November is exceptional for wildlife viewing - newborn animals mean hyperactive predators, lush green scenery from recent rains, and comfortable temperatures for 5:30am-10am morning drives. Animals congregate around water sources before afternoon thunderstorms. Early morning drives avoid both crowds and 37°C (98°F) afternoon heat index.

Booking Tip: Book accommodations 8-12 weeks ahead for November - it's prime safari season but not yet peak pricing. Self-drive costs R372 ($20) per adult daily, guided game drives typically R1,200-2,400 ($65-130) for 3-4 hour sessions. Choose camps with restaurant facilities for afternoon thunderstorm shelter. See current safari options in booking section below.

Cape Winelands Cycling Tours

Perfect November weather for cycling through Stellenbosch and Franschhoek - 28°C (82°F) daytime temperatures with minimal wind. Harvest season creates bustling vineyard activity, and early summer means longest daylight hours until 7:30pm for extended tours. Morning rides avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in interior regions.

Booking Tip: Book guided cycling tours 2-3 weeks ahead, typically R850-1,500 ($45-80) for half-day tours including tastings. E-bike options available for hilly terrain around Stellenbosch. Tours run 8am-1pm to avoid afternoon heat and potential storms. Current cycling tour options available in booking section below.

Drakensberg Hiking Adventures

November offers ideal hiking conditions - warm days, cool mornings at 15°C (59°F), and crystal-clear post-rain visibility extending 50+ km (31+ miles). Waterfalls run at full capacity from spring rains. Perfect temperature range for multi-day hikes without winter's freezing nights or summer's 35°C+ (95°F+) heat.

Booking Tip: Book guided multi-day hikes 6-8 weeks ahead, typically R2,200-4,500 ($120-240) for 2-3 day adventures including meals and accommodation. Weather can change rapidly - choose operators providing waterproof gear. Morning starts essential to reach high camps before afternoon thunderstorms. See current hiking options in booking section below.

Garden Route Coastal Drives

November delivers optimal Garden Route conditions - 26°C (79°F) coastal temperatures, minimal rainfall compared to winter months, and calm seas perfect for whale watching until mid-November. Knysna and Plettenberg Bay offer warm ocean swimming and extended daylight for scenic drives until 7:45pm.

Booking Tip: Self-drive remains most popular option - book accommodation 4-6 weeks ahead in coastal towns. Guided tours typically R1,800-3,200 ($95-170) for full-day experiences including activities. Whale watching tours best in early November before migration ends. Current Garden Route tour options in booking section below.

Cape Town City and Table Mountain

November avoids Cape Town's notorious summer wind season (December-February) while offering 27°C (81°F) perfect weather for Table Mountain cable car rides and city exploration. Clear skies provide impressive mountain and ocean views. Ideal timing for sunset at 7:30pm from Signal Hill or Lion's Head hikes.

Booking Tip: Table Mountain cable car tickets R395 ($21) adults - book online 24-48 hours ahead to avoid queues. City walking tours typically R450-850 ($24-45) for 3-4 hours. November weather means 90% cable car operation rate compared to 60% in windy summer months. Current Cape Town tours available in booking section below.

Township Cultural Tours

November's pleasant weather makes walking tours through Soweto, Langa, and Bo-Kaap comfortable without winter's chilly mornings or summer's oppressive heat. Spring energy in communities with outdoor markets and street activities in full swing. Extended daylight allows complete cultural experiences without rushing.

Booking Tip: Book responsible township tours through established operators, typically R650-1,200 ($35-65) for half-day experiences including meals with local families. Morning tours 9am-1pm ideal for weather and authentic daily life observation. Choose operators supporting community development. Current cultural tour options in booking section below.

November Events & Festivals

Early to Mid November

Jacaranda Festival Pretoria

Pretoria transforms into a purple great destination as 70,000+ jacaranda trees bloom simultaneously. Streets become violet tunnels perfect for photography, with locals hosting jacaranda-themed markets and outdoor concerts in parks. Peak bloom typically lasts 2-3 weeks when temperatures consistently hit 30°C+ (86°F+).

Early November

Whale Watching Season Finale

Final opportunity to witness Southern Right Whales along the Cape coast before they migrate to feeding grounds. Hermanus and De Kelders offer shore-based viewing, while boat tours from Cape Town provide close encounters. November sees mothers with calves making their journey north.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket with hood - November thunderstorms are intense but brief, lasting 30-60 minutes with heavy downpours and lightning

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8+ with thin high-altitude air increasing burn risk, especially in Johannesburg at 1,753m (5,751 ft) elevation

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity as it traps sweat and becomes uncomfortable during 32°C (91°F) afternoon temperatures

Long pants and long sleeves for evenings - essential for malaria prevention in Kruger area, plus temperatures drop to 20°C (68°F) requiring layers

Comfortable walking shoes with grip - afternoon thunderstorms create slippery surfaces on hiking trails and city pavements for 2-3 hours after rainfall

DEET-based insect repellent (20-30%) - mosquito season peaks in November, especially crucial for Lowveld safari areas and coastal regions at dawn/dusk

Light sweater for morning game drives - 5:30am safari drives start at 15°C (59°F) in open vehicles, warming to 25°C (77°F) by 8am

Waterproof phone case - sudden thunderstorms can drench outdoor activities, and you'll want photos of jacaranda blooms and wildlife

Quick-dry shorts and swimwear - perfect weather for coastal activities, swimming, and water sports along Garden Route beaches

Power bank and SA Type M adapter - load shedding (power cuts) still occur occasionally, and you'll be taking many photos of spring landscapes

Insider Knowledge

Locals time outdoor activities for 7am-11am and after 5pm to avoid both afternoon thunderstorms and peak heat - follow this schedule for comfortable sightseeing and better wildlife photography light

November is when South Africans plan their December holidays, so book domestic flights and car rentals early - prices jump 40% after mid-November for December travel

Jacaranda season creates traffic chaos in Pretoria as locals and tourists flock for photos - visit Union Buildings and Magnolia Dell before 9am or after 6pm to avoid crowds

Game rangers say November is secretly the best safari month - animals are most active due to mating season and new births, but it's not yet peak tourist season like December-January

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities for 2-6pm when afternoon thunderstorms are most likely - this is when locals take afternoon tea or visit indoor attractions like museums and shopping centers

Underestimating mosquito protection in safari areas - November's humidity and recent rains create ideal breeding conditions, making malaria prophylaxis and evening repellent non-negotiable

Packing only summer clothes - November evenings drop to 20°C (68°F) and early morning game drives start at 15°C (59°F), requiring light layers that many first-time visitors forget