Cape Town Weather in December
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Updated: March 2026
Is December a Good Time to Visit Cape Town?
December is a good time to visit Cape Town (6/10). With 7 daily sunshine hours and only 1 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 3rd sunniest of the year in Cape Town. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find December a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak January without sacrificing all the good weather. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Cape Town's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.
Cape Town in December rewards travelers with average highs of 29°C and overnight lows around 20°C. Expect around 1 rainy days, making it one of the drier periods in the city. With 7 daily sunshine hours on average, conditions are warm and inviting for outdoor exploration.
29°C
Avg High
20°C
Avg Low
1 days
Rain Days
7h
Sunshine
65%
Humidity
Temperature in Cape Town in December
The 9°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 65%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. UV index averages 9 this month, classed as high to very high. SPF 30+ sunscreen, a brim hat, and sunglasses are not optional between 10am and 4pm. Wind averages 15 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 84°F average high, 68°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature in December
Monthly Precipitation (mm)
What to Wear in Cape Town in December
Packing for Cape Town in December means dressing for 29°C days and 20°C evenings. A lightweight linen or cotton shirt with loose-fit trousers or a sundress handles the 29°C daytime heat. Evening temperatures settle at 20°C, a modest 9°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. For footwear, breathable walking sandals work for casual exploration, but closed-toe trainers are better for uneven surfaces in the historic centre.
Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in Cape Town. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.
Events in Cape Town in December
December has no major festivals or public holidays in Cape Town, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Cape Town in December
Based on 29°C average highs and 1 rainy days
- Light layers for morning and evening
- Breathable T-shirts and comfortable trousers
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Anti-chafe balm for long walking days
- Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for active days
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Cape Town in December
- Early morning walk through Cape Town's historic market districtBest before 9amTemperatures are still manageable at 25°C before the midday heat builds
- Open-air rooftop dining at sunsetFrom 6pm onwardsThe 29°C daytime heat drops noticeably after sunset, making al fresco dining comfortable
- Waterfront promenade or harbour walkEarly morning or after 5pmSea breezes cut through the humidity, making coastal routes the most pleasant in heat
- Guided cycling tour of the old quarterFirst tour of the day (7-9am)The low-traffic window before tourist crowds and the cooler morning air make this the prime riding slot
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Seek out chilled local specialities: cold-brew tea, ice desserts, or chilled seafood at street-level stallsAny time; most atmospheric in evening marketsHot-weather street food culture peaks in December, with vendors setting up specifically for warm evenings
Why is Cape Town warm in December?
December in Cape Town reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 29°C by day and 20°C overnight. The city sits at 34 degrees south latitude, where the balance between solar radiation and heat loss drives conditions that are neither extreme nor static. The warm temperatures reflect a stable high-pressure pattern typical of the season, which suppresses cloud formation and concentrates solar energy at the surface. Day-to-night temperature variation of 9°C is moderate and manageable with a single mid-layer. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions: Cape Town in December
December ranks 3rd sunniest of the year in Cape Town, with an average 7 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are January, November, and December. December is the hottest month (29°C avg high); June is the coolest (15°C). From here, temperatures fall 1°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 28°C high, 1 rain days), December is warmer and equally dry. December is among the top three sunniest months to visit Cape Town.
Year-Round Climate
Plan Your Trip to Cape Town
Data Sources for Cape Town
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.