Weather in Cape Town 🇿🇦
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
August
Avg Temp
19°C
Rain Days
5 days
Sun Hours
3 hrs
Humidity
65%
Africa › 🇿🇦 South Africa › Cape Town
Updated: March 2026
Is August a Good Time to Visit Cape Town?
4/10
Fair
August is a fair time to visit Cape Town (4/10). Average highs of 19°C and 3 sunshine hours daily make conditions workable, though not exceptional. August suits travellers visiting for indoor culture, food, and architecture rather than outdoor activities. Pack accordingly for 5 potential rain days. July 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: most accommodation categories have availability, and last-minute deals are common. The quieter streets and shorter queues can make this a genuinely enjoyable time to visit for the right type of traveller. Budget-conscious visitors will find the best value of the year in this period.
vs July:16°C avg high
Cape Town in August rewards travelers with average highs of 19°C and overnight lows around 10°C. Expect around 5 rainy days, making it one of the drier periods in the city. With 3 daily sunshine hours on average, conditions are comfortable for sightseeing at a relaxed pace.
19°C
66°F
Avg High
10°C
50°F
Avg Low
5 days
62 mm total
Rain Days
3h
per day avg
Sunshine
65%
Moderate
Humidity
Temperature in Cape Town in August
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. The UV index of 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Wind averages 15 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 66°F average high, 50°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Cape Town in August
Morning10°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon19°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening13°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Cape Town in August means dressing for 19°C days and 10°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 19°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evening temperatures settle at 10°C, a modest 9°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues.
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 August
August 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 August
Based on 19°C average highs and 5 rainy days
- Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
- Mix of short and long-sleeve layers
- Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Cape Town in August
- Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 19°C, the temperature is ideal for extended walking without overheating
- Guided walking tour of the historic centreMorning or late afternoonComfortable temperatures allow several hours on foot without fatigue
- Visit rooftop viewpoints and observation decksGolden hour (1 hour before sunset)Warm clear evenings provide exceptional visibility for panoramic photography
- Day trip to the surrounding countryside or coastFull day (depart by 8am)August is reliably dry enough for rural day trips without weather risk
- 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 morningAugust brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmAugust seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year
Why is Cape Town mild in August?
August in Cape Town reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 19°C by day and 10°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. Conditions occupy the comfortable middle band of the annual temperature range, where outdoor activity is feasible without the extremes of midsummer heat or midwinter cold. 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 August
In August, Cape Town experiences average highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows of 10°C (50°F). Expect around 5 rainy days and 3 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 65%. The 9°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 2.
Cape Town typically sees 5 rainy days in August, with total precipitation of around 62mm. This makes August one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Cape Town typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than August.
Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Cape Town in August. Daytime temperatures of 19°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 10°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. Rain is infrequent with only 5 wet days, so a light rain layer is optional. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.
August is a reasonable time to visit Cape Town. Expect 5 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 19°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 3 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.
The average high temperature in Cape Town in August is 19°C (66°F), and the average low is 10°C (50°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 15°C (58°F). The day-to-night range of 9°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Cape Town is generally January. January offers the most sunshine at 7 hours per day and only 1 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 28°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around January gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
August is shoulder or low season in Cape Town, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 3 sunshine hours and 5 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In August, Cape Town suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 19°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. Cosy cafes and cultural venues make ideal retreats on overcast days.
August ranks 8th sunniest of the year in Cape Town, with an average 3 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 rise 3°C into September. Compared to last month (July: 16°C high, 6 rain days), August is warmer and drier. August sits in the middle of the annual sunshine ranking for Cape Town, offering a reasonable balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 28°C | 19°C | 1 | 7h | View |
| February | 26°C | 17°C | 2 | 6h | View |
| March | 22°C | 13°C | 4 | 4h | View |
| April | 18°C | 9°C | 5 | 2h | View |
| May | 16°C | 7°C | 6 | 1h | View |
| June | 15°C | 6°C | 7 | 1h | View |
| July | 16°C | 7°C | 6 | 1h | View |
| August | 19°C | 10°C | 5 | 3h | View |
| September | 22°C | 13°C | 4 | 4h | View |
| October | 26°C | 17°C | 2 | 6h | View |
| November | 28°C | 19°C | 1 | 7h | View |
| December | 29°C | 20°C | 1 | 7h | View |
January
1 rain days, 7h sun
28°19°
February
2 rain days, 6h sun
26°17°
March
4 rain days, 4h sun
22°13°
April
5 rain days, 2h sun
18°9°
May
6 rain days, 1h sun
16°7°
June
7 rain days, 1h sun
15°6°
July
6 rain days, 1h sun
16°7°
August
5 rain days, 3h sun
19°10°
September
4 rain days, 4h sun
22°13°
October
2 rain days, 6h sun
26°17°
November
1 rain days, 7h sun
28°19°
December
1 rain days, 7h sun
29°20°
Other Months in Cape Town
Plan Your Trip to Cape Town
Data Sources for Cape Town
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.