What to expect in Cape Town in December
December is one of the best times to visit Cape Town. Expect 25° / 15°, the biggest crowds of the year and premium prices.
Cape Town weather in December
Typical conditions in Cape Town during December, based on long-run climate normals rather than any single year. Treat it as a planning guide, not a forecast.
| Average high | 25°C 77°F |
|---|---|
| Average low | 15°C 59°F |
| Rainfall | Dry 15/100 |
| Total rainfall | 17 mm0.7 in |
| Rainy days | 6 |
| Sea temperature | 17°C 63°F |
| Daylight | 14 h 23 min |
| How it feels | Warm and comfortable |
Average highs sit around 25°C with lows near 15°C. It is one of the drier months — pack light.
Crowds & demand
Crowd levels are High for Cape Town — the biggest crowds of the year.
Prices & value
This month counts as high season: premium prices.
What to pack
Light layers for 25°C days and something with sleeves for evenings, which cool to around 15°C. Rain gear is largely optional this month, which keeps your bag light.
What it costs
This is peak pricing for Cape Town. Expect to pay a premium on flights and accommodation, and to book considerably further ahead than usual. Compared with the most expensive month of the year, you are looking at roughly 6% less.
Who this month suits
- Travellers who want the most reliable weather
- Families tied to school holidays
Events & what’s on
No major festivals fall in December, so the destination feels like its everyday self.
Cape Town in December compared with nearby months
If your dates are flexible by a few weeks, this is what shifting them actually buys you.
| Month | Temp | Crowds | Price | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| October | 21° / 11° | Moderate | $$ | 65 |
| November | 23° / 13° | Moderate | $$ | 62 |
| December · This month | 25° / 15° | High | $$$ | 51 |
| January | 26° / 16° | High | $$$ | 48 |
| February | 27° / 16° | High | $$$ | 50 |
These months score higher for Cape Town on the same blend of weather, crowds and price. Same destination, better odds.
Or go somewhere else in December
If the destination is negotiable but the month is not, these places are at their best in December.
Figures are climate normals and modelled estimates — a planning guide, not a forecast. We separate fact, estimate and recommendation. Updated October 2026
