What to expect in Cape Town in March
March is a strong choice for Cape Town: 25° / 15°, with manageable crowds at the big attractions and prices close to the yearly average.
Cape Town weather in March
Typical conditions in Cape Town during March, 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 | 20 mm0.8 in |
| Rainy days | 5 |
| Sea temperature | 17°C 62°F |
| Daylight | 12 h 18 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 Moderate for Cape Town — manageable crowds at the big attractions.
Prices & value
This month counts as shoulder season: prices close to the yearly average.
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
Costs in March sit around the yearly average for Cape Town — neither a bargain nor a squeeze. Booking a few weeks out is usually enough. Compared with the most expensive month of the year, you are looking at roughly 29% less.
Who this month suits
- Travellers who want the most reliable weather
- Anyone travelling on a budget
- Visitors who want to catch a festival
Events & what’s on
Look out for Cape Town International Jazz Festival while you’re there.
- Cape Town International Jazz Festival — Africa's largest jazz gathering draws international headliners downtown.
Cape Town in March 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 26° / 16° | High | $$$ | 48 |
| February | 27° / 16° | High | $$$ | 50 |
| March · This month | 25° / 15° | Moderate | $$ | 62 |
| April | 23° / 13° | Moderate | $$ | 69 |
| May | 20° / 10° | Low | $ | 70 |
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 March
If the destination is negotiable but the month is not, these places are at their best in March.
Figures are climate normals and modelled estimates — a planning guide, not a forecast. We separate fact, estimate and recommendation. Updated October 2026
