Cape Town Weather in December

Long summer days outdoors

December brings summer conditions to Cape Town, with highs of 21°C, lows of 17°C and about 11.9 hours of sun a day. Rain is limited to 12 mm across four days, so beach time at Clifton or Camps Bay and walks around the V&A Waterfront are good bets. The sea can still feel cool, and the afternoon southeaster can make exposed beaches and Table Mountain's summit less pleasant. Put coastal plans earlier in the day; use a windy afternoon for the District Six Museum or a meal in the sheltered streets of the City Bowl.

Christmas and New Year

Christmas Day and New Year's Eve bring a festive mood, with celebrations around the V&A Waterfront and beach suburbs. December is also the start of the Kaapse Klopse season, but the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival's main Tweede Nuwe Jaar parade takes place in January, not December. If your visit runs into the new year, expect the parade to draw large crowds into the city centre.

Peak-season planning

December is high season, with South African school holidays adding to demand. Beaches, the Waterfront and popular Winelands routes are busier, and accommodation and car hire generally cost more than in quieter months. For a practical Table Mountain tip, check the cableway's operating status before setting off: strong southeasterly winds can halt service, leaving the summit walk unsuitable for a tight schedule. Compared with November, December is sunnier and drier; January is slightly warmer and just as dry.