Cape Town in December
Summer sunshine, peak demand
The short answer
December is a good time to visit Cape Town.
December brings warm, generally dry summer weather and long days suited to beaches, outdoor dining and coastal excursions. Visitor demand rises sharply around the festive holiday period, especially toward the end of the month.
7.5/10 overall15–25°CHigh crowds$$$$
Weather9/10
Crowds2.5/10
Prices$$$$
Events8/10
December in detail
What December actually feels like
- Weather
- 15–25°C
- Summer sunshine, peak demand
- Crowds
- High
- High
- Prices
- $$$$
- $$$$
+Long, warm summer days.
–High demand and expensive accommodation.
My tip for December
Book late-December accommodation early and compare prices before committing.
- Beaches
- festive atmosphere
How December compares
Against the other eleven months
5th of 12 overall in Cape Town, 3rd for weather, 12th for space, 12th for value. The emptiest month is July; the best value is July.
See all twelve months for Cape TownPlan around
What’s on in Cape Town in December
- Summer winds and festive crowds
- Cape Town’s summer is generally warm and dry, making it ideal for beaches, coastal drives and outdoor dining. The festive holiday period is particularly busy, and strong south-easterly winds can affect outdoor plans. Book early for late December and early January.
December–February
Not set on December?