Does it Snow in Cape Town? The Cold Facts
DOES it snow in Cape Town? Ever?
We’ve got all of the snowfall facts for the Mother City here for you. And as a matter of fact, yes, light snow does occasionally fall, forming a cover over Table Mountain that is made up of more than clouds.
The area is known more for its gorgeous beaches and warm weather. Not to mention that Africa is usually thought of as an all-hot all-the-time kind of place. But that’s not always the case.
Cape Town is actually one of the few cities in South Africa that does see occasional snowfall! In fact, on average, Cape Town sees some snow every couple of years.
So while it’s not exactly a winter wonderland, there’s still a chance you could catch a glimpse of the white stuff.
It’s always a cause for celebration in Cape Town!
Does it Snow in Cape Town?
When snow unexpectedly falls in Cape Town, it sparks a unique excitement among the locals. This rare event prompts everyone to take a moment from their usual routines to appreciate the change in scenery.
The city buzzes as people share their snowy experiences on social media and venture outdoors to enjoy the novelty together. It’s a special time that unites the entire community.
The last time there was snowfall in Cape Town
Cape Town, received snow fairly recently, on August 28, 2021. Up to 10 cm, or 4 inches, of the white stuff was predicted, but they weren’t quite that lucky, as just a dusting fell.
The year before even more snow fell on Cape Town on the 7th of September 2020. With snow falling two years in a row, it might start to seem less special.
But it’s always an exciting time for the Mother City! In an area where winters tend to be slushy, grey, and a bit depressing, snow turns it into a magical place.
This is when statistics can be gathered about the least snow that’s required to have an all-out snowball fight!
Where you can see snow in Cape Town
Your best bet for seeing snow in Cape Town is to head up to Table Mountain.
Snow doesn’t often settle on the city bowl itself, but higher up on Table Mountain, you’re more likely to find some of the white stuff.
However, during the snowfall in the winter of 2020, a bit of snow did fall in the city bowl and even at sea level in some areas.
Table Mountain got a covering of white that year. So did the Southern Suburbs, including Claremont, Newlands, Rondebosch, and Bishopscourt.
The best time to see snowfall in Cape Town
Your best chance to see snowfall is from June to July. These are winter months south of the equator.
As snow generally falls more frequently at higher altitudes, like on Table Mountain, your best bet for seeing some is to hike up or take the cable car to the top.
If it’s there you don’t want to miss it!
Was there snowfall in Cape Town in 2022? Or 2023?
Unfortunately – or fortunately, depending on your perspective – there was no snowfall in Cape Town in 2022, or 2023.
It never did get cold enough for the rain to turn to snow. Maybe next year!
But, if it’s winter in Cape Town, there must be snow somewhere. Keep reading!
✔️ Find out what kind of traveller you are with our quiz! 🌍
Things to do in the snow in Cape Town
If you hear about snowfall in Cape Town, chances are it will be on Table Mountain. The best thing to do is to make a beeline directly for it!
You may want to hike up Table Mountain and play in the snow as you go, or take the cable car up and get a bird’s eye view of the winter landscape.
You’ll have to take a few pictures, because who knows when it will happen again!
Snow in Cape Town is a special event, so if you see it, make sure you enjoy it while it lasts!
Snow in Western Cape
If you’re looking for snowfall, hopefully you’ll be lucky enough to find some in Cape Town. But if not, it can be found nearby in other parts of Cape Town’s province of Western Cape!
Worcester
Less than an hour and a half to the east of Cape Town is the town of Worcester. While they are much better known for their vineyards than their snowmen, they do occasionally get snow.
At the very least, you’ll have amazing views of the snow-covered Langeberg and Matroosberg Mountains in the distance.
Worcester is surrounded by green – valleys, vineyards, and a lot of nature. It’s a beautiful drive to get there and a lovely place to spend some time.
It’s an enchanting historic town to take a picturesque walk through, bundled up in cozy sweaters, puffy coats, and fuzzy mittens.
Not to mention the wine tasting – the perfect treat on a cool winter’s day.
Ceres
The small town of Ceres, located about 90 minutes northeast of Cape Town, is situated in a mountainous region that experiences cold winters and snowfall.
Ceres is well-known for its production of fruit, vegetables, and flowers in the warmer parts of the year. But come April, the temperature drops and the snow starts to fall.
The Ceres Valley is one of the most important agricultural regions in South Africa, and the town of Ceres serves as the gateway to this picturesque valley.
Ceres Valley is actually referred to as Little Switzerland and offers spectacular views of the area.
Snowfall in Ceres typically occurs during the months of April – September, when the temperatures are at their lowest.
Just 40 minutes from the town of Ceres lies Matroosberg Mountain, where the serious snow happens. Matroosberg is the second-highest mountain in South Africa, so it gets pretty chilly up here.
Strap on a pair of skis or a snowboard and hit the slopes, or try your hand at snowman building!
Tulbagh
Tulbagh is another fantastic spot to find some snow. About an hour and a half east of Cape Town, and a bit farther north than the others, Tulbagh is located in the Land van Waveren mountain basin.
It’s full of beautiful historical Cape Dutch architecture and provincial monuments. Spend the day wandering through its streets, drinking in the sights and enjoying the cool air.
With mountains on three sides of this picturesque town, the views of snowcapped peaks in the wintertime are stunning.
And again, Tulbagh is a well-known wine-producing region. Stop off at a local pub and sip a glass while you gaze out at the snowy mountain tops.
See a little more of South African winter
Sutherland is known as the coldest spot in South Africa. Located in the neighbouring province of North Cape, Sutherland is about a 4-and-a-half-hour drive from Cape Town.
While this little town does average around 15ºC during the day, winter is often below freezing with temperatures hovering around -1 or 2ºC.
The cold night air here affords exceptionally clear night skies. An outstanding winter activity in Sutherland is a drive out to the observatory.
Sutherland is a world-renowned centre of astronomy. The Southern African
Large Telescope (SALT) sits on the top of a mountain 14 km outside of town.
SALT is considered one of the best spots in all of the southern hemisphere for star viewing.
Snowfall in Cape Town: Frequently Asked Questions
When is winter in Cape Town?
According to the calendar, winter in Cape Town’s country of South Africa is from June to August, however as most of us have seen, the weather doesn’t always follow the calendar.
Temperatures start to drop in the mountainous regions as early as April and it can be as late as September before they start to rise.
What is the average winter temperature in Cape Town?
The high temperature in Cape Town averages a very nice 20ºC during the day, while nights average 11º. Temperatures tend to be cooler at higher altitudes, which is generally where snow falls in Cape Town.
Summing It Up: Does it snow in Cape Town?
Cape Town isn’t known for its snowy winters, but they do happen. And if you aren’t that lucky enough to see any, there’s always a little snow to be found somewhere nearby.
Make sure you’ve got something warm on your feet, and don’t forget a cozy sweater, some mittens and a woolly hat! Nothing spoils the fun faster than being too cold.
For everything you need to know about planning the ultimate Africa trip, check out IWIF’s 15 Steps to Planning an Amazing trip to Africa.
Happy Travels!
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