Cape Town
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Cape Town Weather in December

Thinking of visiting Cape Town in December? Expect high temperatures reaching 24°C (75°F) during the day, dropping to 16°C (61°F) at night, with some rainfall likely.

Rainfall in Cape Town in December

Records from the past 30 years suggest around 6 days of rain, with 22 mm (0.9 in) average for the month. The occasional light shower is possible, but rain is rarely an issue this month.

Temperature in Cape Town in December

December is one of the better months to visit Cape Town. Expect 24°C (75°F) during the day and 16°C (61°F) at night. This gives the month a fairly typical daily rhythm, with warmer afternoons and more comfortable nights. With lows of 16°C (61°F), nights are cool. If you're out after dark, an extra layer will keep you comfortable. The cooler air at night is also great for getting a good rest.

Sunshine in Cape Town in December

There are approximately 334 hours of sunshine this month, resulting in mostly clear days.

Wind Speed in Cape Town in December

Wind speeds average 5 m/s (10 knots) during December. At this speed, gentle to moderate breezes make small trees sway and the wind creates whitecaps on water bodies. Daily variations range from moderate winds to stronger breezes, creating excellent conditions for sailing, kite flying and wind sports.

Average water temperature in December

The water temperature is 18°C (64°F). It's not warm, but most people find it perfectly fine for a swim once they're in.

So this is a great month to visit if you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures.

Cape Town Temperature in December

Min Temperature
16°C (61°F)
Max Temperature
24°C (75°F)
Water Temperature
18°C (64°F)
Chance of Rain
19%
Precipitation
22 mm (0.9 in)
Rainy days
6 days
Humidity
71%
Windspeed
5 m/s (10 knots)
Sunshine
334 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Cape Town Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Cape Town - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Cape Town typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 24°C (75°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows around 16°C (61°F).

Average temperatures in December

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in December

Historical weather records for Cape Town in December

Browse day-by-day weather records for Cape Town spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Cape Town historical weather extremes in December

Based on weather observations in Cape Town between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during December.

  • Cape Town recorded its highest December temperature of 35°C (95°F) on December 6, 2002.
  • The coldest December day was on December 2, 1993, with a maximum of 14°C (57°F).
  • The coldest night in December in Cape Town was on December 7, 1982, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F).

Best Places in South Africa in December

Find out more about the weather in South Africa and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of South Africa in December →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Cape Town in December

For Cape Town in December, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Some rain is possible, so pack something to handle light showers. With water temperatures around 18°C (64°F), the water is quite cold for swimming. You can skip the swimwear unless you're particularly tough. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.

What To Do in Cape Town in December

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    10/10
  • Cycling
    10/10
  • Walking
    10/10
  • Barbeque
    9/10
  • Camping
    10/10
  • Outdoor sports
    10/10

Cape Town 3-Day Forecast

Popular in December

Where to go in December - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.