Durban
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Durban Weather in January

January in Durban sees daytime temperatures around 28°C (82°F) and lows of 22°C (72°F) at night. With around 95 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall expected, it's worth packing a rain jacket.

Rainfall in Durban in January

You can expect rain on roughly 14 days based on historical data, averaging 95 mm (3.7 in) for the month. Neither particularly heavy nor particularly frequent, the rain this month is about average. A light jacket should be enough on most wet days.

Temperature in Durban in January

January is a excellent month in Durban, with 28°C (82°F) during the day and 22°C (72°F) at night. This kind of day-to-night contrast is typical for this time of year. With overnight lows of 22°C (72°F), evenings stay pleasantly warm.

Sunshine in Durban in January

The city usually sees around 183 hours of sunlight, indicating a moderately sunny period.

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

Durban Temperature in January

Min Temperature
22°C (72°F)
Max Temperature
28°C (82°F)
Chance of Rain
48%
Precipitation
95 mm (3.7 in)
Rainy days
14 days
Humidity
80%
Sunshine
183 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Durban Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

51-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Durban typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 28°C (82°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 21°C (70°F).

Average temperatures in January

Daily Historical Precipitation

51-year average (1976-2026)

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

Average precipitation in January

Historical weather records for Durban in January

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

Durban historical weather extremes in January

Based on 49 years of weather observations in Durban between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.

  • The hottest January day on record in Durban reached 37°C (99°F) (January 4, 2025).
  • Durban experienced its chilliest January day on January 28, 1976, reaching only 19°C (66°F).
  • Durban registered its coldest January night on January 22, 1979, with temperatures dropping to 14°C (57°F).

Best Places in South Africa in January

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 January →

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 Durban in January

Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in January. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, light dresses, and sandals are perfect. You might still want a light layer for evenings or air-conditioned places (for example buses). High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.

What To Do in Durban in January

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

  • Swimming
    7/10
  • Cycling
    7/10
  • Walking
    7/10
  • Camping
    8/10
  • Outdoor sports
    7/10

Durban 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Durban

Popular in January

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

Bucket list

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