Visit Kruger Park in South Africa
Are you going to South Africa, then you cannot skip the Kruger Park. The Kruger Park is one of the most beautiful and largest safari parks in the world.
Johannesburg Weather in January
Thinking of visiting Johannesburg in January? Expect high temperatures reaching 27°C (81°F) during the day, dropping to 16°C (61°F) at night, and note that quite a bit of rainfall is likely.
Rainfall in Johannesburg in January
Typically around 14 days of rainfall are expected, averaging 133 mm (5.2 in) for the month. When it rains this month, it tends to come down fairly heavily. Showers can be substantial even if they don't last all day.
Temperature in Johannesburg in January
Temperatures in Johannesburg in January top out at 27°C (81°F) and drop to 16°C (61°F) overnight. The days can feel warmer than the evenings, so packing for both parts of the day is a good idea. 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. On average, this month sees the highest temperatures of the year. Worth packing a few lighter outfits.
Sunshine in Johannesburg in January
The month enjoys around 250 hours of sunshine, creating mostly sunny days with good weather conditions.January in Johannesburg can still be great, but if you prefer pleasant temperatures along with dry and sunny conditions, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.
Johannesburg Temperature in January
Min Temperature
16°C (61°F)
Max Temperature
27°C (81°F)
Chance of Rain
48%
Precipitation
133 mm (5.2 in)
Rainy days
14 days
Humidity
69%
Sunshine
250 hours
Percentage Sunshine
62%
Johannesburg Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Johannesburg - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Johannesburg typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (81°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows around 16°C (61°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 Johannesburg in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Johannesburg spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Johannesburg historical weather extremes in January
Based on weather observations in Johannesburg between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during January.
- The warmest day in January was on January 7, 2016, with a maximum of 36°C (97°F).
- Johannesburg experienced its chilliest January day on January 8, 1980, reaching only 14°C (57°F).
- The coldest night in January in Johannesburg was on January 3, 2001, with a minimum of 7°C (45°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 Johannesburg 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. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.
What To Do in Johannesburg in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming9/10 -
Cycling7/10 -
Walking7/10 -
Camping6/10 -
Outdoor sports7/10
Johannesburg 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Johannesburg
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Johannesburg climate overview or explore weather in South Africa.
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.
Visit Kruger Park in South Africa
One of South Africa's most spectacular private game reserves
Sabi Sand Game Reserve is one of South Africa's most spectacular private game reserves. The chance that you see the entire Big Five is high in winter (June - August).
South Africa in November: Cape Town, Garden Route or East Coast?
Compare South Africa weather in November for Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Knysna, Durban and Johannesburg to find the driest and sunniest regions.
Stay in the world's largest open-air gallery
Vast mountains, beautiful nature, tranquility and the possibility of hiking and seeing fascinating rock paintings. This can all be experienced at the Cederberg Mountains.