Visiting South Africa in November

As summer approaches, temperatures continue to rise and the rain sweeps in across KwaZulu-Natal as well as over Kruger National Park, cutting through the rising humidity but making it a less tempting time for a holiday in South Africa’s north and east. It’s getting too hot to hike in the Drakensberg now, with heavy rain also hitting the mountains.

But down at the Cape, the weather is sunny and drier, and it’s also the last month of the whale-watching season. Take a drive along the Garden Route from Cape Town, stopping to spot Southern Right Whales at Hermanus, Plettenberg Bay or from De Hoop Reserve, which has some fantastic birdwatching too, before discovering some of the other highlights of one of the world’s great driving routes. Head up into the canopy of the temperate rainforest at Tsitsikamma National Park, zip-wiring through the treetops and discovering some of the wildlife found in the forest here. Or kayak on the ocean and relax on the white sand beaches around Knysna, quieter this month than in the upcoming peak season.

Wildlife

While safaris in Kruger aren’t the best option this month, thanks to the heavy rainfall and the difficulty spotting animals in the increasingly thick vegetation, you could head to the Eastern Cape to see the huge herds at Addo Elephant Park or more animals in the private game reserve near Port Elizabeth. It’s one of the rainiest months of the year here as well but if you’re determined to spy some of South Africa’s wildlife, conditions are still better than further north.

It’s a lovely time to explore the Winelands while you’re in Cape Town too, with some warm and sunny days to discover Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. Why not cycle through the vineyards to soak in the scenery before a few tastings at wineries?

Best for: Driving the Garden Route, whale-watching, Cape Town, the Winelands