What's the weather like in Cape Town in July
Many visitors to Cape Town do not expect July to be the coldest and rainiest time of the year in this large South African city because the northern hemisphere is experiencing the height of summer. However, July in South Africa is frequently rainy and often cold. In fact, July receives the most rainfall of any month in the year. Most visitors in July smartly plan for indoor activities such as time at Cape Town's many galleries and museums.
Rainfall
On average Cape Town receives 100 mm of precipitation in the month of July. July days are often cloudy or overcast, and there are an average 14 rainy days throughout the month. It is almost certain visitors will experience some precipitation while visiting the resort in July.
While it only snows on a very rare occasion at the resort, less than an hour away it snows nearly every year. Beginning in June and continuing through July the more mountainous towns of Ceres, Worchester and Tulbagh, located just west of Cape Town, receive plenty of white powder. However, throughout July there will often be speculation of icy rain, hail and snow in Cape Town itself, so visitors should come prepared for the small possibility of winter weather.
Sunshine Hours
The shorter winter days and likelihood of clouds and rain also mean less daily sunlight. On average, there are 6 hours of daily sunlight during July. Visitors should capitalise on these hours to ride the cableway or take in the view of Cape Town's beautiful beaches from above.
Temperature
July is also one of the coldest times of the year in Cape Town, South Africa. Whilst you are there, expect that the average temperature will be a crisp 13°C (55°F), and most days the morning and early evening temperature will hover around this point. The average high temperature for the month reaches 18°C (64°F) during the warmest points in the afternoon, which is perfect for exploring Cape Town.
Once the sun sets, the temperature begins to drop. The average low temperature is 7°C (45°F), and along with August is the coldest expected temperatures of the year in Cape Town.
Sea Temperature
The ocean is similarly cold during July. The average sea temperature reaches its lowest point at 16°C (61°F), and the cooler water temperatures will continue throughout August and September, before the spring weather of October finally begins to heat up again.
Cape Town Hotels for July
Parliament Hotel is ideal for families and couples looking for a great option while on holiday in Cape Town. This recently upgraded hotel offers 27 rooms with air conditioning, HD TVs and WiFi. Best of all, because rain and colder weather are likely in the month of July, you will not have to wonder far for some of Cape Town's best sights. In the surrounding area, you will find many tourist attractions, including Green Market Square and St George's Cathedral.
Located on the V&A Waterfront, the One&Only Cape Town is an upscale hotel with spacious rooms and every modern amenity. While this hotel is a great option during summer, when the infinity pool beckons guests, it is also a wonderful place to spend a winter holiday. The spa, fitness center and kids activity room ensure that there is plenty to do without leaving the grounds. The rooms have a contemporary design and some suites have private balconies overlooking Table Mountain. For visitors who want to truly experience the height of luxury during their stay, some guest suites have kitchens, fireplaces and butler service.
The central location of Cape Cadogen Hotel is great for visiting all of the sights in and around Cape Town. Guests are near great restaurants and trendy bars, but the rooms at this boutique hotel are so interesting and cozy that you may decide to never leave. Many guests find that the Cape Cadogen Hotel nicely reflects the Mother City, as it is filled with character, charming and inviting.
Bars and Restaurants
On a crisp July day there are few restaurants that will have a better atmosphere than The Test Kitchen located in The Old Biscuit Mill. The Test Kitchen is serving up some of the best and most interesting food in Cape Town. The chef Luke Dale-Roberts has received a number of awards, and guests are certain to be impressed with their food. The cuisine is Latin, with a touch of South African inspiration. Reservations are recommended.
Also located in The Old Biscuit Mill in Cape Town is The Pot Luck Club. This inviting restaurant is located on the top floor of the building, and operated by the same chef, Luke Dale-Roberts, as The Test Kitchen. The food is just as creative and inspired. The Pot Luck Club was named the trendiest place in Cape Town, and for visitors who want to feel like locals it should not be missed.
Mzansi is often considered the best restaurant in Cape Town. The restaurant strives to deliver an authentic South African dining experience. Often, dinner is topped off with traditional South African music. The Langa township where Mzansi is located is often considered a bit dangerous, but visitors can book a taxi to the restaurant and are likely to discover that the people who live nearby are as welcoming, warm and wonderful as the food in this traditional place.
Things to do in Cape Town in July
July can be damp, and on certain days dreary, in Cape Town. If you do get a rainy day or two, why not head to the South African Jewish Museum? Here you can learn all about the history of Jews in South Africa and wander around the exhibitions, which feature artifacts, statues and videos.
Cape Town and the nearby resorts are busy year round, even in the heart of winter. In July the resort of Stellenbosch, close to Cape Town, hosts its annual Chamber Music Festival. The festival draws internationally acclaimed artists who team up with young South Africans to show off their talents. Whether you are a fan of classical music or rap, this festival has something for everyone.
July is a fabulous time to visit Cape Town, due to the festivals that take place. The Pick N Pay Knysna Oyster Festival is held from the 7th till the 16th of July, it's actually one of the most popular events to take place. This festival is suitable for oyster enthusiasts and fitness fanatics; there will be over 100 activities taking place spread over the 10 days.
