Climate
Southern Africa enjoys a mild, year round climate with certain areas becoming relatively hot during the summer months. Being in the southern hemisphere the summers are long with a short winter. Below a table of expected average day temperatures for different regions:
Region |
Spring |
Summer |
Fall |
Winter |
Mid Sept - Nov |
Dec - March |
April - May |
June - Mid Sept |
|
Cape Town to Port Elizabeth |
72 - 76 |
80 - 85 |
72 - 76 |
60 - 66 |
Johannesburg and Pretoria |
74 - 76 |
80 - 88 |
70 - 74 |
50 - 64 |
Durban and KwaZulu-Natal |
76 - 82 |
80 - 90 |
76 - 82 |
68 - 85 |
Kruger National |
82 - 85 |
85 - 95+ |
82 - 85 |
70 - 74 |
The Cape Town area falls into a Mediterranean climatic zone, which means that rain falls through the winter months, summers are dry. The rest of the country will get summer rain with a dry winter. Many of the higher mountain areas will receive snow during the winter months but these regions are not easily accessible.
Malaria
Certain parts of Southern Africa are considered High Risk malaria areas, this now on a year round basis. Precautions can be taken and are advised. Various anti malarial medications are available. It is suggested to consult a medical practitioner prior a visit to Southern Africa. Insect repellents are advised for use from dusk to dawn. Malaria is carried and transmitted by the Anopheles Mosquito, it is only the female who survives on blood, males are vegetarian. These insects are only active after dark. Suitable clothing at this time is advisable; this is long sleeve shirts and trousers. However, this is not the necessary dress code for day time activities.
Dress
Throughout Southern Africa, dress is informal. Business engagements and certain up-market restaurants will call for more elegant dress. Otherwise, casual with an emphasis on comfort is the norm. When traveling through the game parks in soaring summer conditions, shorts and cool cottons are essential. Comfortable footwear and cloth hats are also recommended. Certain areas that fall within the malaria belt will require long sleeves and trousers to be worn in the evenings.
Water
The water throughout Southern Africa is considered to be safe. In fact South Africa is rated third in the world in providing safe, drinkable tap water. However, the country has exceptional springs that generate millions of gallons of pure water each day, this water is bottled at source and is readily available through out.
Electricity Supply
Southern Africa works with 220 – 240 volts. The general plug systems are different to just about anywhere in the world. The plug sockets are a three pin, round system which is wider than the standard USA / UK / EU plugs. Adaptors are generally available at hotels. Hair dryers are available at each hotel so there is no need to bring your own. Below a diagram of the plug:
