Five South African cities that feel like summer all year long

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If you’re chasing sunshine and warm weather year round, you’re in luck in South Africa! Several cities across the country enjoy mild winters and hot summers, making them ideal year-round destinations for beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who just hates layering up. Here are five South African cities where it basically feels like summer all the time.

1. Durban

Durban sits on the east coast, right on the Indian Ocean, and has a humid subtropical climate. Translation: hot, beach-friendly weather almost every day! Even in winter, daytime temperatures hover around 23°C, and the sea stays warm enough to swim year-round. Add in a laid-back vibe, long sandy beaches, and unbeatable bunny chow, and you’ve got a permanent summer state of mind.

2. Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

This coastal city in South Africa’s Eastern Cape gets plenty of sunshine and boasts moderate temperatures year-round. While the sea here is a bit cooler than in Durban, you still get great beach days, especially in the warmer months. The city is also a gateway to nature reserves and the Garden Route, which makes it ideal for road trips, hikes, and outdoor fun.

3. Mbombela (Nelspruit)

Close to Kruger National Park, Mbombela is hot and sunny most of the year. While summer brings some rain, it doesn’t cool things down much. Winters are dry and warm, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C. The surrounding Lowveld region is full of waterfalls, mountains, and wildlife, all under a sun that barely takes a break.

4. Upington

If you really want heat, head to Upington in the Northern Cape! Located along the Orange River, this town in South Africa is known for scorching temperatures and dry, sunny weather almost every day. It’s technically a semi-desert climate, but the river and nearby vineyards bring a surprising splash of green to the golden landscape. Just don’t forget your sunscreen!

5. Limpopo’s warm northern towns, like Phalaborwa

Many towns in the northern Limpopo province live up to the name “sun belt.” Places like Phalaborwa can hit 40°C in summer, and even in winter, it rarely feels cold. The warm, dry weather makes it a prime spot for wildlife viewing, especially since it’s near Kruger’s gates. If you’re into heat, big skies, and bushveld sunsets, this is your zone.