Weather in Cape Town in October

Is October a good time to visit Cape Town?

Cape Town’s weather in October is mild to warm, with beautiful sunny days, crisp spring weather and long evenings. October is the end of spring in Cape Town, there are still a few rainy days, but these are infrequent and the rain does not last for days on end, as it does in winter in Cape Town. The infamous ‘Cape Doctor’ – a southeasterly wind – begins to pick up during October and is generally the only annoyance during this spring and summer in Cape Town.

 

Climate in Cape Town in October

Cape Town’s climate in October is perfect for those who want to visit the beach but don’t want to battle the summer crowds or the summer heat. The average temperature during October in Cape Town is between 11 and 21°C (51 to 70°F), but the temperature often peaks over 30°C (86°F) during the midday and afternoon hours. Visitors to Cape Town can expect between twelve and a half and thirteen and a half daylight hours each day during the month. The evenings are long, as the sun tends to set after 6pm – perfect for relaxed sundowner cocktails. The average number of rainy days expected in Cape Town in October is eight and although the wind can be a nuisance it doesn’t blow as much as it does during the peak summer months in Cape Town.

 

What's on in Cape Town in October

October is a month jam-packed with events and festivals for Cape Town. Various minor venues and nightclubs host annual Halloween and Oktoberfest parties in October and visitors to Cape Town need only choose one that piques their interest. Outdoors enthusiasts and athletes should take part in the annual Gun Run: a half marathon that winds its way through Cape Town’s CBD from the V&A Waterfront to the Greenpoint Stadium. The Cape Town International Kite Festival is a must for visitors travelling with children, kite enthusiasts and photographers.

For wine tasting with a difference, the iTownship Wine Festival is a great way to experience Cape Town from a different angle while supporting township initiatives in Gugulethu, one of Cape Town’s townships. The Cape Town International Convention Centre hosts the annual Spring Fab Bridal Expo in October – just before the summer wedding season begins! Finally, the popular Rocking the Daisies music festival in Darling, is not to be missed. The festival showcases a number of South Africa’s top bands, musicians and comedy acts in one of the Western Cape’s most picturesque towns.

 

What to pack for a Holiday in Cape Town in October

October in Cape Town still has one or two chilly days, so a light jersey is a necessity. Although October is not a rainy month in Cape Town, it is prudent to pack an anorak or raincoat for the odd shower. Cape Town’s weather in October demands beach days and boozy nights, so beachwear is essential and smart-casual evening wear is a must. Jeans are equally important on the list of items to pack for a holiday in Cape Town in October. Finally, sunglasses, sunscreen and hiking clothes are all worthwhile items for visitors wishing to enjoy everything the Cape has to offer.