About South Africa

Sunny Weather in South Africa

Come and enjoy the sunny Mediterranean climate in South Africa. The long summer extends from November to March with 11 or more hours of sunshine per day with long sunny evenings. Spring (September to October) and Autumn (April to May) are balmy in-between seasons when nature puts on an excellent display. Winter time (June to August) in Cape Town is an excellent time to view the floral kingdom, especially Kirstenbosch Botanical garden. Although the winter in Cape Town can be stormy, there are often temperate days.

The average temperature is 24.3° C in summer and 18.5° C in winter.

The average daily sunshine hours are 7.5 to 9.5 hours. Compare this to 6.9 hours for New York and 3.8 hours in London.

Banking

The local currency is the South African Rand. It is easy to exchange foreign currency at various places. South Africa has a modern and sophisticated banking system and most shops and hotels accept all major credit cards. Automated Teller Machines accept most international credit cards and bank cards.

Value added tax (VAT) is 14% on purchases and services. Foreign visitors can reclaim VAT on purchase over ZAR250. VAT refund offices can be found at:

• Airport international Departures on telephone +27 21 934 8675
• Gateway Centre at the V & A Waterfront on telephone +27 21 405 4500
• Cape Town Tourism Visitor Information Centre on telephone +27 21 487 6800

Business Hours

Most shops are open from 09h00 to 17h00 on weekdays and till 13h00 on Saturdays. Major shopping malls tend to stay open later. Most banks close at 15h30 on weekdays and around 11h30 on Saturdays.

Hope to see you in South Africa soon.