Travellers planning a trip to South Africa towards the end of 2026 and during the 2026/27 summer should keep an eye on the country's developing weather pattern. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) expects the current El Niño to strengthen further, with its more typical effects of warmer and drier conditions increasingly likely during the coming summer.
According to SAWS's latest climate outlook, El Niño could reach a strong state within the next few months and persist until at least the end of the 2026/27 summer season.
A mixed outlook for spring
The transition from winter into spring currently brings a more mixed picture. South Africa's winter-rainfall areas are expected to see favourable rainfall conditions, while the eastern coastal regions face an increased likelihood of below-normal rainfall as they move into their wetter season.
Temperatures are also expected to be above normal across much of South Africa during spring, with both daytime and overnight temperatures likely to be higher than usual.
A drier start to summer possible
The early part of the summer season is already showing signs of potentially significant below-normal rainfall, particularly as the strengthening El Niño begins to influence regional weather patterns.
For travellers, this could mean hotter conditions for self-drive holidays, safaris and outdoor activities. Lower rainfall can also affect landscapes, water availability and, over time, wildlife viewing conditions. However, the outlook is a seasonal forecast rather than a day-to-day weather prediction, and conditions can still vary considerably between regions.
Anyone planning to visit South Africa during the coming spring and summer should therefore check local weather forecasts closer to their trip and remain aware of possible heat, drought and changing fire conditions.
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