December marks the beginning of Cape Town’s summer season, bringing with it warm and sunny days that are perfect for exploring all of what the city has to offer. With an average high temperature of around 30°C (86°F) and a low of 16°C (61°F), you can expect pleasantly mild evenings. The favourable climate creates an ideal setting for various outdoor activities, such as hiking Table Mountain, strolling along the breathtaking beaches, or enjoying a picnic in the lush Company Gardens. 

As the holiday season approaches, Cape Town comes alive with a festive spirit that is contagious. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and you’ll find the city adorned with colourful decorations, particularly in popular tourist areas like Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and Long Street. December is a month filled with exciting events and festivities, including open-air concerts, food and wine festivals, and lively street markets. Be sure to catch the annual Cape Town Festival of Lights, a dazzling display of lights and music, perfect for all ages.

Pack: While December is primarily a dry month in Cape Town, it’s essential to be prepared for occasional Rain. The city experiences some rainfall during this time, typically in the form of short and refreshing afternoon thunderstorms. These showers are usually brief, and they don’t usually disrupt your plans too much. However, it’s a good idea to pack a lightweight waterproof jacket or umbrella, just in case


Currency

When travelling nothing puts your mind more at ease than knowing you are in control of your money and that it’s safe but, keeping your money secure in the bank is one thing and really understanding the buying power of that money in South Africa is another thing entirely.
There is probably nothing more important than take the necessary precautions and educating yourself on what your hard earned money can buy for you when you travel. Especially knowing the difference between what everything should reasonably cost and knowing when you might be being ripped off on taxi fares, gifts, trinkets, food, alcohol etc.

Please take the necessary time to acquaint yourself with the local money and currency customs of South Africa before you arrive

The Rand is the currency of South Africa. The Rand is subdivided into 100 cents. The ISO 4217 code is ZAR, from Afrikaans Zuid-Afrikaanse Rand.

  • Symbol: R
  • Central bank: South African Reserve Bank
  • Subunit: Cent
  • Banknotes: R100, R200, R20, R10, R50
  • Coins: 20 cent euro coin, 10 euro cent coin, R1, 50c, R5, R2ISO code: ZAR

Which currencies are accepted in South Africa?

In South Africa foreign currencies are unfortunately not accepted, so it is best to exchange your money at a forex or bureaux de change outlet. These can be found at any international airports, banks, and most big malls.

The Rand is used throughout the whole of South Africa, including its major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. The international airports have 24-hour foreign exchange services to accommodate international visitors