Year-round weather and climate in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
Average temperatures in Pietermaritzburg run from an average low of 7°C45°F in July up to an average high of 28°C82°F in January. June is the driest month at 3 rainy days; December the wettest at 20. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 839K
- Currency
- ZAR
- Language
- Afrikaans / English
- Time zone
- Johannesburg
Best time to visit
The most pleasant weather falls in June, July, and August, offering a perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Rain character
Tropical Downpours: Expect intense bursts of rain during wetter months. Pack quick-drying footwear and a compact umbrella.
Day-to-night swing
The Daypack Trap: Beware the "noon illusion". In months like July, crisp sunny days drop off a cliff by 15°C27°F at sunset. Always carry an evening layer.
Seasonality Profile
Humid Subtropical: Sweltering, wet summers accompanied by mild, drier winters.
Evening vibe
Cozy Indoor Culture: Evenings are generally crisp, damp, or sweltering. Nightlife centers around indoor venues.
Sightseeing stamina
All-Day Strolling: Weather is generally forgiving for long walking days. Comfortable sneakers are your most important packing item.
Average temperatures, sunshine, and rainfall
Average monthly weather in Pietermaritzburg, based on recent historical data. Essential insights on temperature swings, expected rainfall, and daily sunshine.
Bars span the average daily low to high. Jun is typically driest at 3 days (19mm); Dec the wettest at 20 days (134mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 28°C / 83°F | 18°C / 64°F | 10h | 15 | 112mm |
| Feb | 27°C / 81°F | 18°C / 65°F | 8h | 17 | 157mm |
| Mar | 28°C / 82°F | 17°C / 63°F | 10h | 15 | 87mm |
| Apr | 25°C / 77°F | 14°C / 57°F | 9h | 11 | 93mm |
| May | 24°C / 76°F | 11°C / 52°F | 9h | 6 | 49mm |
| Jun | 22°C / 71°F | 8°C / 46°F | 10h | 3 | 19mm |
| Jul | 22°C / 71°F | 7°C / 44°F | 9h | 4 | 17mm |
| Aug | 25°C / 76°F | 9°C / 48°F | 9h | 4 | 12mm |
| Sep | 25°C / 76°F | 12°C / 54°F | 8h | 9 | 52mm |
| Oct | 24°C / 76°F | 13°C / 55°F | 8h | 13 | 99mm |
| Nov | 27°C / 80°F | 16°C / 60°F | 9h | 12 | 78mm |
| Dec | 27°C / 81°F | 17°C / 63°F | 8h | 20 | 134mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit Pietermaritzburg?
The most sunshine in Pietermaritzburg comes around January, averaging 10 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for Pietermaritzburg?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in Pietermaritzburg swing from an average low of 7°C45°F in July up to 28°C82°F in January. The Packola app builds a tailored packing list for you based on the live weather forecast for your exact travel dates.
Do I need to pack an umbrella for Pietermaritzburg?
Pietermaritzburg gets rain on about 129 days out of the year. The wettest month is December. If you're traveling during the rainy season, you'll definitely want to pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
Pack smarter.
Averages get you close, but the week you travel is what matters. Get the live forecast, a smart packing list, and discover the best local spots and activities in Pietermaritzburg with Packola.
Get the app