What's the weather like in Johannesburg in January
Temperature
January is summer in Johannesburg, and it's the hottest month of the year. But temperatures remain fairly mild. The daily swings in temperature can make January a pleasant time to visit, with an overall average temperature of 21°C. Daytime highs average 26°C while night time lows average 15°C. There isn't much of a variation throughout the month, but historical data shows mid-January being slightly warmer than both ends of the month.
Rainfall
January is one of the wettest months in Johannesburg. On average it rains for 15 days out of the month, with rainfall totals near 130mm for the month. The chances of rain and rainfall amounts, steadily decline throughout the month of January.
Sunshine Hours
Despite all of the rain, Johannesburg still gets an average of nine hours of sunshine every day. Johannesburg still has well over 13 hours between sunrise and sunset in January. Chances of overcast or mostly cloudy skies hover around 32% for the entire month.
Humidity
The relative humidity slowly rises throughout January, starting at around 67% and ending the month at 70%. Despite January being one of the most humid months in Johannesburg, the mild temperatures and high altitude still make it fairly comfortable.
Wind
January sees winds predominately out of the north and east. Wind speeds gradually decline throughout the month, with speeds of 3.3 m/s at the beginning of the month and 3.0 m/s by the end of the month.
Dress Code
Temperatures are ideal in Johannesburg in January, but you will need to be prepared for the rain. Check the Johannesburg forecast for the most up-to-date information before leaving home. You'll be comfortable wearing casual clothing, and you won't need anything more formal unless you eat out at some fine dining establishments.
Johannesburg Hotels in January
Peermont D'oreale Grande at Emperors Palace
The award-winning, five-star Peermont D'oreale Grande in the Emperor's Palace resort is one of the most luxurious, comfortable hotels near O.R. Tambo International Airport. The Peermont has 182 elegant, plush rooms with large marble bathrooms. Room sizes run the gamut from small twin beds to large king suites. Guests of the Peermont will enjoy the large pool and bar, a lavish health & beauty spa, complimentary breakfast and fine dining at Aurelia's restaurant. Concierge services are some of the best in Johannesburg. Guests will also enjoy the other attractions at Emperors Palace, including the casino, various restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Thaba Eco Hotel
The Thaba Eco Hotel is an affordable lodging option for those wishing to get further from the city and closer to South Africa's wild nature. This four-star, award-winning hotel is located at the Klipriviersberg Municipal Nature Reserve. The hotel, which is known for its beautiful wedding venue, provides excellent views of the South African highlands. The unique 52 rooms take design elements from the African bush and combine them with modern amenities. The on-site Kraal Restaurant serves up an impressive weekend breakfast buffet and a sizeable lunch and dinner menu comprised of fresh lamb, steak, chicken, and seafood dishes. The hotel also features an outdoor pool, bar, and laundry service.
Westpoint Executive Suites
Visitors spending some extra time in Johannesburg will enjoy what's offered at Westpoint Executive Suites in Sandton. Ninety furnished suites contain a lounge area, elegant bathroom, kitchen and dining area, with excellent views of the city. The large manicured grounds provide a nice outdoor space to relax after touring the city, and also feature gas grills and a large outdoor pool. You'll be impressed by the friendly staff from the minute you walk in the door. They will provide city guides for you and offer 24-hour concierge services. Westpoint Executive Suites is within walking distance of the Gautrain station, Nelson Mandela Square, and Sandton City.
Monarch Hotel
One of the top luxury hotels in Johannesburg is the five-star Monarch Hotel in Rosebank. Located in a historic post office building, the Monarch has modern amenities while maintaining its old-world charm. The lobby, bedrooms, and bathrooms are elegantly decorated with classic styles that will make you feel warm and welcome. Monarch's elegant restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner using only fresh ingredients with a seasonal menu. Concierge services are available 24 hours a day. Monarch is close to Gautrain, the sprawling Rosebank Mall, and Planet Fitness.
Bars and Restaurants
San Deck Restaurant
If you're looking for a great spot to enjoy a sundowner in Sandton or even a full steak meal to go with your sunset try the San Deck Restauraunt a top the Sandton Sun. This trendy bar & restaurant features a great outdoor patio area to take in the views of the surrounding skyline. Their deck has three fire pits, dining tables and lounge seating. Live music and DJs provide the entertainment, and the wait staff is very courteous. The menu features international fusion cuisine, made up of steaks, seafood, and pastas. An enormous wine list is available to compliment your meal. The San Deck is open daily from 9AM to 11:30PM.
The Local Grill
The Local Grill is where people go to experience Johannesburg's best steaks, and at moderate prices. They're not just all about steaks though; their menu is full of great barbecue and seafood platters, including gluten-free options. The Local Grill is teamed up with local butchers and provides authentic farm-to-table cuisine. Reservations are available as is outdoor seating. The Local Grill is located in Parktown North and is open daily from noon until 10PM.
Clico Restaurant
When you're looking for that extraordinary place to celebrate a special occasion, try Clico Restaurant in Rosebank. This restaurant is open and bright but provides a very intimate experience for those celebrating an anniversary or birthday. Clico's menu is made up of European fare, using only local, fresh ingredients, and as such the menu changes seasonally. Clico offers everything from casual breakfasts & lunches to elegant six-course dinners. Clico is open daily from 7AM to 10PM.
Nineteen 69 Pub and Grill
Nineteen 69 is a popular venue for those looking for a fun, casual pub experience with a local vibe. Nineteen 69 is open for lunch and dinner and has excellent happy hours, live music, and entertaining game nights. The menu is most definitely pub fare, with selections of burgers, nachos, wings, fish and chips, pizzas, and steaks. They are vegetarian-friendly also. Nineteen 69 has a wide selection of beers and full bar. Nineteen 69 is located in the Boskruin Village Shopping Center.
Things to do in Johannesburg in January
Orlando Towers
The old nuclear plant in Soweto has been transformed into what is called the "vertical adventure center" at Orlando Towers. These two old nuclear cooling towers decommissioned, of course have been turned into a canvas for painters and a home to BASE jumpers. BASE jumping is only available to those with experience, however, there are a number of other fun activities for everyone at Orlando Towers. Some of these activities include paintballing, bungee jumping and the world's highest SCAD freefall inside one of the towers. If you're not seeking that much adrenaline, you can still take in great views of Johannesburg from the top.
The Lion & Safari Park
You don't have to travel far outside of Johannesburg to experience Africa's "big five" lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and Cape buffalo. Gauteng's Lion & Safari Park is less than 45 minutes from central Johannesburg. The wilderness reserve gives visitors an intimate experience with these animals, providing education about their lives and conservation efforts. You can make your own self-guided drive through the park, or hire a guide for night time tours, cub interactions, and mini safari tours. Entrance is free; you only pay for the activities you choose to do. The park opens every day of the year at 8AM and closes at 8PM on weekends and 6PM weekdays.
Gold Reef City
The kids and the young at heart will enjoy spending a day at Gold Reef City. This large complex, modeled after an old mining town, is full of fun activities for everyone. Gold Reef City has a large amusement park with everything from thrilling coaster rides to children's games, gold panning, and museums. Entertainment venues provide live music and shows, and the casino has a large number of games to help you lose the time. A variety of restaurants are spread out throughout the property for when you get hungry. Gold Reef City is located south of Johannesburg proper and is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9:30AM to 5PM.
Lesedi Cultural Village
Experience the rich culture of African tribes by visiting the Lesedi Cultural Village, 45 minutes north of Johannesburg. The massive grounds provide walking tours through wildlife and homesteads of five different tribes. During your tour you'll be able to experience traditional African cuisine in their restaurants, explore museums, and interact with the local peoples to see how they live and work. You'll also be able to witness traditional dances, drumming, and singing in intimate courtyard settings. Hotel rooms are also available for those wishing to stay there.
