Mpumalanga’s topography is a varied one, comprising of the Highveld (high lying) and the Lowveld (low lying) regions. Naturally, due to their altitudes and physical characteristics, these regions display different climates. This makes Mpumalanga an even more interesting place to visit at almost any time of year.
The Lowveld of this province enjoys a tropical climate that is hot and humid during summer, and temperate during winter. The annual rains occur mainly during the summer months. Between December and March, daily highs often reach well into the 30’s. Accompanied with the moisture in the air, this can become rather uncomfortable for those not accustomed to the heat. Winters are slightly drier (but not significantly so), with daily highs of about 20 to 22 degrees Celsius. The Lowveld includes the famous Kruger National Park.
The Highveld is more of a grassland escarpment area, complete with mountains and open plains. This means that its climate differs greatly from one place to the next. Summer rainfalls are consistent, and the daytime highs are, generally, a few degrees cooler than those of the Lowveld. In autumn and winter, noonday temperatures average a comfortable 19 or 20 degrees.
The humid conditions and high rainfall make Mpumalanga a particularly beautiful destination. It is green and lush with an abundance of fauna and flora; ranging from verdant forests to tumbling waterfalls. What to wear in Mpumalanga – The Mpumalanga Packing List:
What to Pack:
Summer (December to March):
Summers are hot and humid, even sticky at times. The wrong clothing can make one very uncomfortable, as a result. Pack items that are light and cool, and that allow the body to breathe. Protect the skin from the sun by wearing plenty of high-factor sunscreen, but one that does not clog the pores.
- Insect repellent (due to the moisture, mosquitoes may be rife in certain places)
- Swimming costumes
- A wide-brimmed hat, and protective sunglasses that will shield the eyes from the harmful rays of the sun (7)
- Cotton shorts, skirts, tops, t-shirts, and summer dresses (1, 3, 4)
- Comfortable walking shoes that will be suitable for climbing and walking, as there are so many gorgeous natural retreats to explore in Mpumalanga (5)
- An umbrella or very light raincoat for the summer rains (2)
Winter (June to August):
Winters are temperate and pleasant in Mpumalanga, and the rainfall less consistent than in the summer months. Mornings and evenings are cool or chilly, while the midday highs are comfortable.
- Jeans or similar weighted trousers, and long-sleeved shirts
- Warm fleece or wool jerseys or jackets that can be taken off as the day warms up a little
- A scarf or pashmina
- Warm boots and waterproof walking shoes
- An umbrella / raincoat
Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May):
Spring and autumn are very pleasant, even warm. It is best to dress in cool clothing and take along items that can be added and removed during the day in case of a chill.
- A pashmina is a great idea to handle the fluctuating temperatures
- Jeans (full or three-quarters are great)
- A short-sleeved top with a long-sleeved shirt or t-shirt over it
- Sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes
Planning your trip to Mpumalanga
We’ve selected a few pages that will useful for planning your holiday in Mpumalanga.
- Mpumalanga Attractions
- Weather and Climate
- Mpumalanga Hotels
- Mpumalanga Accommodation
- Things to Do & See in Mpumalanga
- Accommodation in South Africa
