Clothes for South Africa

[Ameliarose16]

Im going to South Africa in October and have no idea what to pack. We'll be in Cape Town then Hermanus then the wine region then safari so a lot of different things. Has anyone done anything similar at that sort of time? any advice on clothing options would be greatly appreciated!x

Can be very variable at that time of year, was in Hermanus, Franschhoek and Cape Town in early November last year and it varied from hot and sunny (but windy) in Cape Town to wet and cool (2 out of 3 days in Hermanus). Definitely suncream and a hat required, plus waterproof jacket and maybe a lightweight down jacket (Decathlon etc) in case it's cooler in evenings (can also be used in it's stuff sack as a pillow on the plane).

Would recommend the Wine Tram in Franschhoek and Wine Hoppers in Hermanus - the latter goes to the nearby Hemel & Aarde (Heaven and Earth) valley which is beautiful - was very impressed with the quality of the wines as well as the scenery. www.hermanuswinehoppers.co.za/

In Franschhoek this restaurant was excellent - ostrich fillet and a stunning view of the valley - book in advance for a dinner table for half an hour or so before sunset. www.rocarestaurant.co.za/our-menu/ala-carte/ You can get there by Uber (it's up a steep hill) from the village and Uber is also a great way to get around Cape Town as is the red hop off hop on bus (goes to Table Mountain, Botanic Gardens, Camps Bay etc).

We went at Easter which I imagine is similar weather wise. I found things like dresses I could wear on their own or add leggings to if a bit cooler and things I could layer/ light trousers that I could roll up to a cropped length were good. Enjoy it's a beautiful part of the world!

Thank you both! Thank you for the restaurant suggestions we haven't got anything booked in Frans yet so will deff have a look! So exciting!xx

Booked that restaurant looks great! Thanks again xx

Could be anything in terms of weather as PP has said. I would bring summer clothing plus one warm yet light jacket. Book the cable car for Table Mountain ahead. I recommend Fisherman's Cottage in Hermanus for food and also sea kayaking there.

Yes, would second the rec for Fisherman's Cottage in Hermanus for fish/seafood. Also Char’d Grill in Hermanus was good if you like steak.

Thank you both. Ok didn't think of the cable car thanks! Fishermans Cottage looks great will get that booked too! Love a recommendation! will check out Char'd thank you x

For wildlife expeditions most people tend to wear natural colours (although it won't matter one bit since you'll be inside a vehicle). Night game drives are chilly so bring a fleece and scarf.

I went at the same time and you will need lots of layers for game drives as temperatures will probably drop to single figures at night and the jeeps usually have no windows and when they are driving them at 30mph it's pretty chilly. Recommend hat and gloves plus several layers. I had a vest top, top, lightweight fleece, fleece jacket I bought from the lodge's shop and a waterproof jacket and was still cold. They usually have blankets in the vehicles as well but don't underestimate how cold you can get if you are out for 3 hours.