Colchester, situated along the Sundays River and just inland from the Eastern Cape coast, experiences a
moderate coastal climate influenced by nearby Algoa Bay. The area has
warm to hot summers,
mild winters, and
rainfall spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with a slight peak in autumn and spring.
Seasons:
- Summer: December to February
- Autumn: March to May
- Winter: June to August
- Spring: September to November
Monthly Weather Averages:
| Month |
Average Temperature (°C) |
Average Rainfall (mm) |
| January |
24°C |
46mm |
| February |
24°C |
52mm |
| March |
22°C |
59mm |
| April |
20°C |
66mm |
| May |
18°C |
61mm |
| June |
16°C |
52mm |
| July |
15°C |
47mm |
| August |
16°C |
53mm |
| September |
17°C |
49mm |
| October |
19°C |
48mm |
| November |
21°C |
45mm |
| December |
23°C |
44mm |
Annual Overview:
Summer (December to February)Colchester’s summers are
warm to hot, with daytime highs often reaching
28–32°C and nights cooling to around 18°C. Humidity is moderate, and the coastal breeze from Algoa Bay helps keep conditions comfortable. It’s an ideal time for river cruises, beach visits, and Addo safaris.
Autumn (March to May)The weather remains pleasantly warm, with averages around
20–22°C. Light rain becomes more frequent, especially in April, keeping the landscape green. These months are perfect for exploring outdoor attractions without the summer heat.
Winter (June to August)Winters are
mild and dry, with daytime temperatures around
16°C and chilly nights dropping below 10°C. While rainfall decreases, mornings can be crisp with occasional fog along the river. Wildlife sightings in nearby Addo are excellent due to the cooler temperatures.
Spring (September to November)Spring brings a
steady warm-up, with daily highs between
20–25°C. Vegetation flourishes after winter, and rainfall remains moderate. It’s a beautiful time for nature activities, birdwatching, and outdoor adventures.
Climate Highlights
- Warmest Month: February (average 24°C; daytime highs around 31°C)
- Coolest Month: July (average 15°C; cooler nights near 7°C)
- Rainiest Period: March to May
- Best Weather For Visitors: September to April — warm, sunny, and ideal for both river and park activities.
Summary
Colchester enjoys a
pleasant semi-coastal climate year-round, with more inland warmth than nearby Port Elizabeth or Jeffreys Bay. Whether you’re boating on the Sundays River, exploring Addo Elephant Park, or relaxing outdoors, the area’s mild weather and sunshine make it an inviting destination in every season.
