Bloemfontein
ISO3: ZAF
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I have not visited ❌
Time Zone: Africa/Johannesburg
"Bloemfontein, die stad van rose | Bloemfontein, the city of roses"
-29.1194° S, 26.2140° E
About:
Bloemfontein, founded in 1846, is one of South Africa's three capital cities and the judicial capital. The British annexed it in 1848, but it was returned to the Boer Republic in 1854. It was the site of the Bloemfontein Conference in 1899, which failed to prevent the Second Boer War. Bloemfontein became part of the Union of South Africa in 1910. Today, it's a cultural hub and economic center, hosting several institutions of higher learning and serving as a gateway to the country's interior.
When to visit:
Bloemfontein, the judicial capital of South Africa, experiences a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Bloemfontein on holiday is during the spring months of September to November or the autumn months of March to May. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Visitors can also enjoy popular events such as the Free State Arts Festival in July or the Bloemfontein Rose Festival in October.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Bloemfontein, South Africa on a holiday is during the peak of the summer season, which typically falls between December and February. During these months, Bloemfontein experiences scorching temperatures with little to no rainfall, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. Additionally, the city becomes crowded with tourists, leading to higher prices and limited availability of accommodations and attractions. Travelers seeking a more enjoyable experience may want to consider visiting during the cooler months of autumn or spring when the weather is milder and the city is less congested.
Winter (June-August)
In Bloemfontein, South Africa, the warmest part of the year typically spans from November to March, during the Southern Hemisphere's summer season. The average high temperatures during this period range from 28°C to 31°C (82°F to 88°F), while the lows range from 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F).
Rainfall is relatively high during these months, with December and January being the wettest months, averaging around 85mm and 75mm respectively. This is due to the summer rainfall pattern that characterizes this region.
Sunlight is abundant during the warmest part of the year, with an average of 8 to 9 hours of sunshine per day. However, the high temperatures and rainfall also contribute to relatively high humidity, which can reach up to 60-70%.
Cloudiness varies but is generally moderate, with partly cloudy to mostly sunny days. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoons, which can temporarily increase cloudiness.
For a visitor, a typical day during this period would start off warm and sunny, with temperatures gradually rising towards the afternoon. The heat can feel quite intense due to the high humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, providing a respite from the heat, but they can also cause sudden changes in weather conditions. The evenings are generally mild and pleasant. Despite the heat and humidity, this is a vibrant time to visit Bloemfontein, with lush green landscapes and dramatic afternoon skies.
"Summer (December–February)"
In Bloemfontein, South Africa, the warmest part of the year typically spans from November to March, during the Southern Hemisphere's summer season. The average high temperatures during this period range from 28°C to 31°C (82°F to 88°F), while the lows range from 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F).
Rainfall is relatively high during these months, with December and January being the wettest months, averaging around 85mm and 75mm respectively. This is due to the summer rainfall pattern that characterizes this region.
Sunlight is abundant during the warmest part of the year, with an average of 8 to 9 hours of sunshine per day. However, the high temperatures and rainfall also contribute to relatively high humidity, which can reach up to 60-70%.
Cloudiness varies but is generally moderate, with partly cloudy to mostly sunny days. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoons, which can temporarily increase cloudiness.
For a visitor, a typical day during this period would start off warm and sunny, with temperatures gradually rising towards the afternoon. The heat can feel quite intense due to the high humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, providing a respite from the heat, but they can also cause sudden changes in weather conditions. The evenings are generally mild and pleasant. Despite the heat and humidity, this is a vibrant time to visit Bloemfontein, with lush green landscapes and dramatic afternoon skies.
Language:
afrikaans
Bloemfontein, South Africa, is a multilingual city with a diverse linguistic landscape. The most commonly spoken language is Sotho, followed by Afrikaans. English is also widely spoken and is often used in business and government. Other languages spoken include Xhosa and Zulu. The city's linguistic diversity is a reflection of South Africa's multicultural society.