July Packing List for Cape Town — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Thermal base layersEssential

  48°F lows and 62°F highs with wind on Table Mountain and the Atlantic coast require serious base insulation to stay warm during outdoor activities.

• Insulated waterproof jacketEssential

  11 rain days and gale-force winds make a high-quality waterproof and windproof shell critical for any time outdoors, especially on exposed ridges.

• Waterproof overpantsEssential

  Persistent rain and wind-driven showers on trails and at the waterfront require full leg protection to avoid getting soaked and chilled.

• Insulated waterproof hiking bootsEssential

  Muddy, icy-feeling trails in 48°F rain on Table Mountain and Cape Point demand boots that keep feet dry and warm with excellent traction.

• Warm, waterproof socksEssential

  Wet winter conditions on long hikes make quality socks that stay warm when damp essential for preventing cold feet and blisters.

• Warm beanie, scarf, gloves, and buffEssential

  Wind chill at 62°F (feeling much colder) on the mountain and coast can cause rapid heat loss; cover all exposed skin for safety on winter outings.

• Headlamp and emergency layerEssential

  Shortest days and frequent storms on Table Mountain mean you may finish hikes in low light or bad weather — safety gear is critical.

Clothing

• Thermal base layersEssential

  48°F lows and 62°F highs with wind on Table Mountain and the Atlantic coast require serious base insulation to stay warm during outdoor activities.

• Insulated waterproof jacketEssential

  11 rain days and gale-force winds make a high-quality waterproof and windproof shell critical for any time outdoors, especially on exposed ridges.

• Waterproof overpantsEssential

  Persistent rain and wind-driven showers on trails and at the waterfront require full leg protection to avoid getting soaked and chilled.

Footwear

• Insulated waterproof hiking bootsEssential

  Muddy, icy-feeling trails in 48°F rain on Table Mountain and Cape Point demand boots that keep feet dry and warm with excellent traction.

• Warm, waterproof socksEssential

  Wet winter conditions on long hikes make quality socks that stay warm when damp essential for preventing cold feet and blisters.

Accessories

• Warm beanie, scarf, gloves, and buffEssential

  Wind chill at 62°F (feeling much colder) on the mountain and coast can cause rapid heat loss; cover all exposed skin for safety on winter outings.

• Waterproof glovesRecommended

  Cold rain and wind on the Waterfront or during hikes make regular gloves useless; waterproof versions keep hands functional.

Gear

• Headlamp and emergency layerEssential

  Shortest days and frequent storms on Table Mountain mean you may finish hikes in low light or bad weather — safety gear is critical.

• Thermos with hot drinkRecommended

  Cold 48°F conditions and wind make a hot drink after a hike or at a viewpoint on the mountain a welcome comfort and helps maintain core temp.