Coldest Cities in South Africa

Top 100 cities ranked by coldest cities

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All Countries · South Africa

Coldest Cities — South Africa

1 Ficksburg 03 54°F

2 Phuthaditjhaba 03 55°F

3 James Calata 05 55°F

4 Molteno 05 55°F

5 Dordrecht 05 55°F

6 Lady Grey 05 55°F

7 Khowa 05 56°F

8 Villiersdorp 11 56°F

9 Dullstroom 07 56°F

10 Barkly East 05 56°F

11 Clarens 03 57°F

12 Memel 03 57°F

13 Oakglen 08 57°F

14 Fouriesburg 03 57°F

15 Vrede 03 57°F

16 Zoar 11 57°F

17 Steynsburg 05 57°F

18 Wakkerstroom 07 57°F

19 Bethlehem 03 57°F

20 Ladismith 11 58°F

21 Kestell 03 58°F

22 Indwe 05 58°F

23 Warden 03 58°F

24 Matatiele 02 58°F

25 Zastron 03 58°F

26 Tarkastad 05 58°F

27 Tweeling 03 58°F

28 Reitz 03 58°F

29 Perdekop 07 58°F

30 Mamafubedu 03 58°F

31 Colesberg 08 58°F

32 Harrismith 03 58°F

33 Sterkstroom 05 58°F

34 Hlohlolwane 03 58°F

35 Tshiame 03 58°F

36 Amersfoort 07 58°F

37 Daggakraal 07 58°F

38 Breyten 07 58°F

39 Cedarville 02 58°F

40 Ermelo 07 58°F

41 Bethal 07 58°F

42 Belfast 07 58°F

43 Morgenzon 07 58°F

44 Kokstad 02 58°F

45 Rouxville 03 58°F

46 Lothair 07 58°F

47 Burgersdorp 05 58°F

48 Victoria West 08 58°F

49 Ladybrand 03 58°F

50 Charlestown 02 59°F

51 Volksrust 07 59°F

52 Tweespruit 03 59°F

53 Thaba Nchu 03 59°F

54 Dewetsdorp 03 59°F

55 Murraysburg 11 59°F

56 Paul Roux 03 59°F

57 Mkhuhlu 07 59°F

58 Hazyview 07 59°F

59 Oakley 07 59°F

60 Hlanganani 07 59°F

61 Kumana 07 59°F

62 Sabie 07 59°F

63 Dwarsloop 09 59°F

64 Calcutta 07 59°F

65 Orinoco A 07 59°F

66 Mooi River 02 59°F

67 Thabakgolo 07 59°F

68 Madras A 07 59°F

69 Buyisonto 07 59°F

70 Maviljan A 07 59°F

71 Merry Pebble Stream 09 59°F

72 Marite 07 59°F

73 Shatale 07 59°F

74 Madyembeni 07 59°F

75 Mafemani 07 59°F

76 Standerton 07 59°F

77 Kriel 07 59°F

78 Carolina 07 59°F

79 Whittlesea 05 59°F

80 Machadodorp 07 59°F

81 Howick 02 59°F

82 Lidgetton 02 59°F

83 Uniondale 11 59°F

84 Reddersburg 03 59°F

85 Lindley 03 59°F

86 Mpophomeni 02 59°F

87 Trompsburg 03 59°F

88 Darling 11 59°F

89 Ugie 05 59°F

90 Malmesbury 11 59°F

91 Melkbosstrand 11 59°F

92 Atlantis 11 59°F

93 Mamre 11 59°F

94 Frankfort 03 59°F

95 Emgwenya 07 59°F

96 Wepener 03 60°F

97 Tlokoeng 05 60°F

98 Marquard 03 60°F

99 Maclear 05 60°F

100 Middelburg 05 60°F

The coldest cities in South Africa experience low average annual temperatures, with long winters and significant snowfall. Ficksburg has an average annual temperature of just 54°F.

Cold-climate cities often feature distinct four-season lifestyles with winter sports, fall foliage, and summer outdoor recreation. Many residents value the seasonal changes and outdoor activities that come with colder climates, including skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing.

Living in cold-climate cities typically means higher heating costs, the need for winter-ready vehicles and clothing, and seasonal challenges like snow removal. However, these cities often compensate with lower costs of living, less crowding, and strong community bonds forged through shared seasonal experiences.

Did You Know?

1. At 54°F average, Ficksburg experiences temperatures well below freezing for months each year.
2. Cold-climate cities often have underground walkway systems, enclosed skyways, or heated bus shelters to help residents navigate harsh winters.
3. Despite the cold, many of these cities rank high in quality of life due to strong economies, good schools, and vibrant cultural scenes.

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