Mthatha, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Mthatha, South Africa? If you're planning to go to Mthatha, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Mthatha, South Africa

Based on the climate and weather in Mthatha, South Africa, the best time to go is May. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Mthatha, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Mthatha, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Mthatha, South Africa by month

January

If you go to Mthatha in January, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

February

February here is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the right type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

March

March in Mthatha is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

April

April in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to get the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

Traveling to Mthatha in May, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain once in a while. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

If you go to Mthatha in June, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

If you are traveling to Mthatha in July, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to find the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

August

If you are traveling to Mthatha in August, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you find the correct type. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

September

Traveling to Mthatha in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you get the right type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

October

If you go to Mthatha in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

November in this region is mild. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

December is warm. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Mthatha may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you find the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Mthatha, South Africa

Mthatha is a beautiful and historic city nestled in the hills of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is a popular destination for both local and international travelers thanks to its rich culture, warm hospitality, and unique attractions. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to explore in Mthatha.

Nelson Mandela Museum

The Nelson Mandela Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mthatha. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and legacy of the late Nelson Mandela. The museum is open every day of the week, and it offers a range of exhibits and displays that chronicle the life and work of this iconic leader. There are also guided tours of the museum available.

Mthatha Dam

The Mthatha Dam is a large and picturesque body of water that is popular with locals and tourists alike. It is a great place to go for a picnic, go fishing, or take a boat tour. The dam is surrounded by lush vegetation, and there are plenty of hiking trails nearby for those who want to explore the area further.

Mthatha Mall

The Mthatha Mall is a modern and well-equipped shopping center that is a favorite among locals and tourists. The mall offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a great place to spend a day or evening.

Bulungula

Bulungula is a unique and remote coastal village located a few hours outside of Mthatha. It is a paradise for nature lovers, offering stunning beaches, pristine forests, and a wide range of wildlife. Tourists can explore the village on foot or on bicycle, and there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and fishing in the sea.

Umtata Dam

The Umtata Dam is another must-visit attraction in Mthatha. It is a large and scenic reservoir that is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and fishing in the area, or simply relax and soak up the natural beauty of the surroundings.

In conclusion, Mthatha is a fantastic destination for travelers who are looking for a mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventure. With its rich heritage, warm hospitality, and stunning landscapes, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful city.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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