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

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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

Contents

When to go to Somerset West, South Africa

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

What to wear/what to pack for Somerset West, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Somerset West is mild. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains once in a while.

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 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 Somerset West 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

If you go to Somerset West in February, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 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 protection, 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 Somerset West 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

Traveling to Somerset West in March, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 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.

  • Emergency phone

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive 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 support pillow

    A good option is this one

April

April in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

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 Somerset West may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel 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 just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in Somerset West can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

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 repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you 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 Somerset West 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. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

June

June can be chilly. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost once in a while. It rains 5-10 days this month.

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 airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you 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 Somerset West may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large 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

July

If you are traveling to Somerset West in July, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you 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 Somerset West 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

August

August in this region is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost occasionally. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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 Somerset West may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

September

Traveling to Somerset West in September, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost sometimes.

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 Somerset West 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

October

October in Somerset West is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 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 constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Somerset West may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

Traveling to Somerset West in November, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain regularly. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Emergency phone

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you find the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • 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 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 nowadays, an AirTag can 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 Somerset West may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • 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. Be careful to pick the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

What to do in Somerset West, South Africa

Nestled in the heart of the Western Cape, Somerset West is a town which boasts not only stunning natural landscapes but also an array of cultural and historical attractions. From museums and galleries to nature reserves and vineyards, there are plenty of tourist attractions to keep visitors entertained in this charming town. Here are the top tourist attractions in Somerset West, South Africa.

1. Helderberg Nature Reserve

Situated at the foot of the Helderberg Mountains, the Helderberg Nature Reserve is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town. The reserve is home to a wide variety of vegetation, birdlife, and wildlife, with several hiking trails offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. Visitors can also take part in guided tours, bird-watching, and picnic activities.

2. Vergelegen Estate

Vergelegen Estate is a world-renowned wine estate and historical monument that dates back to 1700. The estate boasts not only a winery, but also beautifully manicured gardens, an art gallery, and a history museum. Visitors can enjoy a wine-tasting tour and cellar tour, as well as stroll around the stunning gardens and enjoy a meal at the estate's restaurant.

3. Lourensford Estate

Another world-renowned wine estate, Lourensford Estate offers visitors not only award-winning wines but also a range of outdoor activities. The estate boasts a beautiful art gallery, an indigenous nursery, and several hiking and mountain bike trails. There are also restaurants on the estate which serve a variety of cuisine, from traditional South African dishes to contemporary international cuisine.

4. Watershed Gallery and Art Centre

Located in the heart of Somerset West, the Watershed Gallery and Art Centre is a platform for local artists to showcase their work. The gallery features a range of works, from traditional paintings to contemporary sculptures, and hosts regular exhibitions and events. Visitors can also attend workshops and art classes at the centre.

5. Somerset Mall

For those looking for a more conventional tourist experience, the Somerset Mall is a great destination. The mall is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities, including a cinema and a bowling alley. The mall is also conveniently located for those looking to explore the town further, as it is situated close to many of the other attractions mentioned above.

In conclusion, Somerset West offers visitors a range of attractions, from beautiful natural landscapes to world-renowned wine estates and cultural centres. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a shopaholic, there is something for everyone in this charming town. Plan your visit to Somerset West now and discover the magic for yourself.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Kyaiktiyo, Myanmar, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, Mexico, Balsas, Maranhão, Brazil, Alcobaça, Portugal, Consett, England, United Kingdom, North Coast, Denmark, Bambari, Central African Republic, North Tonawanda, New York, United States of America, Eastern Netherlands, Netherlands, Petralia Sottana, Italy, and Lancaster, England, United Kingdom.