Visiting Melozhori Private Game Reserve and not sure what to pack? Take a look at our suggestions for what to pack according to the season you’ll be visiting in. The climate of South Africa’s Western Cape is notoriously unpredictable, so guests need to be prepared for any and all eventualities.

Melozhori Private Game Reserve boasts a semi-arid climate with hot and dry summers and predominantly wet and cold winters. The months from November to February represent the highest temperatures of the year, with long, hot and dry days and warm cloudless nights. Summer is also the windiest time of the year. Expect an average high of 32°C and an average low of 15°C.

Opt for clothing that is light and breathable, but also items which offer protection from the unforgiving sun when you’re out exploring the region. Broad sun hats, protective sunglasses and a swimming costume are also essential items to bring along with you to the various accommodation options at Melozhori, all of which offer pools or hot tubs.

Winter in the Western Cape is the wettest time of the year, with most of the annual rain occuring between May and August. Melozhori Private Game Reserve lies in the picturesque Cape Fold Mountains, which makes for extremely low temperatures at this time of the year. With a high of 22°C and a low of 6°C, it’s not unusual to see snow on the highest mountain peaks.

During winter, pack thick jackets, waterproof walking shoes, long-sleeved shirts, warm jerseys and clothing items which you can layer and remove as the day gets warmer. The lodge, cottage and eco-pods all feature indoor fireplaces, which are perfect to curl up beside on chilly winter evenings.

Spring and autumn are some of the finest months of the year to visit the Overberg region of the Western Cape. The days are typically sunny and mild, while the evenings are nippy but cosy if you’re indoors or around a firepit. Spring is a particularly stunning season at Melozhori, bringing forth astounding wild flower displays.

Make sure to bring along a combination of light, airy layers, windproof jackets and warmer clothing to cover all your bases. This is the perfect time of year for long walks in the reserve, so we suggest packing your favourite pair of hiking boots.

While we’re certain that the beautiful landscapes of Melohori will remain etched in your memory forever, you’ll definitely want to capture memories to share with family and friends back home. The variety of flora in the reserve combines with great wildlife viewing to create a setting rich in photographic opportunities. Remember your camera charger, memory cards and a spare battery!

Binoculars are essential for enhanced game viewing and bird watching, whether on a game drive or on a walk. Melozhori is home to over 30 species of wildlife and more than 120 species of birds. Take a look at our full species list here.

Melozhori Private Game Reserve is conveniently situated less than 200km from Cape Town, near Bonnievale. We offer three accommodations on the reserve: an expansive exclusive-use lodge, a self-catering cottage and two romantic Eco-Pods.

To find out more about the best time to visit at Melozhori and what to look forward to, keep an eye on our Facebook Page or regularly updated blog. If we’ve piqued your interest and you’d like to book a stay, feel free to do so online here.