Cape Town, South Africa

School holidays

South Africa ·

5 school breaks in South Africa during 2026. Longest is 32 days (Term 4 Holiday (Summer Break)).

School breaks

5

Total off-days

111

Longest break

32 d

Next break

In 21 days

Next school break

Term 2 Holiday (Winter Break)

Jun 27 – Jul 20 · 24 days

21

days away

All 2026 school breaks

5 total
ListCalendar
Dec13

Term 4 Holiday (Summer Break)

Dec 13 – Jan 13 · 32 days

32d
Mar28

Term 1 Holiday

Mar 28 – Apr 7 · 11 days

11d
Jun27

Term 2 Holiday (Winter Break)

Jun 27 – Jul 20 · 24 days

24d
Sep24

Term 3 Holiday (Spring Break)

Sep 24 – Oct 5 · 12 days

12d
Dec12

Term 4 Holiday (Summer Break)

Dec 12 – Jan 12 · 32 days

32d
✨

Plan your next school break getaway

Choose a domestic or international Beevago pick for each break — sized for a typical family trip.

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Public holidays in 2026

Affect closures and travel demand around school breaks.

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Jan1

New Year's Day

Mar21

Human Rights Day

Apr3

Good Friday

Apr6

Family Day

Apr27

Freedom Day

May1

Workers' Day

Jun16

Youth Day

Aug9

National Women's Day

Aug10

National Women's Day (Observed)

Showing 9 of 13. See full list →

Inspiration

Travel to South Africa

Guides and itineraries for popular destinations across South Africa.

Frequently asked questions

When are school holidays in South Africa 2026?
South Africa schools have 5 break periods throughout 2026. See the month-by-month timeline above for each break's start and end dates.
How many school breaks does South Africa have in 2026?
South Africa schools observe 5 break periods in 2026, including national holidays and seasonal breaks. Exact dates may vary by region or school zone.
Why do school holiday dates differ by region?
Many countries stagger school holidays across regions or zones to avoid simultaneous travel demand. France, the Netherlands, Germany, and others use this approach.
When is the best time to travel around school holidays?
Prices and crowds spike during school breaks. Traveling 1–2 weeks before or after a break — when other regions are still in school — typically offers better availability and lower prices.
Where does this calendar come from?
Data is sourced from the national education ministry of South Africa. See the source link below for the official publication.
RelatedPublic holidays 2026Long weekendsSouth Africa overview

School calendar dates published by national education ministries. Always confirm with your local school for the official calendar.