The Free State, with it’s vast beauty, endures a fair amount of hardship due to it's hot, arid climate. Almost uniformly at about 1,300m above sea level, the Free State has weather typical of an interior plateau with summer rains, chilly winters and plenty of sunshine.

Its average summer temperature is +/- 23ºC and its average winter temperature is +/- 8ºC. January is the hottest month, with a temperature range of 15 - 32ºC, while June is the coldest, its range a cold 1ºC to a mild 17ºC. Bloemfontein receives an average rainfall of 500-600mm annually.

To the north of Bloemfontein lies the Vaal irrigation area nourishing the small assortment of farming towns below it. The east is entirely different with its winter blanketed by mountain snow and summers by the flourishing valleys. The west is warm and cold in equal measure, its inhabitants making use of the many man-made water recreation facilities to endure the heat as much as using heating facilities in winter’s low temperatures. The south brings hot, dry summer days and long, cold winter nights. This semi-desert area also brings fluctuations of temperature from day to night.

Carry travellers cheques rather than large amounts of cash. Do not countersign the cheques until you actually need to use them. Separate cash from credit cards. Make a note of your credit card numbers, the customer service numbers for issuing banks, etc. Put the note in a sealed envelope and ask the hotel front desk to keep it for you.

Plan your travel route beforehand, so that you don't get lost in a less-safe part of town. Where possible, rely on local residents for transport. If you get lost, look for a shop or other open business, and ask for help. Do not leave valuables in clear view of people on the side of the road. Articles such as cell phones and handbags left on seats are favoured targets of smash'n'grab thieves. While dining in public places, do not leave purses on chairs, under tables or on the backs of chairs.