Botswana, Congo [The Democratic Republic of the], Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe.
Vagrant to Congo, Gabon, Lesotho, Malawi, Zambia.
Breeds Namibia, Zimbabwe, South Africa (Eastern, Free State and eastern Cape Provinces, also north-western KwaZulu-Natal); migrates north to south-eastern PRCongo and western DRCongo.
 
Population
Estimated population is unknown (2010).
South African Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon) [XC402343]
by Rapha\u00ebl Nussbaumer from Shoongezight Cliffswallow colony, Jagersfontein rd, BloemfonteinFree State, South Africa (call)
South African Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon spilodera) [XC611981]
by Dawie de Swardt from City of Matlosana (near Klerksdorp), Southern DC, North West, South Africa (call, flight call)
Subspecies
No subspecies.
Genus often merged with Hirundo, but DNA studies support retention of separate taxa. Forms a superspecies with Red Sea Swallow (Petrochelidon perdita). Sometimes considered conspecific with Red-throated Swallow (Petrochelidon rufigula).