Africa in May: When/Where to Go, Things to Do & Weather
May is an opportune time to visit southern Africa, as it signifies the onset of the dry season and shoulder season, providing favourable weather, excellent animal observation, and maybe reduced costs. Nevertheless, East Africa’s rainy season occurs in May, rendering it less suitable for safaris.
The onset of May in the northern hemisphere heralds the extended, warm, and occasionally bright days of summer. Conversely, south of the equator, circumstances are progressing in an opposing direction. The days are diminishing in length, and chairs are being positioned nearer to the bonfire. Africa’s colder temperatures align with drier conditions as summer’s abundant rain clouds dissipate and give way to winter’s clear blue sky. After experiencing significant rainfall during the summer, Southern Africa’s premier safari destinations—Kruger National Park, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia—are rapidly undergoing desiccation.
Game viewing is increasingly accessible when the abundant summer foliage diminishes and large herds of zebra, elephant, and buffalo migrate from rainy-season grazing grounds to dry-season wetlands, with their laggards drawing the interest of predators. A significant portion of South Africa enjoys some of the year’s most favourable weather, and the idyllic Indian Ocean islands are among the premier destinations to explore in May. Given that May is a ‘shoulder season‘ month, offering a favourable blend of near-peak conditions without the low-season drawbacks, tourists to Africa will enjoy increased accommodation availability and the absence of high-season crowds. Africa has historically been one of the premier destinations to visit in May.
The weather is nearly ideal in some locations, and its designation as a ‘shoulder season’ provides the benefits of peak season while mitigating the drawbacks of low season. This period signifies the commencement of optimal game viewing in Southern Africa (June to October), allowing you to come before the influx of tourists and the subsequent price increases. Without further delay, here are our top destinations to explore in Africa during May.
Africa in May: Things to Do & Destinations
1. Botswana
My Trip to Botswana | Safari in Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park
Botswana is an exceptional location from May to October, particularly renowned as one of the premier destinations to visit in Africa during May. The weather is exquisite—warm, bright days and pleasant nights with a slight chill render it an ideal month to explore Africa’s premier safari location.
The verdant pastures of summer have concluded, and animals brace for the arid and scarce winter. On the Kalahari grasslands, clouds of dust herald the arrival of congregated zebra herds—quarreling and tossing their manes—as they go towards the winter marshes to the north. The initial large herds of elephants begin to emerge in the Chobe River and Linyanti districts, foreshadowing the thousands that will arrive during the peak of the dry season.
A concurrent process is occurring: the Okavango Delta is gradually and consistently inundating its arid southern extremities. It is a peculiar phenomenon of nature: although much of Botswana desiccates during winter, its largest wetland – the world’s most extensive inland delta – receives billions of litres of pristine freshwater cascading from the remote Angolan mountains. You can even advance ahead of the encroaching water as it gradually descends along parched, hoof-marked pathways. Expansive, glistening floodplains emerge when transient rivers and lakes gradually accumulate water. One may envision the destination of all the creatures.
Optimal suggestion: integrate your Botswana safari with several days at Victoria Falls. This colossal waterfall has recently concluded its peak flow months (March and April), allowing for unobstructed views beyond the spray. This is a simple safari itinerary featuring some of the premier destinations to explore in May.
2. South Africa
Garden Route & Eastern Cape
GARDEN ROUTE, SOUTH AFRICA: On A Garden Route Road Trip (+ Travel Tips)
The amalgamation of South Africa’s idyllic Garden Route with the wildlife reserves of the Eastern Cape offers a distinctive safari and beach trip, making them among the premier destinations to explore in May. This seaside location is perfect for both self-drive adventures and guided tours, offering a harmonious blend of landscape, experience, and leisure.
Commence in Cape Town. What is the reason for this? May presents temperate and sunny conditions in the Mother City, allowing for the exploration of Table Mountain and the spectacular Cape Winelands within a few leisurely days. Subsequently, activate cruise mode and explore the Garden Route along the Western Cape’s scenic and pristine Indian Ocean coastline. There are exquisite cliff-top hotels, family villas, and romantic retreats available, with activities including golf and dolphin observation.
Subsequently, the situation becomes intriguing. The wilderness resonates in the expansive valleys of the Eastern Cape, a region abundant in large game, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. Residing at one of the distinguished private reserves positions you advantageously for game observation, and given that the entire area is devoid of malaria, you may relish the excitement of Big 5 game viewing without health concerns – it is an ideal destination in May for families with young children.
Optimal advice: integrate your Garden Route and Eastern Cape vacation with additional safari experiences at malaria-free Madikwe, which is ideal for families, or explore the epitome of luxury safari by spending several days in the private game reserves adjacent to Kruger National Park.
KwaZulu-Natal
Regarding the amalgamation of beach and safari experiences, how about elevating it to a sub-tropical dimension? South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal region is sometimes disregarded by international tourists travelling to Cape Town and the Kruger, however KZN, as it is colloquially referred to, boasts game reserves teeming with the Big Five, and its golden, palm-fringed beaches offer tropical sanctuaries comparable to the finest in the world. It is undoubtedly a location that should not be disregarded while determining travel plans for May.
The rainy season is characterised by heat and humidity; however, May presents pleasant, dry weather, making it an ideal period to explore the attractions of KwaZulu-Natal. Historic military sites to explore, rural alleys to meander, and magnificent mountain vistas await. Private game reserves such as Phinda, Thanda, and uMkhuzi have garnered international acclaim for its diverse and enriching wildlife observation, in addition to exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Experience day and night game drives and guided walks, offering a wildlife encounter that is enticing for both seasoned safari enthusiasts and novices.
Optimal advice: integrate your KwaZulu-Natal vacation with an opulent train expedition. Rovos Rail exemplifies sophistication, refinement, and grace, making it an ideal choice for commemorating a honeymoon or anniversary.
3. Mozambique
Mozambique Travel Guide: Tofo, Vilanculos & Bazaruto Archipelago (Diving & Beaches!)
The Bazaruto and The Bazaruto are exquisite in May. The cyclone season has concluded, as has the intense heat of mid-summer. As cooler and calmer weather arrives, underwater conditions enhance, resulting in improved visibility—rendering these locations among the most favourable for divers and snorkelers in May. Bazaruto features larger, established resorts among smaller boutique retreats, whilst the Quirimbas offers a more exclusive, private-island experience. Both options are equally appropriate for families or couples and can be seamlessly integrated with a safari in Southern or East Africa.
4. The Seychelles
SEYCHELLES – ULTIMATE 10-DAY TRAVEL ITINERARY (TRAVEL GUIDE) – MAHÉ, PRASLIN, LA DIGUE
May in the Seychelles is an exceptional month, effortlessly fulfilling multiple criteria. Underwater visibility is outstanding, reaching an impressive 30 meters or over 100 feet, with warm and predominantly dry weather conditions. This idyllic island boasts some of Africa’s finest beaches, featuring a collection of acclaimed resorts and elegantly designed villas. A holiday in Seychelles provides an opportunity to experience your tropical island dream in unparalleled, world-class luxury. It is a destination for an amazing honeymoon in May.
Optimal recommendation: for a regal holiday experience, merge a safari in the private game reserves of Kruger with a magnificent conclusion in the Seychelles.