May

Africa

Botswana

May signals the start of the dry season, with cooler temperatures and steadily improving wildlife viewing. Landscapes remain green from recent rains, creating a beautiful backdrop. Visitor numbers are still relatively low, offering a balance of strong safari conditions, good value and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Zimbabwe

May is an excellent safari month, with dry conditions, clear skies and improving wildlife visibility. Animals begin to concentrate around water sources, enhancing sightings. Temperatures are comfortable, and visitor numbers remain moderate, making it a strong alternative to peak season.

Zambia

May marks the reopening of many camps as conditions dry out. Landscapes are still green and attractive, while wildlife viewing begins to improve. Rivers are full, and the overall experience feels fresh and vibrant, offering a great start to the safari season.

South Africa

May offers mild, stable weather and fewer tourists across much of the country. Safari conditions improve as vegetation thins, making wildlife easier to spot. It’s a calm, enjoyable time with good value and a wide range of experiences.

Namibia

May is one of Namibia’s prime months, with dry conditions, clear skies and excellent wildlife viewing. Temperatures are comfortable, and animals gather around water sources, particularly in Etosha. Visitor numbers remain manageable, creating a high-quality experience.

Kenya

May continues the green season, with lush landscapes, fewer tourists and attractive pricing. Wildlife remains good, though more dispersed, and birdlife is excellent. It’s a peaceful time to travel, particularly for those seeking value and scenic beauty.

Tanzania

May is still part of the green season, with fewer visitors and improving conditions as rains ease. Wildlife remains present, and landscapes are lush. It offers good value and a quieter safari experience before peak season begins.

Malawi

May is a strong month, with improving conditions, green landscapes and better wildlife viewing. Parks become more accessible, and Lake Malawi remains a highlight. Visitor numbers are low, making it a relaxed and rewarding time to visit.

Uganda

May sees improving trekking conditions as rains ease. Forests remain lush, and wildlife viewing strengthens. Visitor numbers are moderate, offering a good balance of accessibility and tranquillity.

Rwanda

May offers improving conditions for gorilla trekking, with fewer visitors and lush scenery. Trails become more manageable, and the overall experience remains highly rewarding.

Central African Republic

May is wetter, with more challenging access and less predictable wildlife viewing. Travel is still possible but requires flexibility and tolerance for conditions.

Chad

May is not ideal for travel due to increasing heat and access challenges. Wildlife viewing declines, and conditions become more difficult.

Zanzibar

May is still part of the rainy season but begins to improve towards the end of the month. Visitor numbers are low, and pricing is attractive, making it a good value option for flexible travellers.

Indian Ocean and Sub-continent

Mauritius

May sees the transition into cooler, drier conditions, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. It’s an excellent time for a relaxed beach holiday, with good conditions for swimming and exploring the island. Visitor numbers are lower, offering a quieter and good-value experience.

Seychelles

May offers excellent conditions, with gentle trade winds beginning to cool the islands. Seas remain calm on western shores, and visibility for snorkelling and diving is very good. It’s a peaceful and highly enjoyable time to visit, with balanced weather and fewer crowds.

Maldives

May marks the start of the southwest monsoon, bringing increased humidity and occasional rain. Showers are often short-lived, and there are still plenty of sunny periods. It’s a quieter time to visit, offering good value, though sea conditions can become less predictable.

Sri Lanka

May sees the southwest monsoon affecting the south and west coasts, bringing heavier rain. However, the east coast begins to come into season, offering good beach conditions. It’s a transitional month best suited to carefully planned itineraries.

India

May is hot across much of India, particularly in central and northern regions, but it remains one of the best months for wildlife viewing. Animals concentrate around water, making sightings frequent and often dramatic. Early morning and late afternoon safaris are particularly rewarding.

Bhutan

May continues the spring season, with lush landscapes and blooming flora. Conditions remain excellent for trekking, with warmer temperatures and clear mountain views. It’s a highly attractive time to visit before the summer rains begin.