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5. May in Tanzania shutterstock 231617179

Tanzania in May

May

It’s the last month of the long rains and even starting to dry up towards the end of May – Great Migration and other wildlife viewing is excellent in the Serengeti, and a lot of migratory birds may be seen.

  • Day time maximum temperature = 27°C
  • Night time minimum temperature = 16°C
  • Average rainfall = 70mm
  • Average daylight = 12 hours

What's the weather going to be like in Tanzania in May?

  • Afternoon downpours are the norm, particularly on the coast and islands
  • It’s the last month of the long rainy season, and the second half of May often has numerous dry days
  • There are high temperatures and high humidity
  • It’s very wet, so waterproofs are essential
  • Zanzibar sees the most and heaviest rainfall, which can continue for days on end

What are the highlights of visiting Tanzania in May?

  • There’s good availability of properties
  • Most properties offer discounts at this time of year, so it’s a good time to travel if you’re on a budget
  • There’s less dust in the air, as the ground is still damp
  • The Serengeti offers excellent game viewing, including around the Moru Kopjes area as the Great Migration herds pass through on their journey north
  • May is the end of the calving season, so there are still young animals about – and predators too
  • It’s a good month for keen birders, as many migratory bird species may be viewed
  • There are some exciting wildlife photography opportunities, especially in the Serengeti

Any lowlights?

  • Many camps and lodges are still closed
  • There’s a high chance of rain
  • Humidity levels are high, which means more mosquitoes
  • Wildlife is fairly spread out because of the abundance of water and vegetation
  • This is not the best time to visit Tarangire National Park, as most of the big game has left by May
  • It’s a risky time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, as rain, ice, mud, and fog are all likely this month.
  • May is not a good time of year to visit the Southern and Western parks

Recommended Safaris to Tanzania in May

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Tanzania Couple Safari (7N) - Classic

This exhilarating trip involves wildlife viewing in Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti! And all year round apart from July and August, your Serengeti accommodation offers 4 nights for the price of 3.

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  • "Just writing to express our great appreciation of Emma & the fabulous team at Yellow Zebra for their outstanding safari support during these crazy Covid challenging times. Late in 2019 we plotted & planned every safari detail with Emma for our 2020 Zambia Zimbabwe safari. With the pandemic raging..."

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