May in East Africa presents emerald grasslands that stretch to the horizon and dramatic storm clouds that paint the sky in spectacular hues. While most travellers are hesitant to travel in May due to concerns about the long rains, with expert guidance and the right destinations, May can be a great time for your African adventure.
While other months draw the crowds, May rewards the savvy traveller with lush landscapes, incredible wildlife viewing, and a more intimate safari experience. The seasonal rains have transformed the wilderness into a verdant paradise, creating some of the most photogenic backdrops you’ll find all year.
Why Go on Safari in May?
May can yield epic moments for safari enthusiasts. As the region transitions from the long rains, travellers are treated to a unique combination of advantages that make this shoulder season particularly rewarding.
The landscape comes alive with vibrant greens and blooming flora, creating a stunning contrast to the golden hues typically associated with African safaris. Mild daytime temperatures provide comfortable game-viewing conditions, while refreshing afternoon showers clear the air and create the magical post-rain light that photographers dream of.
Perhaps most appealing is the solitude. With fewer vehicles on game drives and more intimate encounters with wildlife, May offers the exclusive safari experience that discerning travellers seek. Add to this the attractive green season pricing, and May becomes an exceptional value proposition for those in the know.
What to Expect on Safari in May in East Africa
May marks the transition from the long rains in East Africa, offering a beautiful and rewarding time to explore with the right planning. Here’s what travellers can look forward to:
Weather
Mild daytime temperatures, refreshing rain showers, and lush, green landscapes create pleasant conditions for wildlife viewing. The air is crisp and clear after the rains, with comfortable temperatures rarely exceeding 25°C (77°F) during the day.
Wildlife
The central and western Serengeti welcome the herds of the Great Migration as they head back north. At the same time, destinations like Laikipia and northern Kenya offer excellent wildlife viewing with minimal impact from rainfall. This is the time when predator-prey interactions intensify as animals move across the landscape.
Crowd Levels
Safari destinations remain blissfully quieter, offering a more exclusive and personal experience. Game drives feel more intimate, and popular viewpoints aren’t crowded with vehicles competing for the best angles.
Photography
Dramatic skies, crystal-clear post-rain light, and vibrant backdrops create incredible opportunities for capturing that perfect shot. The contrast between storm clouds and golden grasslands produces some of the most striking safari photography conditions of the year.
Clothing Tips
Pack light waterproof layers, neutral-toned clothing, and versatile pieces for changing conditions. A light rain jacket and quick-dry fabrics will keep you comfortable during brief afternoon showers.
Value & Pricing
May falls within the “green season,” often featuring more attractive rates than peak months. This means you’re more likely to secure your first pick of accommodation due to the lower demand, and it’s highly likely that there may even be a special offer available as it’s a quieter time of year.
Birdwatching
Excellent conditions for spotting a wide variety of migratory birds and diverse species. The abundance of insects following the rains attracts a spectacular array of birdlife, making May ideal for both casual observers and serious birders.
Scenery & Atmosphere
Fresh vegetation, blooming flora, and unique storm-light atmospheres create an almost mystical safari setting. The landscape feels renewed and vibrant, offering a completely different perspective on Africa’s wilderness.
Relaxed Pace
Fewer vehicles mean slower, more contemplative game drives where you can truly connect with the wilderness. Guides have more flexibility to follow interesting animal behaviour without competing for viewing positions.
Conservation Benefits
Shoulder season travel supports local communities and conservation efforts when tourism revenue is typically lower, making your visit more impactful for wildlife protection initiatives.
Best Safari Destinations in May
Central Serengeti, Tanzania
During May, the herds of the Migration are heading back north via the central Serengeti, and can usually be seen around the Moru Kopjes and Seronera areas. During this time, travellers can witness massive columns of wildebeest, often stretching for kilometres, as they migrate northward. Although the calving season is over, there’s still plenty of predator activity as big cats closely follow the herds.
The varied landscape of the Serengeti – from rocky outcrops to open plains – is excellent for wildlife viewing. A stay at Namiri Plains yields incredible cat sightings and plains game, year-round, but during May, there’s a distinct feeling of adventure as you navigate lush vegetation and far fewer tourists.
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
An excellent year-round destination, the Ngorongoro Crater’s unique ecosystem supports high wildlife numbers, with lions, elephants, black rhinos, and countless other species thriving in this volcanic amphitheatre. May in the crater brings special rewards through lush landscapes and reduced visitor numbers.
May’s green season transforms the crater floor into a botanical wonderland, with wildflowers blooming and the landscape taking on an almost Eden-like quality. The Highlands offers magical views over this rolling volcanic landscape, draped in verdant shades.
Laikipia, Kenya
May falls within Kenya’s long rainy season. While Laikipia receives rainfall during this period, its higher elevation and varied topography mean that conditions are generally more favourable than in lower-lying areas. Intermittent showers create lush, green landscapes while maintaining good wildlife viewing opportunities between rains. Encounters with endangered species, such as Grevy’s zebras, African wild dogs, and both black and white rhinos, are what make this region stand out.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is just one example of the region’s commitment to conservation and community involvement, which adds meaningful context to your adventures while staying at Ol Pejeta Bush Camp. For travellers who don’t mind the occasional rain shower, May offers excellent value and exclusivity.
Tarangire, Tanzania
By mid-May, the long rains have typically subsided in Tarangire National Park, leaving behind a lush, green paradise that’s perfect for photography enthusiasts. The park is renowned for its iconic baobab trees and impressive elephant populations, and May offers a unique opportunity to experience this landscape at its most vibrant. Clear, dust-free air following the rains creates exceptional photographic conditions.
While staying at Oliver’s Camp, travellers can enjoy outstanding birdwatching, with both resident and migratory species taking advantage of the lush conditions.
Mara Naboisho Conservancy, Kenya
Ideal for travellers seeking an exclusive Maasai Mara experience without the crowds, Mara Naboisho Conservancy in May is an exceptional choice. May falls within the green season, bringing lush landscapes, exceptional birdwatching opportunities, and significantly lower rates.
Naboisho Camp provides the ideal base from which to explore the conservancy’s rolling hills, acacia woodlands, and expansive grasslands, which support a diverse array of wildlife year-round. Species include large prides of lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants and the rare African wild dog. Unlike the national park, Naboisho permits night drives and walking safaris, providing the opportunity to spot nocturnal species that are rarely seen during daylight hours.
How Asilia Plans Your Safari for May
At Asilia, we understand that every traveller has unique preferences and expectations. Our expert team crafts tailor-made itineraries that maximise May’s seasonal advantages while aligning with your specific interests – whether that’s following the Great Migration, capturing incredible photographs, enjoying family-friendly adventures, or seeking complete wilderness solitude.
Our teams know exactly where to be and when, ensuring your May safari delivers exceptional experiences despite – or perhaps because of – the season’s unique characteristics.
We pride ourselves on creating meaningful connections between travellers and Africa’s wilderness, supporting local communities while providing unforgettable experiences that last a lifetime.
Ready to plan your May Safari Adventure?
Let Asilia help you choose the perfect destinations and craft a May safari journey you’ll treasure forever.
