May marks the start of the drier months across much of Angola; humidity decreases and days are sunnier, improving conditions for travel and outdoor activities. Coastal areas enjoy pleasant temperatures while inland nights can be cooler.
SeasonHigh SeasonTemperature 20-31°C (68-88°F)Crowds HighPrices High
High seasonShoulderLow season
Weather by City in May
CityLow / highRain
Luanda
Warm
22°30° 21 mm
Lubango
Cool
11°24° 6 mm
Huambo
Mild
12°26° 16 mm
Benguela
Warm
21°30° 4 mm
Cabinda
Warm
22°30° 56 mm
Talatona
Warm
22°30° 16 mm
Malanje
Mild
13°29° 20 mm
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Average temperature across Angola in May.
Where to Go in Angola in May
Northern Angola
Cabinda, Zaire, Uíge, Kwanza Norte fringe
By May the sustained dry spell arrives in most of the northern provinces, with mornings that are humid but afternoons noticeably drier and a lot more blue sky, especially around Uíge and M’Banza Kongo. This is the best window for overland travel and visiting market towns - roads firm up and small community-run trails open again. Travelers will find easier access to cultural sites and provincial airports; mosquitoes begin to recede but insect repellent is still recommended.
Luanda & the Atlantic Coast
Luanda to northern Benguela
May brings drier, more comfortable conditions along the coast - mornings are pleasantly warm and afternoons cooler from the ocean. This is a good month for beachtime on Ilha do Cabo and for coastal road trips to nearby fishing towns; crowds are thin and hotel rates are generally reasonable. Expect a steady breeze off the Atlantic and pack a light windbreaker for evenings.
Central Highlands
Huambo, Bié, Mount Moco and Lubango/Serra da Leba fringe
May brings a marked drying and much firmer roads across the highlands; daytime temperatures are mild and nights can be quite cool, especially above 1,500 m where frost is possible on rare cold snaps. This is one of the best windows for scenic drives (Serra da Leba road open) and multi-day treks before the winter chill deepens. Bring mid-weight clothing, a warm hat for dawn, and sturdy footwear.
Southern Coast & Namibe Desert
Namibe Province, Moçâmedes, Iona National Park
May brings noticeably cooler mornings on the coast and an easing of inland extremes; early-winter breezes make coastal walks more comfortable and evenings become distinctly cooler. The Namib’s mornings can produce photogenic sea fogs that lift to expose the desert; accommodation is less crowded, making it a convenient time for off-grid exploration. A warm jacket for evenings and good walking shoes are advisable.
Eastern Savannas & Borderlands
Cuando Cubango, Moxico, Lunda regions and national parks
May is a key transition: the bush begins to firm up noticeably and roads that were blocked reopen, making overland safaris and travel between provincial centers like Luanda and Menongue easier. Days are hot but less humid than in the wet season, and wildlife starts concentrating at remaining waterholes - a prime time for game-watching on foot and by vehicle. Bring layered clothing for cooler early mornings and insect repellent as residual mosquito activity can persist.
Events & Festivals in May
There are no major festivals or events in Angola during May to be aware of.
Planning a trip to Angola?
See how May compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
