Cameroon in May: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for May
Average temperature across Cameroon in May.
City Weather in May
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Douala | 31° | 23° | 272 mm | very high | Warm |
| Yaoundé | 29° | 20° | 224 mm | very high | Warm |
| Bamenda | 28° | 19° | 187 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Bafoussam | 28° | 18° | 192 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Maroua | 36° | 23° | 69 mm | extreme | Hot |
| Ngaoundéré | 28° | 17° | 182 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Kumba, Cameroon | 30° | 22° | 263 mm | very high | Warm |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Coastal Littoral & Southwest Lowlands (Douala, Kribi, Limbe)
May brings intense, near-daily tropical rains; Douala’s drainage can struggle and neighborhoods may see temporary flooding after prolonged storms. Kribi’s beaches still offer warm sea temperatures but stormy surf can make swimming risky and operators may suspend boat trips. For travel, prioritize flexible plans and choose well-built hotels with reliable power and water backup during the peak coastal rains.
Mount Cameroon Massif & Southwest Highlands (Buea, Mount Cameroon)
May kicks off one of the wettest stretches on the massif; persistent rain and fog reduce visibility at higher camps and increase risk of landslips on steep trails. Local guides commonly recommend postponing serious ascents until conditions improve-most commercial climbs are suspended or scaled back during heavy months. The surrounding rainforest is at its most alive, with roaring rivers and full falls, offering great short-day hikes rather than summit objectives.
Western Highlands (Bamenda, Bafoussam)
May brings regular heavy showers and overcast skies that keep daytime temperatures mild; the landscape is lush and agriculture is at peak growth. Bafoussam’s nearby cultural sites are atmospheric in the mist but expect slower travel times between villages. For photographers the cloud-covered hills are moody and vivid; walkers should add waterproof layers and gaiters to their kit.
Central Plateau & Capital Region (Yaoundé, Centre)
May continues the wet pattern and the countryside is vividly green; central markets bustle under cover while trafficking around the city can slow during prolonged storms. The rains refresh urban temperatures but increase humidity and insect presence-mosquito precautions are important. If travelling between Yaoundé and the coast or highlands, expect longer journey times and patchy sections of road.
Southern & Eastern Rainforest (Dja, Boumba Bek, Campo)
May continues the heavy-rain phase with near-daily showers; rivers like the Dja swell significantly and crossings may be limited to boats. The forest is lush and waterfalls dramatically full; for photographers the saturated greens and active fauna are compelling, though access to remote trails may be limited. Anticipate slower travel and fewer visitors, and choose lodges experienced with wet-season logistics.
Adamawa Plateau & Northern Cameroon (Ngaoundéré, Garoua, Maroua)
May often brings the first wet pulses to the Adamawa as convective storms start forming in the afternoons; these can be violent and brief, delivering welcome cooling and filling dry riverbeds. Road surfaces can soften quickly where clay soils are present, so 4x4 transport becomes advantageous for remote routes. This month is a turning point for farmers, with green shoots appearing across savannahs and plateaus.