May is a transitional month in parts of the country: western and Kinshasa areas begin to see reduced rainfall while equatorial north and east can still be wet. Conditions improve for overland travel in the west.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
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Average temperature across Democratic Republic of the Congo in May.
Where to Go in Democratic Republic of the Congo in May
Lower Congo & Kinshasa
Western Lowlands
May still carries substantial rain, though showers can grow more intermittent late in the month as the wet season edges toward its end. The river often remains high enough to alter small-boat schedules, and Kinshasa’s drainage issues mean some districts will still experience localized flooding after a heavy cloudburst. For travelers this is a transition month: city life continues uninterrupted for the most part, but rural journeys can be bumpy and best done in sturdy transport.
Congo Basin Rainforest
Central & Northern Basin - Mbandaka, Kisangani, Equateur
May can still be quite wet but shows signs of easing toward the end of the month: forest streams remain high and the understory is dense. Boat travel may still be the most reliable way to reach some communities, and mosquitoes and other insects are abundant; daylight hours remain hazy and humid. Travelers who want quieter lodges and rich river scenery will appreciate the low visitor numbers, but be ready for logistical hiccups.
Eastern Highlands & Great Lakes
Goma, Bukavu, Lake Kivu, Virunga, Kahuzi-Biéga
May often remains quite wet with persistent showers, though the intensity can vary day-to-day across the different volcano flanks. Lake Kivu’s surface is rippled by wind-driven squalls and boat operators sometimes limit cross-lake services; photos will be dramatic but hiking strenuous. If you must visit this month, bring heavy-duty waterproofs, halo lighting for early starts, and plan shorter treks rather than long multi-day mountain routes.
Ituri & Northeastern Savannas
Bunia, Dungu, Garamba
May frequently sustains wet conditions across the region with persistent showers and high humidity; game-viewing becomes focused around permanent water sources and riverine corridors. The Ituri Forest takes on a super-green quality and waterfalls increase, but roads remain vulnerable to washouts. If you go during May, plan shorter excursions, pre-book transfers with experienced operators, and carry insect protection.
Southern Plateau & Katanga
Lubumbashi, Kolwezi, Lake Mweru
May is a transition month with generally drier conditions emerging and the landscape still lush from the wet season; daytime temperatures are warm and nights begin to cool. Roads improve markedly, which benefits long drives between Lubumbashi and national parks or lakeshores. Travelers will find more predictable logistics and pleasant conditions for day hikes - bring a midlayer for cooler evenings.
Events & Festivals in May
There are no major festivals or events in Democratic Republic of the Congo during May to be aware of.
Planning a trip to Democratic Republic of the Congo?
See how May compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
