East Africa in May: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Horn of Africa (Ethiopia’s lowlands, Somalia, Djibouti, Eritrea)

May typically records the strongest of the long rains across southern Somalia and the lowland plains of eastern Ethiopia, with intense, episodic storms and braided dry-wet spells that can make tracks impassable. Highland Ethiopia remains green but usually drier than the lowlands, which means northern pilgrimage routes and Addis traffic continue fairly normally. Travelers should expect cancelled internal flights in Somalia’s rainy zones and bring waterproof kit and insect protection - malaria risk rises where standing water collects.

Ethiopian Highlands & Rift (Addis Ababa, Lalibela, Simien, Bale)

May marks the build-up to the wettest months in the highlands: persistent afternoon rain showers and cloudy spells are common and can significantly disrupt remote trekking routes. Waterfalls and rivers are at their fullest, which is spectacular for photographers but makes river crossings and unbridged paths hazardous. Travelers should prioritize established lodges and guides familiar with swollen streams, and understand that some mountain passes may be temporarily impassable.

Kenya & Northern Tanzania Savannas (Nairobi, Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Amboseli, Kilimanjaro)

May still carries significant rain and lingering muddy conditions, though showers may start to ease late in the month; wildlife can be more dispersed as herbivores follow ephemeral grasses and water. Northern Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Highlands become very lush and cooler - excellent for crater visits between rains - but rough backcountry roads may be impassable. If you plan during this window, choose established lodges that can manage wet-season logistics and be prepared for itinerary flexibility.

Zanzibar & Tanzanian Coast (Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Archipelago, Pemba, Mafia)

May sees the long rains easing but occasional showers can linger, leaving the coast lush and cooler - this shoulder period can be pleasant for lower-cost travel if you’re flexible. Diving and snorkeling visibility begins to improve as the ocean calms and water clarity increases; beachside lodges are quieter and often negotiable for rates. Pack for humidity and intermittent rain, and verify pier schedules if island-hopping is part of your plan.

Uganda, Rwanda & Lake Victoria Basin (Kampala, Entebbe, Kigali, Bwindi, Lake Victoria)

May sees the long rains taper off gradually and the countryside remains very green and lush, but residual showers and soft, slippery trails are common into the month. Lake Victoria levels stay high and localized flooding can affect low-lying villages; still, wildlife in parks like Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls is active and birding is excellent. Travelers who accept muddy conditions can enjoy fewer crowds and dramatic landscapes.

Indian Ocean Islands (Seychelles, Comoros, Mauritius, Mayotte)

May often turns noticeably drier and more pleasant, particularly in Seychelles where trade winds re-establish and marine visibility recovers; Mauritius also cools and becomes more comfortable for land exploration. Beach and boat activity increase, with lower humidity and steadier seas making island-hopping easier. This is a good shoulder season to pick up deals before the winter influx of European tourists arrives.