The dry winter season begins with cool days and chilly nights - highland areas can be cold. Road conditions are generally at their best for 4x4 travel and outdoor activities.
User:Kentstander derivative work: Jjtkk CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Lesotho in May.
Maseru, Mafeteng
The summer rainy season is underway by early December: hot, humid afternoons are punctuated by late-day thunderstorms. Urban streets in Maseru can flood briefly after a cloudburst, slowing traffic; plan city walks for the morning or late afternoon. Expect lush green hillsides and busy weekend traffic as Basotho families travel to cooler mountain areas.
Leribe, Butha-Buthe, Maputsoe
Midsummer brings humid heat and frequent convective storms, with temperatures in sheltered spots rising into the mid-20s°C. Flooding is rare compared with highland catchments, but heavy rains can make rural fords and tracks impassable for a few hours. Local guesthouses in Hlotse and Maputsoe offer shaded verandas; nights are generally comfortable but muggy.
Thaba-Tseka, Mohale’s Hoek
Midsummer keeps the foothills warm and wet with frequent afternoon downpours; visibility can be poor in driving storms that sweep up the escarpment. Rivers are full and waterfalls flow strongly - a great time to photograph cascades near Linakeng. Travelers should expect slower travel times and occasional detours when gully crossings are swollen.
Mokhotlong, Thabana Ntlenyana, Sani Pass, Afriski
By early summer the highlands are lush and cool, with afternoon thunderstorms that sometimes come on with little warning; Mokhotlong’s guesthouses are lively with hikers taking advantage of the longer daylight. River crossings can be hazardous during heavy rain so keep to marked routes and consult local guides. Temperatures are mild compared with lowland heat - ideal for strenuous trekking if you like cooler climate.
Qacha’s Nek, Sehlabathebe National Park
Spring brings a fresh green to the high plateau and migratory birds begin to return; sunny days make exploring the sandy tracks and stone outcrops pleasant. However, sudden afternoon showers can still appear, so keep rain layers handy. This is a lovely time for botanists and birdwatchers as endemic plants begin to flower and the park is quieter than in high season.
There are no major festivals or events in Lesotho during May to be aware of.
See how May compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.