Madagascar in May

The north is noticeably drier by May, with many sunny mornings and more reliable sea crossings to islands like Nosy Komba; temperatures remain warm but less oppressive, often in the mid‑20s°C on shore. This is an excellent time for diving excursions from Nosy Be and for exploring Diego-Suarez’s bays before the main tourist influx; trails in the reserves firm up. Mosquito activity drops compared with the wet months, but topical repellent is still wise near mangroves.

As the east moves into May the frequency of heavy rain drops noticeably, revealing hotter spells between showers; Toamasina and coastal towns become easier to travel to. Rivers begin to clear and some trails firm up, making mid-May onward pleasant for trekking with fewer wet-day interruptions. Expect cooler nights in the highland fringes near Andasibe; layers and waterproof boots remain essential, while lowland malaria risk still calls for protection.

By May the central highlands are noticeably drier and cooler, with crisp mornings and pleasant daytime temperatures in Antananarivo often in the high-teens to low‑20s°C. This is an excellent window to explore the RN7 corridor to Isalo and Fianarantsoa; roads are generally reliable and guesthouses reopen fully after the rains. Nights get chilly-pack a warm layer for early mornings and evenings in higher-elevation towns like Antsirabe.

With May’s arrival the west is firmly in its dry season: dusty red roads, calmer seas, and excellent access to the Tsingy de Bemaraha (Bekopaka) when the ferry crossings are dependable. Temperatures are warm and comfortable, perfect for sunset visits to the baobabs near Morondava and for extended treks within the Tsingy canyons. Pack a hat and plenty of water; evenings can be pleasantly cool on the coast.

May is comfortably dry and warm across the south-perfect for exploring the spiny forests near Ifaty and the sandstone gorges of Isalo without the mud of summer. Coastal snorkeling and whale watching off the southwestern coast improve as seas calm and visibility rises. Travel here is easier with reliable road conditions and lodges fully operating; hydrate often and carry a sunhat for long exposed walks.

The islands are at their driest in May with warm, sunny days perfect for snorkelling, whale watching (starting seasonally further north) and cycling around Sainte‑Marie’s shoreline. Sea conditions are calmer and small-boat operators run more predictable schedules, making it a favorable month for island hopping. Expect fewer mosquitoes than the wet season and comfortable evenings-bring sunscreen and a light windbreaker for dusk.