Malawi in May: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Northern Highlands & Lake Shore (Karonga, Nyika, Mzuzu)

The first weeks of May bring fresh, dry air and noticeably cooler nights across the highlands - Nyika and Viphya are crisp in the early morning, 10-12 °C or lower on clear nights. Daytime on the lakeshore is pleasantly warm rather than oppressive, perfect for boat trips around Likoma or scrambling over rocky escarpments near Karonga. With the roads drying out, overland transfers to Mzuzu and onward treks become far more reliable.

Central Plateau & Lilongwe Area

May brings crisp mornings to the Central Plateau: temperatures fall, especially overnight, and daytime warmth is pleasant for exploring Lilongwe’s markets and the nearby Wildlife Centre. Dry roads and clearer skies make multi-day bus trips reliable again; the countryside begins to take on that dusty, end-of-rain-season look. Light layers for early mornings and insect repellent for dusk are sensible packing choices.

Lake Malawi Shore & Islands (Cape Maclear, Nkhata Bay, Likoma)

May sees noticeably clearer air and drier days along the lake, making island excursions to Likoma or Nkhotakota more reliable and pleasant. Nights begin to cool and mosquitoes decline relative to summer; beach camping becomes more comfortable. With smaller crowds than the high dry-season months, this window is sweet for diving, kayaking and quiet boat trips to remote bays.

Southern Highlands & Blantyre (Mulanje Massif, Thyolo, Zomba)

May brings crisp mornings and clear skies to the highlands - Mulanje’s ridges are fresh and green while nights are noticeably cooler, often needing a warm layer. This is an excellent time for multi-day climbs before the full winter chill; tea estate visits and short walks in Thyolo are comfortable and photogenic. Lodges are quieter than the peak dry-season months but services are fully operational.

Lower Shire Valley & Wildlife Corridor (Liwonde, Majete, Shire River)

May arrives with drier air and pleasant daytime warmth; night-time temperatures drop and mosquitoes become less intrusive, which is excellent for evening drives and canoe trips on calmer stretches of the Shire. Wildlife disperses increasingly across the landscape, although animals still gather at remaining permanent water sources making sightings reliable. Road transfers become far easier, and camps reopen fully after wet-season maintenance.