South America in May: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Caribbean Coast & the Guianas (Venezuela’s northern coast, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana)

Downpours become heavier and more frequent; daytime temperatures remain steady in the high 20s while humidity keeps everything feeling warmer. River transport into hinterland lodges becomes more adventurous as tributaries swell-expect longer boat rides and possible schedule changes on the Essequibo and lower Orinoco. Urban sightseeing in Cayenne or Paramaribo is still practical if you plan museum or café stops around brief afternoon storms. Waterproof footwear and sealed bags for documents are essential.

Amazon Basin (Brazilian Amazon, eastern Peru, southern Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia)

The wet pulse remains strong but many river cruise itineraries continue; high water makes fish and bird viewing from boats exceptional, with daytime heat in the upper 20s to low 30s. Smaller trails may close but canopy platforms and river trips still offer close encounters with primates and parrots. Malaria and dengue risk is higher in wet months-confirm prevention measures and pack long-sleeve shirts for evenings.

Northeast Brazil & the Sertão (Coastal cities: Salvador, Recife, Fortaleza - interior drylands of the Sertão)

Shallow, localized showers start to become more common along parts of the coast, but daytime heat remains around 28-32°C and the beaches are still very attractive. Farther inland the sertão continues its long dry spell; rivers and reservoirs can be low so do not assume water availability on remote routes. This transition month is quieter for international tourism; lodgings are easier to book and locals appreciate visitors who travel responsibly in arid zones.

Southeast Brazil & Central Plateau (Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Minas Gerais, Brasília, Goiás)

This month is typically very hot and wet on the coast-highs in Rio and São Paulo can feel uncomfortable and short-lived but intense storms are common at dusk. The Central Plateau remains dry and pleasant, a striking contrast in the same region, so interregional trips need different packing. For city breaks, plan indoor alternatives like museums and shaded promenades during heat peaks; for nature outings start before mid-morning to avoid storms.

Andean Highlands & Altiplano (Colombia highlands, Ecuador, Peru highlands, Bolivia’s Altiplano, northern Argentina high Andes)

Clouds and occasional afternoon rains increase as the wet season starts to push into the highlands, especially in the northern Andes; daytime temperatures remain mild but humidity rises. Cusco and its surrounding archaeological sites see fewer crowds than peak dry-season months and waterfalls start to fill-photographers will like the greener landscapes but expect muddy patches on trails. Carry waterproof layers and expect changing conditions on mountain passes.

Northern & Central Chile - Atacama, Coastal North and Central Chile (Arica to Santiago, including Atacama Desert and valleys)

The desert’s clear skies persist and coastal areas remain temperate with cooling mornings; daytime highs in cities such as Santiago settle into comfortable 20-26°C. Central Chile’s Mediterranean climate produces very little rain now-this is a popular time for urban sightseeing, vineyard visits and multi-day coastal drives. Atacama’s dry season makes for consistent guided tours, but the thin air at high elevations still demands slow acclimatisation.

Patagonia & Tierra del Fuego (Southern Chile & Argentina: Chiloé, Puerto Montt, Torres del Paine, Ushuaia, southern Lake District)

Late summer brings more variable weather as frontal systems from the Pacific arrive with greater frequency; days can be pleasantly mild but storms and cold snaps are possible. Glacier viewing remains excellent and wildlife along the coasts is active, but remote dirt roads may have sections softened by rain. This is a good month for anglers and photographers chasing light across lakes and mountains-layering and waterproof luggage are essential.