Temperatures climb to their annual highs, especially in northern and central areas; the south remains hot but begins its short rainy season later in the summer. Visitor comfort is reduced and outdoor sightseeing is challenging during peak daytime heat.
walter callens 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 Sudan in May.
Wadi Halfa, Dongola, Meroe
Hot, dry conditions dominate in May and the pre-monsoon heat intensifies; Meroe, Dongola and the northern Nile are blazing by midday with highs often over 40°C inland. Travel is possible but arduous-avoid midday sightseeing and prefer river cruises that offer shade on deck; hotels in Khartoum and the north will run heavy air conditioning. Watch for increased dust and plan medical precautions if you react to particulate matter.
Khartoum, Omdurman, Wad Medani, Gezira
The first rains affect southern parts of the corridor in May, bringing a slight drop in daytime temperature but higher humidity around Sennar and Wad Medani; Khartoum remains largely dry and very warm. Agricultural areas in the Gezira begin to look greener, and early thunderstorms can appear further south. Road conditions start to matter more as dirt tracks become sticky; plan overland trips with some flexibility.
El Obeid, El Fasher, Nyala, Jebel Marra
May brings the first scattered showers in southern parts of Kordofan and the higher slopes of Jebel Marra, turning isolated gullies into flowing streams for a brief time. Road conditions start to deteriorate on laterite tracks; remote villages become harder to reach by ordinary vehicles. This is when the landscape starts shifting from dry savanna towards greener growth, but expect fewer services and limited public transport.
Damazin, Sennar, Roseires
May is the prelude to the rainy season: humidity rises noticeably as frequent afternoon cloud buildups herald imminent storms, and farmers hasten planting. Damazin and the southern belt see increasing thunder showers later in the month, which can begin to make feeder tracks soft and muddy. Expect fewer tourists, lush early growth in irrigated plots, and stout boots for field-side visits.
Port Sudan, Suakin, Kassala, Red Sea Hills
May is hot and drying out in the eastern lowlands while coastal humidity increases; Port Sudan can feel sticky by the afternoon, though sea breezes still provide relief. Expect fewer visitors and some diving itineraries may be curtailed because of heat, but boat trips and island visits (Suakin area) are still workable in the cooler parts of the day. Pack breathable clothing and sun protection.
There are no major festivals or events in Sudan during May to be aware of.
See how May compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.