Temperatures climb and conditions grow drier; coastal areas still benefit from ocean moderation while inland zones become quite hot. Travel in open desert areas can be challenging during peak daytime heat.
Darymaister 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 Western Sahara in May.
Laâyoune-Boujdour corridor
Early summer arrives in May as daytime temperatures push into the mid-to-high twenties near Boujdour and Laâyoune, while strong onshore breezes become a daily feature. The morning fog sometimes lingers later into the day, and the air feels dry; rare showers are possible but unlikely. For travelers, this is a pleasant time to visit the coast - expect windy afternoons, sun protection, and a light jacket for evenings.
May feels reliably windy and warm, with most days offering excellent conditions for kite and windsurfing. Sea temperatures begin to warm into the high teens/low twenties Celsius and the peninsula hums with activity from coastal operators. Travelers should expect lively cafes and busy beachfronts; sunscreen, a windproof, and water-sport reservations will make the trip straightforward.
Smara and surrounding desert
May is the start of genuinely hot weather inland: daytime temperatures regularly move into the low-to-mid-thirties and the sun is strong and relentless. Sand and dust storms are more frequent, impairing visibility and sometimes forcing road closures; remote oases feel especially exposed in these conditions. Travelers should avoid strenuous daytime hikes, prefer early mornings for travel, and carry plenty of water and cooling headgear.
Aousserd, Bir Gandouz area
May brings substantial heating across the southern sand seas - daytime temperatures are commonly in the low-to-mid-thirties and the landscape feels parched and exposed. Sandstorms become more likely and can last hours; remote camps close to the Mauritanian border are sparsely attended. Travellers should avoid long solo journeys in this period, carry extra water and fuel, and prefer coastal stops if possible.
There are no major festivals or events in Western Sahara during May to be aware of.
See how May compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.