Malawi in May

In May, Malawi takes a step closer to the dry season. The humidity begins to lift, the air is crisp, and the sunlight highlights the thinning vegetation. For a safari-goer, this is when things start to get truly exciting.

Your days are bathed in sunshine, and the nights are wonderfully cool. Critically, the dense foliage from the rains starts to recede, meaning wildlife sightings become richer and more frequent.

May is one of the very best times to experience the diversity of Malawi’s wilderness. Whether you’re seeking the Big Five in Majete Wildlife Reserve or Liwonde National Park or you’re interested in relaxing along the shores of Lake Malawi, this time of the year sets the stage for a memorable chapter.

Weather in Malawi in May

May brings mostly dry conditions, with highs of 26 °C/79 °F and lows of 16 °C/61 °F. Clear skies and lower humidity provide comfortable conditions for game drives and walking safaris, while lakes are calm and inviting.

Average Weather in May

Temperature	Celsius	Fahrenheit	Rainfall
Min	16℃	61℉	0.2 inches
Max	26℃	79℉	0.5 inches

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Destinations to Visit in Malawi During May

Elephants at the Shire River in Majete — Majete Wildlife Reserve is vibrant in May | Photo: Mkulumadzi Lodge

Majete Wildlife Reserve

Majete Wildlife Reserve is vibrant in May as animals gather around the remaining waterholes. Elephants, antelope, and other mammals are highly visible, providing excellent safari opportunities.

Liwonde National Park

Liwonde’s waterways are the main stage this month. The rivers become a magnet for huge numbers of hippos and elephants, and the ever-thinning bush means you can track wildlife with more ease on land. Boat trips are a spectacular highlight, letting you get close to the action and offering birdwatchers a feast as species flock to the shrinking wetlands.

Lake Malawi

The Lake of Stars is particularly inviting in May. With the rains gone and the humidity low, the days are bright, clear, and perfectly temperate. It’s the ideal time to settle onto a golden beach, explore the calm waters, or snorkel among the colourful cichlids.

Activities to Do in Malawi During May

Game drives in Majete and Liwonde
Walking safaris
Water activities at Lake Malawi

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