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May is the start of the dry season across South Africa’s prime safari destinations. Rainfall has decreased, leading to vegetation and watering holes drying up. These conditions are ideal for wildlife viewing! During game drives across the plains, you’ll see animals more easily, especially gathering around the last remaining water sources.
Rainclouds have moved into Cape Town at this time of the year. You can expect regular rainfall and cold temperatures across the city and surrounding areas. While a few sunny days may occur, beach days are almost nonexistent – unless you’re a surfer. Waves along the coast are large and consistent from May to the end of winter.
Weather in May
Daytime temperatures in Kruger National Park and surrounds can reach a high of 28 °C/82 °F and a low of 12 °C/54 °F, with very chilly conditions in the early mornings and evenings. The dry weather opens up more opportunities to explore the wilderness, such as horseback riding safaris. With an average rainfall of only 0.6 in this month, you’ll enjoy clear skies during game drives and walking safaris. Cape Town’s temperatures can reach a high of 20 °C/68 °F and a low of 9 °C/48 °F, with an average rainfall of 2.8 in.
Average Weather in May
Kruger and Surrounds
| Temperatures | Celsius | Fahrenheit | Rainfall |
| Min | 12℃ | 54℉ | 0.4 inches |
| Max | 28℃ | 82℉ | 0.7 inches |
Cape Town
| Temperatures | Celsius | Fahrenheit | Rainfall |
| Min | 9℃ | 48℉ | 1.6 inch |
| Max | 20℃ | 68℉ | 3.6 inches |
National Parks to Visit in South Africa During May
Kruger National Park
For a classic Big Five safari, you can’t go wrong with Kruger National Park. This iconic safari destination sees the start of the dry season in May, paving the way for incredible wildlife sightings, including of lion prides and white rhinos.
Phinda Private Game Reserve
May is the start of the best time of the year to go on a safari at Phinda in KwaZulu-Natal. This Big Five South African safari destination sees minimal rain this month, making wildlife easier to spot. This reserve is well-known for its healthy population of cheetahs; sightings of this graceful big cat are common.
Madikwe Game Reserve
The start of the dry season brings excellent game viewing opportunities to Madikwe. This game reserve is one of the best places for African wild dog sightings, as it houses three packs, so you have a good chance of seeing these endangered animals during your South African safari.
Activities to Do in May in South Africa
- Surfing along Cape Town’s coast
- Game drives in national parks and game reserves
- Walking safaris and animal tracking
- Horseback riding safaris
- Stargazing and sleep-outs under the stars
