May is the tail end of the long rains, and one of the best-kept secrets for a Tanzania safari. The rains ease through the month, the landscape is still a deep green, the crowds have not yet arrived, and lodge rates are at their lowest. By the end of May the migration herds are often gathering in the central and western Serengeti, and the first rutting season begins.
This guide covers the weather, where the wildlife and the migration usually are in May, what the Ngorongoro Crater is like, crowds and prices, a sample itinerary and what to pack.
Tanzania in May at a glance
| May | |
|---|---|
| Weather | Rains easing; showers become lighter and less frequent |
| Karatu | Mild days, cooler nights |
| Crater rim at dawn | Cool to cold, often misty |
| Migration | Central and western Serengeti; rut begins |
| Crowds | Low |
| Season at our lodge | Low season, with our lowest rates |
Weather in May
Early May can still be wet, but showers usually become lighter and less frequent as the month goes on. By late May there are many fine days. Nights start to cool noticeably in the highlands, a hint of the cold months ahead.
Altitude matters more than latitude in northern Tanzania. The Ngorongoro Crater rim sits at about 2,300 metres and is always cooler than Karatu, at about 1,500 metres, or the lower parks such as Tarangire. See our Ngorongoro weather guide and Karatu weather guide.
Wildlife and the Great Migration in May
The migration herds gather in the central Serengeti and move towards the Western Corridor. The wildebeest rut begins around this time, with males calling and fighting for females, a noisy and energetic spectacle. Elephants begin to return to Tarangire as the land dries.
The migration follows the rain, so its position shifts a little from year to year. As a rough guide:
| Month | Where the herds usually are |
|---|---|
| January to March | Ndutu and southern Serengeti, calving |
| April to May | Moving through central Serengeti towards the west |
| June | Western Corridor, Grumeti River |
| July to October | Northern Serengeti, Mara River |
| November | Moving south through the east |
| December | Arriving in the south |
The Ngorongoro Crater in May
The crater is green, quiet and full of wildlife, with young animals everywhere. Mornings on the rim can be misty, clearing to bright days on the floor.
Wildlife lives on the crater floor all year, so the crater is a reliable highlight in any month. Read our complete Ngorongoro Crater guide.
Tarangire and Lake Manyara in May
Lake Manyara is green and lovely. Tarangire is quiet; elephant numbers start to build towards June. See our Tarangire guide and Lake Manyara guide.
Good to know for May
- Late May is the sweet spot. The rains usually ease, prices are still low and the landscape is green.
- Listen for the rut. In the central and western Serengeti, wildebeest males grunt and chase day and night.
- Tarangire is waking up. Elephants start returning as the land dries.
- Pack a warm layer. Highland nights cool noticeably by the end of the month.
Pros and cons of a safari in May
Why go
- Low prices and few vehicles
- Green landscapes
- Rains easing through the month
- Wildebeest rut begins
Things to know
- Early May can still be wet
- Some seasonal camps still closed
- Muddy patches on park tracks
A sample May itinerary
| Day | Plan |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Arusha |
| 2 | Tarangire, then Karatu |
| 3 | Ngorongoro Crater |
| 4 | Lake Manyara, back to Karatu |
| 5 to 7 | Central Serengeti, then fly out |
Two nights in Karatu gives you a relaxed crater day. Our lodge, The Retreat at Ngorongoro, is in the Tloma area of Karatu, 20 to 30 minutes from the crater gate. See our villas.
A good month for value and space
May is still low season at our lodge, with the same rates as April: US$480 a night for two sharing on full board, or US$551 all inclusive, in 2026 and 2027. With fewer vehicles and green scenery, it suits travellers who value space over perfect weather. See our tariffs.
What to pack for May
A light waterproof, warm layers for cool highland evenings and binoculars. See our full safari packing list.
Other months
Comparing dates? Read about a Tanzania safari in April or a Tanzania safari in June.
Questions about a Tanzania safari in May
Is May a good time for a safari in Tanzania?
Yes for value and quiet parks. The rains ease through the month and the landscape is beautifully green.
Where is the Great Migration in May?
Usually in the central Serengeti, moving towards the Western Corridor, with the rut beginning.
Is it cold in Tanzania in May?
Days are mild, but highland nights become cooler, especially on the Ngorongoro Crater rim.
Travelling in May? Check availability at The Retreat at Ngorongoro.
