Secret Season Safari: Tanzania in May

Overview – May in Tanzania

May is one of Tanzania’s best-kept safari secrets. It falls during the “green season,” at the tail end of the long rains, when the land is reborn into a lush paradise. While some travelers avoid this month due to the possibility of showers, those who come are rewarded with something extraordinary: vibrant landscapes, abundant wildlife, dramatic skies, and far fewer crowds.

The rains of March and April rejuvenate the savannah, turning the plains into a shimmering emerald sea dotted with wildflowers. Rivers and waterholes are full, animals thrive on fresh vegetation, and birdlife is at its peak. This is when Tanzania feels raw, untouched, and deeply alive.

The Serengeti is especially magical in May. The Great Migration herds are on the move, carpeting the plains as they begin their journey toward the western corridor and, eventually, the Mara River. Predators take full advantage, making May one of the best times to see dramatic hunts without the hustle of peak-season vehicles.

Weather in May is pleasant and rewarding. Showers are typically brief, falling in the late afternoon or at night, leaving mornings and game drive times clear and fresh. Days are warm (23–27°C / 73–80°F), nights are cool, and the air feels crisp and clean. The rain also adds drama to the skies, with towering clouds and sunsets that glow in shades of orange and purple — a dream for photographers.

Best of all, May safaris are more intimate and affordable. With fewer tourists in the parks, lodges and camps offer excellent service and lower rates, creating a sense of exclusivity and value that’s hard to beat.

In short, May is a month of renewal, intimacy, and beauty. It’s for travelers who want to avoid the crowds, capture extraordinary landscapes, and experience Tanzania in its freshest, wildest form.

Why May is a Special Month for Safari

The Great Migration in Transition

May is when the migration herds move from the southern Serengeti toward the western corridor. Picture hundreds of thousands of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles carpeting the plains, with predators following closely behind.

Stunning Green Landscapes

The rains leave Tanzania lush and vibrant. The mix of green grasslands, wildflowers, and dramatic skies makes May one of the most beautiful months for photography.

Fewer Tourists, More Exclusivity

May is outside the peak season, so parks are quieter. Wildlife sightings feel more personal, and lodges provide more attentive, customized service.

Predator Action Without Crowds

With herds moving, predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are highly active. Unlike peak months, you won’t be sharing sightings with dozens of vehicles.

Affordable Safari Rates

May is considered a “shoulder season,” meaning many lodges and camps offer lower prices. You enjoy luxury experiences at better value.

Birdwatching Paradise

Birdlife thrives in May. Migratory species linger, and resident birds show off their vibrant breeding plumage.

Comfortable Weather

Though occasional showers occur, the climate is mild and pleasant. Rain adds freshness without disrupting safaris significantly.

A Photographer’s Dream

Moody skies, lush landscapes, rainbows after showers, and golden light breaking through clouds make May one of the most visually striking safari months.

Best Safari Destinations in May

Serengeti National Park – Migration on the Move

In May, the southern and central Serengeti host massive herds of the migration as they journey toward the western corridor. Lions and cheetahs follow, creating thrilling predator-prey encounters. The lush grass adds beauty and drama to the experience.

Ngorongoro Crater – Year-Round Wildlife Haven

The Crater is stunning in May, with lush grasslands supporting high densities of wildlife. Black rhinos, elephants, buffalo, lions, and flamingos thrive here, all framed by green crater walls.

Tarangire National Park – Off-Peak Solitude

While Tarangire’s peak is in the later dry season, May offers lush greenery, fewer tourists, and plenty of elephants, giraffes, and birdlife. The baobab-studded landscapes are striking against the wet season backdrop.

Lake Manyara National Park – Waterbirds & Lions

The alkaline lake is full in May, attracting thousands of flamingos, pelicans, and storks. Elephants, hippos, and the park’s unique tree-climbing lions also stand out.

Arusha National Park – Forests & Walking Safaris

With clear air and fresh vegetation, Arusha National Park is ideal for canoe safaris and walks among giraffes and colobus monkeys. Views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro are especially sharp.

Lake Natron – Flamingos & Volcanoes

In May, Lake Natron glows under stormy skies, with flamingos beginning to gather and waterfalls flowing strong from recent rains. It’s a surreal, adventurous destination.

Selous (Nyerere National Park) – Rivers Full of Life

The Rufiji River runs strong in May, making boat safaris a unique highlight. Hippos, crocs, elephants, and wild dogs are abundant, all in a quieter setting.

Ruaha & Katavi – Remote, Wild Africa

For seasoned travelers, May is a rewarding time to explore Ruaha’s predators and Katavi’s raw wilderness. Both parks remain lush and less visited, offering exclusivity.

Wildlife Highlights in May

• Migration herds moving north in the Serengeti.

• Predator-prey interactions at their peak.

• Elephants and giraffes in Tarangire’s green landscapes.

• Rare black rhinos in Ngorongoro.

• Tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara.

• Flamingos at Lake Manyara and Lake Natron.

• Hippos and crocs in Rufiji River.

• Birdlife thriving in bright plumage.

Tips for Your May Safari

• Pack a Rain Jacket: Showers are brief but possible.

• Layer Clothing: Cool mornings, warm afternoons.

• Neutral Tones: Khaki, beige, olive work best in the bush.

• Camera Protection: Carry rain covers for photography gear.

• Enjoy Privacy: Fewer tourists mean more exclusive game drives.

• Add Zanzibar: May is quieter on the beaches too, offering intimacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – May Safaris

1. Is May a good month for safari in Tanzania?
Yes, May is excellent. The landscapes are lush, wildlife is abundant, and crowds are minimal.

2. Will I see the Great Migration in May?
Yes. The herds move through the southern and central Serengeti toward the western corridor.

3. Are the river crossings happening in May?
The first crossings may begin late in May, but they peak from June onward.

4. Is May too rainy for safari?
No. Most rains fall in April. In May, showers are lighter and often at night.

5. Which parks are best in May?
Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Manyara, Tarangire, and Selous.

6. Is May good for photography?
Yes. Dramatic skies, lush grass, and moody sunsets create stunning shots.

7. Are lodges open in May?
Yes, though some seasonal camps may still be closed after the long rains.

8. Is May cheaper than other months?
Yes, rates are often lower than in peak months, making it great value.

9. What wildlife can I expect to see?
Lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, rhinos, flamingos, and more.

10. Is May good for families?
Yes. The weather is mild, parks are quieter, and lodges provide family-friendly services.

11. Is May safe for travel?
Yes. Roads may be a bit muddy, but travel with a professional operator ensures safety.

12. Can I combine safari with Zanzibar?
Yes. Zanzibar is warm and quiet in May, ideal for couples or honeymooners.

13. Are mosquitoes bad in May?
Slightly higher than in the dry season, but manageable with repellent and nets.

14. Will I see predators in May?
Yes. Predators are very active, following the migration herds.

15. Is Kilimanjaro climb possible in May?
It’s not ideal, as rains linger on the mountain. June–October is better.

16. Are walking safaris available in May?
Yes, in parks like Arusha and Selous where terrain allows.

17. What is the weather like?
Mildly warm days (23–27°C / 73–80°F), cool mornings, with occasional showers.

18. What makes May unique compared to July?
Fewer tourists, greener landscapes, lower costs, and more intimate experiences.

19. How many days should I plan?
7–10 days is ideal to combine Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire.

20. Why book with Tanzaniatrail in May?
Because we know how to navigate the green season — from the best Serengeti migration routes to hidden gems free of crowds. Our guides make May’s secret season magical.

Conclusion

A May safari in Tanzania is one of the most rewarding, intimate, and beautiful journeys you can take. From migration herds carpeting the Serengeti to rhinos grazing in Ngorongoro, from elephants wandering in Tarangire to flamingos glowing at Lake Natron, May delivers wildlife spectacles against a lush, vibrant backdrop.

With fewer tourists, lower rates, and stunning skies, May feels like a safari made just for you. It is a month of drama and renewal, where every drive feels exclusive and every view is unforgettable.

At Tanzaniatrail Experience Limited, we design May journeys that capture the magic of this hidden gem season. With expert guides, handpicked lodges, and seamless planning, we ensure your safari is safe, authentic, and extraordinary.

👉 Ready to discover Tanzania’s best-kept safari secret? Contact Tanzaniatrail today to plan your unforgettable May adventure.