South Africa in May: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More

Average Temperatures in Cape Town: 68°F High • 50°F Low

May is a "sweet spot" month in South Africa, offering some of the best weather of the year. As autumn deepens, temperatures become pleasantly mild across the country. Northern safari regions like the Kruger National Park enter their dry season, with warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights that you can experience on a Luxury South Africa Tour for Seniors. These conditions are perfect for game viewing. The Western Cape, including Cape Town, enjoys clear, sunny days and cool evenings, with the summer winds subsiding and the winter rains yet to arrive.

What to Expect

The late-autumn weather creates a "best-of-both worlds" scenario, with ideal conditions for safari adventures and comfortable sightseeing.

• The Northern Interior: In Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands, experience the start of the prime safari season. Feel the cool, crisp air on an early morning game drive. See wildlife with incredible clarity as the dense summer foliage recedes and animals gather at waterholes.
• The Cape: In Cape Town and the Winelands, enjoy the stunning autumn scenery. See the vineyards ablaze in spectacular shades of gold, orange, and deep red. Feel the gentle, pleasant warmth of the afternoon sun, perfect for a leisurely lunch or wine tasting.
• The Drakensberg Mountains: In the high mountains, the air is invigoratingly crisp and the skies are exceptionally clear. Hear the satisfying crunch of dry leaves underfoot on a mountain trail on Zicasso’s Hidden South Africa 2-Week Tour. See the vast landscapes stretching for miles in the clear, dry air.

With thinning crowds and perfect weather across its most famous regions, May is arguably one of the best months to explore South Africa. It’s the start of the peak season for safaris and the Cape is at its most beautiful and tranquil.

Sabi Sands Game Reserve • Best Place for a Romantic Safari

On a Private South Africa Photograph Tour, experience one of the world's most exclusive safari destinations when wildlife viewing is exceptional. The dry conditions and luxurious lodges make it an unforgettable romantic escape.

What to Expect

• Feel the thrill of seeing a leopard, the reserve's most famous resident, expertly tracked by your guide on a thrilling game drive.
• See the incredible star-filled sky during a romantic bush dinner, far from any city lights.
• Hear the sounds of the African night. Listen out for a distant lion’s roar or the call of a hyena from the comfort of your luxurious private suite.

The Cape Winelands • Best Place for Autumn Scenery

A Luxury Cape Town and Winelands Tour will see you visiting historic towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek when they are at their most picturesque. The vineyards are full of autumn colors and the cozy atmosphere is perfect for indulging in food and wine.

What to Expect

• Feel the warmth and crackle of a fireplace in an elegant tasting room as you sample the region's renowned red wines.
• See a breathtaking panorama of vineyards painted in gold, crimson, and amber hues against a backdrop of dramatic mountains.
• Taste a multi-course food and wine pairing at one of the country's top-rated restaurants, with fewer crowds making reservations easier.

The Garden Route • Best Place for Family Adventures

Travel this iconic coastal route in comfort and peace. The mild weather is perfect for outdoor activities and the shoulder-season timing means you can enjoy popular attractions without the summer rush.

What to Expect

• Feel the excitement of walking with gentle giants at the Knysna Elephant Park on our Best of Cape Town and the Garden Route Tour.
• See the lush, green forests and dramatic coastline of Tsitsikamma National Park on a serene and uncrowded hike.
• Hear the joyful calls of exotic birds at sanctuaries where the tranquil atmosphere allows for a more immersive visit.

Hermanus • Best Place to Spot the First Whales

Be one of the first to welcome the whales to South Africa's shores when you take a Hidden Cape Tour for Active Travelers. May marks the very beginning of the whale-watching season and this charming coastal town is the best place to be for the early arrivals.

What to Expect

• Feel the thrill of anticipation as you scan the calm, blue waters of Walker Bay for the first spout of the season.
• See the first of the magnificent southern right whales arriving from their Antarctic feeding grounds.
• Hear the waves crashing against the cliffs as you enjoy a peaceful walk along the scenic coastal paths, keeping an eye on the ocean.

May is a month for active exploration in ideal conditions. The country’s top experiences, from safaris to mountain hikes, are at their absolute best, offering adventure and beauty without the extreme temperatures or crowds of other seasons.

Go on a Prime Safari

Head to South Africa's legendary northern game reserves as they enter the dry season. The thinning vegetation and dwindling water sources make for some of the most productive and exciting game viewing of the year. For more inspiration, see our Family-Friendly Southern Africa Excursion.

What to Expect

• Feel the cool morning air as you set out on a game drive, wrapped in a blanket with a warm drink in hand.
• See huge herds of elephants and buffalo making their way to rivers and waterholes, a truly impressive sight.
• Hear every snap of a twig and rustle of leaves in the dry bush, heightening the anticipation of what you might find.

Hike the Drakensberg Mountains

On Zicasso’s Off-the-Beaten-Track South Africa Vacation, explore this majestic UNESCO World Heritage Site when the hiking conditions are perfect. The weather is dry, the air is crisp, and the clear skies offer breathtaking, uninterrupted views.

What to Expect

• Feel the invigorating chill in the air, which is ideal for tackling challenging and rewarding mountain trails.
• See the entire mountain range spread before you in a spectacular panorama, with visibility at its absolute best in the dry autumn air.
• Discover ancient San rock art in hidden caves, with the comfortable conditions allowing for longer, more exploratory hikes.

Explore the Cradle of Humankind

Delve into the deep history of humanity at this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site near Johannesburg. This is one of our Top 9 Things to Do in South Africa, and the mild, dry weather and fewer crowds make for a comfortable and profound experience.

What to Expect

• Feel a deep connection to human history as you stand in the place where some of our earliest ancestors once walked.
• See the incredible fossil discoveries and interactive displays at the Maropeng Visitor Centre and Sterkfontein Caves without having to rush.
• Enjoy the serene and beautiful highveld landscape surrounding the site, which is bathed in a soft, autumnal light.

May is an exceptional month to experience South Africa. The mild weather, striking autumn landscapes, and the beginning of the prime safari and whale seasons create an inviting atmosphere for exploration. With fewer tourists, you can truly immerse yourself in the country’s natural beauty and rich history, making it the perfect time for an unforgettable journey.

For additional ideas and insights tailored to your journey, explore our comprehensive South Africa travel guide. You can also find new ways to create your perfect getaway with our South Africa tours and vacations.