May is the low season for travel to Tanzania as it’s part of the long rainy season. Visitors in May should expect heavy rain and difficulty getting around the country. However, if you’re a keen bird watcher, this is an ideal month to visit as birdwatching is said to be at its best in Tanzania in the long rainy season. Find out more about traveling to Tanzania in May below.
Tanzania in May: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
## Weather in Tanzania
Tanzania, a captivating country nestled in the heart of East Africa, boasts a tropical climate, ensuring relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. In the lowlands and along the stunning coastlines, temperatures generally hover around a comfortable 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). As you ascend into the highlands, the air becomes cooler, with temperatures typically ranging from 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C). However, it’s important to remember that altitude and rainfall are the primary factors influencing the weather patterns in Tanzania.
Tanzania experiences two distinct rainy seasons: the short rains and the long rains. The long rains, a period of significant precipitation, typically commence in late March and extend through May. Historically, May has been known as a particularly wet month. However, in recent years, the rainfall patterns have shifted, with May experiencing drier conditions than in the past. While you should still anticipate rain on most days during May, it’s unlikely to rain continuously throughout the entire day, every day. Be prepared for scattered showers and intermittent sunshine, allowing you to still enjoy many of the incredible activities Tanzania has to offer.
## Crowds and Costs in Tanzania During May
May falls within the low season for tourism in Tanzania. The prevailing wet weather can present challenges and disrupt various activities, ranging from relaxing beach vacations to exhilarating wildlife safaris. Tracking and observing wildlife can become more difficult due to increased rainfall and potential disruptions to road conditions. Consequently, many lodges and accommodations across the country may choose to close their doors during this period. However, for the savvy traveler, this presents a unique opportunity to secure attractive deals and discounted rates at the establishments that remain open. Embrace the lower season and take advantage of the potential cost savings while experiencing the beauty of Tanzania.
## Where to Go in Tanzania
If your journey involves passing through **Dar es Salaam**, a vibrant and bustling major coastal city situated in the northeast, it’s undoubtedly worth dedicating some time to explore this fascinating urban center. This is especially true during periods when the weather may not be ideal for outdoor activities. **Dar es Salaam** is a melting pot of cultures, influenced by Arab, African, Indian, and British colonial-era elements. This rich tapestry of heritage is reflected in the city’s diverse cultural attractions. A visit to the open-air **Village Museum**, an extension of the renowned **National Museum**, is highly recommended. Here, you can immerse yourself in recreations of traditional Tanzanian villages and witness captivating folk dancing performances that showcase the country’s vibrant cultural traditions.
## What to Do in Tanzania in May
For avid bird-watching enthusiasts, May is widely considered to be one of the best times to visit Tanzania. The long rainy season provides an ideal environment for birdlife, with many species displaying their most vibrant plumage and engaging in active breeding behavior. Some of the top bird-watching destinations in Tanzania include the lush **Mount Meru** area, **Tarangire National Park**, **Lake Manyara National Park**, the vast **Ngorongoro Conservation Area**, and the world-renowned **Serengeti National Park**. In these locations, you have the chance to spot an astonishing array of bird species, including the majestic crowned hawk-eagles, the colorful cinnamon-chested bee-eaters, the melodic Rueppell’s robin-chats, the incredibly rare Beesley’s larks, the iridescent ashy starlings, the charming yellow-collared lovebirds, and the industrious rufous-tailed weavers, among countless others.
Consider venturing to the breathtaking **Usambara Mountains** in northeastern Tanzania, a part of an ancient chain of crystalline mountains. The montane forests, woodlands, and pockets of pristine, un-deforested forest in the **West Usambaras** provide crucial habitats for a diverse range of bird species, including the endemic Usambara weaver, a bird found nowhere else on Earth.
## Events in Tanzania During May
**Mzalendo Halisi Music Festival**, **Dar es Salaam**: Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds and rhythms of Tanzania at the **Mzalendo Halisi Music Festival** in **Dar es Salaam**. This exciting two-day event showcases the best of Tanzanian music and dance, alongside captivating art and cultural exhibits that offer a deeper understanding of the country’s rich heritage.
**Ruaha Marathon**, **Iringa**: Experience the thrill of competition and the beauty of the southern highlands at the **Ruaha Marathon** in **Iringa**. This popular race attracts thousands of runners and spectators to the region during the third week of May. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or simply enjoy the excitement of a sporting event, the **Ruaha Marathon** promises an unforgettable experience.
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