May is one of the best months of the year to visit Kruger.
Verdictan excellent time
Temperature11–29°
Rainmostly dry
Crowdsquiet
Weather in Kruger in May
Average highs in May are around 29°C, dropping to about 11°C at night. It is mostly dry this month.
What happens in May
Experience quality this month is 4 out of 5, and visitor levels are quiet. The best period overall is July to September.
What to pack
- a warm jacket for early mornings and evenings
- neutral-coloured layers
- binoculars for distant wildlife
Kruger through the year
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | busy |
| February | 21–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| March | 19–32 | some rain | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| April | 16–31 | some rain | ★★★★★ | busy |
| May | 11–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| June | 6–27 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| July | 6–27 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| August | 9–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| September | 14–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| October | 17–32 | some rain | ★★★★★ | busy |
| November | 19–33 | some rain | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| December | 20–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | peak season |
Other good choices in May
- Chobe Botswana
- Madikwe South Africa
- Okavango Delta Botswana
- Pilanesberg South Africa
- Sabi Sand South Africa
- Serengeti Tanzania
Kruger in AprilBest safaris in MayKruger in June
Frequently asked questions
Is May a good time to visit Kruger?
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Kruger.
What is the weather like in Kruger in May?
Highs around 29°C, mostly dry.
Is Kruger busy in May?
Visitor levels in May are quiet.
Sources: SANParks - Kruger National Park · Britannica - Kruger National Park · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Skukuza
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.