Visiting Sossusvlei in May is possible, but comes with some trade-offs in weather or sightings.
Weather in Sossusvlei in May
Average highs in May are around 29°C, dropping to about 10°C at night. It is mostly dry this month.
What happens in May
Winter days are mild with cold early mornings, the most comfortable time for dune climbs.
Experience quality this month is 2 out of 5, and visitor levels are moderate. The best period overall is January to March.
What to pack
- a warm jacket for early mornings and evenings
- neutral-coloured layers
- sunglasses and a scarf against blowing sand
Sossusvlei through the year
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16–34 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| February | 16–34 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| March | 15–34 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| April | 13–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| May | 10–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| June | 8–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| July | 7–25 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| August | 8–27 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| September | 9–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| October | 11–33 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| November | 12–33 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| December | 14–34 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
Other good choices in May
- Chobe Botswana
- Kruger South Africa
- Madikwe South Africa
- Okavango Delta Botswana
- Pilanesberg South Africa
- Sabi Sand South Africa
Sossusvlei in AprilBest safaris in MaySossusvlei in June
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Frequently asked questions
Is May a good time to visit Sossusvlei?
Visiting Sossusvlei in May is possible, but comes with some trade-offs in weather or sightings.
What is the weather like in Sossusvlei in May?
Highs around 29°C, mostly dry.
Is Sossusvlei busy in May?
Visitor levels in May are moderate.
Sources: Namibia Wildlife Resorts - Sossusvlei · Namibia Tourism Board - Namib-Naukluft Park · Weather and Climate - Sesriem · Weather2Travel - Sossusvlei climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.