Tanzania Safari in May
By the Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris team
Written by our Arusha-based guides and private safari planners from first-hand experience in Tanzania.
A Tanzania safari in May falls at the end of the long rains, when the northern parks are at their greenest and the busy dry season has not yet begun. Showers ease as the month goes on, skies clear between storms, and the Great Migration herds leave the southern plains to move through the central Serengeti around Seronera and Moru, heading west. Many lodges offer lower green-season rates, and the roads and parks are blissfully quiet. This guide covers weather, wildlife, costs, crowds, packages and lodges so you can plan a private tailor-made safari in May with real confidence.
Yes, for flexible travellers. May is green season in Tanzania: the long rains are easing, the migration herds move through the central Serengeti toward the Western Corridor, the parks are very quiet and many lodges offer lower green-season rates. Expect some showers, muddy tracks and a few closed seasonal camps.
Why Visit Tanzania Safari in May
May suits travellers who value space, value and scenery over guaranteed sunshine. The long rains are tailing off, so the parks are lush, rivers are full and the light after a storm is superb for photography. The migration herds are on the move through the central Serengeti, resident predators are easy to find, and you often share sightings with no other vehicles at all. Lower green-season rates at many lodges make it possible to stay longer or upgrade, which makes May a quietly rewarding month for a private tailor-made safari.
Sightings Without the Crowds
May is one of the quietest months in northern Tanzania, so you can watch lions, elephants or a herd of zebra without other vehicles around you. Even Ngorongoro Crater feels calmer than usual. With your own private vehicle and guide, you set the pace and stay as long as you like at every sighting. Early mornings are especially peaceful.
Lower Green-Season Rates
Many lodges and camps offer lower green-season rates in May, before the dry-season high rates return in June. That can mean an extra night in the Serengeti, a lodge upgrade or a longer beach stay for a similar budget. We compare current offers for your dates and explain where the best value lies. Availability is also much wider.
The Migration Heads West
By May the wildebeest and zebra have usually left the short-grass plains of the south and move in long columns through the central Serengeti, around Seronera and Moru, toward the Western Corridor. Exact positions change with the rain, so our guides track recent reports and plan your drives to meet the moving herds. Moving columns are truly unforgettable.
Emerald Plains and Dramatic Skies
After weeks of rain the plains, forests and crater walls are deep green, rivers flow strongly and wildflowers colour the grass. Storm clouds build over the Serengeti and break into golden evening light. For photographers, May offers rich colour, clean air without dust and moody skies that are rare later in the year. Rainbows are common after showers.
The Start of the Wildebeest Rut
The wildebeest rut usually begins around May and continues into June as the herds travel west. Bulls bellow, chase rivals and round up females, filling the plains with noise and constant movement. Timing varies, but watching this restless behaviour from a private vehicle adds an unusual chapter to the migration story. Listen for their grunting calls.
Reliable Resident Wildlife
Seronera, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara all keep strong resident wildlife in May. Lions, leopards along the Seronera River, elephants, buffalo, giraffes and hippos are present whatever the weather. Babies born earlier in the year are growing fast, and predators take advantage of the young animals and long grass for cover. Leopards favour the riverine trees.
Weather & Climate during a Tanzania Safari in May
May is the final month of the long rains in northern Tanzania. Early May can still bring heavy downpours, but showers usually become shorter and less frequent as June approaches, often falling in the afternoon or overnight. Mornings are frequently bright and fresh. Serengeti days are mild, typically in the mid twenties Celsius, while nights on the Ngorongoro highlands turn cold. Black-cotton soils can become muddy and some minor tracks close after heavy rain. Zanzibar and the coast are still in their wettest period. Pack a good rain jacket, quick-drying layers and a warm fleece for the highlands.
Wildlife and Animals
May wildlife viewing centres on the central Serengeti, where the Great Migration passes through Seronera and the Moru Kopjes on its way west. Long columns of wildebeest and zebra cross the plains, and the rut usually begins, with bulls chasing rivals and gathering females. Lions, leopards and spotted hyenas are reliable around Seronera all year. Ngorongoro Crater continues to offer black rhino, buffalo and lions on a green crater floor. Tarangire is very quiet because many animals disperse while water is plentiful, while Lake Manyara is lush, with elephants, baboons, hippos and tree-resting lions. Young animals are everywhere.
- Wildebeest
- Zebra
- Lion
- Leopard
- Spotted hyena
- Black rhino
- Elephant
- Buffalo
- Giraffe
- Topi
- Hippo
- Olive baboon
- Eland
- Serval
Tanzania Safari in May Birds
May is still a rewarding month for birding in Tanzania, even though most Palearctic migrants from Europe and Asia have left by the end of April. Resident species take centre stage, and many are breeding after the rains, so weavers, widowbirds and bishops often keep their brightest colours. Lake Manyara’s full lake and streams attract pelicans, storks, herons and, at times, flamingos. Grasslands in the Serengeti host crowned cranes, bustards and secretarybirds, while Tarangire is excellent for lovebirds, hornbills and barbets. Quiet roads let your private guide stop often, so bring good binoculars and a regional field guide.
- Grey crowned crane
- Kori bustard
- Secretarybird
- Great white pelican
- Yellow-billed stork
- Lesser flamingo
- Fischer’s lovebird
- Yellow-collared lovebird
- Superb starling
- Southern ground hornbill
- Lilac-breasted roller
- Tawny eagle
Where to go during a Tanzania Safari in May
In May the smartest routes follow the migration through the central Serengeti and combine it with parks that look their best in the rains. Seronera has year-round water and resident predators, Moru adds kopjes and passing herds, and Ngorongoro Crater remains reliable. Lake Manyara is lush, with waterfalls running, while Arusha National Park makes an easy first or last day. Choose the areas below to match your interests, travel style and the time you have, and we will build a private route that copes with the weather. Each option lists highlights and ideal nights.
Seronera and the Central Serengeti
Seronera is the best base for a May safari. Rivers keep water flowing all year, so lions, leopards and cheetahs stay put, and the migration often passes through on its way west. Well-maintained main roads cope with the rain, and permanent lodges stay open throughout the season. Stay two to three nights here. Main roads stay open too.
Explore the Serengeti →
Moru Kopjes and the Southwest
The Moru Kopjes, south-west of Seronera, are granite outcrops rising from open grassland, and in May the migration often streams past on its way toward the Western Corridor. Lions rest on the rocks, and the area is good for black rhino in a protected zone. It is quiet, beautiful and rarely busy this month. Allow time for slow exploration.
Where to Stay for the Migration →
Ngorongoro Crater
The crater floor is green in May, with buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, lions, hyenas and a good chance of black rhino. Fewer vehicles than in the dry season make the experience calmer. The descent roads are paved or well maintained, but the rim can be misty and cold, so bring warm layers for an early start.
Explore Ngorongoro Crater →
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara is at its most beautiful in May. The groundwater forest is dense and green, streams and waterfalls flow off the rift escarpment, and the lake is full. Elephants, baboons, blue monkeys and hippos are common, and lions sometimes climb into trees. It is compact, so a half or full day suits most routes.
Explore Lake Manyara →
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is very quiet in May. Many elephants and plains animals spread across the wider landscape while water is easy to find, so wildlife is more scattered than in the dry season. Even so, resident giraffes, lions and abundant birds remain, and baobabs stand among tall green grass. One night is usually enough. Birders will enjoy every hour.
Explore Tarangire →
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is close to town and ideal for a first or last day in May. Montane forest is alive with black-and-white colobus monkeys, and the Momella Lakes may host flamingos. Guided walks with an armed ranger are possible when trails are dry enough. Morning views of Mount Meru can appear between clouds. It suits arrival or departure days.
Explore Arusha National Park →Things to do in Tanzania Safari in May
May offers more than game drives, and many activities feel more special without the crowds. You can follow the migration through the central Serengeti, visit Lake Manyara’s forest when the waterfalls are flowing, walk with a ranger, meet local communities or float over green plains in a hot-air balloon. Flexible plans work best this month, as a heavy shower may move an activity to the afternoon. Your planner arranges timings, permits and transfers, and your guide adapts each day to the weather. Each activity below includes where it happens and roughly how long it takes.
Tracking the Herds Through Seronera
Spend full days in the central Serengeti following the herds as they move west through Seronera and toward Moru. Columns of wildebeest and zebra can stretch to the horizon, and the rut adds noisy drama. In a private vehicle you choose when to linger and when to move on, with a packed lunch on board.
Hot-Air Balloon over Green Plains
A sunrise balloon flight over the central Serengeti shows the scale of the green plains and moving herds from above. Flights depend on suitable weather, so May bookings may occasionally be rescheduled. When conditions allow, the calm early air and lush scenery are spectacular, and flights usually finish with a bush breakfast. Flights cost extra and book ahead.
Lake Manyara Forest and Waterfalls
Spend a morning beneath the tall fig and mahogany trees of Lake Manyara’s groundwater forest, where streams run strongly after the rains. Blue monkeys and baboons move through the canopy, elephants feed in the undergrowth and hornbills call overhead. Your guide can pause at viewpoints and waterfalls that are at their fullest this month. Bring a light rain jacket.
Guided Walks with a Ranger
Walking with an armed ranger reveals tracks, insects, plants and birds that you miss from a vehicle. In May, walks in Arusha National Park or private conservation areas run when trails are safe and not too muddy. The cool, fresh mornings after rain are ideal for a gentle two or three hour walk. Wear neutral colours and sturdy boots.
Maasai and Hadzabe Encounters
Visit a Maasai community in the Ngorongoro highlands, or drive to Lake Eyasi for a morning with Hadzabe hunter-gatherers and Datoga blacksmiths. In May the farms around Karatu are green and busy with planting and harvests. These respectful visits, arranged with local guides, add human context and make good rainy-afternoon alternatives to long game drives.
Explore Lake Eyasi →
Karatu Coffee Farms and Highland Walks
The Karatu highlands near Ngorongoro are lush in May, and several farm lodges offer coffee tours, garden walks and village visits. It is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon between game drives, with cool air and views across green hills. Your guide can arrange a visit that fits easily around your crater day. The views alone are rewarding.
What to expect on a Tanzania Safari in May
Knowing what to expect helps you enjoy a May safari rather than worry about the weather. This is green season, so some rain is likely, especially early in the month, but it rarely lasts all day. The parks are wonderfully quiet, the scenery is beautifully lush, and many lodges charge lower green-season rates, while a few seasonal camps close or move. Main roads remain usable, though side tracks can be muddy. Below is what a typical May safari day and trip feel like, from weather and roads to lodges, wildlife and photography, so you can travel well prepared.
Flexible Days Around the Weather
Most days start early, when skies are often clear and animals are active. If clouds build after lunch, your guide may plan a long morning drive and a shorter afternoon outing, or wait out a shower before heading back out. Flexibility is the secret to a successful May safari, and a private vehicle makes it easy.
Showers and Occasional Downpours
Rain in May ranges from heavy storms early in the month to light afternoon showers later on. Rain is usually followed by sunshine, and the vehicle’s roof can be closed when needed. Pack a reliable waterproof jacket and quick-drying clothes. Clouds also create striking skies and soft, even light that suits wildlife photography. Showers rarely spoil a whole day.
Muddy Tracks and Longer Drives
Main park roads stay open, but black-cotton soils in parts of the Serengeti become slippery after rain, and some minor tracks close. Experienced drivers and four-wheel-drive vehicles handle these conditions, though journeys can take longer than in the dry season. Light-aircraft flights are a good way to avoid the longest road days in May. Patience on the road pays off.
Space and Peace at Sightings
May is one of the least busy months in northern Tanzania. You will often have sightings to yourself, even in the central Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater is calmer than usual. This peace is the main reward of the green season, and it makes wildlife viewing feel more personal, relaxed and natural for everyone. Enjoy every quiet moment out there.
Some Seasonal Camps Close
Some seasonal and mobile camps close or relocate in April and May, so your choice in remote areas may be smaller. Permanent lodges in Seronera, on the Ngorongoro rim, in Karatu and around Lake Manyara stay open, and many offer lower green-season rates. We always confirm which properties are operating on your exact dates. Booking early still secures favourites.
Rich Colour and Moody Light
Green grass, dark storm clouds and clear air give May photographs a look you cannot capture in the dusty dry season. Rainbows over the plains are common, and soft light suits portraits of lions and elephants. Protect your camera with a rain cover or dry bag, and carry a cloth to wipe lenses. Rainbows make memorable backdrops too.
Tanzania Safari in May crowds
May is one of the quietest months of the year for a Tanzania safari. Most travellers avoid the end of the long rains, so lodges are rarely full and you will often have sightings to yourself. The central Serengeti sees a little more activity as the migration passes through Seronera, but it never feels busy. Ngorongoro Crater has visitors every day, yet far fewer than in July or August. Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Arusha National Park are very peaceful. A private vehicle and an experienced guide let you make the most of this rare and precious sense of space.
- Central SerengetiQuiet
- Ngorongoro CraterModerate
- Southern plainsVery quiet
- TarangireVery quiet
- Lake ManyaraVery quiet
- Arusha NPVery quiet
Best Time for a Tanzania Safari in May
Within May, later is usually better for a safari. The first half of the month can still bring heavy rain, while the second half tends to be drier, with more sunshine and firmer roads as the long dry season approaches. The migration is typically moving through the central Serengeti for much of the month, so timing is flexible for herd viewing. If you want the lowest green-season rates and the fewest vehicles, early May offers the best value. Zanzibar remains wet throughout May, and Kilimanjaro climbs are possible but muddy, so most travellers keep their May trips safari-focused.
Tanzania Safari in May: Pros and cons
Every month has trade-offs, and May has more than most, which is exactly why it suits some travellers so well. It offers empty parks, green landscapes, lower green-season rates at many lodges and the migration moving through the central Serengeti. On the other hand, rain is likely, some roads become muddy, a few seasonal camps close and the coast is wet. Weighing these points against your budget, dates and interests helps you decide whether May is right for you, or whether June suits your private tailor-made safari better. The six points below summarise the main advantages and drawbacks.
The Quietest Parks of the Year
With few other travellers in the parks, May gives you an intimate safari that is hard to find later in the year. Lions, leopards and elephants can be watched in peace, and your guide can choose routes freely. Even the busy Ngorongoro Crater feels calm, and lodges rarely feel full this month. Guides also enjoy the freedom.
Lower Green-Season Rates
Many lodges and camps reduce their rates in the green season, so May can offer much better value than the dry months. You might stay an extra night, choose a higher-category lodge or fly instead of drive for a similar budget. Availability is also wider, even at popular properties, so last-minute plans are easier. Families especially welcome these savings.
Green, Fresh and Photogenic
Lush plains, flowing rivers, Lake Manyara’s waterfalls and dramatic storm skies make May a beautiful month to be on safari. There is no dust, the air is clear and colours are rich. Photographers who enjoy moody light and green backgrounds often prefer this season to the brown, dusty dry months later in the year. Bring plenty of memory cards.
Rain and Muddy Roads
Rain is likely in May, especially in the first half of the month, and heavy showers can shorten a game drive. Some black-cotton tracks become slippery or close, so certain areas may be harder to reach. Experienced guides, sturdy vehicles and flexible daily plans keep the safari running smoothly despite the weather. Late May is usually drier.
Some Seasonal Camps Close
Several seasonal and mobile camps close or move during April and May, and some remote areas are less accessible. The choice of accommodation is therefore smaller in parts of the Serengeti. Permanent lodges remain open, so a well-planned route still offers comfortable stays, but it pays to confirm options early for your dates. We confirm openings before booking.
Wet Coast and Muddy Mountains
May is one of the wettest months on Zanzibar, and some beach resorts close or reduce services. Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru climbs are possible, but trails are wet and muddy and views less reliable. If a beach or summit is essential, June offers much better conditions for both, with drier weather settling in. May suits safari-only trips best.
Events during a Tanzania Safari in May
May has one fixed public holiday and several natural events that shape a safari. Labour Day on 1 May is a national public holiday, with parades in larger towns; banks and some offices close, though parks and lodges operate normally. In nature, the main event is the migration moving west through the central Serengeti, together with the start of the wildebeest rut, when bulls compete noisily for females. Lake Manyara’s waterfalls run strongly, and the rains ease toward the end of the month. Religious holidays such as Eid follow the lunar calendar, so their dates vary each year.
- 1 MayLabour DayNational public holiday
- Through MayHerds move westSeronera, Moru and toward the Western Corridor
- May–JuneWildebeest rutBulls compete and gather females
- Late MayRains easeDrier days as the dry season nears
Safari Prices & Costs
May is green season in northern Tanzania, which makes it one of the best-value months for a private safari. The main cost factors are the lodges you choose, how many nights you spend in the Serengeti, whether you drive or fly, park and conservation fees, and the size of your travelling party. Many lodges offer lower green-season rates, while park fees stay the same all year. Rates change by year and property, so we quote every tailor-made itinerary individually. The points below explain how each element affects your budget.
Green-Season Lodge Rates
Accommodation is usually the largest part of a safari budget, and it is where May offers the clearest savings. Many lodges and camps charge lower green-season rates until the dry season begins in June. This can make higher-category properties more affordable or allow extra nights. We compare current offers for your exact dates. Ask us about current offers.
Park and Conservation Fees
National parks and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area charge entry and concession fees, usually per person per day, and the crater has a separate vehicle descent fee. These fees are set by the authorities rather than by season, so they do not drop in May. We include current fees in every private quote you receive from us.
Private Vehicle and Guide
Your private safari includes a four-wheel-drive vehicle with a pop-up roof and a professional driver-guide throughout. The daily vehicle cost is split within your own travelling party, so families and friends pay less per person than solo travellers. In May, a capable vehicle and experienced driver are especially important on wet roads. Fuel and guide fees are included.
Light-Aircraft Flights
Flying from Arusha to a Serengeti airstrip saves a long, possibly muddy road journey, which is particularly useful in May. Flights add to the budget, but lower lodge rates can offset part of the cost. Light aircraft have strict baggage limits, often soft bags only, and schedules can occasionally change in poor weather. Book seats early for preferred times.
Number of Nights
Every extra night adds cost, but green-season rates make longer trips more affordable in May. Two or three nights in the central Serengeti, one or two at Ngorongoro and a day at Lake Manyara make a balanced route. Adding a buffer day helps absorb any weather delays without rushing the rest of your trip. We help you choose wisely.
Optional Activities and Tips
Optional extras include balloon flights, cultural visits, guided walks, Karatu farm tours and travel insurance. Gratuities for guides and lodge staff are customary and at your discretion. We list exactly what is included and excluded in your quote, so there are no surprises once you arrive in Tanzania, whatever the weather brings. Extras are paid only if chosen.
Tanzania Safari Packages in May
The best May packages focus on the central Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, then add Lake Manyara or Tarangire, using permanent lodges that stay open through the rains. Every itinerary below is a starting point for a private tailor-made safari: we adjust nights, lodges, flights and activities to your dates, budget and interests. Green-season rates make May a good time to choose a higher-category trip or extend your stay. Each package lists its length and style, and every one can be adjusted to suit you. Lodges and flights can be changed to fit any budget level.
7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari
This seven-day route combines Tarangire, the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, timed to follow the herds wherever they are grazing. In May your guide focuses on the central Serengeti as the migration moves west through Seronera and Moru. It suits travellers who want the migration plus classic northern highlights in about a week. Quiet parks make sightings personal.
View This Safari →
11-Day Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari
With eleven days you can travel at a relaxed pace, giving the herds more time and the weather more room. In May we shape this longer itinerary around the central Serengeti and the westward movement of the migration, with extra nights where the wildlife is best. It is ideal for patient travellers and photographers. Fly-in sections can be added.
View This Safari →
6-Day Highlights of Tanzania Mid-Range Safari
A six-day mid-range safari covering the highlights of the northern circuit in comfortable lodges. In May, green-season rates and quiet parks make it especially good value, and permanent lodges keep the trip comfortable through any showers. It suits first-time visitors who want a well-paced introduction to Tanzania without overspending on accommodation. Upgrades are easy on request.
View This Safari →
8-Day Tanzania Big Five Luxury Safari
This eight-day luxury safari visits Tarangire, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in search of lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and black rhino. In May, lower green-season rates at many luxury lodges make this style more accessible, while quiet crater mornings improve your chances of unhurried rhino viewing. Lodges can be adjusted to your taste. Rhino sightings are never guaranteed, though.
View This Safari →
10-Day Ultra-Luxury Tanzania Lodge Safari
Ten days in some of Tanzania’s finest lodges, with private game drives and time to relax between them. May is a clever month for this trip, as green-season rates at many high-end properties and empty parks make the experience even more exclusive. Light-aircraft flights can replace the longest drives on wet days. It suits honeymoons and celebrations.
View This Safari →
7-Day Best of Serengeti Safari
A premium Serengeti-focused trip that can run as a fly-in or drive safari, suitable for couples, families, solo travellers and seniors. In May the fly-in option avoids muddy road days, and we base you in the central Serengeti to stay close to the moving herds and resident big cats around Seronera. Drive options remain fully available.
View This Safari →Accommodations during a Tanzania Safari in May
Where you stay in May depends partly on which properties are open, because some seasonal camps close or move during the long rains. Permanent lodges in the central Serengeti put you close to the passing herds, rim lodges give early crater access, and Karatu and Lake Manyara lodges make comfortable stops along the route. Below is a selection of properties we often use in May, chosen for location and reliability in the rains. Availability and green-season rates vary, so we confirm current options when we quote. Each property below notes its area and why it suits May.
Meliá Serengeti Lodge
A permanent lodge in the central Serengeti, well placed for May when the herds move through the region. Being permanent, it stays open through the rains and gives easy access to Seronera’s resident lions and leopards. It is a comfortable base for two or three nights of migration and big cat viewing. Its location suits May perfectly.
View Lodge →
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Set on a hillside in the central Serengeti, this established lodge looks over the plains and suits May travellers who want a solid, permanent base. From here, your guide can reach Seronera and the routes the herds take as they move west. It is a reliable choice when seasonal camps are closed. Expect warm service and views.
View Lodge →
Lemala Nanyukie Lodge
A luxury lodge in the eastern and central Serengeti, close enough to Seronera for daily drives and quieter than the busiest areas. In May its setting offers peaceful views of green plains and kopjes. It suits couples and travellers who want high comfort at green-season value, with easy access to resident predators. Book early for preferred rooms.
View Lodge →
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge stands on the eastern rim of the crater, near a descent road that leads to the crater floor. Its location means an early start without a long drive around the rim. In May the views across the green crater are superb, and the quiet season makes it especially peaceful. Bring warm layers for evenings.
View Lodge →
Kitela Lodge
Kitela Lodge sits in the green farmland of the Karatu highlands, a short drive from the Ngorongoro gate and Lake Manyara. In May the gardens and surrounding coffee country are lush, and cool evenings suit a fireside dinner. It is a comfortable, well-placed stop before or after the crater, ideal for families too. Gardens make pleasant evening walks.
View Lodge →
Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
Perched on the rift escarpment above Lake Manyara, this lodge offers wide views over the park and lake. In May the full lake and green forest below look spectacular, and the park’s waterfalls are running. It is a convenient overnight stop between Arusha and Ngorongoro, with Manyara game drives on the doorstep. Sunsets over the lake are memorable.
View Lodge →Safari Accommodation Styles in May
May sees the long rains easing, the wildebeest rut beginning and camps reopening in new locations. Choose the accommodation style that fits your plans, or blend several in one private, tailor-made safari.
Budget Camping Safari in May
Budget camping becomes more comfortable as May progresses and the long rains fade. Early in the month public campsites can still be muddy, so we favour well-drained pitches and carry extra tarpaulins. By late May evenings are drier and fresher, and your private guide and cook make camp life easy and enjoyable amid green, quiet landscapes.
Explore Budget Camping →
Mobile Tented Camps in May
In May, mobile tented camps reopen or relocate to follow the wildebeest as they gather in long columns across the central Serengeti. As the rut begins, herds push west towards the Grumeti and the Western Corridor, and several camps move there. Staying in one puts you close to the bellowing males and the drama of the rut.
Where to Stay for the Migration →
Lodge Safari in May
Permanent lodges are a dependable choice in May, with sheltered rooms, hot water and dining areas that stay comfortable if showers linger. We often combine lodges on the Ngorongoro rim, in Karatu and around Seronera with drives towards the Western Corridor. Green-season rates still apply at many properties, making May a smart month for families.
Explore Lodge Safaris →
Tented Lodge Safari in May
Permanent tented lodges blend canvas charm with solid comforts in May, as the countryside glows green after the rains. Choose tented lodges in central Serengeti and the Western Corridor to stay near the migrating herds, or around Tarangire and Lake Manyara for a relaxed start. Many still offer green-season rates, a welcome bonus for couples.
Explore Tented Safaris →
High-End Luxury Safari in May
A high-end luxury safari in May delivers peaceful game drives, lush scenery and the start of the rut with very few other vehicles around. Combine an elegant crater-rim lodge with a luxury camp in the Western Corridor or central Serengeti, adding light-aircraft transfers for ease. Green-season rates make premium stays more accessible before the dry season.
Explore Luxury Safaris →How Much Does a Safari in Tanzania Cost in May?
A private Tanzania safari in May usually costs about $200 to $2,500 per person per day, with accommodation shaping most of the price. May is still green season: the long rains ease as the month goes on, many lodges keep lower green-season rates, and availability is generous for most dates. Some seasonal camps stay closed or are relocating towards the Western Corridor, so choice is narrower. Your private vehicle, guide, park fees and meals are normally included. Below we compare five accommodation styles for a May safari.
Budget Camping Safari Cost in May
$200 – $390per person per day
Value seekers keen to enjoy fresh green landscapes
Budget camping in May offers strong value as the rains begin to ease and the parks turn lush and quiet. Your private guide, cook and 4x4 stay with you, and you sleep in dome tents at public campsites in the Serengeti and at Ngorongoro. Early May can still be wet, so cost depends partly on adding lodge nights.
- Private vehicle and guide
- Public campsite fees
- Rain-ready tents
- Optional lodge nights
Mobile Tented Camps Cost in May
$550 – $590per person per day
Migration fans following the herds west
In May many mobile camps are closed or moving as the wildebeest head through central Serengeti towards the Western Corridor. Camps that reopen late in the month are often pitched near Grumeti, ready for the coming river crossings. Rates reflect location and the logistics of moving, and we check opening dates carefully before building your route.
- Camp opening dates
- Relocation towards the west
- Full-board en-suite tents
- Concession and park fees
Lodge Safari Cost in May
$590 – $750per person per day
Families, seniors and travellers who value dependable comfort
A lodge safari is a smart choice in May. Permanent lodges in central Serengeti, on the Ngorongoro rim, in Karatu and near Lake Manyara stay open, offering dry rooms and hearty meals. Many keep lower green-season rates, so this style often represents excellent value. Your price depends on lodge standard, room type and the number of nights.
- Lodge standard and views
- Lower green-season rates
- Room type and occupancy
- Number of nights
Tented Lodge Safari Cost in May
$590 – $990per person per day
Couples seeking a quiet, romantic bush experience
Tented lodges bring the sounds of the bush together with proper beds, en-suite bathrooms and covered verandas. In May, many still offer lower green-season rates, while a few seasonal properties reopen towards the end of the month. The wide price range reflects which lodges are open, their location in the parks and the comforts each provides.
- Seasonal reopening dates
- Green-season pricing
- Tent size and verandas
- Meals and drinks package
High-End Luxury Safari Cost in May
$990 – $2,500per person per day
Honeymooners and travellers who prize privacy and space
A high-end luxury safari in May offers exclusive lodges, fine dining and private guiding with very few other vehicles around. Some luxury properties close for part of the month, while others keep lower green-season rates. Light-aircraft flights help on wetter days and save time between parks. Your cost depends on chosen properties, flights, drinks and extras.
- Properties open in May
- Green-season offers
- Light-aircraft flights
- Premium dining and extras
Tanzania Destinations in May
May conditions vary widely across northern Tanzania, from wet trails on Kilimanjaro and rainy days on Zanzibar to green, quiet safari parks. Each destination below explains what to expect in May, what you can see or do, and how it fits into a private tailor-made itinerary. Use these notes to decide which places to combine, how long to spend in each, and whether a beach or climb belongs in this trip or a drier month. We also suggest how many days to allow in each place. Our planners can help you balance these choices.
Kilimanjaro Climbing in May
May is at the end of Kilimanjaro’s wettest period, so trails are often muddy, forests are damp and summit views less dependable. Climbs are still possible, and the mountain is very quiet, but you need excellent waterproof gear. Most travellers wait for June to October, when the main dry climbing season begins. Choose longer routes for acclimatisation.
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Zanzibar in May
May is one of Zanzibar’s wettest months, with heavy showers, high humidity and rougher seas. Some resorts close or reduce services, while those that stay open often offer lower rates. If you visit, expect sunny spells between rain and enjoy a quieter Stone Town. For reliable beach weather, choose June onward. Stone Town remains interesting year-round.
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Ngorongoro Crater in May
The crater is green and full of resident wildlife in May, with good chances of black rhino, lions, hyenas, buffalo and elephants. Visitor numbers are lower than in the dry season. The rim is cold, damp and often misty in the mornings, so bring warm layers and a rain jacket for the descent. Plan a full crater day.
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Tarangire in May
Tarangire is green and very quiet in May. Many elephants and plains animals are spread across the wider landscape, so sightings are less concentrated than from June to October. Resident giraffes, lions and plentiful birds remain, and baobabs stand in tall grass. A single night or day visit is enough this month. Baobabs look magnificent in green.
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Arusha National Park in May
Arusha National Park is lush in May, with dripping montane forest, colobus monkeys, giraffes and buffalo. Clouds often hide the peaks, but clearer mornings can reveal Mount Meru. Game drives continue, while walks and canoeing depend on conditions. It is close to Arusha town, so it suits a first or final day. Pack a light rain jacket.
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Lake Manyara in May
Lake Manyara is at its lushest in May, with waterfalls running off the escarpment, dense groundwater forest and a full lake attracting pelicans and storks. Elephants, baboons, hippos and tree-climbing lions are regular highlights. It is compact and close to Karatu, so a half or full day fits easily into a route. Birders should allow extra time.
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Serengeti in May
In May the herds usually move through the central Serengeti, around Seronera and Moru, heading toward the Western Corridor, and the rut often begins. Seronera keeps resident lions and leopards all year. The park is quiet, the plains are green, and permanent central lodges make the best bases while seasonal camps close. Plan three nights for flexibility.
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Mount Meru in May
Mount Meru is wet in May, with slippery forest trails and cloud that can hide the views from the crater rim. Climbs are possible with good waterproof gear, and the mountain is very quiet. For clearer skies and drier paths, June to October and January to February are much better months to climb. Armed rangers accompany all climbers.
Explore Mount Meru Climbing →Travel Tips
A little preparation makes a May safari far more rewarding. The most important step is building flexibility into your plans, because rain can change the timing of drives and the condition of side tracks. It also helps to choose permanent lodges, consider flights for the longest journeys, pack proper rain gear and check which seasonal camps are open. These practical tips come from our Arusha-based guides and planners, who run private safaris throughout the green season every year. Use them alongside the rest of this guide. Each tip includes a quick summary of what to do.
Build Flexibility into Every Day
Rain in May tends to come in bursts, so the best safaris adjust each day to the weather. Allow your guide to shift drive times, pack lunches for long mornings and use afternoons for rest when it pours. Adding one spare day to your itinerary removes most of the stress of green-season travel. Patience brings the best sightings.
Pick Permanent, Well-Placed Lodges
Some seasonal camps close or move in April and May, so focus on permanent lodges in the central Serengeti, on the Ngorongoro rim and in Karatu. These stay open, have solid roofs and reliable facilities, and many offer lower green-season rates. We confirm which properties are operating before suggesting them for your dates. Ask us about current options.
Bring Proper Rain Gear
Pack a lightweight but genuinely waterproof jacket, quick-drying trousers and shoes that cope with mud. A warm fleece is essential for cold mornings on the Ngorongoro rim. Dry bags protect cameras and phones, and a small towel in the vehicle is surprisingly useful. Laundry may take longer to dry in damp weather. Pack light, layered clothing too.
Consider Flights for Long Journeys
Long road transfers can take longer in May when sections are muddy. Flying from Arusha to a Serengeti airstrip, or back again, saves hours and energy. A drive-in, fly-out route lets you enjoy Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara by road while avoiding the longest return day. Keep luggage to soft bags within weight limits. We arrange every flight connection.
Take Mosquito Precautions Seriously
Standing water after the long rains means mosquitoes are more common in May. Visit a travel clinic several weeks before departure to discuss malaria prevention and recommended vaccines. Use repellent, cover up in the evening and sleep under nets where provided. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly recommended for every traveller. Carry a small first-aid kit.
Keep Cameras Dry and Ready
Bring a rain cover or dry bag for your camera, plus a microfibre cloth for lenses. A beanbag steadies long lenses on the vehicle frame. Charging may be limited at some lodges, so carry spare batteries. The soft light after rain is excellent, so keep your camera ready rather than packed away. Spare memory cards are essential.
What to Bring
Packing for a May safari means preparing for mild days, cold highland nights and regular showers. Choose light, quick-drying clothing in neutral colours such as khaki, olive or beige, and avoid bright white and dark blue or black in tsetse areas. A reliable waterproof jacket is essential, and shoes with good grip help on muddy paths. Add a warm fleece or light down jacket for the Ngorongoro rim and early drives. If you fly in light aircraft, use a soft duffel bag within the weight limit. Dry bags keep cameras, phones and travel documents safe from passing rain.
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Quick-drying neutral clothing
- Warm fleece or light down
- Shoes with good grip
- Dry bags for electronics
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars
- Camera rain cover
- Soft duffel bag
- Personal medication
- Wide-brim hat & sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
How to get there
Most May safaris begin at Kilimanjaro International Airport, which lies between Moshi and Arusha and receives international flights through major hubs in Africa, Europe and the Middle East. Your guide meets you on arrival and transfers you to Arusha, the gateway to the northern parks. From there you can drive via Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro highlands to the central Serengeti, or take a light-aircraft flight from Arusha Airport to a Serengeti airstrip, which saves time when roads are wet. Some travellers arrive via Dar es Salaam and connect north on a domestic flight; your planner arranges each transfer.
- Fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO)International arrival near Arusha and Moshi
- Private transfer to ArushaMeet-and-greet with your guide; overnight in Arusha
- Drive or fly to the parksRoad via Manyara and Ngorongoro, or a flight to Seronera
- Fly back to ArushaAvoid a long wet return drive
Malaria & safety
Malaria is present in most safari areas and on Zanzibar, and May’s standing water after the long rains suits mosquitoes, so prevention is especially important. Speak to a travel clinic about antimalarial medication, use repellent, wear long sleeves in the evening and sleep under nets where provided. Tanzania is welcoming and private safaris are well organised, but sensible precautions apply. Follow your guide’s instructions around wildlife, stay inside the vehicle unless told otherwise, and drink only bottled or filtered water. Wet roads call for patience, so trust your driver’s judgement. Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly recommended.
- Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials
- Use repellent and long sleeves at dusk
- Drink bottled or filtered water
- Carry yellow fever proof if required
- Follow your guide around wildlife
- Trust your driver on wet roads
- Keep valuables secure in towns
- Get insurance with evacuation cover
Tanzania Safari in May: FAQs
Is May a good time for a Tanzania safari?
May can be very rewarding. It is green season, so expect some rain, but the parks are quiet, the scenery is lush, many lodges offer lower green-season rates and the migration herds usually move through the central Serengeti.
Where is the Great Migration in May?
In May the wildebeest and zebra herds usually move from the southern plains through the central Serengeti, around Seronera and the Moru Kopjes, heading toward the Western Corridor. Exact positions vary with the rain each year.
Does it rain a lot in Tanzania in May?
May is the end of the long rains. Early May can bring heavy showers, but rain usually eases through the month and often falls in the afternoon or overnight, leaving many bright mornings for game drives.
Are safaris cheaper in May?
Often, yes. Many lodges and camps offer lower green-season rates in May, although park and conservation fees stay the same all year. Some seasonal camps close, so we confirm open properties and current rates when we quote.
Can I climb Kilimanjaro in May?
You can, but May is one of the wettest months on the mountain, with muddy trails and cloudy views. Good waterproof gear is essential. For drier conditions, we recommend climbing from June to October or January to early March.
Is Zanzibar good in May?
May is one of Zanzibar’s wettest months, with heavy showers and humid weather, and some resorts close or reduce services. For reliable beach weather, plan your Zanzibar stay from June onward or in December to February.
How far ahead should I book a May safari?
Three to six months ahead is usually enough for May, as it is a quiet month. Booking earlier is still wise if you want a specific lodge, a fly-in itinerary or travel over a long weekend.
Design Your Private May Safari
Tell us your May dates, interests and travel style, and our Arusha team will design a private tailor-made green-season safari around the moving herds, with open lodges, flexible days and good value.
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