Serengeti Safari in May
By the Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris team
Written by our Arusha-based safari guides and private safari planners from first-hand experience in the Serengeti.
A Serengeti safari in May catches the park at its greenest and quietest. The long rains usually ease as the month goes on, the plains are lush and full of water, and the Great Migration is on the move. Long columns of wildebeest and zebra typically stream north-west through central Serengeti, around Seronera and Moru Kopjes, towards the Western Corridor, and the rutting season begins. This guide covers Serengeti weather in May, where the herds usually are, wildlife, crowds, costs, camps and travel tips, so you can plan a private tailor-made safari with your own guide and private 4x4.
Yes, if you value space and green-season prices. May is the tail end of the long rains, so expect some showers, especially early in the month. In return the Serengeti is lush and very quiet, the migration usually moves through central Serengeti towards the Western Corridor, the rut begins, and some lodges offer lower green-season rates.
Why Visit the Serengeti in May
Why go to the Serengeti in May? Because it is the most peaceful month of the year, with green plains, dramatic skies and the migration in motion. As the long rains fade, the herds usually leave the drying south and travel through central Serengeti in long, noisy columns, while the wildebeest rut begins. Resident lions, leopards and cheetahs stay busy around Seronera, and some lodges offer lower green-season rates. Here are six reasons a private safari in May rewards travellers who are happy with a few showers. Each tab explains what to expect.
The Migration Marches Through Central Serengeti
In May the Great Migration is usually on the move. After leaving the southern plains, over a million wildebeest, with zebra and gazelles, typically travel north-west through central Serengeti in long columns that can stretch to the horizon. Watching a column file past your private vehicle is one of the most memorable sights of the year.
The Wildebeest Rut Begins
The rutting season usually begins around May. Territorial bulls chase rivals, bellow constantly and round up females, creating a noisy, restless spectacle on the plains. It is a side of the migration many visitors never see. Our guides read the herds to find active bulls, and the drama often continues into June as the columns move west.
The Quietest Month in the Serengeti
May is one of the quietest months in the Serengeti. With fewer travellers on the roads, even popular areas such as Seronera feel peaceful, and you will often have a lion pride or leopard tree to yourself. For travellers who dislike busy sightings, this calm is a real luxury on a private safari with your own guide.
Lower Green-Season Rates
Because May falls in the green season, some Serengeti lodges and camps offer lower green-season rates, which can make a longer stay or a better room more affordable. A few seasonal camps close or move during the long rains, but plenty of central lodges stay open. We check which properties are open for your dates.
Resident Big Cats Around Seronera
Central Serengeti keeps its resident predators all year, and in May they are joined by the passing herds. Lions patrol the Seronera River, leopards rest in sausage and acacia trees, and cheetahs hunt on the open plains. With fewer vehicles about, your guide can take time to wait for action at each sighting. Sightings can last for hours.
Lush Plains and Dramatic Skies
The long rains leave the Serengeti at its most photogenic in May. Grass is tall and green, pools shine on the plains, and storm clouds build dramatic skies over the kopjes. The air is clear after showers, with soft light early and late in the day. Photographers love the contrast of dark herds against fresh grass.
Serengeti Weather in May
Serengeti weather in May marks the end of the long rains, which run from March to May and are usually heaviest in April. Early May can still bring heavy afternoon showers, while later in the month the rain usually eases and sunny spells grow longer. Days are warm, about 24–28 °C, and nights are fresh, especially at higher altitudes. The park lies at roughly 920–1,850 m, so it rarely feels oppressive. Some tracks can be muddy or waterlogged, particularly on black cotton soils. By early June, the long dry season usually begins. Pack layers for cool early drives.
Where Is the Great Migration in May?
Where is the Great Migration in May? In most years the herds are travelling through central Serengeti. As the southern plains dry out after the rains, wildebeest and zebra usually move north-west past Moru Kopjes and Seronera, often forming long columns that take days to pass. By late May, the leading herds typically reach the Western Corridor, where they gather before the Grumeti River crossings, usually in June to early July. The wildebeest rut begins on the move. Exact timing changes every year with the rains, so our guides follow the latest reports to position your private safari.
- Early MayHerds leave the southMoving through Moru Kopjes and the southern woodlands
- Mid-MayColumns through central SerengetiLong lines around Seronera; the rut begins
- Late MayHeading westLeading herds usually reach the Western Corridor
- Next monthWestern Corridor and GrumetiGrumeti River crossings usually June to early July
Serengeti Wildlife in May
Serengeti wildlife in May combines the passing migration with central Serengeti’s rich resident animals. Wildebeest and zebra move through in long columns, with Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles alongside, and the bulls’ rutting calls carry across the plains. Lions, leopards, cheetahs and spotted hyenas are busy around Seronera, where prey is plentiful. Elephants, giraffes, buffalo, topi, hartebeest and impala are present year-round, and hippos crowd the full pools. Many young animals born earlier in the year are growing fast. In the Western Corridor, large crocodiles wait in the Grumeti River as the herds approach. Every game drive brings surprises.
- Wildebeest
- Zebra
- Lion
- Leopard
- Cheetah
- Spotted hyena
- Elephant
- Giraffe
- Buffalo
- Topi
- Hartebeest
- Thomson’s gazelle
- Hippo
- Nile crocodile
Serengeti Birds in May
Serengeti birds in May are well worth your attention, even though most Palearctic migrants have left by the end of April. More than 500 species have been recorded in the park, and the green season brings plenty of food, so resident birds are active and vocal. Look for near-endemics such as the grey-breasted spurfowl, Fischer’s lovebird, rufous-tailed weaver and Usambiro barbet. Ostriches, kori bustards and secretarybirds stride through the long grass, vultures follow the moving herds, and the lilac-breasted roller is everywhere. Your guide can plan slower birding stops around Seronera. Bring good binoculars to enjoy them fully.
- Grey-breasted spurfowl
- Fischer’s lovebird
- Rufous-tailed weaver
- Usambiro barbet
- Lilac-breasted roller
- Secretarybird
- Kori bustard
- Ostrich
- White-backed vulture
- Lappet-faced vulture
- Tawny eagle
- Superb starling
Where to Go in the Serengeti in May
Where should you go in the Serengeti in May? Follow the herds into the centre and west. Central Serengeti around Seronera is the best base, with resident big cats and migrating columns, while Moru Kopjes often sees herds early in the month. The Western Corridor becomes important late in May as the leading herds arrive. The southern plains and Ndutu are quieter once the herds have left, and the north is very peaceful before the dry-season crossings. These six areas are ranked for May. Each tab explains why the area suits May.
Central Serengeti and Seronera
Seronera, in central Serengeti, is the best area for a May safari. The Seronera River valley holds year-round lions, leopards in sausage trees and cheetahs on the plains, and in most years migrating columns pass through. Its network of roads and airstrip make it easy to reach, and lodges here stay open through the green season.
Explore Central Serengeti →
Moru Kopjes, South-Central Serengeti
Moru Kopjes are dramatic granite outcrops in the south-central Serengeti, often on the migration’s route early in May. Lions rest on the warm rocks, and the green plains around them fill with grazing herds. Black rhino live in this area but are very rarely seen, so treat any sighting as a rare bonus rather than a promise.
View the Serengeti Map →
Western Corridor and the Grumeti River
The Western Corridor stretches towards Lake Victoria along the Grumeti River. By late May the leading migration herds usually arrive here, gathering on the plains before the crossings that typically follow in June. Large crocodiles lurk in the river pools. It is a remote, quiet area, ideal for a late-May extension after central Serengeti. Allow two nights.
Western Corridor Safaris →
Gol Kopjes and the Eastern Plains
The Gol Kopjes rise from the open short-grass plains of the eastern Serengeti and are known for cheetahs. Vehicles must keep to set tracks here, protecting the fragile landscape. In May the area is green and very quiet, and some herds may linger early in the month, making it a peaceful day trip from Seronera.
Explore Eastern Serengeti →
Ndutu and the Southern Plains
Ndutu, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area on the park’s south-eastern edge, hosts the herds from December to March. By May most wildebeest have usually moved on, though resident predators remain around Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek. Some seasonal camps close during the long rains, so we suggest Ndutu mainly for the very start of May.
Ndutu Safari Tours →
Northern Serengeti and Lobo
Northern Serengeti, from the Lobo hills to Kogatende and the Mara River, is very quiet in May. The migration usually does not arrive until July, so there are no river crossings yet, but resident elephants, lions and antelope roam green, empty landscapes. It suits repeat visitors who want true solitude rather than the herds. Roads here are rarely busy.
Explore Northern Serengeti →Things to Do in the Serengeti in May
The best things to do in the Serengeti in May make the most of quiet roads, green scenery and herds on the move. Full-day private game drives let your guide follow the migration columns and wait for big cat action, while a dawn hot air balloon flight over central Serengeti shows the scale of the plains. Photography is superb under stormy skies, birding is rewarding, and the rut adds drama. You can also visit a Maasai village in the Ngorongoro area on the way. Here are six favourite May experiences.
Full-Day Private Game Drives
Private game drives run from sunrise to sunset, and in May a full day out with a packed lunch is the best way to find the moving herds. Your guide adapts the route to the weather, avoids waterlogged tracks and keeps to park rules on driving. Night drives are not permitted inside the national park.
Private Serengeti Safaris →
Hot Air Balloon Safari Over Seronera
A Serengeti hot air balloon safari lifts off at dawn over central Serengeti, where flights operate year-round. In May you float above green plains, winding rivers and, with luck, migrating columns below. Flights depend on the weather on the morning, and a celebratory breakfast in the bush usually follows. Ask us to reserve your flight.
Why Book a Balloon Safari →
Watching the Columns and the Rut
In May the herds are on the move, and watching a column of wildebeest and zebra pass for an hour or more is unforgettable. With the rut beginning, bulls chase rivals and call loudly. Your guide positions the vehicle ahead of the herd, switches off the engine and lets the animals flow past you. Patience is richly rewarded.
Migration Safaris →
Green-Season Wildlife Photography
May is a rewarding month for photography. Fresh green grass, clear air after showers and moody storm skies create backgrounds that are impossible in the dusty dry season. With a private vehicle you control the timing and angle of each sighting, and fewer vehicles mean cleaner frames of big cats and moving herds. Bring a rain cover for your camera.
Serengeti Photo Safaris →
Birding in the Green Season
Most migrant birds have left by May, but resident species are active and easy to see in the lush grass and woodland. Look for near-endemics such as Fischer’s lovebird and the grey-breasted spurfowl, plus secretarybirds, kori bustards and vultures following the herds. Tell us if you would like longer birding stops planned. Binoculars are essential for spotting them.
Serengeti Birds →
Maasai Cultural Visit in the Ngorongoro Area
Maasai cultural visits take place in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area rather than inside the national park. A stop at a Maasai village on the drive between Ngorongoro and the Serengeti introduces you to pastoral life, traditional homes and songs. It breaks the long road journey nicely and adds a human story to your May safari.
Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safaris →What to Expect on a Serengeti Safari in May
What is a Serengeti safari in May really like? Expect green landscapes, warm days and quiet roads, with showers that usually come in the afternoon and ease as the month goes on. Days start early, when animals are most active, and full-day drives are common because the herds are moving. Some tracks can be muddy, so your guide plans routes carefully. A few seasonal camps close, while central lodges stay open. Below we explain a typical May day, the roads, the rain, park rules, accommodation and animal behaviour. Use these notes to prepare for every part of your safari.
A Typical Day on Safari in May
A typical May day starts with coffee at dawn and an early drive, when predators are active and the light is soft. You may stay out all day with a picnic lunch to follow the herds, or return to your lodge at midday. Afternoon showers are usually short, and evenings end with dinner under clearing skies.
Muddy Tracks and Your Private 4x4
After the long rains, some Serengeti tracks are muddy or waterlogged, especially on black cotton soils. Your private 4x4 safari vehicle and experienced guide handle these conditions daily, choosing routes that stay passable. Occasionally a track is avoided or a detour taken. The pop-up roof gives every seat a clear view, even in light rain.
Showers and Clearing Skies
Rain in May usually falls as afternoon or evening showers rather than all-day downpours, and it tends to ease later in the month. Mornings are often bright and clear. A light waterproof jacket is enough for most days. Showers settle the dust, freshen the air and often bring dramatic light just after the storm passes.
Serengeti Park Rules
The Serengeti has clear rules that protect wildlife and habitats. Off-road driving is not allowed in most areas, so your guide stays on tracks, which matters even more on wet ground. Night drives are not permitted inside the national park, and you must stay in the vehicle except at designated sites. Park fees are charged per 24 hours.
Which Lodges and Camps Are Open
Some seasonal camps close or move during April and May, particularly in the south. Permanent lodges in central Serengeti, such as those around Seronera, stay open, and many offer lower green-season rates. Mobile migration camps typically relocate towards the centre or west to follow the herds. We confirm openings when we build your itinerary. Ask us for current details.
How Animals Behave in May
In May the herds are restless, moving steadily west and gathering in long columns, while wildebeest bulls start rutting. Predators shadow the moving herds and make the most of easy prey. With water everywhere, animals spread out rather than gathering at rivers, so your guide uses local knowledge and recent sightings to find the action.
Serengeti Crowds in May
Serengeti crowds in May are among the lowest of the year. The long rains keep many travellers away, so even central Serengeti around Seronera feels calm, with only a few vehicles at most sightings. Moru Kopjes and the Western Corridor are quiet, and the southern plains, Ndutu and northern Serengeti are very quiet once the herds have moved on. Gol Kopjes on the eastern plains see few visitors. If you value solitude, May is an outstanding choice, and a private vehicle lets you linger at sightings as long as you wish. Early starts make the best sightings quieter still.
- SeroneraQuiet
- Moru KopjesQuiet
- Western CorridorQuiet
- Gol KopjesVery quiet
- Ndutu & southVery quiet
- Northern SerengetiVery quiet
Is May the Best Time to Visit the Serengeti?
Is May a good time to visit the Serengeti? It is a green-season month with clear trade-offs. Early May can still be wet, with heavier showers and muddy tracks, while the second half usually brings drier, brighter days as the long rains fade. Late May is often the sweet spot, combining green scenery, quiet roads, the rut and herds heading towards the Western Corridor. If you prefer reliably dry weather, June to October is better; for calving, choose January to March. May suits flexible travellers who value solitude, value for money and lush landscapes. We can advise on dates.
Serengeti in May: Pros and Cons
Every month in the Serengeti has its strengths and drawbacks, and May has more of both than most. On the plus side, it is very quiet, lush and green, the migration is moving through central Serengeti and the wildebeest rut begins, and some lodges offer lower green-season rates. On the other hand, early May can be wet, some tracks are muddy, and a few seasonal camps close. Weigh these points against your travel dates, priorities and flexibility to decide whether May suits your private safari, or whether June would work better. The six points below summarise the main trade-offs.
Fewer Vehicles at Sightings
May is one of the quietest months in the Serengeti, so you share sightings with very few vehicles. Lion prides, leopard trees and moving herds can often be enjoyed in near solitude. That peaceful atmosphere makes a private safari feel even more personal, and your guide has the freedom to wait patiently for action. Photographs benefit too.
- Very few vehicles
- Peaceful sightings
- More time at each stop
- Calm lodges
Lower Rates at Some Lodges
May falls in the green season, when some Serengeti lodges and camps offer lower green-season rates. That can make a longer stay, an extra park or a more comfortable lodge easier to fit into your budget. Availability is good, so you can often secure your preferred property, even when planning only a few months ahead.
- Lower green-season rates
- Good availability
- Room for upgrades
- Flexible planning
The Migration on the Move
In May the herds are usually travelling through central Serengeti in long columns towards the Western Corridor, and the rutting season begins. It is a dynamic, noisy time, with bulls sparring and predators following. Combined with resident big cats around Seronera and lush green scenery, wildlife viewing is varied and often very rewarding. Every day feels different.
- Long migration columns
- Rutting bulls
- Busy predators
- Green scenery
Showers, Especially Early in May
May is the end of the long rains, so showers are likely, especially in the first half of the month. Rain usually falls in the afternoon and rarely stops a full day of game viewing, but it can be heavy. Pack a waterproof jacket, keep camera gear protected, and stay flexible about timings on wet days.
- Afternoon showers
- Heavier early in May
- Pack waterproofs
- Flexible timings
Some Roads Are Muddy
After weeks of rain, some tracks in the Serengeti can be muddy or waterlogged, particularly on black cotton soils. Your guide may avoid certain routes, and journeys can take a little longer than in the dry season. The long road via Ngorongoro can also feel slower, which makes flying to Seronera worth considering this month.
- Muddy black cotton soils
- Slower journeys
- Some routes avoided
- Consider flying in
Some Seasonal Camps Close
Some seasonal camps close or move during April and May, especially in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu. That narrows the choice in some areas, although central Serengeti lodges stay open and mobile migration camps typically relocate to follow the herds. We check opening dates for every property before recommending it for your safari. Plenty of choice remains.
- Fewer camps in the south
- Central lodges open
- Mobile camps relocate
- We confirm openings
How Much Does a Serengeti Safari Cost in May?
How much does a Serengeti safari cost in May? A private Serengeti safari in May typically costs from about $200 to $2,500 per person per day, depending mostly on your accommodation style. May is low, green season, and some lodges offer lower green-season rates. Your private vehicle, guide, park fees and meals are usually included, with exact inclusions confirmed in your quote. The ranges below come from our own price list, and every safari is quoted individually for your dates. Ask us for a detailed quote that compares accommodation styles for your preferred May dates.
Budget Camping Safari
$200 – $390per person per day
A budget camping safari uses public campsites in the Serengeti, with dome tents, a camp cook and simple, hearty meals. In May you hear the herds and rain on canvas at night, a truly wild experience. It still includes your own guide and private 4x4, so game viewing is never compromised, only the comfort level.
- Public campsites
- Camp cook and meals
- Private 4x4 and guide
- Most affordable option
Mobile Tented Camp Safari
$550 – $590per person per day
Mobile tented camps move with the migration, and in May they typically relocate towards central Serengeti or the west to stay close to the herds. You sleep in comfortable safari tents with en-suite facilities and wake to the sounds of the plains. It is an excellent way to stay near the moving columns. Camp locations are confirmed nearer the time.
- Close to the herds
- Moves with the season
- En-suite tents
- Authentic bush feel
Lodge Safari
$590 – $750per person per day
A lodge safari is a comfortable, popular choice in May, using permanent lodges in central Serengeti that stay open through the green season. Solid rooms are welcome on rainy evenings, and lodges around Seronera put you close to resident big cats and passing herds. Some lodges offer lower green-season rates this month. It suits families and first-time visitors alike.
- Permanent lodges
- Open in the green season
- Central locations
- Possible lower rates
Tented Lodge Safari
$590 – $990per person per day
Tented lodges combine the romance of canvas with permanent comforts such as proper beds, private bathrooms and verandas overlooking the plains. In May you enjoy green views and dramatic skies from your tent. Many are in central Serengeti, ideally placed for the migration columns and resident predators around Seronera. It balances comfort and atmosphere beautifully.
- Canvas with comfort
- Private bathrooms
- Views of the plains
- Central Serengeti
High-End Luxury Safari
$990 – $2,500per person per day
A high-end luxury safari uses the Serengeti’s finest lodges and camps, with spacious suites, fine dining and exceptional service. Flying between airstrips saves time on muddy roads in May. Green-season rates at some luxury properties can make this level more accessible, so ask us to compare options for your preferred dates. It is ideal for honeymoons and milestone celebrations.
- Finest lodges and camps
- Fly between airstrips
- Exceptional service
- Ask about green-season rates
Park Fees and Extras
Serengeti park and concession fees are charged per person per 24 hours and are usually included in your quote. Extras to budget for can include an optional hot air balloon safari, internal flights, tips for your guide and lodge staff, visas and travel insurance. We list everything clearly so there are no surprises later. Ask us about anything unclear.
- Fees per 24 hours
- Optional balloon safari
- Flights and tips
- Visas and insurance
Serengeti Safari Packages for May
The best Serengeti safari packages for May focus on central Serengeti and, later in the month, the Western Corridor, where the herds are heading. Each itinerary below is a starting point for a private tailor-made safari, adapted to your dates, budget and interests. Choose a migration-focused safari, a Western Corridor trip for late May, a classic Serengeti circuit, a fly-in option that avoids muddy roads, or a safari with a Zanzibar finish. Every package includes your own guide and private vehicle. Each tab shows the duration and focus, with a link to the full itinerary.
7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari
The 7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari is a strong choice for May, giving you enough time to find the herds as they travel through central Serengeti. We time your nights around the latest herd movements, so you can watch long columns and the start of the rut while enjoying quiet roads and lush green-season scenery. Zanzibar can be added afterwards.
View This Safari →
7-Day Western Corridor Migration
The 7-Day Western Corridor Migration safari suits travel in late May, when the leading herds usually reach the Western Corridor. Combining central Serengeti with the Grumeti River area lets you follow the migration west, before the crossings that typically take place in June. It is a quiet, wild and rewarding way to see the herds.
View This Safari →
8-Day Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari
The 8-Day Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari gives extra time on the plains, which helps in May when the herds are moving and rain may shape the day. More nights mean more flexibility to follow columns, revisit big cat sightings and enjoy slower days. It suits travellers who want depth rather than a rushed itinerary. Ngorongoro can be included.
View This Safari →
7-Day Best of Serengeti
The 7-Day Best of Serengeti safari concentrates on the park’s most rewarding areas, and in May that means central Serengeti and its resident predators, with migration columns passing through. It is an excellent introduction to the Serengeti during the quiet green season, when lush plains and very few vehicles make sightings feel exclusive. It suits first-time visitors well.
View This Safari →
5-Day Fly-in Fly-out Serengeti Luxury
The 5-Day Fly-in Fly-out Serengeti Luxury safari is ideal in May, because flying from Arusha to a Serengeti airstrip avoids long drives on wet roads. You land close to your lodge and spend your time game viewing rather than travelling. It suits short trips, honeymoons and travellers who prefer a smooth, comfortable journey. Luggage limits apply on light aircraft.
View This Safari →
10-Day Serengeti & Zanzibar
The 10-Day Serengeti & Zanzibar trip pairs a private safari in central Serengeti with time on the Indian Ocean coast. In May you enjoy quiet green-season game viewing and migrating herds, then fly to Zanzibar to relax. Ask us about beach conditions for your exact dates, as rain can linger on the coast this month. It makes an ideal honeymoon.
View This Safari →Where to Stay in the Serengeti in May
Where to stay in the Serengeti in May depends on where the herds are moving and which camps are open. Central Serengeti is the best base, with permanent lodges that stay open in the green season and easy access to Seronera’s big cats and passing columns. Lodges near Moru suit early May, while mobile migration camps typically relocate towards the centre or west. Late in the month, a base on the western edge helps for the Western Corridor. These six stays suit a May safari. Each tab shows the location and style.
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is a permanent lodge in central Serengeti, well placed for the Seronera area. In May it makes a reliable green-season base, close to resident lions and leopards and to the routes that migrating columns often follow. Its central location also keeps drive times short when tracks are wet. It suits first-time visitors and families.
View Lodge →
Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Serengeti Sopa Lodge lies in the south-central Serengeti near Moru Kopjes. In early May, when herds often pass through this area on their way north-west, it puts you close to the action. It also makes a good base for exploring the kopjes, where lions rest on the rocks above green plains. Sunsets over the plains can be spectacular here.
View Lodge →
Meliá Serengeti Safari Lodge
Meliá Serengeti Safari Lodge is in central Serengeti, offering a comfortable base for exploring Seronera and the surrounding plains. In May it suits travellers who want solid lodge comforts during the green season, with easy access to resident predators and migrating herds. Ask us about green-season availability and rates for your travel dates. It pairs well with a balloon flight.
View Lodge →
Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp
Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp is a tented camp in central Serengeti, with a classic safari atmosphere under canvas. In May it places you within reach of the migration route through the centre and of Seronera’s big cats. Falling asleep to the calls of rutting wildebeest is a highlight many guests remember long afterwards. Pack a warm layer for evenings.
View Camp →
andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas
andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas is a mobile camp that follows the migration through the year. In May it typically moves to keep pace with the herds as they travel north-west, so you wake close to the action. It offers an intimate, upmarket tented experience, ideal for travellers who want to stay near the moving columns.
View Camp →
Lahia Tented Lodge
Lahia Tented Lodge sits towards the western edge of central Serengeti, a useful base in late May as the leading herds approach the Western Corridor. It combines tented style with permanent comforts and lets you explore both the centre and the west. It suits safaris that follow the migration through the month. Ask us about availability for your dates.
View Lodge →Combine the Serengeti with Other Destinations in May
May is a good month to combine the Serengeti with other northern Tanzania parks, which share the same quiet green-season atmosphere. The Ngorongoro Crater lies on the road to the Serengeti and offers the best chance of seeing black rhino, while Tarangire and Lake Manyara are lush and peaceful. Lake Eyasi adds culture, and Arusha National Park makes an easy first or last day. Our Tanzania safari in May guide covers the wider picture. Choose the options below, and we will link them in one private itinerary. Each tab lists highlights and how long to allow.
Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater lies on the road between Arusha and the Serengeti, so it fits naturally into a May safari. Its floor is green after the rains and home to buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, lions and hyenas, with Tanzania’s best chance of seeing black rhino. Nights on the crater rim are cool, so pack a fleece.
Explore Ngorongoro Crater →
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is green and very quiet in May, with ancient baobabs, resident elephants, giraffes and lions. Some animals spread out into the wider landscape during the rains, so sightings can take more searching than in the dry season, but you will rarely share them. It is a relaxed first stop on the way from Arusha.
Explore Tarangire →
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park sits beneath the Rift Valley escarpment, with groundwater forest, baboons, elephants and a lake that attracts water birds. In May it is lush and quiet, and its compact size makes it ideal for a half or full day between Tarangire and Ngorongoro. It adds variety before the open Serengeti plains. Bring binoculars for the birds.
Explore Lake Manyara →
Lake Eyasi
Lake Eyasi lies south-west of the Ngorongoro highlands and is known for cultural encounters with local communities who keep traditional ways of life. A night here adds a human dimension to your May safari and breaks the drive to the Serengeti. It suits curious travellers who want more than game viewing alone. Allow an early start for the visit.
Explore Lake Eyasi →
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park lies a short drive from Arusha and makes an easy first or last day around your Serengeti safari. It is green in May, with colobus monkeys, giraffes, buffalo and the Momella Lakes, plus views of Mount Meru when clouds lift. It is a good way to use spare time near your flights.
Explore Arusha National Park →
Tanzania Safari in May
Our Tanzania safari in May guide looks beyond the Serengeti at the whole country during the green season. It covers which parks shine as the long rains ease, what the weather is like elsewhere and how to balance a Serengeti safari with other destinations. Use it alongside this page to plan your full trip. It helps you compare destinations quickly.
Tanzania Safari in May →Serengeti Travel Tips for May
A little planning makes a Serengeti safari in May easier and more rewarding. The most useful tips are to aim for the second half of the month, base yourself in central Serengeti, and consider flying in to avoid long drives on wet roads. It also helps to check which camps are open, pack light waterproofs and stay flexible with timings on rainy afternoons. These tips come from our Arusha-based guides, who lead private safaris through the green season every year. Use them alongside the rest of this guide to plan a smooth and rewarding May safari.
Choose the Second Half of May
If your dates are flexible, the second half of May usually brings drier, brighter days as the long rains fade, while keeping the quiet atmosphere and green-season rates. The herds are often heading towards the Western Corridor by then, and the rut is under way. Early May suits travellers comfortable with more frequent showers. Ask us for advice.
- Usually drier later
- Still very quiet
- Herds heading west
- Rut under way
Stay in Central Serengeti
Central Serengeti is the most reliable base in May. Permanent lodges stay open, Seronera’s resident big cats are always nearby, and the migration columns usually pass through. From here your guide can reach Moru Kopjes, the eastern plains or the Western Corridor, depending on the latest reports of where the herds are moving. Two or three nights here work well.
- Permanent lodges open
- Year-round big cats
- On the migration route
- Easy day trips
Fly to Avoid Wet Roads
The drive from Arusha via Ngorongoro to central Serengeti takes about a full day and can be slower after the rains. Flying from Arusha Airport to Seronera takes about one to two hours by light aircraft. Many travellers drive in via Ngorongoro and fly out, enjoying the scenery once and saving time on return. Luggage limits apply on flights.
- About 1–2 hours by air
- Avoid slow wet roads
- Drive in, fly out
- More time on safari
Confirm Which Camps Are Open
Some seasonal camps close or move during the long rains, especially in the south. Before you fall in love with a particular camp, ask us whether it is open in May and where it will be located. We only recommend properties confirmed for your dates, and mobile camps are placed where the herds are expected.
- Some camps closed
- Mobile camps relocate
- We confirm dates
- Book open lodges
Bring a Light Rain Jacket
A lightweight waterproof jacket is the most useful item for a May safari. Showers often arrive in the afternoon, and the pop-up roof may need closing for a while. Neutral, quick-drying clothing, a warm layer for fresh evenings and a dry bag for your camera keep you comfortable whatever the weather brings. Avoid dark blue and black clothing.
- Light rain jacket
- Quick-drying clothes
- Warm evening layer
- Dry bag for cameras
Let Your Guide Adapt the Day
May rewards flexibility. Your guide may suggest an early start to beat afternoon showers, a full day out to follow a moving column, or a different route when a track is waterlogged. Trusting their judgement makes the most of each day, and a private safari means the plan can change instantly without affecting anyone else.
- Early starts
- Full days with the herds
- Alternative routes
- Private, flexible plan
What to Pack for the Serengeti in May
Packing for the Serengeti in May means preparing for warm days, fresh evenings and showers that ease through the month. Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing in khaki, green or beige works best, with long sleeves for sun and mosquito protection at dusk. A light waterproof jacket is essential, and a fleece keeps you warm on early drives and on the cool Ngorongoro rim. Bring a dry bag for cameras and binoculars. If you fly between airstrips, light aircraft use soft bags with weight limits, so pack light and leave hard suitcases in Arusha. Keep a small daypack handy for each drive.
- Light waterproof jacket
- Fleece or warm mid-layer
- Neutral-coloured, quick-drying clothing
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
- Comfortable closed shoes
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- High-factor sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars
- Camera with spare batteries and memory cards
- Dry bag for electronics
- Soft duffel bag for light aircraft
Events and Holidays in May
May begins with Workers’ Day on 1 May, a public holiday in Tanzania, though it has little effect on the Serengeti, which stays very quiet all month. Religious holidays such as Eid follow the lunar calendar, so their dates vary from year to year. In nature, May is a month of change: the long rains usually ease, the wildebeest rut begins, and the herds stream through central Serengeti towards the Western Corridor. By late May, the first signs of the dry season appear. Ask us how these events affect your exact dates. Every week brings something new to see.
- 1 MayWorkers’ DayPublic holiday in Tanzania
- Varies each yearEid holidaysFollow the lunar calendar; dates vary
- Usually MayWildebeest rut beginsBulls compete as the herds move west
- Late MayHerds reach the Western CorridorLeading herds usually arrive near the Grumeti River
How to Get to the Serengeti in May
Most travellers reach the Serengeti by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport, known as JRO, and spending a night in Arusha. From there you either drive or fly. The scenic drive via the Ngorongoro highlands takes about a full day, roughly seven to eight hours to central Serengeti, entering at Naabi Hill Gate. In May, wet roads can make the drive slower, so many travellers fly from Arusha Airport to the Seronera airstrip in about one to two hours by light aircraft. Our team arranges every transfer for your private safari. Driving in and flying out combines both options well.
- Fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO)International arrival, then transfer to Arusha
- Overnight in ArushaRest and meet your guide for a briefing
- Drive or fly to the SerengetiBy road via Ngorongoro, or light aircraft from Arusha Airport
- Begin your private safariGame drives from Seronera with your own guide and 4x4
Serengeti Health and Safety in May
Malaria is present in the Serengeti all year, so speak to a travel clinic about antimalarials before you travel. Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk. Tsetse flies occur in some wooded areas, especially in the west and north, so avoid dark blue and black clothing. A yellow fever certificate is needed only if arriving from or transiting a risk country. Drink bottled or filtered water, use sun protection, and carry travel insurance that includes evacuation. Our guides are first-aid trained and will always brief you on staying safe around wildlife and in camp.
- Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials
- Repellent and long sleeves at dusk
- Avoid dark blue and black clothing
- Bottled or filtered water only
- Stay in the vehicle unless your guide says otherwise
- Our guides are first-aid trained
- Travel insurance including evacuation
- Yellow fever certificate only if required
How to Plan and Book a Serengeti Safari in May
Planning a Serengeti safari in May is straightforward, and availability is usually good because it is the quiet green season. Start by choosing your dates within the month, then decide which areas to visit based on where the herds are expected. Next, choose lodges or camps that are open, send us your enquiry, confirm your booking and prepare for the trip. The six steps below walk you through the process, with links to more detailed guides on our website. Our team is happy to help at every stage, from first questions to final packing advice.
Choose Your May Dates
Decide whether early or late May suits you best. Early May is greener and wetter, while late May is usually drier, with herds heading west. Think about how many days you have, too. Most travellers spend at least three or four nights in the Serengeti, with extra time for Ngorongoro or Tarangire on the way.
- Early or late May
- Number of nights
- Travel flexibility
- Other parks to add
Pick Your Serengeti Areas
In May, central Serengeti around Seronera is the core of most safaris, with Moru Kopjes early in the month and the Western Corridor later. Our guides use the latest reports on herd movements to suggest the best areas. Looking at the Serengeti map helps you picture distances and how the regions fit together. Distances are larger than many expect.
- Central Serengeti first
- Moru Kopjes early
- Western Corridor late
- Follow herd reports
Choose Your Lodges and Camps
Pick an accommodation style that suits your budget and taste, from camping and mobile camps to lodges and high-end luxury. In May, make sure the property is open and well placed for the herds. Central lodges stay open through the green season, and some offer lower rates, so ask us to compare options. Mobile camps move with the herds.
- Choose a style
- Check it is open
- Near the herds
- Compare green-season rates
Send Us Your Enquiry
Send us your enquiry with your dates, number of travellers, budget and interests, such as photography, birding or the rut. Our Arusha-based team will reply with a tailor-made private itinerary and a clear quote. We are happy to adjust the plan as many times as needed until it feels exactly right for you. There is no obligation to book.
- Share your dates
- Budget and style
- Your interests
- Receive a tailored quote
Confirm and Book Your Safari
Once you are happy with the itinerary, we confirm your lodges, flights and park arrangements. Payment of the deposit and balance is made as set out in your booking confirmation. Booking even a few months ahead secures your preferred properties in May, and we then send detailed pre-travel information for your safari. Your guide is confirmed too.
- Approve the itinerary
- Secure your lodges
- Deposit as confirmed
- Pre-travel information
Prepare and Pack for May
Before you travel, arrange travel insurance with evacuation cover, check visa requirements and visit a travel clinic about malaria. Then pack for warm days, fresh evenings and showers, with a light waterproof jacket and neutral clothing. Our packing list and pre-departure notes help make sure nothing important is forgotten. Binoculars and a fleece are worth packing too.
- Travel insurance
- Visa check
- Travel clinic visit
- Pack waterproofs
Serengeti Safari in May: FAQs
Where is the Great Migration in May?
In May the Great Migration is usually travelling through central Serengeti, moving north-west past Moru Kopjes and Seronera in long columns. By late May the leading herds typically reach the Western Corridor. Timing varies each year with the rains.
Is May a good time to visit the Serengeti?
Yes, for travellers who value solitude and green-season value. May is very quiet, lush and green, the herds move through central Serengeti and the rut begins. Expect some showers, especially early in the month, and a few seasonal camps closed.
What is the Serengeti weather like in May?
Serengeti weather in May marks the end of the long rains. Expect warm days of about 24–28 °C, fresh nights and showers that are heavier early in the month and usually ease later. Some tracks can be muddy after the rains.
How much does a Serengeti safari cost in May?
A private Serengeti safari in May typically costs from about $200 to $2,500 per person per day, depending mostly on accommodation style. May is green season, and some lodges offer lower green-season rates. Your private vehicle, guide, park fees and meals are usually included.
Is the Serengeti crowded in May?
No. May is one of the quietest months in the Serengeti, so you share sightings with very few vehicles. Availability is usually good, but some seasonal camps close, so booking a few months ahead secures the best open lodges in central Serengeti.
What should I pack for the Serengeti in May?
Pack a light waterproof jacket, a fleece for cool mornings, neutral quick-drying clothing, long sleeves for dusk, a sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars and a dry bag for cameras. Use a soft duffel if you fly between airstrips.
Can you see the Grumeti River crossings in May?
Usually not yet. The Grumeti River crossings in the Western Corridor typically take place in June to early July. In late May the leading herds often gather nearby, so a late-May safari that includes the Western Corridor can catch the build-up.
Design Your Private May Serengeti Safari
Design your private Serengeti safari in May with our Arusha-based team. Tell us your dates and interests, and we will plan quiet green-season game drives, the best open lodges and your own guide and 4x4.
Plan My Private SafariView Serengeti Safaris