Things to Do in Kenya in May

May Weather in Kenya

25°C (77°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

51mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Prime long rains season for spectacular wildebeest migration river crossings at Mara River - peak viewing from late May with dramatic predator action
Lush green landscapes perfect for photography - Kenya transforms into emerald paradise with waterfalls at full flow and vibrant vegetation
Fewer tourists mean lower accommodation rates (30-40% below peak season) and uncrowded game drives - you'll often have sightings to yourself
Excellent bird watching with 200+ migratory species present - perfect time for serious birders with European migrants still present alongside residents

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt game drives for 1-2 hours daily - some remote roads become temporarily impassable requiring flexible itineraries
High humidity makes midday activities uncomfortable - you'll want to plan indoor breaks between 11am-3pm when it feels like 32°C (90°F)
Some seasonal camps in northern conservancies close during heavy rains - reduces accommodation options in Samburu and Laikipia regions

Best Activities in May

Masai Mara Migration River Crossings

Late May offers the most dramatic wildebeest river crossings as herds move north from Serengeti. Morning game drives (6am-10am) provide optimal viewing with cooler temperatures and active wildlife. Rain clears dust for exceptional visibility and photography.

Booking Tip: Book conservancy camps 8-12 weeks ahead for best river-view positions. Expect rates 30% lower than July peak. Choose operators with covered vehicles for weather flexibility (see current options in booking section below).

Mount Kenya Forest Hiking

May's rains create stunning waterfalls and lush forest conditions perfect for day hikes. Temperatures stay comfortable at 18-22°C (64-72°F) at altitude. Clear mornings before 11am offer best mountain views before afternoon clouds roll in.

Booking Tip: Book guided forest walks through KWS or certified operators 2-3 weeks ahead. Rates typically KSH 8,000-15,000 per person for day hikes including park fees. Essential to have rain gear and proper hiking boots.

Lake Nakuru Flamingo Viewing

May rains increase lake levels attracting massive flamingo flocks - up to 1.5 million birds create pink shorelines. Cool mornings perfect for walking trails, while afternoon storms create dramatic sky backdrops for photography.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Nairobi typically cost KSH 12,000-18,000 including transport and park fees. Book morning departures (7am) to maximize bird activity before weather changes. Choose operators with covered vehicles.

Diani Beach Indian Ocean Activities

May brings consistent trade winds perfect for kite surfing and dhow sailing. Sea temperatures stay warm at 26°C (79°F) while brief afternoon showers cool air temperatures. Excellent visibility for snorkeling with reduced tourist boats.

Booking Tip: Water sports operators offer 20-25% lower rates than peak season. Book morning activities (8am-12pm) before afternoon weather. Kite surfing lessons typically KSH 8,000-12,000 per day. Check weather windows for multi-day bookings.

Amboseli Elephant Research Experience

May's green season brings Amboseli's famous elephant families into open areas for easier viewing. Morning light through rain-cleared air creates perfect conditions for photographing elephants against Kilimanjaro backdrop when clouds lift.

Booking Tip: Research camp visits need 4-6 weeks advance booking. Rates drop 25% in May - typically KSH 25,000-35,000 for 2-day experiences. Morning game drives essential before afternoon weather patterns develop.

Nairobi Cultural Walking Tours

May's cooler mornings and frequent afternoon showers make walking tours of Kibera, Maasai markets, and downtown Nairobi comfortable. Indoor cultural centers provide excellent afternoon alternatives when weather turns.

Booking Tip: Walking tours typically cost KSH 3,500-6,000 per person for half-day experiences. Book morning slots (8am-12pm) to avoid afternoon rains. Look for operators including indoor cultural sites as backup options.

May Events & Festivals

May 1

Labour Day Celebrations

May 1st public holiday features parades, cultural displays, and local festivals across major cities. Excellent opportunity to experience Kenyan culture, though expect closures of government offices and some attractions.

Early to Mid May

Wildebeest Calving Season Continuation

Late stage of calving season in southern Masai Mara brings intense predator activity as young animals become mobile. Peak wildlife drama as lions, leopards, and cheetahs take advantage of vulnerable young.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket with hood - afternoon thunderstorms can last 30-90 minutes with temperatures dropping 5-8°C (9-14°F)

Quick-dry hiking pants - morning dew and muddy game drive vehicles make cotton impractical

Waterproof daypack covers - essential for protecting cameras and electronics during sudden downpours

Breathable long-sleeve shirts - protect from UV index 8 sun and evening mosquitoes without overheating in 70% humidity

Waterproof hiking boots - morning game walks can be muddy, avoid leather which won't dry in humid conditions

High-SPF mineral sunscreen (50+) - equatorial sun remains intense even on cloudy days

Moisture-wicking underwear and socks - synthetic blends essential in high humidity conditions

Lightweight fleece or wool layer - early morning game drives start at 15°C (59°F) before sunrise

Waterproof phone case - sudden storms can damage electronics, especially important for GPS and communications

Anti-malaria medication - May rains increase mosquito breeding, consult travel medicine clinic 4-6 weeks before departure

Insider Knowledge

Book morning game drives exclusively - wildlife activity peaks 6am-10am before afternoon storms, plus you'll have better lodge/camp availability for afternoon indoor activities

Carry cash in small denominations - May's lower tourist numbers mean many vendors and local operators prefer cash over cards, especially in rural areas

Choose accommodations with covered common areas - many visitors underestimate how afternoon rains affect outdoor dining and socializing plans

Download offline maps before traveling - May storms can disrupt cell coverage in remote conservancies, having GPS backup prevents getting lost on unmarked roads

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking only outdoor activities - afternoon storms are unpredictable, always have indoor backup plans like cultural centers, museums, or spa treatments

Packing only light summer clothes - morning game drives and evening temperatures require warm layers, many visitors get cold and uncomfortable

Expecting constant rain - May has sunny periods between storms, don't cancel outdoor plans entirely but build flexibility into schedules