Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in El Tortuguero, Nicaragua offers a tropical experience characterized by soaring temperatures and significant rainfall. Daily maximums reach up to 35°C (96°F), with an average temperature of 27°C (81°F), while nighttime lows fall to a comfortable 21°C (70°F). Prepare for an abundance of moisture, as the region experiences an average precipitation of 236 mm (9.3 in) over 26 days of rain, creating a humid atmosphere with levels around 68%. This vibrant month is ideal for those who appreciate lush landscapes and the invigorating embrace of tropical weather.
In May, El Tortuguero, Nicaragua, experiences a warm and inviting climate that marks the transition into the rainy season. With minimum temperatures rising to 21°C (70°F) and a maximum reaching 35°C (96°F), it’s one of the hotter months, maintaining an average of 27°C (81°F). This increase from April's temperatures not only signals the approach of summer but also brings about lush scenery, as the region's flora thrives in anticipation of the upcoming rains. The comfortable warmth and vibrant surroundings make May an enticing time to explore this beautiful coastal haven, where nature is in full bloom and adventure awaits at every turn.
May marks a significant shift in El Tortuguero, Nicaragua, as the region experiences its wettest month of the year, with a staggering 236 mm (9.3 in) of precipitation falling over 26 days. This surge in rainfall heralds the onset of the rainy season, contrasting sharply with the drier months of early in the year, where January to April recorded an average of just 57 mm. The increase not only signifies a transition to lush greenery and vibrant ecosystems but also highlights the area's dependence on consistent rainfall, establishing May as a crucial month for agriculture and nature alike. As temperatures rise and humidity intensifies, the steady cascade of rain continues through June and beyond, maintaining high moisture levels throughout the summer months.
In May, El Tortuguero, Nicaragua, experiences a humidity level of 68%, maintaining a consistent pattern seen since the start of the year. The humidity remains stable as it transitions from the drier months of January through April, where it hovers around the same percentage. As the region moves into June and beyond, humidity begins to rise significantly, peaking at 76% in July. This gradual increase signifies the onset of the wet season, with May serving as a pivotal month where the air begins to feel more tropical, foreshadowing the lush, vibrant landscape that characterizes the rest of the rainy season.
In May, the UV Index in El Tortuguero, Nicaragua, remains steadfastly high at 14, placing it in the extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This peak level is consistent with the preceding months of March and April, where similar values were recorded. As the region transitions from the dry to the wet season, the UV index slightly dips in June, yet it continues to reflect intense sun exposure. Such high readings underscore the importance of sun protection, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay vigilant against harmful rays. For more detailed information about UV levels throughout the year, visit the El Tortuguero UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In El Tortuguero, Nicaragua, May is marked by a delightful embrace of sunshine, with 261 hours of radiant daylight. This month finds itself nestled between the tail end of the vibrant April, which boasts the highest sunshine at 301 hours, and the cooler June, which sees a dip to 209 hours. The trend is clear: as spring turns to summer, the region experiences a strong burst of sunlight in the past few months, peaking in April before tapering off. With a considerable amount of sunshine still lighting up May, visitors can revel in the warmth and vibrant landscapes, making it a perfect time to explore this tropical paradise before the rainy season picks up again.
In El Tortuguero, Nicaragua, the likelihood of sunny weather in May is around 32%, which is slightly below the monthly average for earlier months like January (37%) and February (49%). This dip continues a trend observed in April (27%), suggesting that the transition into the wet season is underway. As we move into the heart of summer, the chance of sunshine declines even more, reaching its lowest point in the subsequent months of June (19%) and July (21%). While May may not offer the brightest skies, it still carries a reasonable probability for those seeking a bit of sun before the rains set in more firmly.
In El Tortuguero, Nicaragua, the daylight duration reveals a fascinating rhythm throughout the year. Starting with a steady 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, the days gradually elongate as spring approaches. By March and April, daylight extends to 12 hours, creating a sense of perfect balance as nature awakens. This 12-hour mark remains consistent from May through August, offering ample time for exploration of the lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife. As the year progresses into the fall months, a gentle decline is observed, with daylight returning to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This cyclical pattern not only showcases the beauty of nature but also enhances the allure of El Tortuguero as a destination that harmonizes activities with the rhythm of the day.
In May, El Tortuguero, Nicaragua experiences a gentle average wind speed of 2.5 m/s (6 mph), slightly higher than the preceding month of April. This modest breeze brings a refreshing touch to the tropical landscape, setting the stage for the vibrant flora and fauna of the region. As the month progresses, the wind patterns gradually decline, leading into the calmer days of June, which sees an average drop to 2.0 m/s (4 mph). What’s intriguing is that the winds pick up again in November, suggesting a rhythmic cycle that reflects the region's dynamic climate. Overall, May serves as a transitional month, balancing the tranquility with a refreshing gust that enhances the allure of this biodiverse paradise.
Weather in El Tortuguero varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in El Tortuguero, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between May and January, it is clear that May tends to be warmer and wetter. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) to a maximum of 35°C (96°F), with an average temperature of 27°C (81°F). In contrast, January features milder temperatures, with lows of 17°C (62°F) and highs reaching 31°C (88°F), averaging 24°C (76°F). Additionally, May experiences significantly more rainfall at 236 mm (9.3 in) over 26 days, while January sees only 66 mm (2.6 in) across 19 days. Both months share a consistent humidity level of 68%, but the overall climate in May is marked by heat and higher precipitation. For a closer look at January weather, you can check El Tortuguero weather in January.
May and February offer contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) to a sweltering maximum of 35°C (96°F), with an average of 27°C (81°F). This month sees considerable rainfall, with 236 mm (9.3 in) of precipitation spread over 26 days, creating a humid environment with consistent moisture. In contrast, February enjoys slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (62°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), resulting in a more comfortable average of 25°C (77°F). Additionally, February is notably drier, featuring just 54 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over 19 days, while humidity remains steady at 68%. For more details, you can check out El Tortuguero weather in February.
In comparing the weather between May and March, May tends to be significantly warmer with an average temperature of 27°C (81°F) and a maximum of 35°C (96°F), while March has a cooler average of 25°C (78°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Additionally, May experiences much higher precipitation, with 236 mm (9.3 in) spread over 26 days, compared to March’s 57 mm (2.3 in) across 20 days. Humidity levels remain quite comparable, with May at 68% and March slightly lower at 67%. For more specific details on March weather, you can check El Tortuguero weather in March.
In comparing the weather conditions of May and April, we observe that both months share similar average temperatures, with May maintaining a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F), while April reflects a slightly cooler minimum of 18°C (65°F). Notably, maximum temperatures are comparable, reaching 35°C (95°F) in April and 35°C (96°F) in May. However, May significantly increases in rainfall, with 236 mm (9.3 in) over 26 days, compared to April's 54 mm (2.1 in) over just 16 days. Humidity levels are also quite similar, with May at 68% and April slightly lower at 67%. For more detailed information on April weather specifics, you can check El Tortuguero weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, it's evident that both months experience similar temperature ranges, with minimums around 21-22°C (70-72°F) and maximums reaching up to 35°C (96°F). However, June tends to be slightly wetter, recording a total precipitation of 271 mm (10.7 in) over 29 days, compared to May's 236 mm (9.3 in) across 26 days. Additionally, June features a higher humidity level at 73%, compared to May's 68%. For a detailed look at conditions specific to El Tortuguero, you can check El Tortuguero weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, May tends to be slightly warmer with average temperatures peaking at 27°C (81°F) and reaching a maximum of 35°C (96°F). In contrast, July experiences a marginally cooler average temperature of 26°C (79°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F). However, both months see a considerable amount of precipitation, with May recording 236 mm (9.3 in) over 26 days and July slightly increasing to 239 mm (9.4 in) across 29 days. Additionally, humidity levels in July are higher at 76%, compared to 68% in May. For a detailed look at July weather conditions in El Tortuguero, you can check this link: El Tortuguero weather in July.
In May, the weather displays slightly warmer average temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and a maximum reaching up to 35°C (96°F). The month experiences substantial rainfall, totaling 236 mm (9.3 in) over 26 days, contributing to a humidity level of 68%. In contrast, August offers a slightly cooler average temperature of 26°C (79°F), while still maintaining the same maximum temperature of 35°C (95°F). The precipitation remains comparable at 235 mm (9.3 in) but occurs over 29 days, resulting in a heightened humidity of 73%. For more details on weather conditions, check out El Tortuguero weather in August.
May and September present similar weather patterns, with both months experiencing high humidity and significant rainfall. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) to a maximum of 35°C (96°F), with an average of 27°C (81°F) and about 236 mm (9.3 in) of precipitation over 26 days. Conversely, September has slightly higher minimum temperatures at 22°C (71°F) and a similar average of 26°C (80°F), while the maximum reaches 34°C (94°F). Rainfall remains consistent at 236 mm (9.3 in) but occurs over more days, totaling 28. This leads to a slightly higher humidity level in September at 72%, compared to 68% in May. For more specific details about September weather, you can check El Tortuguero weather in September.
In comparing the weather of May and October, both months exhibit warm temperatures, with May generally being slightly warmer. May sees average temperatures of 27°C (81°F) and can peak at 35°C (96°F), while October's average temperature is a bit cooler at 26°C (79°F) with a maximum of 34°C (93°F). However, October experiences slightly more rainfall, with 263 mm (10.3 in) over 29 days compared to May's 236 mm (9.3 in) over 26 days. Additionally, humidity levels are quite similar, with October at 71% and May at 68%. For more details on October weather specifics in this region, visit El Tortuguero weather in October.
In May, the weather is characterized by warmer temperatures, with minimums around 21°C (70°F) and maximums reaching up to 35°C (96°F), resulting in an average temperature of 27°C (81°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, accumulating over 236 mm (9.3 inches) across 26 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 68%. In contrast, November brings slightly cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), leading to an average of 25°C (78°F). The precipitation is lower at 198 mm (7.8 inches) spread over 25 days, while humidity increases to 71%. For more detailed information, check out El Tortuguero weather in November.
In comparing the weather between May and December, it is evident that May is warmer and wetter. With average temperatures reaching up to 27°C (81°F) and maximums soaring to 35°C (96°F), May experiences significant heat, while December's temperatures peak at a more moderate 31°C (88°F). Additionally, May sees a substantial amount of rainfall, with 236 mm (9.3 in) falling over 26 days, compared to just 89 mm (3.5 in) over 25 days in December. Both months have similar humidity levels, hovering around 68-69%, making them both feel quite humid, but December offers a slight respite in temperature and precipitation. For more details regarding the weather specifics in December, you can refer to El Tortuguero weather in December.
In May, the weather in El Tortuguero showcases a blend of warm temperatures and considerable rainfall, making it somewhat unique compared to other months. With an average temperature hovering around 27°C (81°F), it offers a lush ambiance, ideal for nature enthusiasts. However, the increased precipitation, with around 26 days of rainfall totaling 236 mm (9.3 in), creates a vibrant, green landscape that sets May apart from the drier months. The humidity level sits at 68%, adding a tropical feel to the air. To discover more about the nuances of El Tortuguero's climate throughout the year, check out El Tortuguero Climate.