May Weather in Ngorongoro, Tanzania

Last updated: August 28, 2025

May in Ngorongoro, Tanzania, presents a mild climate characterized by maximum temperatures of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), providing a comfortable backdrop for outdoor adventures. Visitors can expect a cooler minimum temperature of 11°C (51°F) during the nights. This month typically witnesses 97 mm (3.8 in) of rainfall spread over 17 days, contributing to the lush landscape and vibrant wildlife. With a humidity level around 71%, the air feels fresh and invigorating, making May an ideal time to explore the stunning vistas and rich biodiversity of Ngorongoro Crater.

May Temperature in Ngorongoro

In May, Ngorongoro, Tanzania experiences a gentle transition into cooler temperatures, with minimums averaging around 11°C (51°F) and maximums reaching 24°C (76°F). The average temperature dips slightly to 17°C (63°F), reflecting a mild and comfortable climate ideal for exploration. Notably, the trend shows a gradual decrease in maximum temperatures from the warmer months of March and April, when highs were around 26-28°C (79-82°F). This shift offers visitors a refreshing ambiance amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Ngorongoro Crater, making May a perfect time for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures.

May Weather in Ngorongoro: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Ngorongoro, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Ngorongoro, May typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec646565646261606163656564
Data source: Temperature data for Ngorongoro generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Ngorongoro

In May, Ngorongoro experiences a notable dip in precipitation, receiving only 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain over 17 days—a stark contrast to the lush conditions earlier in the year. This reduction marks a transitional phase, as the heavy rainfall of January through April, where totals soared above 470 mm, gives way to the drier months ahead. Interestingly, May’s precipitation pattern hints at the region's shifting climate as it approaches a brief dry spell, evidenced by a significant decrease heading into June, where rainfall plummets to just 12 mm (0.5 in). Such trends illustrate the seasonal rhythm of Ngorongoro, highlighting the vital role of the earlier months in supporting the region's rich biodiversity before the landscape prepares for a stint of relative dryness.

May Precipitation Trends in Ngorongoro

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Ngorongoro, with values for each month alongside May’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Ngorongoro, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec683565576471971213121569371869
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

May Humidity in Ngorongoro

In May, Ngorongoro experiences a noticeable increase in humidity, reaching 71%, which is a slight rise from the previous month. This trend of higher humidity is reflective of the shifting seasons, as the region transitions into a wetter period, with June following closely at 73%. This pattern underscores the gradual build-up of moisture in the air, contrasting sharply with the drier spells earlier in the year, such as 55% in March. As May brings more humidity, it sets the stage for the warmth and lush greenery that follows, contributing to the vibrant ecosystem that Ngorongoro is renowned for.

May Average Humidity in Ngorongoro

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Ngorongoro, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Ngorongoro is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec68%62%55%58%71%73%68%63%60%68%83%84%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Ngorongoro

In May, Ngorongoro, Tanzania experiences a still extreme UV Index of 14, indicating that sun exposure is intense and can lead to skin damage within just 10 minutes. This trend of high UV exposure continues from the previous months, consistently hovering around the extreme category since the start of the year. Interestingly, while the UV Index slightly decreases from March's peak of 17, it remains significant, emphasizing the importance of sun protection as the dry season approaches. Travelers and locals alike should be vigilant, preparing to shield themselves from the sun’s powerful rays during this month. For more detailed information, visit Ngorongoro UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Ngorongoro for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Ngorongoro in May, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In May, the maximum UV index in Ngorongoro typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161617161412121414141414
Data source: Ngorongoro May UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

May Sunshine in Ngorongoro

In Ngorongoro, Tanzania, May stands out as a month of ample sunshine, boasting a remarkable 347 hours of glorious sunlight. This trend of increasing daylight can be seen as the year progresses, with March leading the way at 340 hours, swiftly followed by a steady rise through April and into May. The peak of sunshine not only paints the dramatic landscapes but also enhances the spectacular wildlife experiences that Ngorongoro is renowned for. As the dry season approaches, the consistent sunlight during these months allows for breathtaking views and remarkable photographic opportunities, making it an ideal time for visitors to immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty. Overall, with sunshine hours remaining robust throughout the year, Ngorongoro remains a lively haven for those seeking adventure under the sun.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Ngorongoro: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Ngorongoro experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec284h315h340h325h347h332h343h348h342h358h345h354h
Data source: Ngorongoro May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Ngorongoro During May

In Ngorongoro, Tanzania, the likelihood of sunny weather sees an intriguing evolution throughout the year. May stands out with a 32% chance of sunshine, slightly above the lower months of April and February, suggesting a promising start to the dry season. As we transition into June, the sun begins to shine more frequently, with a notable increase to 44%, indicating that the dry period truly takes hold. This uptick continues into the drier months of July and August, where the chance of sunny days peaks at 46%. Overall, while May may not guarantee perfect weather, it’s a solid choice for those looking to embrace the charm of Ngorongoro before the sun breaks out in full force.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Ngorongoro

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Ngorongoro throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Ngorongoro experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec27%22%39%22%32%45%35%46%44%42%42%38%
Data source: Ngorongoro May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Ngorongoro in May

In Ngorongoro, Tanzania, the daylight duration exhibits a steady rhythm throughout the year. From January to April, the days bask in a consistent 12 hours of light, allowing ample time for exploration and adventure. However, as May rolls in, there’s a noticeable shift as daylight decreases to 11 hours, marking the beginning of a subtle seasonal transition. This trend of shorter days continues through the heart of winter, with June to August maintaining the 11-hour daylight duration, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. As spring approaches in September, daylight gradually returns to 12 hours, heralding longer days once again by mid-October, which persist through the end of the year. This cyclical dance of light and shadow not only defines the landscape but also enriches the vibrant lives within this stunning region.

Average Daylight Hours in Ngorongoro for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Ngorongoro throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12h 16m12h 11m12h 6m12h 1m11h 57m11h 55m11h 56m11h 59m12h 4m12h 9m12h 15m12h 17m
Data source: Ngorongoro daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Ngorongoro

In May, Ngorongoro, Tanzania experiences a gentle transition in wind patterns, with an average wind speed of 2.1 m/s (5 mph), matching the preceding month of April. This consistent breeze signals the onset of the dry season, providing a sweet spot for explorers and wildlife enthusiasts. As the year progresses, winds begin to pick up, peaking at 2.7 m/s (6 mph) in July and September, before tapering slightly in the latter months. This gradual increase not only enhances the region's dramatic landscapes but also creates a refreshing atmosphere, making late spring an ideal time for adventure under the expansive Tanzanian skies.

Average May Wind Speed in Ngorongoro

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Ngorongoro, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.21.21.72.12.1 m/s2.52.72.62.72.32.12.0
Data source: Ngorongoro May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Ngorongoro Compares to Other Months

Weather in Ngorongoro varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Ngorongoro, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In comparing the weather of May and January, we see some notable differences. May typically experiences mild temperatures, with an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum reaching 24°C (76°F). However, it also faces considerable precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 17 rainy days, with humidity levels around 71%. In contrast, January presents slightly warmer conditions, boasting an average temperature of 18°C (64°F) and a higher maximum of 27°C (82°F). This month is marked by significantly more rainfall, accumulating to 683 mm (26.9 in) over about 20 days, with slightly lower humidity at 68%. For more specific insights, you can check Ngorongoro weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, we see that both months have similar minimum temperatures of around 11°C (51°F), but February typically boasts a slightly higher average temperature of 18°C (65°F) compared to May's average of 17°C (63°F). February also reaches a higher maximum temperature of 27°C (81°F), while May peaks at 24°C (76°F).

However, February is much wetter, receiving an impressive 565 mm (22.2 in) of precipitation, compared to May’s 97 mm (3.8 in), despite both months having rain on 17 days. Additionally, February has a lower humidity level of 62% compared to May's 71%. For more insights into February weather, you can find details at Ngorongoro weather in February.

In comparing the weather between March and May, March generally offers warmer daytime temperatures, with a maximum reaching 28°C (82°F), whereas May's temperatures peak at a milder 24°C (76°F). Interestingly, although May boasts a slightly higher average temperature of 17°C (63°F) compared to March's 18°C (65°F), it experiences significantly less rainfall, with only 97 mm (3.8 in) over 17 days compared to the heavy 576 mm (22.7 in) over 22 days in March. Additionally, March has lower humidity at 55%, while May maintains a higher humidity level of 71%. For more details on March weather, you can refer to Ngorongoro weather in March.

When comparing the weather in April and May, April tends to be slightly warmer, with an average temperature of 18°C (65°F) and maximums reaching 26°C (79°F). In contrast, May sees a drop in temperatures, averaging 17°C (63°F) with maximums of 24°C (76°F). However, April is marked by significantly higher precipitation, totaling 471 mm (18.5 in) over 27 days, while May experiences 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain over 17 days. Additionally, April has lower humidity levels at 58%, compared to May's 71%. For more detailed insights into April weather, you can visit Ngorongoro weather in April.

May and June exhibit distinct weather patterns despite having similar maximum temperatures. May features a milder average temperature of 17°C (63°F) with minimums reaching 11°C (51°F), while June's average drops slightly to 16°C (61°F) with a cooler minimum of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation significantly decreases in June, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days compared to May's 97 mm (3.8 in) spread across 17 days, leading to a marked reduction in overall humidity. For more insights, you can explore Ngorongoro weather in June.

In comparing the weather of May and July, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May experiences a milder average temperature of 17°C (63°F), with min temperatures around 11°C (51°F) and highs reaching 24°C (76°F). This month also brings significant rainfall, with a total of 97 mm (3.8 in) distributed over 17 days, leading to a higher humidity of 71%.

In contrast, July has a slightly cooler average temperature at 15°C (60°F), with minimum temperatures dipping to 8°C (47°F) while still peaking at 24°C (76°F). The month is characterized by very little rainfall, accumulating just 13 mm (0.5 in) over 3 days, and lower humidity at 68%. For more specific insights into weather patterns, you can explore Ngorongoro weather in July.

In May, the weather tends to be milder with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F), reaching a maximum of 24°C (76°F). However, this month also brings considerable rainfall, with 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread over 17 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 71%. In contrast, August showcases a slightly cooler average temperature of 16°C (62°F) and can peak at 26°C (79°F), but the weather is much drier, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain falling over just 3 days and humidity dropping to 63%. For more information, you can explore Ngorongoro weather in August.

May and September present distinctly different weather characteristics. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). This month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over 17 rainy days, combined with a higher humidity level of 71%. In contrast, September offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), while still averaging around 17°C (64°F). Notably, September experiences significantly less rainfall, totaling only 15 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days, and lower humidity at 60%. For more details on September weather, check out Ngorongoro weather in September.

When comparing the weather in May and October, both months exhibit mild temperatures, but October tends to be slightly warmer overall. May averages 17°C (63°F), with a maximum of 24°C (76°F), while October boasts an average of 18°C (65°F) and can reach up to 28°C (82°F). In terms of precipitation, May is wetter, accumulating 97 mm (3.8 in) over 17 days, compared to October's 69 mm (2.7 in) over just 12 days. Humidity levels are fairly similar, with May at 71% and October slightly lower at 68%. For a more detailed look at October weather, you can check out Ngorongoro weather in October.

When comparing the weather in May and November, both months exhibit mild temperatures, but November tends to be warmer on average. May's temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), while November features a narrower range with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and a maximum reaching up to 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in November, with 371 mm (14.6 in) over 19 days, compared to May's 97 mm (3.8 in) over 17 days. Additionally, November experiences higher humidity levels, averaging at 83%, in contrast to May's 71%. For more details, check out the Ngorongoro weather in November.

In comparing the weather between May and December, we see some notable differences. May typically experiences milder temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). This month also sees a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over 17 days, with a humidity level of 71%.

In contrast, December tends to be warmer, with temperatures ranging from 11°C (52°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). However, it also has significantly more rainfall, accumulating 869 mm (34.2 in) over 25 days, leading to a higher humidity of 84%. Notably, December's weather can be quite different from May's in terms of both temperature and precipitation patterns. For more specific insights, you can check Ngorongoro weather in December.

Compare Ngorongoro's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Ngorongoro

May in Ngorongoro marks a transition, with temperatures gently warming yet remaining mild, fostering a comfortable climate for exploration. Unlike the hotter months, May experiences increased humidity and notable rainfall, transforming the landscape into a lush paradise. Though slightly cooler than the preceding months, the average temperature hovers pleasantly around 17°C, making it an ideal time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit. With 17 days of precipitation, the vibrant greenery and active wildlife contrast with the drier, warmer seasons, offering a unique backdrop for adventure. Embrace the captivating charm of Ngorongoro in May, and for a deeper understanding of what to expect, check out Ngorongoro Climate.