Last updated: August 28, 2025
Experience the vibrant May weather of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where temperatures range from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), settling at a mild average of 26°C (79°F). This month is characterized by a high humidity level of 86%, creating a tropical atmosphere perfect for exploration. However, be prepared for frequent rainfall, with 229 mm (9.0 in) of precipitation spread over 24 days, making it essential to bundle up your umbrella while enjoying the lush, green landscapes that thrive during this time.
In May, Dar es Salaam experiences a gentle transition in temperature as it approaches the cooler months. With minimums dropping to 22°C (72°F) and averages settling at 26°C (79°F), the city's climate becomes pleasantly mild. The maximum temperatures peak at 30°C (86°F), providing just the right amount of warmth for outdoor activities without the overwhelming heat of earlier months. Compared to April's higher averages, May offers a more temperate feel, making it an ideal time for visitors to explore the bustling city and its stunning coastal landscapes. Overall, the month is characterized by a favorable balance of warmth and comfort, perfect for those looking to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Tanzania.
In May, Dar es Salaam experiences a significant drop from the peak rainfall of April, yet still receives a substantial 229 mm (9.0 in) of precipitation over 24 days. This month is characterized by a persistent wet period as the region transitions from the peak rainy season. The rainfall in May contributes to the lush greenery that envelops the city, maintaining healthy ecosystems and vibrant landscapes. Although the precipitation is lower than April's staggering 317 mm (12.5 in), it sets the stage for a gradual decrease in rainfall, leading into June, which typically sees a stark reduction in both rainfall amount and the number of rainy days. This trend reflects a typical climatic pattern for Dar es Salaam, showcasing the balance between heavy rains and drier months that define its tropical coastal climate.
As May arrives in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, residents experience an increase in humidity, reaching 86%, the highest level of the year. This spike is part of a trend where humidity levels tend to rise in the lead-up to the long rainy season. Following the slightly lower figures of 76% in March and 79% in April, May's humid embrace signals the impending rains. Looking ahead, the humidity remains relatively high in June at 84%, before gradually tapering off in the drier months of August and September. Overall, the fluctuation of humidity throughout the year illustrates the city's vibrant tropical climate, wherein the lushness of its natural landscapes thrives during these humid periods.
In May, Dar es Salaam experiences a UV Index of 12, marking it as an extreme exposure category, with an alert burn time of just 10 minutes. This is a slight decrease from the peak values observed earlier in the year, where the index soared to 15 in March. Despite this reduction, May's UV levels still demand caution, continuing a season characterized by intense sun exposure that starts from January. As the year progresses into June, there's a notable shift, as the UV Index drops to a very high level of 10, allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. For those enjoying the sun in Dar es Salaam, it’s vital to stay informed about these trends to ensure safe sun exposure. For more details, visit the Dar es Salaam UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In May, Dar es Salaam basks in a delightful embrace of sunshine, boasting 310 hours of radiant daylight. This month stands out as a transition point, nestled comfortably between the vibrant sunshine of April and the increasingly bright days of June. Notably, the coastal city experiences a consistent upward trend in sunlight from the earlier months, with March leading the way at 328 hours, while the summer months following May see even more hours illuminating this beautiful destination. As the calendar edges towards June with 325 hours of sun, residents and visitors alike can indulge in the inviting warmth and vivid blue skies, making it an ideal time to explore the city's stunning beaches and cultural richness.
In May, Dar es Salaam enjoys a 44% chance of sunny weather, aligning with the levels seen earlier in the year, such as January. Notably, this mid-year month marks a transitional phase, as the city prepares for the drier and sunnier months ahead. The likelihood of sunshine sharply increases in June, peaking at 53%, and continues to rise, reaching a robust 60% by August. This upward trend underscores the gradual shift from the rainy season towards a more favorable climate, making May a promising time for outdoor activities before the sun’s full force reigns in the subsequent months. As you plan your visit, rest assured that there will be ample opportunities to bask in the sun amidst the tropical allure of this vibrant coastal city.
In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the rhythm of daylight unfolds with a captivating consistency throughout the year. From January to March, residents bask in a generous 12 hours of sunlight, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities and vibrant street life. As April arrives, daylight notably dips to 11 hours, a trend that continues through May and into the mid-year months of June and July, bringing a slight, yet perceptible, change to daily routines. This period of shorter days is followed by a gradual return to the cherished 12 hours of daylight in September, which persists through the end of the year. The transition from longer to shorter days provides a unique backdrop for Dar es Salaam’s diverse cultural and natural experiences, showcasing the city’s charm across every season.
In May, the coastal city of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania experiences a delightful uptick in wind activity, with an average wind speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph). A refreshing change follows April's 4.0 m/s, setting the stage for a gentle transition into the upcoming months. As the dry season approaches, wind patterns become more pronounced, peaking with June's steady 4.3 m/s (10 mph). This slight increase not only provides a welcome breeze but also marks the beginning of a trend where the winds continue to strengthen through the mid-year months, peaking in July. Overall, May serves as a beautiful reminder of the invigorating winds that characterize the Tanzanian coast, offering both locals and visitors a refreshing backdrop to their daily activities.
Weather in Dar es Salaam varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Dar es Salaam, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparison to January, May in Dar es Salaam experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 22°C (72°F) compared to January's 24°C (75°F). The average temperature in May is around 26°C (79°F), while January averages 28°C (82°F), making January generally warmer. Additionally, May is characterized by significantly higher precipitation, receiving 229 mm (9.0 in) over 24 days, whereas January sees only 60 mm (2.4 in) across 12 days. Interestingly, while both months have high humidity levels, May has a slightly higher average humidity of 86%, compared to January's 82%. For more insights into January's climate, visit Dar es Salaam weather in January.
May and February present contrasting weather patterns in terms of temperature, precipitation, and humidity. In February, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average of 28°C (82°F), while May sees slightly cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 30°C (86°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F). February experiences significantly less rainfall, totaling 71 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days, compared to May's heavier precipitation of 229 mm (9.0 in) across 24 days. Additionally, February has a lower humidity level at 78%, while May's humidity reaches a high of 86%. For more detailed insights into February weather patterns, you can check out Dar es Salaam weather in February.
When comparing the weather in March and May, we can see some distinct differences. March generally sees slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F), compared to May's milder range of 22°C (72°F) to 30°C (86°F). However, May experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 229 mm (9.0 in) over 24 days, whereas March records 157 mm (6.2 in) over just 20 days. Additionally, the humidity in May is higher at 86%, compared to March's 76%. This results in a more humid and potentially wetter experience in May, making the two months quite different in terms of weather dynamics. For more details, you can view Dar es Salaam weather in March.
In comparing the weather between May and April, we see some notable differences. May experiences a slightly lower average temperature of 26°C (79°F) compared to April's 27°C (80°F), while April has a higher maximum temperature of 32°C (89°F) compared to May's 30°C (86°F). Precipitation levels are also significant, with May recording 229 mm (9.0 in) over 24 days, which is less than April's 317 mm (12.5 in) over 29 days. Additionally, May boasts a higher humidity level of 86%, compared to April's 79%. Overall, while April tends to be warmer and wetter, May brings slightly milder temperatures and less rainfall. For more details, check out Dar es Salaam weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, we can see some notable differences. May tends to be slightly warmer with an average temperature of 26°C (79°F) and peak temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), while June is a bit cooler, averaging 25°C (78°F) with a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Additionally, May is significantly wetter, receiving 229 mm (9.0 in) of precipitation over 24 days, compared to June, which experiences only 45 mm (1.8 in) over 13 days. The humidity remains high in both months, with May at 86% and June slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed information on June weather, you can visit Dar es Salaam weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, we see a noticeable shift in conditions. May tends to be warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), while July's temperatures are slightly cooler, averaging between 21°C (70°F) and 29°C (84°F). Additionally, May is significantly wetter, with a high rainfall of 229 mm (9.0 in) over 24 days, compared to July's much drier climate, which sees only 34 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over 12 days. Humidity levels also drop from 86% in May to 80% in July, contributing to a generally more comfortable atmosphere during the latter month. For more detailed insights into July weather in the region, visit Dar es Salaam weather in July.
May and August present distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). This month is characterized by high precipitation, recording about 229 mm (9.0 in) over 24 days, and a humidity level of 86%, creating a warm and moist atmosphere. In contrast, August has slightly cooler temperatures, with minimums of 20°C (69°F) and maximums of 29°C (85°F), averaging at 25°C (77°F). The month is considerably drier, receiving only 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain over 14 days and lower humidity at 74%. For more detailed information, you can check Dar es Salaam weather in August.
May and September in Dar es Salaam present distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 86% and significant rainfall, accumulating 229 mm (9.0 in) over 24 days. In contrast, September sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging 25°C (78°F). The rainy season recedes, resulting in only 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 14 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 73%. For more detailed weather insights, check out Dar es Salaam weather in September.
May and October in Dar es Salaam showcase similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing minimums around 22°C (72°F), averages of 26°C (79°F), and maximums peaking at approximately 30°C (86°F in May and 87°F in October). However, May is notably wetter, with a significant 229 mm (9.0 in) of rainfall over 24 days, compared to October's much drier 112 mm (4.4 in) across 17 days. Additionally, humidity levels in May are higher at 86%, while October enjoys a more comfortable 75% humidity. For more insights on October weather, you can visit Dar es Salaam weather in October.
In comparing the weather conditions of May and November, both months exhibit warm temperatures, with May having a slightly lower average temperature of 26°C (79°F) compared to November's 27°C (80°F). The maximum temperatures in both months are comparable, reaching up to 30°C (86°F) in May and 31°C (89°F) in November. However, May is significantly wetter, experiencing 229 mm (9.0 in) of precipitation over 24 days, whereas November sees reduced rainfall of 126 mm (5.0 in) over 21 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, slightly higher in May at 86% compared to November's 84%. For more specific details about November’s weather, visit Dar es Salaam weather in November.
May and December in Dar es Salaam showcase generally warm temperatures, but with distinct differences in precipitation. In May, the minimum temperature averages around 22°C (72°F) with a maximum of 30°C (86°F), accompanied by significant rainfall totaling 229 mm (9.0 in) over 24 days and a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, December has slightly warmer temperatures, with minimums at 24°C (75°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (89°F), but experiences much less rainfall at 148 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, with humidity at a comparable 85%. For more details, you can check Dar es Salaam weather in December.
As May arrives in Dar es Salaam, the weather takes on a distinctive character compared to other months. With average temperatures around 26°C and high humidity levels at 86%, it's a time when the city feels both warm and balmy. However, the month is marked by frequent rainfall, with precipitation occurring on nearly every day, making it one of the wettest times of the year. This combination of warmth and moisture creates a lush environment, setting the stage for vibrant greenery and revitalized landscapes. For a deeper dive into Dar es Salaam's climatic patterns and how they influence the vibrant life in the city, check out Dar es Salaam Climate.