May Safari Holidays |

Why Choose May?

May is an excellent month for a safari holiday, especially if you enjoy quieter parks, comfortable temperatures and impressive wildlife sightings. Across many parts of Africa, the rains are easing, the landscapes are fresh and green, and the busiest travel period is still some way off.

This is a rewarding time to explore Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana or Namibia. Each destination has its own character, but all offer the chance to spend unhurried days watching animals in their natural surroundings. You might begin with coffee as the sun rises over the plains, then return to a comfortable lodge after an afternoon game drive.

Caribbean Holidays, May Safari Holidays, A safari jeep viewing elephants and zebra beside a waterhole on a lush green African plain in May

Wildlife Encounters

May can bring superb game viewing. In East Africa, the seasonal rains have encouraged new growth, attracting zebra, wildebeest and other grazing animals. Young animals may be seen alongside their mothers, while predators take advantage of the abundance of prey.

In southern Africa, water sources remain important, making it easier to anticipate where animals may gather. Elephants, giraffes, buffalo and antelope are often spotted, and patient visitors may also see lions, leopards or wild dogs. Experienced guides know how to read tracks, calls and movement, adding plenty of interest to every drive.

Caribbean Holidays, May Safari Holidays, A comfortable safari lodge with a shaded veranda overlooking green woodland and open grassland in Africa

Comfortable Safari Stays

Safari accommodation ranges from elegant tented camps to private lodges with swimming pools, excellent food and views across the bush. May is often a good-value period, so you may be able to choose a particularly special camp or add extra nights to your itinerary.

There is something wonderfully simple about lodge life. Days are shaped by the wildlife rather than a timetable, with early drives, relaxed lunches and evenings spent listening to the sounds of the bush. Many camps also offer guided walks, cultural visits or stargazing, giving you different ways to experience the destination.

Caribbean Holidays, May Safari Holidays, A safari traveller watching the sunset from a raised viewpoint over an African valley, with warm evening light and distant animals

Planning Your Trip

The best safari itinerary depends on the region you want to visit and the kind of experience you have in mind. Kenya and Tanzania are ideal for classic open-plains scenery, while Botswana is known for peaceful waterways and exceptional guides. South Africa can combine excellent reserves with wine regions, beaches or a city break in Cape Town.

Pack lightweight clothing, a warm layer for early mornings and comfortable shoes. A good pair of binoculars and a camera with a useful zoom will help you appreciate the detail, from a lion’s watchful expression to a brightly coloured bird in the trees. Speak to a safari specialist before booking, as they can match the right parks, accommodation and flights to your travel plans.