Gaborone in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Gaborone
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect dry season weather - minimal rainfall at 7.6 mm (0.3 inches) with only 10 rainy days makes outdoor activities highly reliable without the scorching heat of peak dry season
- Ideal wildlife viewing conditions - animals congregate around remaining water sources in the Kalahari, making game drives 40% more productive than wet season months
- Crystal clear skies for stargazing - Botswana's UNESCO Dark Sky status combined with May's low humidity creates exceptional visibility for Southern Hemisphere constellations
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates are 25-35% lower than peak season (July-August) while weather conditions remain excellent for all activities
Considerations
- Significant temperature swings from 25°C (78°F) during day to 8°C (46°F) at night require careful layering and can catch unprepared travelers off guard
- Dust levels increase as dry season progresses - harmattan winds carry fine Kalahari sand that affects those with respiratory sensitivities
- Some remote areas become inaccessible as tour operators reduce schedules before peak season - certain specialized experiences may have limited availability
Best Activities in May
Mokolodi Nature Reserve Game Drives
May's dry conditions concentrate wildlife around permanent water sources, making game viewing exceptionally rewarding just 12 km (7.4 miles) from Gaborone. Morning drives at 6:30 AM benefit from perfect 15-18°C (59-64°F) temperatures and active animals. The reserve's white rhino population is most visible during this period.
Kalahari Desert Cultural Tours
May's comfortable daytime temperatures of 25°C (78°F) make full-day Kalahari excursions manageable without extreme heat. Traditional San Bushmen experiences are ideal now as communities are more active during cooler months. The desert landscape shows impressive autumn colors unique to this season.
Gaborone Dam Sunset Cruises
May's low humidity and stable weather create perfect conditions for evening boat trips. Water levels are optimal after recent rains but before dry season depletion. Sunset at 5:45 PM coincides perfectly with comfortable 20°C (68°F) temperatures. Birdlife is exceptional as species prepare for winter migration.
National Museum and Gallery Walking Tours
May's variable weather makes cultural indoor activities essential backup plans. The museum's air conditioning provides relief during 25°C (78°F) afternoons. Special exhibitions often launch in May before peak tourist season. Traditional craft demonstrations occur on weekday afternoons when tourist groups are smaller.
Oodi Weaving Cooperative Day Trips
May's moderate temperatures make the 25 km (15.5 mile) journey to Oodi comfortable for witnessing traditional tapestry creation. Artisans work outdoors during this season's pleasant weather. The cooperative operates at full capacity preparing inventory for peak season sales.
Manyana Rock Art Site Expeditions
May's clear, dry conditions provide optimal viewing of ancient San rock paintings located 45 km (28 miles) southeast of Gaborone. Cooler mornings at 15°C (59°F) make the moderate hiking comfortable. Reduced vegetation after dry season onset improves rock art visibility and photography conditions.
May Events & Festivals
Botswana International University Science and Technology Research Week
Annual showcase of student innovations and research projects with public exhibitions and demonstrations. Provides unique insight into Botswana's educational development and technological advancement efforts. Evening presentations often include traditional entertainment.
Autumn Harvest Festival - Tlokweng Village
Traditional celebration marking the end of harvest season featuring local foods, craft demonstrations, and cultural performances. Located 15 km (9.3 miles) from central Gaborone. Authentic community event with minimal tourist infrastructure but genuine cultural immersion.