Things to Do in Mozambique in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Mozambique
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect visibility for diving - water clarity reaches 30m (98 ft) in Tofo and Bazaruto, best conditions of the year with minimal rainfall affecting underwater visibility
- Whale shark season peaks in May with 70% sighting success rate in Inhambane Province, cooler water temperatures bring plankton blooms
- Ideal safari weather with animals gathering at water sources, temperatures comfortable for all-day game drives averaging 25°C (77°F)
- Cultural festival season with Marrabenta music festivals and traditional dancing competitions throughout the month, especially in Maputo and Beira
Considerations
- High season pricing with accommodation rates 40-60% higher than wet season, especially in coastal areas like Vilanculos and Tofo
- Strong southeast trade winds averaging 25-35 km/h (15-22 mph) can make boat transfers to islands choppy and occasionally cancelled
- Booking competition intense - dhow trips and luxury lodges fill up 8-12 weeks in advance during this peak dry season month
Best Activities in May
Bazaruto Archipelago Marine Safaris
May offers the clearest waters of the year with 25-30m (82-98 ft) visibility perfect for snorkeling with dugongs and dolphins. Southeast winds create ideal sailing conditions for traditional dhow trips. Water temperature sits at comfortable 24°C (75°F). This is peak season for marine life with whale sharks, manta rays, and humpback whales all present.
Gorongosa National Park Safari Drives
May marks the end of the dry season when animals concentrate around remaining water sources, making wildlife viewing exceptional. Comfortable temperatures of 22-28°C (72-82°F) allow for full-day drives. Road conditions are optimal after months without rain. Lion, elephant, and buffalo sightings reach 80% success rate this month.
Tofo Beach Whale Shark Diving
Peak whale shark season with juvenile sharks feeding in plankton-rich waters. Success rates hit 70% in May with water visibility reaching 20-25m (65-82 ft). Water temperature of 24°C (75°F) requires only 3mm wetsuits. Manta rays also frequent cleaning stations during this period.
Maputo Cultural Food Tours
May brings the cashew harvest season with fresh nuts appearing in local markets. Traditional peri-peri prawns are at their peak with optimal fishing conditions. Local markets showcase seasonal fruits like litchis and mangoes. Evening food tours benefit from comfortable 18-22°C (64-72°F) temperatures.
Pemba Bay Diving Expeditions
Northern Mozambique diving reaches peak conditions in May with 25-30m (82-98 ft) visibility and calm seas. Water temperature of 26°C (79°F) is ideal for multi-dive days. Coral reefs show vibrant colors without bleaching stress. Currents are predictable with southeast wind patterns.
Chimanimani Mountains Hiking
May offers perfect hiking weather with daytime temperatures of 20-25°C (68-77°F) and clear skies. Waterfalls are still flowing from rainy season but trails are dry and safe. Wildflowers bloom at higher elevations around 1,800m (5,906 ft). Nights are cool at 12-15°C (54-59°F).
May Events & Festivals
Maputo International Music Festival
Annual celebration of Marrabenta, Afro-jazz, and contemporary Mozambican music held in various venues across the capital. Features both local artists and Southern African performers with outdoor concerts in comfortable May evening temperatures.
Cashew Harvest Festivals
Traditional celebrations in northern provinces marking the cashew harvest season. Local communities demonstrate traditional processing methods and offer fresh cashew wine (urapa) tastings. Particularly vibrant in Nampula and Cabo Delgado provinces.