Rwanda Safaris in May
Late May begins to dry out, with greener, quieter gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP and rewarding chimp tracking in Nyungwe.
Is May a good time to visit Rwanda?
Rains easing, trails firming in Rwanda. Late May begins to dry out, with greener, quieter gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP and rewarding chimp tracking in Nyungwe. May offers superb value as the long rains taper off. The bush is lush and green, rivers and waterfalls are at their fullest, and crowds remain low with shoulder-season rates. In Tanzania's western Serengeti the wildebeest rut peaks and the first Grumeti River crossings can occur. Expect easing but still-possible afternoon showers and warm days around 14–27°C. Late May begins the transition toward the dry season.
Great Migration in May
Herds push through the western corridor; the rut peaks and the first Grumeti crossings can occur.
Why May
Why go on safari in May
Rivers & waterfalls peak
Full rivers and thundering waterfalls make for dramatic, green-season landscapes.
The wildebeest rut
In the western Serengeti the rut is in full swing, with the season's first Grumeti crossings possible.
Shoulder-season rates
Excellent pricing and quiet parks before the June peak season pushes prices up.
May safaris in depth
May is a transitional month as the long rains gradually ease. Early May can still be wet, but conditions improve steadily, and by late May many areas are drying out ahead of the June peak. The landscape is at its most verdant — thick bush, full rivers and spectacular waterfalls — and the low-season atmosphere means you'll often have sightings to yourself.
In Tanzania, the migration herds are moving through the western corridor, where the wildebeest rut peaks in a frenzy of activity and the first dramatic Grumeti River crossings can take place. With low visitor numbers and shoulder-season pricing, May rewards travellers who don't mind the chance of a passing shower with green-season beauty and great value.
Where to Go
Where to go in Rwanda in May
Late May begins to dry out, with greener, quieter gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP and rewarding chimp tracking in Nyungwe.
Volcanoes NP
Rwanda · MayVolcanoes NP is a standout choice for a May safari in Rwanda.
Nyungwe
Rwanda · MayNyungwe is a standout choice for a May safari in Rwanda.
Ready-Made Itineraries
Rwanda safari itineraries for May
We don't have a ready-made May itinerary listed right now — but we craft every safari to order. Tell us your dates and we'll design the perfect May trip.
Let our local experts build a tailor-made May safari around your interests, pace and budget.
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Each month offers something different. Tap any month to explore the best safaris and conditions for that time of year.
Plan With Experts
Why plan your Rwanda safari with Imara Africa Safaris
We design Rwanda safaris month by month, not from a template. As a Nairobi-based, KATO bonded and TRA-licensed operator, we know which of Rwanda's parks and camps are at their best in May — and how to balance wildlife, weather, crowds and value.
From your first enquiry to your final game drive, every Rwanda itinerary is tailored to your dates and interests, honestly priced and backed by round-the-clock support.
Curated and reviewed by the Imara Africa Safaris planning desk and senior guiding team, Nairobi, Kenya.
Plan your May Rwanda safari
Tell us your dates and we'll craft the perfect Rwanda safari for May — matched to the season, honestly priced and tailored to you.
May Safari FAQ
May safari questions, answered
Everything travellers ask us about safaris in May.
Rains easing, trails firming. Late May begins to dry out, with greener, quieter gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP and rewarding chimp tracking in Nyungwe.
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