Visiting Kenya in May: End of Long Rains, Lowest Prices
May is Kenya’s cheapest month and the tail end of the long rains. Early May continues the wet conditions of April; the rains typically ease by late May in most regions. The parks are very quiet, prices are at their lowest, and the landscape is at its greenest.
Weather in May
| Region | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi | 23°C | 13°C | 175mm | Rains reduce through the month |
| Masai Mara | 25°C | 13°C | 170mm | Rains easing by late May |
| Amboseli | 27°C | 15°C | 130mm | Wet early; drying late May |
| Samburu | 30°C | 17°C | 70mm | Manageable; less wet than south |
| Kenya Coast | 29°C | 22°C | 300mm | Peak coast rainfall; beach conditions poor |
| Mount Kenya (base) | 17°C | 9°C | 175mm | Not recommended for trekking |
Wildlife in May
Similar conditions to April — dispersed wildlife, active calving, active predators. By late May the landscape is at its peak green. As the rains ease, animals begin to reconcentrate slightly as some temporary water sources dry up.
Birdwatching: May is good for birdwatching — migratory species are still present (or passing through on return north), breeding plumage is on display, and the lush vegetation brings high insect density supporting large bird populations.
The Coast in May
The Kenya coast receives some of its highest rainfall in May. Beach conditions are typically poor — rough seas, overcast skies, high humidity. Most international beach tourists avoid May. Watamu and Diani see low occupancy.
However: Lamu is somewhat sheltered and remains atmospheric even in the rains.
Samburu as a May Alternative
Samburu’s northern location means it receives less rainfall than the Mara, Amboseli, and the coast during May. May is a reasonable time to visit Samburu — the roads stay more passable, wildlife is concentrated at the river, and the lodge rates are at green season lows.
Crowds and Pricing
May is typically Kenya’s lowest price month:
- Major Mara lodges: 40–60% below peak rates
- Some smaller camps remain closed through May (reopening June 1)
- Very few international tourists — essentially empty parks
Should You Visit in May?
Yes if: Budget is a primary consideration and you accept rain, possible road challenges, and dispersed wildlife as trade-offs for very low prices and empty parks.
No if: This is your primary Kenya trip and you want optimal conditions.
Late May (last 10 days): The rains begin to ease. Conditions improve noticeably. Late May can be a good low-cost window as conditions begin to improve but prices have not yet jumped for the June/July peak.
Where to Go in May
Best choice: Samburu — consistently the best park to visit during the long rains. Less rainfall than the south, the Ewaso Ng’iro River keeps wildlife concentrated, roads are more passable, and the green landscape is beautiful without the extreme mud of the Mara. Low prices with above-average conditions.
Late May only: Masai Mara — from around May 20 the rains begin to ease and the Mara becomes more viable. The grass is vividly green and the landscape beautiful. Plan only the last week or 10 days of May in the Mara.
Avoid in May: Kenya coast — May is the wettest month on the coast. Beach conditions are poor. Defer the coast to October or December.
May Budget Guide
Safari costs (per person/night, full board) — green season rates:
- Budget tented camp, Masai Mara: approximately KES 8,000–15,000
- Mid-range lodge, Masai Mara: approximately KES 18,000–35,000
- Budget camp, Samburu: approximately KES 7,000–12,000
Nairobi costs:
- Budget guesthouse: approximately KES 2,000–4,000/night
- Mid-range hotel: approximately KES 7,000–13,000/night
- Meals (mid-range restaurant): approximately KES 700–1,400 per person
May represents the lowest prices of the entire Kenya safari calendar — typically 40–60% below July peak.
What to Pack for May
- Full waterproofs (jacket and trousers) — essential for early May
- Waterproof hiking boots or sealed trail shoes
- Light layers — daytime temperatures are mild (23–27°C) but humid
- Insect repellent (malaria risk higher during rains — take antimalarials as recommended)
- Dry bags for electronics and camera equipment
FAQs
What is the cheapest time to visit Kenya? May is typically the cheapest month for safari accommodation — lodges are 40–60% below peak rates and park occupancy is minimal. April shares this distinction but May is the better choice as the rains ease later in the month.
Can I do a safari in May? Yes — Samburu is viable throughout May and the Masai Mara improves significantly in the last 10 days. Expect dispersed wildlife, beautiful green landscapes, and roads that require proper 4WD. May suits budget-conscious travellers and photographers who prefer dramatic, unusual conditions.
Why are some camps closed in May? Many smaller tented camps carry out annual maintenance (tent re-canvasing, road repairs, staff rotations) in April–May when occupancy is lowest. The larger, permanent lodges generally stay open year-round.