Gambia in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Gambia

32°C (89°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season peak - zero rainfall officially recorded, perfect for river trips and beach activities along the Atlantic coast
Optimal bird watching season with over 560 species active before migration, including the rare Egyptian plover and Abyssinian roller
Comfortable temperatures 20-32°C (68-89°F) ideal for exploring national parks without extreme heat of later dry season
Tourist season winding down means 30-40% lower accommodation rates compared to December-February peak

Considerations

Harmattan winds can create hazy conditions reducing visibility for photography and creating dusty conditions inland
River levels dropping means some remote areas of Gambia River become less accessible by boat
End of cultural season - fewer traditional ceremonies and festivals compared to cooler months

Best Activities in May

Gambia River Cruise and Mangrove Exploration

May offers the last month of optimal river conditions before water levels drop significantly. The 70% humidity keeps mangroves lush while dry weather ensures comfortable boat trips. Bird activity peaks in morning hours 6-9am when temperatures are coolest at 20-25°C (68-77°F).

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed river operators. Full-day trips typically cost 2,000-3,500 Dalasi including lunch. Choose morning departures to avoid afternoon heat and maximize wildlife viewing. Look for operators with covered boats and life jackets.

Abuko Nature Reserve Wildlife Tracking

May's dry conditions make animal tracking easier with clearer trails and animals gathering at remaining water sources. The 32°C (89°F) maximum temperature requires early morning visits 7-10am when it's 20-24°C (68-75°F) and animals are most active.

Booking Tip: Self-guided entry costs 100-150 Dalasi. Guided walks with local naturalists cost 500-800 Dalasi for 2-3 hours. Book guides through the park entrance - avoid independent operators outside gates. Bring 2-3 liters (0.5-0.8 gallons) of water per person.

Kachikally Crocodile Pool Cultural Experience

Dry season concentrates crocodiles at the sacred pools, guaranteeing sightings. May's moderate humidity makes the traditional fertility ceremonies more comfortable for visitors. Local guides explain Mandinka traditions while crocodiles are calm and visible.

Booking Tip: Entry typically 50-100 Dalasi with mandatory guide. Small tips (20-50 Dalasi) expected for photos with crocodiles. Visit during cooler morning hours 8-11am. Combined with Bakau market tours for cultural immersion.

Atlantic Coast Beach Hopping

May offers ideal beach weather without the scorching heat of peak dry season. Ocean temperatures around 26°C (79°F) perfect for swimming. Reduced crowds mean better access to Kololi and Cape Point beaches. Trade winds provide natural cooling.

Booking Tip: Beach access free at most locations. Sunbed rentals 100-200 Dalasi per day. Book beachfront restaurants for lunch to escape midday sun. Taxi transfers between beaches typically 200-400 Dalasi. Avoid peak sun hours 12-3pm when UV index hits 8.

Makasutu Cultural Forest Canopy Walks

Dry season makes elevated walkways safer and offers clearer views of forest wildlife. May's moderate temperatures allow comfortable hiking through different forest zones. Bird photography excellent with clearer air before dust season intensifies.

Booking Tip: Full day packages 1,500-2,500 Dalasi including meals and activities. Book 5-7 days ahead during May as local school groups visit frequently. Choose packages with early morning canopy walks when temperatures are coolest and wildlife most active.

Wassu Stone Circles Archaeological Tours

May's clear skies and lower humidity create ideal conditions for exploring these UNESCO World Heritage megalithic sites. Reduced vegetation makes stone circle photography optimal. Comfortable temperatures for the 2 km (1.2 miles) walking circuit.

Booking Tip: Entry fees around 200-300 Dalasi including guide. Private transport from coastal areas typically 3,000-5,000 Dalasi return. Combine with visits to nearby Kuntaur for full day trips. Early morning visits recommended before 10am when temperatures rise.

May Events & Festivals

May 1st

Labour Day Celebrations

National holiday featuring parades, traditional music, and cultural displays in Banjul and regional centers. Workers' unions organize festivities with local food stalls and Kankurang masked performances.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts - UV index reaches 8 and protects from harmattan dust while allowing cooling

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - essential for river trips and prevents loss during Atlantic coast winds

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - reapply every 2 hours, especially during midday 32°C (89°F) temperatures

Breathable cotton or linen pants - avoid polyester in 70% humidity conditions, protects legs during forest walks

Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes - essential for nature reserve trails and stone circle sites, prevents sand intrusion

Lightweight rain jacket - despite dry season, brief afternoon showers occur on 10 days during variable conditions

Insect repellent with 20-30% DEET - mangrove areas and river cruises still have mosquitoes despite dry weather

Portable water bottles (2-3 liters/0.5-0.8 gallons capacity) - dehydration risk high during midday activities

Dust mask or bandana - harmattan winds create dusty conditions, especially during inland travel

Binoculars - essential for optimal bird watching season when species are most active before migration

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations along Kololi Strip rather than Serrekunda - prices drop 35-40% in May while beachfront location provides cooling Atlantic breezes

Time river cruises for 6-8am departures when temperatures are 20-22°C (68-72°F) and bird activity peaks - afternoon trips face 30°C+ (86°F+) heat

Negotiate taxi fares before entering - standard rates: Banjul to coastal areas 300-500 Dalasi, airport transfers 800-1,200 Dalasi

Exchange money at authorized forex bureaus in Serrekunda Market rather than hotels - typically 10-15% better rates for euros and pounds

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 12-3pm when temperatures peak at 32°C (89°F) and UV index reaches maximum 8

Underestimating water needs - visitors regularly become dehydrated during 4-6 hour nature excursions in 70% humidity

Booking river trips for late afternoon when water levels are lowest and wildlife least active due to heat