Things to Do in Angola in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Angola

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Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season continues through May with minimal rainfall - only 51mm (2.0 inches) over 10 days, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and road trips to remote provinces
Cooler morning temperatures around 20°C (68°F) create perfect conditions for hiking in Kissama National Park and exploring Luanda's markets before the afternoon heat
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates drop 20-30% compared to July-August peak tourist months, and domestic flights to provinces like Benguela cost 15-25% less
Optimal wildlife viewing at Kissama as animals gather around water sources during the dry season, with excellent visibility for spotting elephants, antelopes, and over 200 bird species

Considerations

Afternoon temperatures can reach uncomfortable levels of 25°C+ (77°F+) with 70% humidity, making midday sightseeing in Luanda particularly draining without air conditioning
Dust levels increase significantly due to dry conditions and Harmattan winds, causing respiratory discomfort for sensitive travelers and requiring frequent cleaning of camera equipment
Some remote waterfalls like Kalandula have reduced water flow by May, though still spectacular - water volume is about 40% lower than wet season peaks

Best Activities in May

Kissama National Park Wildlife Safaris

May offers the absolute best game viewing as the dry season concentrates wildlife around permanent water sources. Morning temperatures of 20°C (68°F) make 6am-10am safaris comfortable, while animals are most active. Elephants, buffalo, and antelope are easily spotted, plus over 200 bird species. The park's 9,960 km² (3,844 square miles) of savanna is most accessible now with dry roads.

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead through licensed tour operators. Full-day safaris typically cost $80-120 USD per person including transport from Luanda and lunch. Choose operators with 4WD vehicles and experienced local guides who know current animal locations.

Luanda Historical Walking Tours

Perfect weather for exploring Luanda's colonial architecture and vibrant markets. Start at 7am to avoid afternoon heat and humidity. The Fortaleza de São Miguel, National Museum of Slavery, and Iron Palace are best visited in morning comfort. Cidade Alta's cobblestone streets and panoramic Atlantic views shine in May's clear, dry air.

Booking Tip: Book cultural walking tours 1-2 weeks ahead, typically $25-40 USD for 3-4 hour guided experiences. Look for guides certified by the Ministry of Tourism who speak Portuguese and English. Many tours include traditional lunch stops.

Kalandula Falls Adventure Tours

Though water levels are 40% lower than wet season, May offers the clearest views and safest access to Africa's second-largest waterfall. The 105m (344ft) drop over 400m (1,312ft) width remains spectacular. Dry roads make the 420km (261 miles) journey from Luanda manageable in 5-6 hours, with stunning highland scenery en route.

Booking Tip: Book 2-day tours including overnight accommodation in Malanje town. Expect to pay $150-220 USD per person for guided tours with transport, meals, and lodging. Road conditions require experienced drivers with 4WD vehicles during dry season.

Mussulo Island Beach Excursions

May's moderate humidity and gentle Atlantic breezes create ideal beach conditions. Water temperature stays around 24°C (75°F) year-round. The 30km (18.6 miles) sandy peninsula offers pristine beaches, mangrove kayaking, and excellent fresh seafood. Morning boat transfers from Luanda take 45 minutes across the bay.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost $45-70 USD including boat transfer, beach access, and lunch. Book through established operators with proper safety equipment and insurance. Avoid weekend trips when locals crowd the popular spots - weekdays offer better value and space.

Benguela Colonial Town Tours

May's dry conditions make exploring this coastal colonial gem comfortable. Founded in 1617, Benguela offers well-preserved Portuguese architecture, traditional fishing communities, and access to nearby Lobito's natural harbor. Morning flights from Luanda take 1.5 hours, avoiding dusty 450km (280 miles) road journey.

Booking Tip: 2-3 day packages including flights, accommodation, and guided tours range from $200-350 USD per person. Book domestic flights 3-4 weeks ahead for best prices. Local guides charge $30-50 USD per day for personalized historical tours.

Traditional Market and Craft Workshop Tours

May's comfortable morning temperatures make navigating Luanda's bustling Mercado do Roque Santeiro and artisan workshops pleasant. Experience wood carving, traditional textile weaving, and taste local specialties like muamba de galinha and funge. Markets open at 6am when it's coolest, with peak activity until 11am.

Booking Tip: Half-day cultural tours cost $35-55 USD including market visits, craft demonstrations, and traditional lunch. Choose tours that support local artisans directly. Book through operators who provide cultural context and language translation.

May Events & Festivals

Early May

May Day Cultural Celebrations

Labor Day celebrations across Angola feature traditional music, dance performances, and local food festivals. Luanda's main celebration at Independence Square includes live kizomba and semba performances, traditional costume displays, and craft vendors.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts in cotton or linen - essential for UV protection with index 8, plus protection from dust and insects during game drives

Quality dust mask or bandana - Harmattan winds in May create significant dust, especially problematic for those with respiratory sensitivities

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV levels are intense at Angola's latitude, and May's clear skies offer little natural protection

Comfortable walking boots with ankle support - essential for Kalandula Falls approaches and Kissama park terrain, plus protection from thorns

Light rain jacket or poncho - those 10 rainy days often bring sudden afternoon downpours lasting 30-45 minutes

Insect repellent with DEET 30%+ - mosquitoes and tsetse flies are active during dry season around water sources and parks

Portable phone charger/power bank - rural areas and national parks have limited electricity, and you'll use GPS extensively for navigation

Camera lens cleaning kit - dust accumulation is constant problem for photographers in May's dry conditions

Comfortable day pack for water and snacks - remote areas have limited facilities, and staying hydrated is crucial in 25°C+ (77°F+) heat

US dollars in small bills - many tour operators, park fees, and rural accommodations still prefer USD over kwanza outside Luanda

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodation in Luanda's Ilha do Cabo district rather than downtown - it's 3-5°C (5-9°F) cooler due to Atlantic breezes, with better restaurants and safer evening walks

Domestic flights often get delayed 2-4 hours due to weather and logistics - always book morning flights when possible and build buffer time into multi-city itineraries

Carry small denomination kwanza notes - many local vendors, especially in markets, cannot make change for large bills, and credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels

Start sightseeing at 6-7am to beat both heat and crowds - most attractions open early, and you'll finish major outdoor activities before afternoon temperatures peak above 25°C (77°F)