May is the quiet awakening of Zambia’s dry season. The rains are over, the skies stretch wide and cloudless, and the bush begins to shed its thick, green coat. The landscape is still fresh from the wet months—lush in places, golden in others—and there’s a crispness in the air, especially in the early mornings. It’s the beginning of what many consider the prime time to visit Zambia.

The parks open up, roads are passable, and safari operations are in full swing. Yet crowds haven’t arrived, making May a rare blend of accessibility and serenity.

Weather in Zambia in May

May is one of the most comfortable months to travel. Daytime temperatures average between 12°C and 26°C (54°F to 79°F), with cool mornings that gradually warm under the African sun. Rain is virtually gone, and the air feels clean and dry. As the grasses begin to recede, visibility improves dramatically—a welcome change for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Dust hasn’t yet returned, and the bush still holds onto the last hues of green, giving the landscape a softness that fades later in the dry season.

Wildlife in May: Game Viewing Begins to Peak

May marks the start of reliable wildlife viewing. With water sources beginning to dry up, animals start gathering closer to permanent rivers and lagoons. Elephants return in large numbers, while herds of impala, puku, and kudu graze in open spaces, alert to the movements of predators.

Lions and leopards become easier to spot, especially in places like South Luangwa, where game drive routes are now fully accessible. The bush is still quiet, so sightings are often private and unhurried—perfect for photographers and those who love stillness in the wild.

Birdwatching remains excellent. Though most migratory species have departed, resident birds are active, and the open skies allow for beautiful, unobstructed views.

Where to Go in May

South Luangwa National Park is in prime condition, with game drives, walking safaris, and night drives all available. The grass is short enough for great visibility, yet still carries a touch of green for vibrant photos.

Lower Zambezi National Park is now fully open. The Zambezi River sparkles under clear skies, and boat safaris, canoe trips, and fishing excursions return in full. Elephants and buffalo frequent the riverbanks, while hippos and crocodiles dominate the channels.

Kafue National Park also becomes accessible, with seasonal camps reopening and the plains beginning to attract grazers and their predators.

Victoria Falls is still thundering at near-maximum flow. In May, the spray is spectacular—filling the rainforest with mist and rainbows, though high water levels may limit visibility from certain vantage points. A helicopter flight offers a breathtaking view of the full expanse.

Why Visit Zambia in May?

May offers the best of both worlds: the freshness and beauty of the wet season, and the clarity and wildlife density of the dry season. It’s a time when the wilderness feels wide open, the parks are ready, and the experience is deeply personal—without the bustle of high-season crowds.

For travelers looking to get ahead of the peak months, enjoy ideal conditions, and explore Zambia with space and stillness, May is a golden opportunity. It’s the quiet beginning of something great—and a perfect time to fall in love with the safari rhythm of the wild.