Travel in May is all about seeing and doing things that your average tourist may not do. There are exotic rainforests to visit, cultural festivals to attend and off-the-beaten-path beaches to explore and enjoy. This is the time of year before the peak season, with some great spring or autumn days to enjoy across the globe. Pack your bags and let Travelstart take you on an adventure!
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May is the perfect time to visit Austria as it falls in the shoulder season. Austria is filled to the brim with artistry and culture, and of course, you cannot visit and not indulge in the heavenly foods found in the city of Vienna! Cakes and chocolates galore!
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Visit Salzburg’s Museum of Modern Art
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Tasty treats at bakeries on every corner
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Explore small villages with dainty alpine cottages
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Enjoy spring time highs of around 20°C
Greece is home to wonderful views across the Mediterranean and beautiful cobbled streets – ideal for touring in the pre-summer temperatures of May. Greece is where you’ll eat to your heart’s content and then some, and spend your days wandering through old ruins and imagining a life that once was.
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Visit the Acropolis in Athens
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Start a party on the island of Mykonos
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Enjoy the extensive coastline and beaches
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Relax in the sun with 25°C
After the icy cold winter, Poland comes alive with fresh air and perfect spring days in May! The capital city, Warsaw, is abuzz with activity at restaurants, historic attractions and has a busy artistic scene. The natural, lush forestry in the country is perfect for day trekking.
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Enjoy the art scene in Warsaw
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Explore the splendour of Victoria Falls
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See the charm of Old Town in Krakow
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Dress comfortably with temperatures around 19°C
Croatia is an Eastern-European gem that is slowly getting the attention that it deserves! May is the perfect time to visit as the Croatian coast is surrounded by islands, and with the summer heat just picking up, you’ll have a wonderful time enjoying the beaches and beautiful secluded bays.
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Explore the rich history and culture of Zagreb
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Unwind along the coast with island treasures
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Enjoy some sailing across the Adriatic Sea
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Expect warm days in the mid-20°Cs
This beautiful country is well known for its beer and Belgian waffles, and visitors to capital city Brussels are bound to enjoy all that is on offer in the warm month of May. The country has a wonderful countryside that is ideal for day trips and small towns that are filled with architectural beauty.
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Visit a few of Belgium’s 3,000 castles!
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Enjoy some kayaking in Ardennes
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A night of pub-hopping in Antwerp
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Enjoy daytime highs of around 18°C
There is more to Switzerland than just chocolate and Alps, though these things are always great. The country has some amazing Swiss cuisine that you have to try against the greenest backdrop! Spend your time taking in the sights during warm days in May.
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Visit a medieval castle on Lake Geneva
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Take a train ride along Zermatt
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Enjoy the beauty of the Swiss waterfalls
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Daytime temperatures average 18°C
England – Annual Brighton Festival
Visit Brighton, England during the month of May for an all-inclusive festival that is sure to make your trip unforgettable! This annual festival takes place over three weeks and there are activities for all, including indoor and outdoor activities. Enjoy theatre productions, literature, dance, film showings and so much more. Of course, there are lots of food stalls to pick from and lots of bespoke arts and crafts to purchase.
9 - 17°C daytime temperatures
Three weeks in May
Brighton
The Netherlands – Keukenhof
In May, the gardens of the Keukenhof Flower Farm come to life and visitors are invited to enjoy the most wonderful display of flowers, as far as the eye can see! The gardens flower over 800 types of tulip, but also include other bulb types of flowers such as daffodils and crocuses. Anyone who loves the sight of beautiful flora will enjoy this festival which runs from March until the third week of May every year. There are also artworks on display in the gardens. Hire a bicycle to make your way around the gardens.
Temperatures average between 11°C - 24°C
March to 3rd week of May
Amsterdam
Italy – South Tyrol Gourmet Festival
Italy is known for its tantalising dishes and the city of Bolzano in the South Tyrol region in northern Italy is no different. The South Tyrol Gourmet Festival is a culinary delight and brings in visitors from all around the world to this event. Visitors can look forward to all kinds of delights from the region, including fresh farm produce, pastries, speck, different varieties of local honey and so much more. The festival is held on the last weekend of May.
15 - 24°C daytime temperatures
Every weekend in May
Bolzano
There are no European destinations that have perfect beach weather temperatures in May. Check the other continents or scroll to Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations to check for European countries that are affordable in May.
May is the beginning of the dry season in Malawi, a great time to visit if you’re keen on visiting some game parks and seeing majestic wildlife such as elephant and rhino. May is also the ideal time to head to Lake Malawi as the temperatures are warm but not overly hot. You can spend your days lounging along the coast, doing a cruise and taking in some of Africa’s most beautiful scenery.
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Take a cruise down Lake Malawi
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View wildlife at Lilongwe Wildlife Centre
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Climb to the top of Mount Mulanje
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Enjoy cool days at around 23°C
Mozambique is the perfect escape for those looking for an exotic African adventure! The country offers some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Africa and fresh-off-the-boat seafood that will have you coming back for more! May is the end of the wet season and perfect for taking in the sights and dipping your toes into the warm ocean waters.
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Swim alongside marine life in Vilanculous
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Enjoy a sunset cocktail at Tofo Beach
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Visit historic sites in Maputo
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Pack your sunscreen with highs of around 27°C
Zimbabwe is a splendid holiday destination for the month of May if you’re looking for serene wildlife encounters, laid-back town exploring and of course, a trip to Victoria Falls. The country may be best known for this UNESCO attraction, but there is more to this magical, dusty land than its famous waterfall. May weather is warm and dry and is just before peak season which starts in June.
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Spend a night painting the town red in Harare
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Explore the splendour of Victoria Falls
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Spot the ‘Big Five’ across numerous parks
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A warm 22°C with mostly sunny days
Uganda is for the adventurous spirit looking for an authentic African experience at the end of the rainy season in May. Be prepared to venture into untouched Africa as you explore this majestic country, spotting tropical, colourful animals along your path.
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Track gorillas in the Bwindi National Park
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Go kayaking down Murchison Falls
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Visit a rural Batwa village
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Day temperatures reach a high of 26°C
Kenya is a tropical paradise for those looking to lounge their days away in the sun and is also an enticing land of bright colours and vast savannahs, for an enthralling wildlife adventure! May is an ideal time to visit this glorious country as it is the end of the wet season, with cool days that are perfect for sightseeing.
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Experience the vibrancy of Nairobi
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Relax under palm trees in Malindi
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Explore the savannahs of Wajir
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A warm 20°C with plenty of sunshine
May is possibly the most beautiful time to visit Morocco, with cool spring air before the summer heat descends. There’s so much to see and do in this exotic country, from lush valleys to extensive coastlines and, of course, Moroccan cuisine is in a league of its own!
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Relax to the sound of the sea in Essaouira
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Visit the bustling markets of Marrakech
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Do a camel safari from the city of Fes
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Experience a warm 26°C
Egypt – Sandbox Music Festival
This popular music festival is lucky enough to have the Red Sea as its backdrop, with the warm sands under your toes as you dance the night away. The Sandbox Music Festival is a 3-day music event like no other, with more than 70 local and international acts performing each year in El Gouna, the seaside resort town in Egypt. While there, enjoy a dip in the warm sea before heading off to dance – you may as well!
18 - 32°C daytime temperatures
First weekend of May
El Gouna seaside town
Zimbabwe – Harare International Festival of the Art)
The Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) is one of the biggest festivals in all of Africa, showcasing the best of local and regional talent that the continent has on offer. The event is six days long and includes live performances, workshops and conferences with some of Africa’s most influential artists. Immerse yourself in the various African traditions as you enjoy this prestigious event.
10 - 22°C daytime temperatures
Second week of May
Harare
Morocco – Festival of World Sacred Music
Held in perfect weather conditions, the annual Festival of World Sacred Music is an event that brings the world together for the love of traditional music and arts. Museums, art galleries and speciality boutiques are open to the public over this 10-day festival during the day, while late afternoons and evenings bring you the sweet and enigmatic sounds from across the globe. There are also film exhibitions and poetry readings to enjoy.
10 - 19°C daytime temperatures
Dates TBA
Fes
Comoros
The island nation of Comoros is the most wonderful beach retreat with three islands that make up the archipelago. May has daytime temperatures that average around 29°C – could you ask for anything more perfect? Make sure to pack in plenty of sunscreen and prepare to relax at uncrowded bays such as Chomoni Beach in the largest island of the archipelago of Grand Camore and Niomachoua Beach in Fomboni, the smallest of the islands.
Tanzania
Tanzania is a tropical paradise and the sheer amount of gorgeous coastline to enjoy is astounding! Picture snorkelling, scuba diving and days upon days lounging on the white sands that the country has to offer. Zanzibar has the allure of beaches such as Paje and Nungwi, while off the coast of Dar es Salaam you’ll be dipping your toes into the waters of Coco Beach, Amani Beach and more. Expect warm days with an average temperature of 28°C.
Namibia
Namibia is not known for its beaches but once you’re there and in the mood for a dip into the Atlantic Ocean, make sure to head to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Both are coastal cities known for their gorgeous sandy beaches, marine life and sand dunes! May might be a bit cool for a deep-water swim, but do take the time to enjoy some marine watching. Coastal marine life includes dolphins, whales and of course, seals! Enjoy warm days of around 23°C.
May is spring in Japan, the most beautiful and picturesque time of the year! Imagine yourself walking through lanes of cherry blossoms, taking in the sites of Mount Fuji and indulging in the most tantalizing Japanese cuisine! Tokyo is magical all year long too, with hidden temples alongside cutesy rabbit cafes!
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Take in the natural beauty of Ararshiyama
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Go crazy in the neon city of Tokyo
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Take a bus tour to Mount Fuji
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An average of 23°C with mostly sunny days
Jordan is a beautiful country with a profound history that will dazzle any traveller interested in its origins. There are many interesting sights to see for anybody visiting Jordan, including the Dead Sea and the Blue Mosque of Amman.
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Spend your days sightseeing the golden city of Amman
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Sink your teeth into classic Jordanian treats
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Visit Petra - historical masterpiece from 300 B.C.
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Day temperatures reach a high of 27°C
China is as diverse as you can imagine, and visitors can easily move between modern cities, the green countryside and ancient cities that are untouched by modern influences. China experiences a warm spring season in May, and there is plenty to see and do while enjoying lovely daytime temperatures.
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Walk the Great Wall of China
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Indulge your taste buds across cities!
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Enjoy daytime highs of around 26°C
No place in the world is as exotic, untamed and colourful as the streets of India! May in India is a beautiful time for a vacation as it is the start of monsoon season (don’t forget your umbrellas!) and the land is alive with activity.
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Shop to your heart’s content in Mumbai
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Visit beautiful colonial landmarks in Chennai
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Dip your toes into the waters of Goa
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Day temperatures reach a high of 32°C!
Set along the stunning Mediterranean Sea, Israel is a country full of intrigue and wonder! Tel Aviv offers modern and fun entertainment, while Jerusalem is a religious must-see for many pilgrims. May in Israel is all about fresh, warm days and soaking up the vibrancy of this Middle Eastern country.
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Float in the waters of the Dead Sea
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Plan a night out in the bustling Tel Aviv
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Wander the ancient streets of Jerusalem
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An average of 27°C with mostly sunny days
Vietnam has become a popular tourist destination with its breathtaking landscapes and amazing food! May is a wonderful time to visit this diverse country as it offers warm temperatures without the sweltering humidity that comes along in summer. The north and south of the country deliver vastly different views of the country, all wonderful and exciting to explore.
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Take a cooking class in Hanoi
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Visit the imperial city of Hue
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Sip on a cocktail at Ha Long Bay
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Pack in a sun hat with temperatures around 33°C
Sri Lanka – Vesak
Vesak is a cultural festival that is celebrated throughout Asia in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and more. Vesak celebrates the life of Buddha – his birth, death and teachings. It is a time of coming together, sharing knowledge and prayer in the large Buddhist communities in these countries. Ornate flower garlands and special meals are prepared and shared with everyone. At night, enjoy the sightings of beautifully decorated lanterns that light up the sky.
26 - 31°C daytime temperatures
Second Sunday of May
All across Sri Lanka
New Zealand – NZ International Comedy Festival
Who doesn’t appreciate a good laugh? Well you can laugh to your heart’s content all throughout the month of May in the cities of Auckland and Wellington during the annual NZ International Comedy Festival. The evenings are hosted in theatres across the two cities and run for 21 nights. Expect only the best of the comedy world as you struggle to stay on your seat for the performances.
A beautiful and sunny 24°C
Easter long weekend
Auckland and Wellington
Hong Kong – Tin Hau Festival
On the birthday of Tin Hau, the Goddess of the Sea, the city of Hong Kong comes alive to rejoice and celebrate! As the wealth of Hong Kong was previously linked to the sea and having a good fishing harvest, Tin Hau will forever be honoured! There are more than 60 temples throughout Hong Kong that visitors can visit and join in the celebrations of the day. After a prayer, sit back and and enjoy the traditional dances, performances and foods on offer.
23 - 28°C daytime temperatures
Date dependent on Lunar calendar
At temples across Hong Kong
Sri Lanka
The golden beaches of Sri Lanka are hard to compare to any other as not only are you looking at postcard-worthy stretches – you’re also enjoying palm tree shaded areas, topaz water, uncrowded locations and warm sea temperatures. May is monsoon season in the south west of the country, so head north and towards the east during this month to enjoy the silky waters of Arugam Bay for surfing on the east coast, and Marawila up north for the secluded feel.
Maldives
The island nation of the Maldives is a must on every beach travellers list, with its turquoise water, perfect year-long temperatures and of course, its seemingly endless supply of beautiful island beaches. Head north to snorkel amongst the coral reef and enjoy the sights along beaches such as Baros, Mirihi and Reethi beach islands. For those more keen on soaking up the sun, we suggest booking into an island resort such as Meeru and Veligandu islands. May promises temperatures in the upper 20°C’s.
Malaysia
Malaysia may not be known for its beaches, but rest assured that this country has plenty of stunning seaside locations! Pristine beaches that are marked with white sands and warm sea water are ideal for unwinding to the sound of the ocean. The east and west coast of Malaysia is scattered with perfect little beach spots such as those on Redang Island. Other perfect locations include Tanjung Rhu, Adam & Eve Beach and Cherating Beach on the east coast. Malaysia in May is hot with temperatures of around 30°C.
The Dominican Republic is a dream escape to the Caribbean, with endless opportunities to have a party, laze on gorgeous beaches and marvel at unique architecture. May is a hot and wet month of the year, but there is always something to do and plenty of beaches to relax on and historic sites to wander through.
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Swim with marine life
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Roam the streets of Santo Domingo
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Indulge in the enticing nightlife!
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An average of 31°C with mostly sunny days
Nature is at its most astounding in Guatemala with its tropical rainforests and majestic volcanoes. May is the beginning of the rainy season, with greenery and lush valleys to explore. The capital city, Guatemala City is a bustling area filled with rich culture and warm locals.
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Visit the ancient Mayan Ruins
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Try a chocolate pudding fruit
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Enjoy the natural hot springs in Zunil
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Day temperatures reach a high of 25°C
The beautiful nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a laidback destination that offers you the best of island life with astounding views, pulsating rhythms and lots of decadent Caribbean dishes to try. The nation has a tropical climate, with May being the ideal time to catch a tan!
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Trek around the Vermont Nature Trails
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Have a beach day at Lower Bay Beach
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Visit the St. Vincent Botanic Gardens
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A hot 31°C with plenty of sunshine!
Cuba should be on every traveller’s list, with its rustic charm, relaxed atmosphere and warm Caribbean waters. May is the beginning of the wet season, but don’t fret as the days are hot and the city streets still full of dancing locals and enticing cuisine.
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Stroll the streets of Havana
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Enjoy the beaches along the island’s coast
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Visit the Cuban wetlands to spot exotic wildlife
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A simmering 30°C to enjoy!
An enigmatic country full of colour and splendour, Mexico is a wonderful destination to visit during the month of May. Tropical beaches scattered along the coast of the country have put Mexico on the map, not to mention the most amazing food that is world-famous!
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Wander through the ancient Chichen Ruins
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Spend the night bar hopping in Los Cabos
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An average of 32°C with mostly sunny days
Discover the unusual and the absolutely breathtaking natural attractions of Panama in May. The capital city, Panama City, comes alive after dark while off the beaten path, the countryside offers something that few can rival, lush forest beds alongside the most picture-perfect beaches.
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Plan a beach day in Colon under the palm trees
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Party the night away in Panama City
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Spot exotic wildlife at the Darien National Park
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Hot days ahead with temperatures around 35°C!
USA – Movement Electronic Music Festival
The annual Movement Electronic Festival held in Detroit grows larger every year, with performances by some of the best DJ’s from across the world – all gathered in one place to give music lovers a spectacular event. The 3-day festival takes place across five stages, with plenty of art exhibitions, clothing pop-up stores and food stalls to enjoy. This music event has been going strong since 2006.
9 - 21°C daytime temperatures
Last weekend of May
Detroit
Mexico - Day of the Holy Cross
This religious event is celebrated throughout Mexico and is a great tourist attraction too. Thousands of pilgrims walk the streets of cities such as Mexico City, Monterrey and Tijuana to express their love of The Holy Cross by decorating the streets, churches, parks and cemeteries with flowers and hand-made wooden crosses. It is a beautiful event that honours the strong cultural pull of Mexican locals. Expect traditional foods and delicacies available to enjoy!
11 - 25°C daytime temperatures
3rd of May
All across Mexico
Honduras - La Ceiba Carnival
If you’re in the mood for a big party then the La Ceiba Carnival is the place to be! Every May, the city of La Ceiba comes together to celebrate in grand style and liven up the city with music, parades, dancing and so much more. The carnival takes place on the last Saturday of the month and visitors can join in on the extravagant parade. There is also an all-night party that happens after the parade, a lure for any party-goer!
16 - 30°C daytime temperatures
Third Saturday of May
La Ceiba
Cuba
Cuba is well known as a retreat for those looking to unwind to some good beats and even smoke a cigar or two, but did you know that this country has some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world? Most of Cuba’s beaches run on for kilometres and all of them are perfect for enjoying a day out relaxing on white sands and under the shade of palm trees. Visit the north coast delights in May such as those of Playa Los Flamencos and Playa Perla Blanca – a network of small islets just off the mainland. Enjoy hot days of 30°C.
Belize
Belize is a tropical paradise and is a nation that knows how to enjoy the good life! The long stretches of beach are a gateway to great snorkelling and scuba adventures across the Belize Barrier Reef. Much of the island’s coast is rocky, but the beaches that are around provide glorious scenery and sun-bathing opportunities. One of the best beaches to visit in Belize would have to be Placencia Beach and then Long Caye Beach, which can be found along Glover’s Reef. May in Belize offers great beach temperatures, ranging at around 27°C.
Nicaragua
May is the beginning of the wet season of Nicaragua, so plan your trip early in the month to take full advantage of the gorgeous beaches in the country. This coastal destination has a pull to surfers, who hit the waves of Playa Colorado, a famous surf location. The two Corn Islands are also much loved as the clear crystal waters and white sands are always a winner.
Set your heart on the open skies in the beautiful country of Bolivia during May. The Bolivian countryside is a raw and untouched wilderness, calling the adventurer to trek its mountain ranges, cruise along its lakes and enjoy its natural hot springs.
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Take a daytrip cruise down Lake Titicaca
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Enjoy the cultural vibrancy in Santa Cruz
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Do a walking tour of Valley of the Moon
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A warm 22°C with plenty of sunshine
A trip to South America should definitely include Paraguay as this landlocked country is more than meets the eye. The national parks alone are a drawcard with tropical birds, astounding waterfalls and wildlife unique to the region.
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Try Paraguayan cuisine in Asuncion
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Indulge in tax-free shopping!
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View wild bird species in dense rainforests
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Enjoy warm days with 26°C
The enchanting call of Ecuador is a perfect retreat! May is the end of the wet season so visitors are in for some refreshing, warm days as the skies clear up exploring this beautiful country. Ecuador has an abundance of natural beauty, from expansive coasts, the Amazon rainforest and the Andes mountain range.
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Go snorkelling in Isla de la Plata
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Take a cruise through the Galapagos Islands
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Explore contemporary architecture in Quito
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Day temperatures reach around 22°C
Guyana is one of South America’s hidden treasures with some of the most stunning natural scenery that you could imagine! May in Guyana brings ideal weather to explore dense rainforests, large rivers, coastal beach areas and so much more.
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Visit a remote Amerinidian village
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Dance to some reggae in Georgetown
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See the Kaieteur Falls without all the crowds
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A warm 28°C with plenty of sunshine!
Brazil is the largest and best-known country in South America with an overabundance of things to do at any time of the year, May included. May falls in the country’s dry season so get ready to explore the beaches, bustling cities and venture out into the countryside too.
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Work on your tan at Ipanema beach
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Stroll through art galleries in Sao Paulo
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Trek through the Iguauzu National Park
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A charming 26°C
Argentina - Iguazu in Concert
Every year, hundreds of youth gather from around the world for a 5-day festival in Puerto Iguazu, a city in Argentina. The artists range from 9 – 18 years old and the event is for the whole family to enjoy. The concert takes place in a custom-made theatre every year, with the stunning Iguazu Falls as the backdrop. Prepare to enjoy all kinds of classical to traditional music from across the globe.
11 - 19°C daytime temperatures
Last weekend of May
Puerto Iguazu
Bolivia - Fiesta del Gran Poder
Fiesta del Gran Poder is the biggest and most celebrated cultural festival in Bolivia. It translates to ‘the festival of great power’ and celebrates the Christian faith. This festival has it all, from parades with thousands of dancers in extravagant outfits to food and drinks galore! Though it may be based on a religious event, visitors can look forward to many parties that are celebrated throughout the city of La Paz so make sure to pack in your dancing shoes!
7 - 22°C daytime temperatures
Last Saturday of May
La Paz
Colombia – Bogota International Book Fair
This annual event has been in existence for the last 30 years and only inspires more and more book enthusiasts every year. The Bogota International Book Fair attracts thousands of people a year, and if you’re keen on meeting other book lovers and engaging in workshops to help promote the love of reading, then this fair is most certainly for you.
11 - 18°C daytime temperature
First week of May
Bogota
Suriname
Suriname is a lesser-known beauty of South America, with a gorgeous Atlantic coastline that is frequented by nesting turtles before they head off into the great unknown! Much of Suriname is an exotic wilderness, and the beaches are equally as fascinating. Matapica Beach along the coast is really beautiful, with Braamspunt and Withe Beach located along the Suriname River. May can be quite wet but hot – expect days of up to 30°C.
Peru
Peru has a stunning coastline of more than 2000 kilometres, giving visitors ample opportunity to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean on a warm day in May! Enjoy the golden sands from the capital city of Lima to the smaller towns along the coast in the north, such as Playa Lobitos in Piura. A perfect relaxing retreat would certainly land you in Punta Sal – a lush and romantic looking beach with palm trees and topaz waters to match! May in Peru reaches temperatures in the mid-20°C’s.
Venezuela
Venezuela is a much-loved beach destination with creamy sand and the most gorgeous sunbathing settings! Make sure to plan in many days just lazing under palm trees as you enjoy these perfect conditions. Popular tourist spot, Margarita Island, is known as the ‘Pearl of the Caribbean’ – offering three wonderful beaches that are hard to compare. Playa Colorado is set in the Mochima National Park so do visit this oasis too! May has average daytime highs around 26°C.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals. Book in February to get great discounts on your May trip!
Not ready to travel in May? Book your trip in May and travel in August to get the best deals.
