Although the month of May might not be your first choice when you think of planning your trip to Africa, the shoulder seasons can be a great time to visit various destinations on our beloved continent. The weather conditions tend to be more temperate and there are fewer crowds. This makes May the ideal time to visit Africa for those looking for a more exclusive safari experience. So, without further ado, here are our top destinations and lodges for African travel in May.
1. Nosy Be, Madagascar
White, sandy beaches await you in Madagascar...
Want to visit a true barefoot paradise? In the Indian Ocean, just off the East African coast, you'll find one of the world's largest island countries, Madagascar. Picture rainforests of long-limbed succulents, adorable lemurs leaping playfully and stout baobabs sporting trunks branded with red and yellow swirls.
The dry season, from May to October, is one of the best times to visit Madagascar. From enchanting cities to fascinating culture and lush rainforests to extraordinary wildlife, all can be found on this magnificent micro-continent. Nosy Be offers all the essentials for a dream beach holiday, from scuba diving, snorkelling to azure blue waters and excellent sunny weather. Explore colourful coral reefs, fish, sea turtles, and so much more.
Our Favourite Property: Constance Tsarabanjina
Picture of island perfection, Image Credit: Constance Tsarabanjina
Constance Tsarabanjina is surrounded by glittering water and nestled on the soft white sand of Tsarabanjina island. This property is one of Madagascar’s most intimate resorts, encompassing the true essence of simple elegance.
The resort has 25 luxurious beach villas, all built and decorated in simple tones with a hint of Constance's chic comfort. In the sand-floored restaurant, dine on fresh seafood and Malagasy specialities while admiring the stunning view from your hammock.
This island paradise promises sunshine all year round, beckoning you to fill your days with long walks on the beach, snorkelling, diving, sailing, or sunbathing. This magnificent location is rich in incredible birdlife, lush vegetation, and untouched marine life.
2. Garden Route, South Africa
Knysna, the heart of the Garden Route, Image Credit: Vaiz Ha
The Garden Route is one of the top road trip destinations in the world. Pristine beaches, luscious forests, outdoor adventures – South Africa's south coast has it all. Along this journey, you have the opportunity to stop for wine (or bubbly) tastings, watch whales (seasonal) and dolphins, explore the lagoon in Knysna, go ziplining or bungee jumping, and so much more. Oh, and don't forget to add a malaria-free Big 5 safari to your itinerary!
With endless activities and breathtaking landscapes, this part of South Africa has something for everyone. For honeymooners hoping for a luxurious romantic getaway, adventurers, and families with young children, the Garden Route has you covered!
Our Favourite Property: Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge
Stunning views and wildlife encounters, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
Perched on the lush green banks of the Great Fish River, the Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located in Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. This 1820s settler's farmhouse-inspired lodge was designed to showcase the magnificent landscape.
Each of the nine spacious suites has floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to display uninterrupted views of the wilderness. In the main areas, you can relax on the balcony, read a book in the library, and eat excellent African-inspired meals in the candlelit dining room or in the outdoor boma.
Guests can enjoy twice-daily guided game drives, nature walks, and even night drives upon request. The skilled rangers and trackers will ensure that you have an up-close experience with the Big 5 as well as many other bird and animal species.
3. Okavango Delta, Botswana
A bucket list experience: mokoro boat ride in the Okavango Delta
A labyrinth of meandering water channels, papyrus-fringed banks, and wildlife-teemed floating islands, Botswana's Okavango Delta is known as "the river that never finds the sea". This wetland with twisting oxbow streams is filled to the brim with exciting game-viewing opportunities and biodiversity. Therefore, it's no surprise that this magical place is a great idea for African travel in May!
Not only is the Delta home to the Big 5, but it's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region offers many water-based safari activities, and you'll find yourself exploring marshy rivers by boat or even traditional mokoro (a dugout canoe). You can also explore higher ground in typical game-viewing vehicles and on foot, or even take to the sky to obtain a bird's-eye view of the passing game from the heights of a helicopter.
Our Favourite Property: &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge
Unique architecture in a remote location, Image Credit: Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge
&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is located in a wildlife-rich private concession that borders the Moremi Game Reserve and has exclusive traversing rights over a vast expanse of wildlife land. Exclusive safari experiences, here we come!
The exquisite lodge was designed with the Delta's delicate ecosystem in mind. This dedication is reflected in the organic architecture of the lodge's suites, which blend in seamlessly with their surroundings. Pan-African cuisine can be enjoyed on your private deck or in the boma with your fellow travellers. On request, bush picnics can also be arranged.
Explore the vast landscape on day and night open-vehicle game drives, guided walks, or helicopter excursions, or simply enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your own balcony. This oasis provides visitors with the opportunity to see lions, cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs, red lechwe, hippos, and elephants in their natural environment.
Ready to Travel in May? Let's Start Planning!
What destinations and lodges for African travel in May tickle your fancy? Contact our Travel Experts to bring your dream safari itinerary to life. We can’t wait to welcome you to Africa!
