Cameroon in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Cameroon
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Rainforest wildlife is incredibly active - primates are most vocal during humid mornings and bird diversity peaks with 200+ species visible
- Waterfall season reaches maximum flow at Ekom Nkam (80m/262ft) and Chutes de la Lobe - photography conditions are spectacular with full cascades
- Post-harmattan clear air provides exceptional visibility for Mount Cameroon climbing (4,095m/13,435ft) with 50km+ (31+ miles) views from summit
- Agricultural harvest season means local markets overflow with fresh mangoes, plantains, and palm wine - food costs drop 30-40% from peak season prices
Considerations
- Road conditions deteriorate severely on unpaved routes - journeys to Korup National Park take 6-8 hours instead of typical 4 hours due to muddy conditions
- Malaria risk increases significantly with standing water everywhere - mosquito activity peaks between 6pm-10pm daily
- Humidity makes any physical activity exhausting by 11am - even short 2km (1.2 mile) walks feel overwhelming for unacclimatized visitors
Best Activities in May
Mount Cameroon Volcano Trekking
May offers the clearest summit conditions before June cloud cover arrives. The 2-day ascent encounters four distinct climate zones, from rainforest at 500m (1,640ft) to alpine desert at 4,095m (13,435ft). Early morning starts at 5am avoid afternoon heat, and recent volcanic activity has created fascinating new lava formations visible on the upper slopes.
Dja Biosphere Reserve Primate Tracking
The humid May conditions activate incredible primate behavior - western lowland gorillas are most active during cooler morning hours (6am-10am), and the reserve's 109 mammal species are easily spotted near water sources. Rain creates perfect tracking conditions as animal movements are predictable around shelter areas.
Waza National Park Safari Drives
May marks the end of dry season concentration around water points, creating exceptional wildlife viewing. Over 30 large mammal species gather at remaining water holes between 6am-9am and 4pm-7pm. Lion sightings increase 300% during this period as prey animals become predictable in their movements.
Douala-Limbe Coastal Exploration
May's high humidity creates impressive atmospheric conditions along the Atlantic coast. Black volcanic beaches at Limbe provide unique geological experiences, while Douala's busy markets showcase peak agricultural season produce. Afternoon thunderstorms over the ocean create dramatic photography opportunities around 4pm daily.
Bamenda Highlands Cultural Immersion
The 1,500m (4,921ft) elevation provides relief from coastal humidity, and May coincides with traditional farming ceremonies in Grassfields villages. Weekly markets in Bamenda showcase unique highland produce, and the cooler temperatures make exploring traditional Tikar and Bamoun architecture comfortable even during midday.
Kribi-Campo Beach Relaxation
May offers perfect beach conditions before peak tourist season - temperatures hover around 28°C (82°F) with refreshing Atlantic breezes. The unique phenomenon of Lobe Falls cascading directly into the ocean creates spectacular scenery, and turtle nesting season begins on secluded beaches south of Kribi.
May Events & Festivals
National Unity Day Celebrations
May 20th national holiday featuring military parades in Yaoundé and cultural festivals across all ten regions. Traditional dance performances, local cuisine festivals, and artisan markets operate throughout the long weekend. Hotels book solid in major cities.
Ngondo Water Festival Preparations
Douala's Sawa people begin traditional preparations for their ancestral river ceremonies. While main festival occurs in December, May features canoe races, fishing competitions, and traditional music performances along the Wouri River every weekend.