Things to Do in Senegal in May

May Weather in Senegal

35°C (95°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

15mm (0.6 inches) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect visibility for wildlife viewing - dry season means animals concentrate around water sources in national parks, making Niokolo-Koba and Djoudj ideal for spotting
Excellent beach conditions with minimal rainfall - only 2 rainy days expected, making coastal areas like Cap Skirring and Saly perfect for water activities
Prime bird migration season at Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary - over 3 million migrating birds from Europe create spectacular viewing opportunities
Comfortable evening temperatures 23°C (73°F) - perfect for exploring Dakar's nightlife scene and outdoor teranga gatherings that locals love

Considerations

Extremely hot midday temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F) - outdoor activities between 11am-4pm become uncomfortable and potentially dangerous
Harmattan dust winds reduce air quality and visibility - can cause respiratory discomfort and hazy photography conditions
High UV index of 11 requires constant sun protection - sunburn risk is severe within 10 minutes of unprotected exposure

Best Activities in May

Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary Tours

May is peak migration season with over 3 million birds from Europe stopping here. Early morning tours (6am-10am) avoid the heat and provide the best wildlife viewing when birds are most active. The dry season concentrates birds around remaining water sources, creating incredible photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through park-licensed guides. Tours typically cost 25,000-35,000 CFA (€38-53). Includes pirogue boat rides and park entry. Best value includes transport from Saint-Louis. Reference booking widget for current tour operators.

Gorée Island Cultural Tours

May's dry weather means reliable ferry service and perfect conditions for walking the island's historical sites. Morning departures (8am-9am) avoid afternoon heat while still providing excellent photography light. The UNESCO World Heritage site is less crowded than peak tourist months.

Booking Tip: Ferry tickets are 5,200 CFA (€8) round-trip from Dakar terminal. Island tours with local guides cost 10,000-15,000 CFA (€15-23). Book ferry tickets same day, but guided tours should be reserved 3-5 days ahead through certified cultural guides.

Cap Skirring Beach Activities

With only 2 expected rainy days, May offers excellent beach conditions. Water temperature is perfect at 24°C (75°F). Fishing season peaks in May with local fishermen bringing in exceptional catches daily. Morning surf conditions are ideal before afternoon winds pick up.

Booking Tip: Beachfront accommodation costs 40,000-80,000 CFA (€60-120) per night. Fishing excursions with local fishermen run 20,000-30,000 CFA (€30-45) for half-day trips. Book through eco-certified operators who work with local communities.

Dakar Street Food Evening Tours

May evenings are perfect for exploring Dakar's incredible street food scene as temperatures drop to comfortable 23°C (73°F). Ramadan may fall in May 2025, creating unique iftar experiences. Local markets come alive after 6pm with fresh seafood from daily catches.

Booking Tip: Walking food tours cost 15,000-25,000 CFA (€23-38) for 3-4 hours including tastings. Book with local foodie guides who know the safest and most authentic spots. Evening tours (6pm-10pm) avoid daytime heat and coincide with peak food preparation.

Sine-Saloum Delta Mangrove Exploration

May's dry season provides optimal conditions for navigating the delta's waterways. Receding water levels reveal oyster beds and create perfect conditions for traditional fishing techniques. Birdlife is concentrated and easily observable.

Booking Tip: Multi-day eco-tours cost 60,000-100,000 CFA (€90-150) per person including accommodation in traditional lodges. Book through community-based tourism operators 10-14 days ahead. Single day trips from Kaolack run 25,000-35,000 CFA (€38-53).

Saint-Louis Colonial Architecture Walking Tours

May's dry weather is perfect for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage city on foot. Early morning tours (7am-10am) provide comfortable walking conditions before heat intensifies. The lack of rain means better preservation viewing of colonial facades and optimal photography conditions.

Booking Tip: Licensed city guides charge 12,000-18,000 CFA (€18-27) for 2-3 hour tours. Horse-drawn carriage tours cost 8,000-12,000 CFA (€12-18) and provide shade. Book through official tourism office to ensure certified guides with historical knowledge.

May Events & Festivals

Mid May

Dakar Fashion Week

Africa's premier fashion event showcasing Senegalese and continental designers. Features runway shows, pop-up markets, and cultural exhibitions celebrating African textile traditions and contemporary design.

Throughout May

Saint-Louis Jazz Festival Preparations

While the main festival occurs later, May features intimate warm-up concerts and workshops throughout the city. Local musicians perform in courtyards and cultural centers, offering authentic experiences without festival crowds.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses - UV index reaches 11, causing sunburn in under 10 minutes

SPF 50+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours - the intensity near the equator is severe even on cloudy days

Lightweight, long-sleeved cotton shirts - protect from sun while allowing air circulation in 35°C (95°F) heat

Dust mask or scarf for harmattan winds - fine Saharan dust can cause respiratory irritation and affects air quality

Insulated water bottle holding 1.5L (50oz) minimum - dehydration happens quickly in dry heat conditions

Electrolyte supplements or oral rehydration salts - essential for replacing minerals lost through heavy sweating

Lightweight closed-toe shoes for dusty conditions - sandals allow dust and sand to cause discomfort

Power bank for phone/camera - heat drains batteries 40% faster than normal temperatures

Quick-dry towel for beach activities - high temperatures mean regular towels stay damp and develop odors

Light jacket for evening ferry rides - sea breeze can feel cool when temperatures drop to 23°C (73°F)

Insider Knowledge

Locals take afternoon siestas from 1pm-4pm during May heat - shops close and even taxis become scarce, so plan indoor activities or rest during these hours

May coincides with mango season - street vendors sell the sweetest mangoes of the year for 200-500 CFA each, but eat them in shade to avoid attracting bees

Ramadan may occur in May 2025 - respect local customs by avoiding eating/drinking in public during daylight, but enjoy incredible iftar meals at sunset

Book domestic flights early morning or late evening in May - afternoon turbulence from heat thermals makes flights uncomfortable and sometimes delayed

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor sightseeing between 11am-4pm when temperatures exceed comfortable limits - causes heat exhaustion and ruins the experience

Underestimating water needs - tourists frequently get dehydrated because 35°C (95°F) heat requires drinking 3-4L (100-135oz) daily

Not protecting camera equipment from dust - harmattan winds carry fine particles that damage lenses and electronic equipment permanently