Banjul in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Banjul

31°C (88°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

2.5 mm (0.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - only 2.5 mm (0.1 inches) across the month makes this ideal for river excursions and outdoor activities
Tourist shoulder season means 30-40% lower accommodation rates compared to December-February peak, with easier restaurant reservations and shorter queues
Perfect conditions for early morning Gambia River bird watching - cooler temperatures at 21°C (70°F) at dawn and reduced vegetation makes wildlife spotting optimal
Harvest season brings fresh cashews, mangoes, and other local produce to Albert Market, plus traditional fishing festivals along the coast

Considerations

Afternoon temperatures reach 31°C (88°F) with 70% humidity, making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable - plan indoor activities between 12pm-4pm
Harmattan winds can create dusty conditions lasting 2-3 days, affecting visibility and requiring extra protection for electronics and respiratory health
Some rural roads become challenging to navigate due to late dry season conditions - 4WD recommended for upcountry excursions beyond 20 km (12.4 miles) from Banjul

Best Activities in May

Gambia River Dolphin and Bird Watching Cruises

May's dry conditions create perfect visibility for spotting bottlenose dolphins and over 300 bird species. Early morning departures at 7am take advantage of cooler 21°C (70°F) temperatures and calmer waters. Migrant species are still present before departing for Europe, making this the last excellent month for serious birders.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators at Denton Bridge. Cruises typically cost D2,000-3,500 (US$30-50) for half-day trips. Look for operators with ornithology guides and guaranteed dolphin sighting policies. Morning trips fill up faster due to optimal conditions.

Juffureh and James Island Historical Tours

Dry season access to Gambia is most reliable in May, with minimal risk of cancellation due to weather. The 31°C (88°F) heat makes the historical significance more visceral - understanding the conditions enslaved people endured. UNESCO site visits are best before 10am or after 4pm.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours typically cost D3,000-4,500 (US$45-65). Book through operators offering air-conditioned transport and include Juffureh village visit. Tours from Banjul take 2.5 hours each way - essential to have comfortable vehicles for the 30 km (18.6 miles) journey.

Abuko Nature Reserve Wildlife Walks

May's reduced vegetation and dry conditions make wildlife spotting easiest - monkeys, crocodiles, and antelope concentrate around water sources. The 2 km (1.2 miles) of trails are accessible, and morning visits at opening (8am) offer 21°C (70°F) temperatures before the day heats up.

Booking Tip: Entry costs D150 (US$2.50) with optional guides for D300-500 (US$5-8). Located 20 minutes from Banjul, perfect for half-day trips. Bring 2 liters (68 fl oz) of water per person - limited facilities inside. Best combined with nearby Lamin Lodge for lunch.

Traditional Fishing Village Experiences

May marks important fishing season celebrations before the rains begin. Gambia and Gambia villages offer real feels watching traditional boat building and net mending. The dry weather allows access to beach areas that become inaccessible during rainy months.

Booking Tip: Community-based tours cost D1,500-2,500 (US$22-35) including traditional lunch and local guide. Book through village tourism committees 3-5 days ahead. Transport typically adds D800-1,200 (US$12-18) for groups. Visit morning markets between 6-9am for fresh catch arrivals.

Kachikally Crocodile Pool Cultural Tours

Sacred crocodile pools in Gambia are most accessible in May's dry conditions. The cultural significance becomes more apparent when understanding how communities depend on these water sources. Traditional blessing ceremonies are more frequent as communities prepare for the farming season.

Booking Tip: Entry fees D100 (US$1.50) plus optional guide D200-400 (US$3-6). Located 15 km (9.3 miles) from Banjul city center. Best visited late afternoon around 4-5pm when temperatures cool to 27°C (81°F). Combine with nearby craft markets for full cultural experience.

Albert Market and Local Craft Workshops

May's harvest season brings peak variety to Albert Market - fresh cashews, mangoes, and traditional medicines. Craft workshops operate longer hours due to comfortable evening temperatures. The dry conditions are perfect for visiting tie-dye and batik workshops where fabric drying is essential.

Booking Tip: Market tours with cultural guides cost D800-1,500 (US$12-22) for 3-4 hours. Workshop visits typically D500-800 (US$7-12) including hands-on activities. Early morning visits (7-9am) offer coolest conditions and freshest produce. Evening craft workshops (5-7pm) provide comfortable temperatures for learning traditional techniques.

May Events & Festivals

Mid to Late May

Kankurang Harvest Festivals

Traditional masked ceremonies celebrating the end of harvest season occur in various villages. These UNESCO-recognized cultural practices involve elaborate costumes and community celebrations. Participation requires local guide arrangements and cultural sensitivity.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeved cotton shirts - protect from UV index 8 and evening mosquitoes while staying cool in 70% humidity

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - essential for Harmattan winds that can gust unexpectedly and 31°C (88°F) afternoon sun

SPF 50+ sunscreen and lip balm with SPF - reapply every 2 hours due to intense UV and minimal cloud cover in dry season

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - some paths become dusty and slippery, especially around river areas and village walks

2-liter (68 fl oz) water bottle - dehydration happens quickly in 31°C (88°F) heat, and clean water isn't always available outside Banjul center

Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella - while rainfall is minimal, brief afternoon showers can occur on about 10 days

Dust masks or bandanas - Harmattan winds create dusty conditions that affect breathing and equipment

Portable battery pack - humid conditions drain phone batteries faster, and power outages are common outside main tourist areas

Insect repellent with DEET - evening mosquito activity increases despite dry conditions, especially near water sources

Cash in small denominations - many village experiences and market purchases require exact change in dalasi

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations along the Atlantic coast rather than riverside - coastal properties have better ventilation and 2-3°C (4-5°F) cooler temperatures due to sea breeze

Schedule river trips and wildlife activities for 6-10am when animals are most active and temperatures are 8-10°C (14-18°F) cooler than midday

May is mango season - try locally grown varieties like Kent and Keitt that aren't exported, available at roadside stalls for D5-10 (US$0.08-0.15) each

Carry exact change in small dalasi notes - many village tourism experiences can't break D500+ notes, and ATMs outside Banjul are unreliable

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities between 12pm-4pm when temperatures peak at 31°C (88°F) - locals take shelter during these hours for good reason

Underestimating water needs - visitors often bring 1 liter (34 fl oz) when 2+ liters (68+ fl oz) daily is essential for outdoor activities

Booking river trips during low tide periods - dry season water levels require careful timing for boat access, especially to Gambia