Things to Do in Benin in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Benin
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Landscapes are most vibrant - May marks peak green season with lush vegetation and flowing waterfalls at Tanougou and Kota Falls reaching maximum volume
- Mango season is at its absolute peak - local varieties like Kent and Keitt are harvested, with roadside vendors selling perfectly ripe fruit for 200-500 CFA francs per kilogram
- Fewer tourists than dry season - accommodation prices drop 25-40% from January-March rates, and major sites like Ganvié stilt village feel more authentic
- Perfect for Pendjari National Park wildlife viewing - animals congregate around remaining water sources before rains fully replenish the landscape
Considerations
- Daily afternoon thunderstorms from 2-5pm interrupt outdoor activities - roads can become temporarily impassable, especially rural routes to northern attractions
- Humidity reaches suffocating levels making midday exploration uncomfortable - even locals retreat indoors during 11am-4pm peak heat
- Mosquito activity peaks with standing water everywhere - malaria risk is highest, and dengue cases typically spike in May-June period
Best Activities in May
Ganvié Stilt Village Pirogue Tours
May is ideal for experiencing Africa's largest lake village as high water levels from early rains make navigation easier and fishing activity peaks. Morning tours (7-10am) avoid afternoon storms and offer cooler temperatures around 26°C (79°F). The village feels most authentic with fewer tourists, and fish markets are bustling with fresh catches.
Cotonou Central Market Cultural Exploration
May brings peak mango season and the market explodes with tropical fruits at their absolute best. Early morning visits (6-9am) before heat and afternoon rains offer incredible photo opportunities and the chance to taste seasonal specialties like fresh palm wine and grilled corn. The covered sections provide perfect rainy day backup plans.
Pendjari National Park Safari Drives
Late dry season conditions in early May create exceptional wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around water sources. Elephants, hippos, and antelope are easily spotted at rivers and watering holes. Morning drives (5:30-9am) offer cooler temperatures and most active wildlife before daily heat peaks.
Ouidah Voodoo Temple and Slave Route Walking Tours
May's dramatic skies and lush vegetation create powerful atmosphere at sacred sites like the Python Temple and Door of No Return. Morning tours avoid afternoon storms and oppressive midday heat. The Route of Slaves monuments are particularly moving under May's dramatic weather patterns.
Abomey Royal Palaces Indoor Cultural Tours
Perfect rainy day activity with extensive covered palace complexes and museums. May timing allows deep dive into Dahomey kingdom history while escaping afternoon storms. Air-conditioned museum sections provide relief from humidity spikes that reach 90% by midday.
Porto-Novo Lagoon Eco-Tours
High water levels in May create ideal conditions for exploring mangrove channels and bird watching. Herons, kingfishers, and ibis are most active during early morning hours. The lagoon system is at its most navigable before full rainy season begins.
May Events & Festivals
Yam Festival Preparations
Communities throughout southern Benin begin preparing for upcoming yam harvest celebrations. While main festivals occur in June-July, May offers unique opportunity to witness traditional preparation rituals and community gatherings in rural villages.