Things to Do in Harare in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Harare
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect dry season weather - minimal rainfall with just 8mm (0.3 inches) making it ideal for outdoor activities and city exploration without weather interruptions
- Comfortable temperatures ranging 9-23°C (48-74°F) - warm enough for daytime sightseeing but cool enough for comfortable walking without excessive heat
- Post-harvest season brings fresh produce to markets and lower food costs - local vegetables are at their peak quality and maize season creates vibrant market scenes
- Clear skies and excellent visibility for photography - low humidity and minimal rain create perfect conditions for capturing the city's jacaranda blooms and architectural details
Considerations
- Morning temperatures can drop to 9°C (48°F) requiring layered clothing - the temperature swing of 14°C (26°F) between morning and afternoon catches many visitors off guard
- Dust levels increase due to dry conditions - Harare's unpaved areas and construction sites create more dust particles in the air, affecting those with respiratory sensitivities
- Higher accommodation demand from regional business travelers - May coincides with fiscal year-end activities, pushing hotel rates up 15-25% compared to March-April
Best Activities in May
Domboshava Rock Art and Hiking Tours
May's dry conditions make the 32 km (20-mile) journey to Domboshava ideal with clear roads and perfect temperatures for the 45-minute hike to ancient San rock paintings. Morning temperatures of 15°C (59°F) are perfect for the moderate climb, while afternoon warmth of 23°C (74°F) makes the descent comfortable. The dry season means clear views of Harare's skyline from the top.
Harare Gardens and Botanical Exploration
May showcases Harare's famous jacaranda trees in full purple bloom throughout the city center and residential areas. The dry weather means comfortable 2-3 hour walking tours through Harare Gardens, National Gallery surroundings, and leafy suburbs like Borrowdale. Perfect 70% humidity levels make extended outdoor photography sessions enjoyable.
Great Zimbabwe Monument Day Trips
The 292 km (181-mile) journey to Great Zimbabwe is most comfortable in May's dry conditions with clear roads and minimal rain risk. Temperatures perfect for exploring the ancient stone city ruins - cool mornings for the initial 1.5 km (0.9-mile) walk, warming to comfortable levels for the full site exploration taking 3-4 hours.
Mbare Market Cultural Experiences
May's post-harvest season brings peak variety to Mbare's sprawling market with fresh maize, vegetables, and traditional crafts. Comfortable morning temperatures around 15°C (59°F) make the intensive 2-3 hour walking experience through Africa's largest market manageable. Dry conditions mean easier navigation of the market's unpaved sections.
Mukuvisi Woodlands Wildlife Walks
May's dry season concentrates wildlife around remaining water sources in this 263-hectare urban wilderness. Perfect weather for 2-3 hour guided walks spotting duiker, bushbuck, and over 170 bird species. Morning temperatures ideal for wildlife activity, while dry paths make for comfortable hiking in the 14 km (8.7 miles) of marked trails.
Chinhoyi Caves Underground Exploration
The 116 km (72-mile) drive to Chinhoyi Caves is most enjoyable in May's clear, dry conditions. The famous 'Sleeping Pool' - 91 m (300 ft) deep limestone caverns - offers respite from May's afternoon warmth. Above-ground temperatures of 23°C (74°F) contrast perfectly with the cool 18°C (64°F) cave interior for a refreshing experience.
May Events & Festivals
Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day
National public holidays on May 25-26 featuring military parades, cultural performances at National Heroes Acre, and community celebrations throughout Harare. Excellent opportunity to experience Zimbabwean patriotism and cultural pride with free public events and reduced traffic in city center.