Congo in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Congo
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Lush rainforest at peak greenery - waterfalls flow strongest and wildlife is most active around water sources
- Fewer international tourists due to rainy season, meaning better prices on accommodations (30-40% lower than dry season)
- Optimal conditions for primate watching - gorillas and chimpanzees stay closer to accessible areas during rains
- Rivers run high and clear, making boat transport to remote areas more reliable than dry season low-water periods
Considerations
- Daily afternoon thunderstorms (2-4 hours) disrupt outdoor activities and make some remote roads impassable
- High humidity 85% makes hiking extremely challenging - expect to feel exhausted quickly even on short treks
- Mud season means 4WD vehicles essential and some lodges may be temporarily inaccessible
Best Activities in May
Odzala-Kokoua National Park Gorilla Trekking
May's frequent rains keep western lowland gorillas closer to accessible forest areas rather than deep canopy. Morning treks (6am-10am) avoid afternoon storms. Vegetation is lush but muddy trails require serious fitness. Success rates are actually higher in wet season as gorillas predictably seek shelter in known locations.
Sangha River Boat Expeditions
May's high water levels make remote Sangha tributaries navigable that are impossible during dry months. Perfect time for multi-day river expeditions to Dzanga-Sangha areas. Morning departures essential before afternoon storms. River levels 2-3m (6-10 ft) higher than dry season allow access to seasonal lagoons.
Brazzaville Cultural District Walking Tours
May rains create perfect excuse to explore covered markets, art galleries, and colonial architecture. Poto-Poto district artisan workshops are busiest during rainy season when outdoor work moves indoors. Best experienced 9am-12pm before daily storms. Local craftsmen demonstrate traditional techniques unavailable in dry season outdoor settings.
Conkouati-Douli Marine Reserve Turtle Watching
Peak leatherback turtle nesting season coincides with May rains. Night beach walks (8pm-midnight) to observe nesting females. Rough Atlantic conditions mean boat trips cancelled frequently, but beach-based turtle watching remains excellent. Baby turtles from March nestings begin hatching in late May.
Lefini Faunal Reserve Bongo Antelope Tracking
Rainy season concentrates bongo antelopes around permanent water sources, making tracking more predictable. Early morning starts (5:30am) essential before ground becomes muddy. May offers best chance to see these elusive forest antelopes as they venture to mineral licks more frequently during rains.
May Events & Festivals
Fête de la Libération (Liberation Day)
National holiday celebrating end of French rule with parades in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire. Military displays, traditional dance performances, and street festivals. Locals dress in traditional fabrics despite rain - covered pavilions host main events.
Season of Makossa Music Festivals
Indoor music venues across major cities host extended Makossa and Soukous concerts during rainy season. Local musicians perform traditional Congolese rhythms in covered markets and community centers. Peak cultural experience for music lovers.