Mahajanga Weather in May

Season: Dry Season

Overview:
1. Mahajanga weather in May is extremely sunny, perfect for traveling around;
2. It is hot with relatively strong UV rays, so wear thin clothes and take sun protection measures;
3. You will not feel crowded or spend a lot on hotels traveling to Mahajanga this month.

Dry May with Good Road Conditions

Temperature

In May, the average maximum temperature is high, at approximately 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit), meaning you will feel hot during the daytime, especially at noon. The average lowest temperature is roughly 21℃ (70℉), and there are some warm nights with the temperature reaching about 25℃ (77℉) as well as some cool ones with the temperature of below 20℃ (68℉). The sea temperature is 28℃ (82℉) on average, ideal for swimming in the sea and enjoying water sports.

Rainfall/ Humidity

The average rainfall of Mahajanga in May is quite low at about 12 mm, and there are only about 3 rainy days out of 31. Therefore, on a trip to Mahajanga this month, you will have a favorable traveling experience with a lot of sunny days. At the same time, the humidity drops to around 68% on average. You may feel a little dry and are recommended to pay attention to hydrate at all times.

Daylight Hours/ Sunshine Hours

From 06:09, when the sun rises, to 17:30, when the sun sets, the daylight lasts around no more than 11.5 hours on average. To ensure enough time to explore the city, you’d better start your trip early each day. The sunshine hours average about 10 per day this month, which also reflects how clear the climate of Mahajanga in May is. The UV index ranges from 8 to 10, a high level that requires you to take sun protection measures.

Is May a Good Time to Visit Mahajanga?

Yes, if you plan to visit Mahajanga in 2026, May is one of the recommended months. From the weather’s point of view, it is sunny and clear, which is favorable for outdoor activities and guarantees relatively good road conditions. As for the high temperature, it is a feature of Mahajanga’s weather all year round but in May you can experience cooler mornings and nights than many other months. From the crowds and costs’ point of view, May is the shoulder season and you will not see many tourists and find the hotels and air tickets are relatively cheap and easy to book.

Beautiful Sea View in Sunny May

What to Bring for Mahajanga Trip in May

Tops: Cool T-shirts, short shirts, and sleeveless T-shirts will be your first choices in hot Mahajanga in May. Since some of the nights may be a little cool, you are advised to bring one or two thin shirts or long-sleeve shirts. As a reminder, jacket is relatively thick and not necessary.

Bottoms: Most of the time, you will find it’s cool and comfortable to wear loose-fitting shorts or skirts. However, considering that you may go hiking in national parks, where bugs and mosquitoes dwell, you are recommended to wear thin and breathable long pants to protect your skin.

Shoes: First, you are recommended to pack flip-flops or sandals, which are convenient when you go to the beach and can keep you cool when you hang out in the city. Second, a pair of comfortable and lightweight sneakers or hiking shoes is necessary because there is a lot of interesting wildlife in national parks or reserves waiting for you to explore.

Sun Protection Items: The sunshine is relatively intense this month, so you need to pack wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself. If you are going to be exposed under the sunshine for a long period, you can also wear cooling arm sleeves.

Swimming Suits: There is a high possibility that you will go swimming in the hot but sunny May, so remember to bring swimming suits.

What to Do in Mahajanga in May

Recommendation Rate:

1. Hiking around Anjohibe Caves

Coming to Mahajanga in sunny May, it is highly recommended to go on an outdoor hike to explore the beautiful nature. With huge and amazing stalactites and stalagmites, Anjohibe Caves is a place that provides you with the typical scenery of karstic landscape. The surrounding forest, with many species of lemurs, is well preserved and ideal for hiking. In addition, inside the forest, there are waterfalls and crystal-clear pools where you can swim to cool off.

Tip: It is about 80 kilometers’ (50 miles) drive from the city center, about half of which is on dirt roads. You are advised to wear a mask and take motion sickness pills if needed. Moreover, prepare some food and drinking water.

Visitors Swimming in Pool of Anjohibe Caves

2. Relaxing on Amborovy Beach

There are some very hot days in Mahajanga in May when you don’t want to go hiking. At that time, relaxing on the beach and swimming in the sea may be good options. Amborovy Beach is a must-visit beach in Mahajanga, which offers you a peaceful atmosphere in the shoulder season of May. The calm and shallow waters are perfect for swimming, and the palm trees lining the beach provide shade for you on sunny daytime with strong UV rays.

People Relaxing on the Beach

3. Strolling along the Avenue de France

On the less hot afternoon, it is recommended that you take a walk around the streets of the city. Aside from the natural scenery, Mahajanga also has some historical sights to visit. Avenue de France is known for its well-preserved old architecture that bears witness to the French colonial era. Right next to the shoreline at the end of the Avenue stands the huge baobab tree with a circumference of more than 20 meters (66 feet). Of course, on a clear May day, it’s nice to watch a beautiful sunset along the coastline.