Cape Town in May
Quieter days, cooler weather
The short answer
May is a good time to visit Cape Town.
May marks the transition toward Cape Town’s wetter winter season. Cooler temperatures and more changeable weather make beach trips less predictable, but it can be a good time for restaurants, museums and flexible sightseeing.
7/10 overall11–22°CModerate crowds$$
Weather6.5/10
Crowds7.5/10
Prices$$
Events5.5/10
May in detail
What May actually feels like
- Weather
- 11–22°C
- Quieter days, cooler weather
- Crowds
- Moderate
- Moderate
- Prices
- $$
- $$
+A quieter alternative to summer.
–Less reliable outdoor weather.
My tip for May
Pack layers and include indoor activities in your itinerary.
- Museums
- wine tasting
How May compares
Against the other eleven months
7th of 12 overall in Cape Town, 8th for weather, 4th for space, 4th for value. The emptiest month is July; the best value is July.
See all twelve months for Cape TownNot set on May?
Even stronger months in Cape Town
Ready to book May in Cape Town?
A quieter alternative to summer.
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