Togo in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Togo

32°C (89°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Pre-rainy season timing means lush green landscapes without the heavy July-September downpours that can disrupt travel plans for days
Harmattan winds have ended, making it the best month for clear visibility at Mount Agou (986m/3,235ft) and coastal photography
Local mango season peaks in May - street vendors sell premium Keitt and Kent varieties for 200-500 CFA each, and villages celebrate with informal harvest festivals
Tourist numbers remain minimal (roughly 15% of December levels) meaning private beach experiences and no queues at Kpalimé's artisan workshops

Considerations

Afternoon humidity spikes to 85-90% between 1-4pm, making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable and requiring strategic timing
Unpredictable thunderstorms (typically 3-5pm) can strand you for 1-2 hours - locals call it 'l'heure de la pluie' and plan accordingly
Some northern routes to Kéran National Park may have early washouts, limiting wildlife viewing options compared to dry season months

Best Activities in May

Kpalimé Mountain Hiking and Artisan Village Tours

May offers perfect conditions for exploring the Kloto Mountains around Kpalimé - temperatures are comfortable for the 3-4 hour Mount Kloto trek (741m/2,431ft), and the recent rains create spectacular waterfalls at Kpimé Falls. The humidity keeps dust down on mountain trails, and artisan villages like Kouma-Konda are most active as woodcarvers work on outdoor projects before the heavy rains arrive. Early morning starts (6-7am) avoid afternoon heat and storms.

Booking Tip: Book mountain guides through Kpalimé tourism office 5-7 days ahead (typically 8,000-12,000 CFA per day including lunch). Look for guides certified by the national tourism board. Start hikes by 7am to avoid afternoon storms.

Lomé Beach and Coastal Fishing Village Experiences

May's moderate temperatures make beach time comfortable from 7-11am and after 5pm. This is prime season for watching traditional fishing techniques at villages like Lome - fishermen return with catches around 6am and 4pm. The Atlantic is calmer than dry season months due to reduced harmattan effects, making it safer for swimming. Beach bars and restaurants extend hours as tourist season begins ramping up.

Booking Tip: Coastal village tours typically cost 5,000-8,000 CFA for half-day experiences. Book through beachfront hotels or local guides (see current options in booking section below). Bring 1,000 CFA notes for purchasing fresh fish directly from boats.

Tamberma Valley Traditional Architecture Tours

May is ideal for visiting the UNESCO-listed Batammariba people in northern Togo - the distinctive two-story clay fortresses (Tata Somba) are most impressive after light rains have refreshed the earthen walls. Roads are still accessible before heavy rains, and the agricultural cycle means families are home preparing fields, offering authentic cultural interactions. The 6-8 hour drive from Lomé is best done in two days with overnight in Natitingou.

Booking Tip: Multi-day tours typically range 45,000-65,000 CFA per person including accommodation and meals. Book through licensed cultural tourism cooperatives at least 14 days ahead as village visits require advance permission. 4WD vehicles essential.

Togoville Historical and Lake Togo Water Activities

May weather perfect for Lake Togo excursions - calm waters, comfortable temperatures for boat rides to historic Togoville (where German colonial treaty was signed). The lake level is optimal after dry season but before excessive rains make navigation choppy. Morning boat trips (8-11am) offer best photography light and avoid afternoon heat. Local pirogue rentals peak during this shoulder season.

Booking Tip: Lake boat tours cost 3,000-6,000 CFA per person for 2-3 hours. Rent pirogues directly from lakeside villages for 2,000-3,500 CFA per hour. Book through waterfront hotels in Lome or see current tour options in booking section below.

Fazao-Malfakassa National Park Wildlife Viewing

May represents the tail end of optimal wildlife viewing before vegetation becomes too dense. Animals concentrate around remaining water sources, making spotting easier. The park's 192km (119 miles) of trails are still accessible, though afternoon thunderstorms can create muddy conditions. Butterfly populations peak in May humidity, and bird migration patterns make this excellent for ornithology enthusiasts.

Booking Tip: Park entry fees 2,000 CFA plus mandatory guide fees 8,000-10,000 CFA per day. Book accommodation in Fazao village 7-10 days ahead (limited options). 4WD recommended for some sectors. Bring waterproof bags for equipment during afternoon storms.

Lomé Grand Marché and Culinary Walking Tours

May's mango season transforms Lomé's food scene - Lome overflows with 12+ local varieties, and street food vendors create seasonal specialties. The weather is perfect for morning market tours (7-10am) before midday heat. Evening food walks (6-9pm) showcase how locals adapt cooking to pre-rainy season ingredients. This is peak season for palm wine tapping and fresh coconut availability.

Booking Tip: Food walking tours typically 8,000-15,000 CFA per person for 3-4 hours including tastings. Book through cultural centers or hotels. Bring small CFA notes (500-1000) for market purchases. Start early morning tours by 7:30am to beat heat and crowds.

May Events & Festivals

Throughout May, typically weekends

Mango Harvest Celebrations

Informal village festivals throughout southern Togo celebrate peak mango season. Communities around Kpalimé and Agou host weekend gatherings with traditional music, mango-based foods, and local palm wine. Not organized tourism events but authentic cultural experiences if you connect with local guides.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry breathable shirts - cotton becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity, synthetic blends wick moisture better during 32°C (89°F) afternoon heat

Lightweight rain jacket with ventilation - afternoon storms last 45-90 minutes and can be torrential, umbrellas useless in wind

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and higher at altitude, reapply every 2 hours even on cloudy days

Hiking boots with ankle support - trails can be muddy after morning showers, especially on Mount Agou's 986m (3,235ft) ascent

Moisture-wicking underwear - high humidity makes cotton uncomfortable, synthetic materials essential for all-day comfort

Waterproof phone case - afternoon thunderstorms arrive quickly, protect electronics during unexpected downpours

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - humidity increases mosquito activity, especially around Lake Togo and coastal areas

Lightweight long sleeves for evening - protection against insects after sunset, breathable fabric for 23°C (73°F) nights

Quick-dry towel - regular towels won't dry in May humidity, microfiber essential for backpackers

Oral rehydration salts - easy to become dehydrated in humidity without realizing it, pharmacies stock local brands for 200-300 CFA

Insider Knowledge

Locals schedule outdoor work from 6-11am and 4-7pm - follow this pattern for hiking and sightseeing to avoid the midday heat and humidity peak

May is palm wine season - freshest palm wine is tapped early morning, ask for 'vin de palme frais du matin' at rural stops for the best quality

Shared taxi prices increase 15-20% during afternoon storms as demand spikes - travel during morning hours or wait out storms rather than paying premium fares

Mango vendors offer bulk discounts in May - buy 10+ mangoes for 150-200 CFA each instead of 300-500 individual price, locals store them in cool locations for ripening

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 12-4pm when humidity peaks at 85-90% and thunderstorms are most likely - locals rest during these hours for good reason

Bringing only cotton clothing - synthetic blends are essential in May's humidity, cotton stays damp and becomes uncomfortable within hours

Not carrying small CFA denominations - many rural vendors and guides can't change large bills, bring plenty of 500 and 1,000 CFA notes for markets and villages