Although May is a time of changeable weather around the world, peak crowds have not yet arrived, making it the perfect time for travelers to enjoy new places without competing with other tourists.
Summer has arrived in the northern hemisphere, and fall colors are in full bloom on the other side of the world.
If you're looking for a wildlife experience, consider a trip to Kenya, where you'll have the Masai Mara's wilderness almost to yourself. If you're looking to extend your winter weather beyond this month, head to Ruka in Finnish Lapland, where skiing, snow and sunshine await, or head down the coast of New Zealand for an adventurous escape.
Here are eight of the best places to travel in May.
1. Athens, Greece
Escape to Greece this month and enjoy the Mediterranean country before peak tourist season begins. It's warm and sunny, but not scorching hot, making it the perfect time to explore ancient ruins, relax on beautiful beaches, and enjoy Greek cuisine. Take a day trip by ferry to the nearby Saronic Islands, explore the pine-covered island of Spetses, or explore the ancient history of Hydra.
2. Machu Picchu, Peru
May marks the beginning of Peru's dry season and is the best time to visit. This year is a great time to travel, as there are still access passes to popular attractions like Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Last year's political unrest has subsided, and transportation to and from the mountain is operating normally, making it safe for tourists to visit again. There's something very special about trekking the Inca Trail before the summer tourist crowds arrive.
3. Masai Mara, Kenya
May is a bit of an underrated month to visit Masai Mara, as it falls between two of Kenya's busiest seasons. This is especially true if you want to avoid crowds of other tourists.
This land is lush with greenery and perfect for budding photographers looking for a beautiful backdrop for their photos. It's also a good time to see lions, waterbuck cubs and elephant cubs. It's also a great month for birdwatchers.
4. Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
Green season begins in Costa Rica by the middle of this month, when the rainforests bloom and the country's hills and valleys are blanketed in green. There are fewer tourists in May as it is officially monsoon, but the rain usually lasts only a few hours each day.
Head northwest to the Nicoya Peninsula, the driest place this month. There you can enjoy beautiful beaches and explore stunning national parks with shades of olive, jade and emerald. Experienced surfers can also take on the great swells along the Pacific Coast at this time of year.
5. Mustang, Nepal
May is the best time to head to Nepal for adventure seekers, especially those who want to go trekking and discover off-the-beaten-path places in the Himalayas. The weather is generally sunny and warmer than winter, which attracts adventurers looking to summit Everest. It's also the time to head to Mustang, nestled in the Himalayas and surrounded by snow-capped mountains and vibrant forests.
It is also the time when you can visit the Tij festival held in Upper Mustang region of Nepal. This fascinating event is filled with Tibetan rituals, drumming, prayers, dancing and incense, and is also one of the few opportunities outsiders get to get a glimpse of life in rural Nepal.
6.Yellowstone USA
One of the best months of the year to visit Wyoming's most famous national park, Yellowstone is buzzing with wildlife in May. See bison and elk with their newborn babies, and enjoy carpets of blooming wildflowers. As the snow at higher elevations begins to melt, the park's waterfalls and rivers cascade. The park's peak visitor season is through the summer, so you can enjoy it all without the crowds.
7. Ruka, Lapland, Finland
If you're not quite ready to put winter behind you, head to Ruka in Finnish Lapland, which boasts Europe's longest non-glacial ski season. The main slopes are usually open until June, and in May he runs about 5 runs. Additionally, there is a tubing hill and playground for the kids. Also, the season of Finland's midnight sun is approaching. This means it's very bright at night and you have plenty of time to enjoy the slopes.
8. Queenstown, New Zealand
May marks the end of autumn in New Zealand and is the perfect time to visit to avoid the summer crowds. Head to the South Island to enjoy stunning autumn scenery in Arrowtown, bungee jump in Queenstown or explore the dramatic colors along the Otago Rail Trail on two wheels before winter weather creeps in. can. Mount Cook is also beautiful. The weather is getting colder this time of year, so don't forget to dress in layers.
Updated: April 3, 2024, 10:18 a.m.
