Accra in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Accra

32°C (89°F) High Temp

24°C (76°F) Low Temp

152 mm (6.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Mango season peak - fresh mangoes cost 5-8 cedis each at local markets, compared to 15+ cedis in dry season
Green season transforms Accra - Legon Saint Vincent and University of Ghana campus are lush and photogenic
Fewer international tourists mean 20-30% lower accommodation rates at mid-range hotels in Osu and East Legon
Cultural calendar heats up - May marks preparation season for major festivals with drumming groups practicing in Jamestown evenings

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms 60% of days - typically 2-4pm, lasting 45-90 minutes with heavy downpours
High humidity makes walking tours uncomfortable midday - feels like 35-38°C (95-100°F) between 11am-3pm
Some unpaved roads in Old Accra become muddy after rain, making certain areas temporarily less accessible

Best Activities in May

Kakum National Park Canopy Walks

May's rains create perfect conditions for spotting wildlife at Kakum, 150 km (93 miles) from Accra. The canopy walkway offers cooler temperatures at 40m (131 ft) height, and morning mist creates dramatic photo opportunities. Bird activity peaks during rainy season with over 300 species active.

Booking Tip: Book day trips 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators. Tours typically cost 180-250 cedis including transport. Start early (6am departures) to avoid afternoon storms. Look for operators with covered vehicles and rain contingency plans.

Jamestown Cultural Walking Tours

May mornings (7-10am) are perfect for exploring this historic fishing district before afternoon rains. The cooler, overcast weather makes the 2 km (1.2 mile) walking circuit comfortable, and you'll catch fishermen returning with dawn catches. Local artists are more active indoors during rainy season.

Booking Tip: Book community-based tours 2-3 days ahead through cultural centers. Expect 40-60 cedis for 3-hour tours. Choose morning slots and verify rain shelter stops. Look for guides certified by Ghana Tourism Authority.

Cape Coast Castle Historical Tours

Rainy season means fewer crowds at this UNESCO World Heritage site, 165 km (103 miles) from Accra. Indoor exhibits are comfortable during humid weather, and dramatic storm clouds over the Atlantic create powerful photography moments from the castle ramparts.

Booking Tip: Combine with Kakum for full-day trips, typically 220-320 cedis total. Book through operators offering indoor backup activities. Tours run rain or shine - the dungeons provide natural air conditioning in humid weather.

Accra Arts Centre and Makola Market Exploration

May's frequent afternoon rains make covered market exploration ideal. Makola Market's covered sections stay active during downpours, and you'll find seasonal produce at peak freshness. The nearby Arts Centre offers shelter while browsing authentic Ghanaian crafts.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed, but hire local guides at market entrances for 30-50 cedis. Best visited 9-11am before rains and heat peak. Bring waterproof bag for purchases and expect 2-3 hours total exploration time.

Labadi Beach and Teshie Cultural Experience

May's variable weather creates interesting beach conditions - dramatic skies and fewer crowds, though swimming conditions can be rough. Teshie's coffin carving workshops offer fascinating indoor cultural experiences when beach weather turns.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (7-10am) or late afternoon (4-6pm) to avoid midday heat and frequent 2-4pm storms. Beach entry typically 5-10 cedis, cultural workshops 50-80 cedis. Book workshop visits through community tourism offices 1-2 days ahead.

Aburi Botanical Gardens Mountain Escape

Located 35 km (22 miles) north, Aburi sits 460m (1,509 ft) above sea level, offering 3-5°C (5-9°F) cooler temperatures than coastal Accra. May rains keep the gardens spectacularly green, and mountain mists create mystical morning atmospheres perfect for nature photography.

Booking Tip: Plan half-day trips departing Accra by 8am to enjoy cooler morning temperatures. Entry 10 cedis, guided tours 40-60 cedis. Transport via trotro costs 8-12 cedis or private taxi 120-180 cedis round trip. Pack light rain jacket for mountain showers.

May Events & Festivals

Throughout May

Homowo Festival Preparations

While main Homowo celebrations occur in August-September, May marks the traditional planting season when Ga communities begin preparing ceremonial foods and traditional practices. You'll witness drumming rehearsals in Jamestown and cultural preparation activities throughout Ga communities.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry lightweight rain jacket - afternoon storms dump 15-25mm (0.6-1 inch) in 30 minutes

Waterproof day pack cover or dry bags - essential for electronics and documents during sudden downpours

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes unbearable in 70% humidity

Sturdy waterproof sandals with good grip - many walkways become slippery when wet

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days, reapply after rain

Mosquito repellent with 20%+ DEET - standing water from rains increases mosquito activity

Portable umbrella - more practical than rain jacket for quick market visits and walking

Anti-chafing cream or powder - essential for walking in high humidity conditions

Electrolyte supplements - easy to become dehydrated despite high humidity

Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothes - you'll need them after muddy adventures

Insider Knowledge

Locals avoid outdoor activities 2-4pm during peak storm hours - schedule indoor museums, shopping, or rest during this window

Taxis and trotros become scarce during heavy rains - plan 30-45 minutes extra travel time or book ride apps in advance

May mangoes from Krobo region are legendary - try varieties like Keitt and Kent at Makola Market for authentic seasonal experience

University of Ghana Legon campus becomes a local picnic destination on clear evenings - join families enjoying the cool, post-rain atmosphere

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor walking tours during afternoon hours - humidity feels like 35-38°C (95-100°F) and storms typically hit 2-4pm

Wearing white or light colors without considering red dirt roads that turn muddy - locals wear darker colors in rainy season for good reason

Not carrying cash for unexpected shelter - many indoor activities and taxi rides during storms require immediate cedi payments rather than cards