WHERE TO GO IN MAY

From sun-soaked European escapes to thrilling African safaris, May offers perfect conditions across many diverse destinations. Explore Indonesia’s temples and beaches during the start of dry season, or experience Italy’s pleasant temperatures in Rome, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast with fewer tourists.

May marks the start of Indonesia’s dry shoulder season, with an abundance of glorious sunshine and short warm bursts of tropical rain that clear the air. Watch sea turtles nesting on Derawan’s pristine shores, or hike to the jungle-clad temples of Borobudur. Wellness and Indonesia have become synonymous – retreat to Bawah Reserve or try out some yoga moves on Bali’s beaches.

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May offers Italy’s sweet spot: balmy temperatures and fewer crowds before summer descends. Explore Rome or Sicily’s ancient ruins, or sip limoncello after dining on the glitzy Amalfi Coast. Take a gondola ride along Venice’s Grand Canal, and be awestruck by the imposing architecture as you glide along. Reside in a historic palazzo in the heart of the Tuscan hills while sampling the region’s irresistible cuisine.

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This time of year heralds uncrowded national parks, such as Mantadia National Park, east of Antanarivo. Here you can see endemic rare species including 11 types of lemur. Madagascar is the only place in the world where you’ll see them in their natural habitat. The friendly Malagasy communities celebrate harvest festivals, while the volcanic island of Nosy Be plays host to the cultural Donia Festival.

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Game viewing in Zambia is exceptional; May marks the start of the dry season where you’ll witness elephants, hippos and buffaloes roaming freely. Whilst Kafue may be the oldest national park in Zambia, South Luangwa is one of the finest game parks in the whole of Africa offering wonderful walking safaris. Also experience stunning wildlife, canoe safaris, luxury lodges and beautiful sunsets along Zambia’s pristine Lower Zambezi River.

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Victoria Falls is still roaring in May following the rainy season and is home to a variety of exhilarating activities. Enjoy sundowners in Hwange National Park, home to diverse wildlife including elephants. Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, walking safaris and great fishing. Explore the ancient rock formations of Matobo Hills or the historical runs of Great Zimbabwe.

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