Things to Do in Venezuela in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Venezuela
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Rainy season is just starting, meaning you get the tail end of dry conditions in early May with landscapes still green from previous months - waterfalls like Salto Ángel are flowing strong but hiking trails remain accessible
- Tourist crowds are genuinely low compared to December-March peak season - you'll find better availability at posadas and tour operators, plus locals have more time to chat and share recommendations
- Wildlife viewing in Los Llanos is exceptional as water sources start concentrating animals - capybaras, caimans, and hundreds of bird species gather in predictable spots, making photography easier
- Prices drop 20-30% compared to high season for accommodations and internal flights - a posada that costs 150 USD in January might run 100-110 USD in May, and you can negotiate multi-night stays
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms become more frequent as the month progresses - they typically roll in between 2-5pm, last 30-60 minutes, and can ground small planes or delay boat departures in the Delta or Canaima
- Some coastal islands and beach destinations start feeling less appealing as cloud cover increases and seas get choppier - Los Roques and Morrocoy are still accessible but you might get 3-4 days of overcast skies during a week-long stay
- Internal flight schedules can be unpredictable due to both weather and operational issues - always build buffer days between destinations and don't book tight international connections
Best Activities in May
Angel Falls and Canaima National Park tours
May is actually one of the better months for Salto Ángel because water levels are rising but access isn't yet complicated by heavy rains. The falls flow with serious volume - you'll see that 979 m (3,212 ft) drop in full force. Early May especially works well before the heaviest rains hit in June. Tours involve a combination of small plane flights and motorized canoe trips up the Churún River. The humidity sits around 70% but temperatures in Canaima hover at a manageable 24-28°C (75-82°F) during the day.
Los Llanos wildlife safaris
The plains are transitioning into wet season, which means animals concentrate around remaining water sources - you'll spot massive groups of capybaras, spectacled caimans, and jabiru storks without much effort. Early morning drives from hatos (working ranches) between 5:30-8am offer the best wildlife viewing when temperatures are still cool at 20-22°C (68-72°F). Anacondas become more visible as they hunt near water edges. The landscape stays golden-brown in early May, shifting to green as rains increase.
Roraima tepui trekking
May catches the transition period before the heaviest rains make the trail seriously muddy. The 23 km (14.3 mile) approach trek to the base camp is still manageable, though you'll want proper waterproof boots as sections get slippery. Summit temperatures drop to 8-12°C (46-54°F) at night, but daytime hiking is comfortable. Cloud cover increases throughout May, which means you might get dramatic fog effects around the plateau but also fewer clear panoramic views. The unique rock formations and carnivorous plants are always there regardless of weather.
Orinoco Delta boat expeditions
The delta's water levels are rising in May, which opens up more channels for exploration by curiara (traditional canoes). You'll navigate through palm-lined waterways spotting pink river dolphins, howler monkeys, and scarlet ibis. Warao indigenous communities are accessible year-round, and May means you might participate in early planting season activities. Temperatures stay warm at 26-30°C (79-86°F) with high humidity, so the boat breeze is welcome. Afternoon showers are common but usually brief.
Mérida Andes hiking and páramo exploration
The Andes offer a completely different climate from the rest of Venezuela - Mérida sits at 1,630 m (5,348 ft) with daytime temperatures around 18-22°C (64-72°F). May brings afternoon mist and occasional rain, but mornings are often clear for hiking in the páramo ecosystem above 3,000 m (9,843 ft). You'll see frailejones (unique highland plants) and possibly condors. The teleferico (cable car) to Pico Espejo at 4,765 m (15,633 ft) operates when weather permits - summit temperatures drop to near freezing.
Morrocoy National Park island hopping
While May isn't peak beach season, the park's cays and coral reefs are less crowded and still enjoyable in early May before rains intensify. Water temperatures stay warm at 27-28°C (81-82°F). Snorkeling around Cayo Sombrero and Cayo Muerto shows healthy coral and tropical fish. You might get 2-3 days of perfect sun followed by a day of clouds, but that's actually when locals prefer to visit. Bring reef-safe sunscreen as the UV index hits 8 even on partly cloudy days.
May Events & Festivals
Cruz de Mayo celebrations
Throughout Venezuela, communities decorate crosses with flowers and tropical fruits during early May, blending Catholic and indigenous traditions. You'll find the most elaborate celebrations in central and coastal regions - families set up altars in their homes and neighborhoods host evening gatherings with traditional music, dancing, and food. It's genuinely community-focused rather than tourist-oriented, which makes it interesting if you're staying in residential areas or small towns. Locals are usually welcoming if you're respectful and genuinely interested.