São Tomé in May
Not the best time
May tests your tolerance for tropical discomfort with relentless rain and swampy conditions. Rock-bottom prices reflect the reality that this is São Tomé's least pleasant month for visitors.
Weather
May brings peak wet season misery with almost daily heavy rains and oppressive humidity. The city feels like a sauna most days, with temperatures staying high but feeling much hotter due to moisture. Streets flood regularly during afternoon storms.
28°C high22°C low15 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$60/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Labour Day (May 1)
May Tips
- •Consider postponing your trip unless you love tropical storms
- •If you must visit, stay near the city center to avoid flooded outlying areas
- •Pack antimalarial medication as mosquito breeding increases
All Months
The dry season from June to September offers the most reliable weather, with temperatures hovering around 80°F and minimal rainfall. December and January work well too — still relatively dry but with more afternoon showers. Here's the reality: São Tomé sits on the equator, so it's always humid and temperatures barely fluctuate. The wet season from March to May brings daily downpours that can wash out roads and cancel boat trips to nearby islands. But even during dry months, pack rain gear. Afternoon thunderstorms are part of life here. October and November see the heaviest rains and roughest seas. If you're planning to hike in the interior or visit Ilhéu das Rolas, stick to the drier months when trails are more accessible.
São Tomé Scores
Solo
6/10
Couples
8/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
7/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
4/10
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