Where to travel in May

Namibia

May is an exceptional time to visit Namibia, when fine, dry weather and minimal visitors make for uninterrupted exploration. The country’s vast, open landscapes offer a sense of true isolation, perfect for those seeking a private and exhilarating adventure.

Track desert-adapted elephants and lions across Damaraland’s dramatic terrain or enjoy game-viewing on private concessions near Etosha National Park, where wildlife congregates at waterholes in striking contrast to the arid surroundings. Admire Sossusvlei’s sand dunes glowing in early morning light and photograph the Skeleton Coast’s extraordinary coastline with its haunting shipwrecks. Handpicked lodges and luxury tented camps provide comfort and unparallelled contact with nature, making Namibia in May a breathtaking experience.

Explore Namibia

The Seychelles

For a truly memorable beach holiday, the Seychelles offers more than 100 islands in the Indian Ocean. May can be hot and humid in some areas, so we recommend staying on the west coast of Mahe or Praslin, where conditions are cooler and waters calmer. Outside school holidays, the islands are wonderfully quiet – ideal for families with babies and toddlers, couples or honeymooners seeking tranquillity.

With cazenove+loyd, you will enjoy insider experiences tailored to your interests. Watch nesting turtles, snorkel vibrant reefs, explore lush trails or take private sailing and diving expeditions. Handpicked villas and resorts provide direct beach access, infinity pools and top-notch service, combining relaxation, nature and effortless luxury.

Explore the Seychelles

China

May is one of the best months to explore China, with warm, dry weather in the north and lush, blooming landscapes in the south. In Beijing and Xi’an, imperial sites, ancient city walls and bustling street markets can be explored comfortably, while Guilin and Yunnan are verdant and vibrant, with tea plantations, wildflowers and remote villages to discover.

With cazenove+loyd, experiences go beyond the ordinary. Picnic on the Great Wall at sunrise, explore the Forbidden City with an architecture specialist or travel through Yunnan’s remote valleys with expert guides. We can also arrange for you to hike in the Yellow Mountains or cruise the Li River, combining culture and nature in quieter, more intimate surroundings.

Explore China

Botswana

May signals the end of the rainy season in Botswana, when the landscapes cool and the bush transforms into a vibrant mosaic of life. Wildlife is easier to track as herds gather around diminishing water sources, offering intimate safari encounters in serene, uncrowded conditions.

Our Destination Experts can arrange explorations of private concessions in the Okavango Delta, mobile safaris in the northern parks or journeys through the Kalahari with local bushmen sharing their deep knowledge of the land. Handpicked camps, such as Xigera Safari Lodge, Little DumaTau or Jack’s Camp, provide bespoke game drives, expert guides and the freedom to take your time and soak up magical sunsets.

Explore Botswana

Vietnam

May is one of the best months to explore Vietnam, with warm temperatures, largely dry weather and vibrant landscapes from north to south. Travelling with cazenove+loyd ensures you experience the country away from the busiest routes and at a gentler pace.

Cruise through Ha Long Bay aboard a privately chartered junk, rising early to kayak among limestone karsts before other boats arrive. Wander Hanoi’s Old Quarter with an expert guide who reveals hidden courtyards and family-run eateries or explore Huế and Hội An with behind-the-scenes access that really takes you under the skin of a place. Along the coast, golden beaches and clear waters provide time to unwind, while hands-on cooking classes bring Vietnam’s regional flavours to life.

Explore Vietnam

Chilean Patagonia

May in Chilean Patagonia is quiet, dramatic and undeniably atmospheric. As winter begins, crisp air and snow-dusted peaks lend a cinematic quality to Torres del Paine and the surrounding wilderness. With many larger lodges closed for the season, those that remain open offer rare exclusivity and near-total solitude.

We ensure you explore this raw landscape with expert private guides, timing hikes to make the most of shifting light and moody skies. Wildlife sightings can still be incredible, from guanacos and foxes to soaring condors, while early snowfall enhances the region’s stark beauty. Guided treks, photography excursions and horse riding across open steppe create a deeply memorable experience.

Explore Ecuador

Best places to travel in May

Namibia

The Seychelles

China

Botswana

Vietnam

Chilean Patagonia

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