Pietermaritzburg
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Pietermaritzburg Weather in May

With daytime temperatures of 24°C (75°F) and nighttime lows of 10°C (50°F), May in Pietermaritzburg brings high temperatures during the day. The excellent weather makes it an appealing time to visit.

Rainfall in Pietermaritzburg in May

Historically, the month has about 5 days of rain, averaging 33 mm (1.3 in) in total. The odd shower may pass through, but it usually doesn't amount to much. A largely dry month overall.

Temperature in Pietermaritzburg in May

May is one of the better months to visit Pietermaritzburg. Expect 24°C (75°F) during the day and 10°C (50°F) at night. Conditions stay fairly consistent through the month, making it easier to plan what to wear. Nights drop to 10°C (50°F). Cold nights like these are actually great for sleeping well, as long as you have a warm enough duvet.

Sunshine in Pietermaritzburg in May

With approximately 223 hours of sunshine, the days are filled with clear skies. It makes it a perfect month for being outside.

If you favor pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, May is one of the best months to visit Pietermaritzburg.

Pietermaritzburg Temperature in May

Min Temperature
10°C (50°F)
Max Temperature
24°C (75°F)
Chance of Rain
16%
Precipitation
33 mm (1.3 in)
Rainy days
5 days
Humidity
76% *
Sunshine
223 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
*
* Data from: Durban, South Africa (67 KM, 41 Miles).

Pietermaritzburg Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Pietermaritzburg - and find the best time to visit.

Best Places in South Africa in May

Find out more about the weather in South Africa and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of South Africa in May →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Pietermaritzburg in May

For Pietermaritzburg in May, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Some rain is possible, so pack something to handle light showers. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Pietermaritzburg in May

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    10/10
  • Cycling
    10/10
  • Walking
    10/10
  • Barbeque
    9/10
  • Camping
    5/10
  • Outdoor sports
    10/10

Pietermaritzburg 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Pietermaritzburg

Popular in May

Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.

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