Things to Do in Nicaragua in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Nicaragua
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Lush green landscapes at their most spectacular - waterfalls like Salto de la Estanzuela reach peak flow after early rains
- Hotel rates drop 30-40% from dry season peaks, especially in Granada and San Juan del Sur
- Cloud forest wildlife is most active - best month for spotting quetzals and howler monkeys in Monteverde
- Fewer crowds at major attractions like Masaya Volcano - you'll often have viewpoints to yourself during weekday visits
Considerations
- Daily afternoon thunderstorms lasting 1-3 hours make outdoor planning challenging - expect rain between 2-5pm most days
- Unpaved roads become impassable mud, particularly affecting access to remote beaches and mountain lodges
- High humidity (85%) makes temperatures feel like 38°C (100°F) - exhausting for hiking and outdoor activities
Best Activities in May
Colonial Granada Walking Tours
May's afternoon rain pattern creates perfect morning conditions for exploring Granada's colonial architecture. Temperatures stay comfortable until 11am, and the recent rains wash the colorful buildings clean. The central plaza and cathedral are at their most photogenic with dramatic storm clouds building in the background.
Masaya Volcano Night Tours
May offers the best volcano viewing conditions - clearer air after rains and fewer tourists. The active lava lake is most visible after sunset, and cooler evening temperatures make the experience more comfortable. Rain typically stops by 6pm, perfect for 7:30pm tours.
San Juan del Sur Beach Activities
Early May offers the last weeks of consistent offshore winds perfect for surfing before the pattern shifts. Morning sessions (6-10am) provide glassy conditions and comfortable temperatures around 26°C (79°F). Turtle nesting season also begins at nearby La Flor Wildlife Refuge.
Ometepe Island Ferry Adventures
May transforms Ometepe into a green paradise, but ferry schedules become crucial due to afternoon storms on Lake Nicaragua. Morning crossings are typically calm, and the island's petroglyphs and hiking trails are less crowded. Concepción Volcano hikes are possible but challenging due to muddy conditions.
Managua Cultural Experiences
May coincides with increased cultural programming as locals spend more time indoors during afternoon rains. The renovated historic center offers excellent museums and galleries, while evening temperatures around 25°C (77°F) make night markets and street food tours comfortable after 6pm.
May Events & Festivals
Festival de Mayo
Month-long celebration of Nicaraguan culture with music, dance, and traditional food festivals in major cities. Granada and León host weekend cultural programming throughout May, featuring marimba performances and traditional costume displays.
La Gritería Chiquita
Religious celebration honoring the Virgin Mary, featuring processions, traditional foods, and community gatherings. Particularly vibrant in León and Granada with evening candlelight processions that work well with May's weather patterns.