Brazil, South America
Rio de Janeiro in May
Pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and clear views. One of the best value months.
The straight answer
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Rio de Janeiro. Pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and clear views. One of the best value months.
- Weather
- Warm and drier, highs near 81F (27C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What May is like in Rio de Janeiro
May is Rio at its most comfortable. Highs are near 81F (27C), the humidity drops, and dry, clear days become the norm. Views from Corcovado and Sugarloaf are sharper than in summer, the beaches are relaxed, and hotel prices are among the lowest of the year. The water is still pleasant for a swim.
This is one of the best months for almost anyone: first-timers, families, hikers and couples who want good weather without paying summer prices. Only travelers set on Carnival or the New Year's party need to look elsewhere, and they should plan for February or December.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Rio de Janeiro this month.
Clear-sky summit views
Drier air means Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf are more often free of cloud. A clear morning here shows the whole bay and the beaches below.
Comfortable hiking in Tijuca
The heat eases enough to hike to Pedra Bonita or Pedra da Gavea in comfort. Go with a guide on the longer trails.
Best value of the year
Rooms along Copacabana and Ipanema cost far less than in summer, so a beachfront stay becomes realistic.
Santa Teresa on foot
Pleasant temperatures make the hilly walk through Santa Teresa and down the Selaron Steps into Lapa easy.
What to pack for May
- Swimsuit and sandals for beach afternoons
- Hiking shoes with good grip for Tijuca trails
- A light sweater for cooler evenings
- Sunscreen and sunglasses for clear, bright days
Our timing tip
Keep one flexible morning free and use it for Corcovado on the clearest day of your stay.
Book Rio de Janeiro for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Rio de JaneiroOpens a hotel search for Rio de Janeiro in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Rio de JaneiroWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Rio de JaneiroTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Rio de Janeiro for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Rio de Janeiro
Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado
Take the cog train through the forest to the statue. Go early in the morning on a clear day; clouds often cover the peak by afternoon.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Two cable cars climb to the summit. Sunset is the classic time, but it is also the busiest.
Ipanema and Copacabana beaches
Each posto (lifeguard station) has its own crowd. Keep valuables minimal and watch for strong currents.
Tijuca National Park
Hike to Pedra Bonita or Pedra da Gavea for views over the city and coast. Go with a guide on the longer trails.
Santa Teresa and the Selaron Steps
A hilltop neighborhood of artists and old mansions, and the tiled staircase that links it to Lapa.
Museu do Amanha
A striking science museum in the revitalized port area, focused on sustainability and the future.
Beat the crowds
- Visit Christ the Redeemer on the first train of the morning on a clear day.
- Go to Sugarloaf in the late morning instead of at sunset to avoid the longest lines.
- May, June, August, and September offer the best weather-to-price ratio.
- For Carnival, consider the smaller street blocos in neighborhoods like Santa Teresa for a less overwhelming experience.
Know before you go
- During Carnival, much of the city closes for business, traffic is disrupted, and many streets are taken over by blocos.
- Heavy summer storms can cause flooding and landslides, disrupting traffic and closing some hillside trails.
- Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf operate daily, but low clouds can mean zero visibility; check the webcams or weather before you go.
- The water off Rio's beaches is coolest in winter, around 70F (21C), and strong currents can close beaches to swimming.
Rio de Janeiro in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Rio de Janeiro. Pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and clear views. One of the best value months.
What is the weather like in Rio de Janeiro in May?
Warm and drier, highs near 81F (27C).
Is Rio de Janeiro crowded in May?
May is one of the quieter months in Rio de Janeiro; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Rio de Janeiro.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
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