May · Brazil
Best time to visit Rio de Janeiro in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Rio de Janeiro in May
Average temperature 23°C, 40 mm of rain, about 29 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 80% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
9.2/10
Ranked #1 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 23°C
- Rainfall
- 40 mm
- Humidity
- 80%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 29
- Crowd Density
- Moderate Crowds
- Average Expenses
- $$$ · Peak Season Rates ($$$)
May in Rio de Janeiro scores 9.2/10 for beach and coastal travel - the single best month of the year. Expect around 23°C, 40 mm of rain, and roughly 29 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
Golden shores, verdant peaks, and carnival spirit shine from late summer through Rio's gentle May–September days.
May in Rio de Janeiro tops the year's climate scores
With 23°C (73°F) on average, May delivers classic beach weather: plenty of time in the water, with beach and boat plans rarely disrupted by cold.
With around 40 mm of rain, any showers tend to pass through rather than settle in; about 29 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 11 hours of daylight fill the rest.
On our climate-comfort scale this is the top-ranked month of the year for Rio de Janeiro at 9.2/10 — the reference point every other month on this page is measured against.
Pack light clothing, swimwear and real sun protection.
Budget for peak pricing, and crowds are moderate. You are paying the year's highest rates for the year's best conditions — book early or shift a few weeks either side.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Rio de Janeiro in May?
- In May, Rio de Janeiro averages 23°C, 40 mm of rain, and about 29 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 9.2/10.
- Is May a good time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
- May earns a 9.2/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Rio de Janeiro in May?
- Expect about 40 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 80% and there are about 29 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
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