May · Panama
Best time to visit Panama Canal in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Panama Canal in May
Average temperature 28°C, 248 mm of rain, about 17 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 82% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
2.8/10
Ranked #6 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 28°C
- Rainfall
- 248 mm
- Humidity
- 82%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 17
- Crowd Density
- Quiet / Uncrowded
- Average Expenses
- $ · Budget Friendly ($)
May in Panama Canal scores 2.8/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - an above-average month (#6 of 12). Expect around 28°C, 248 mm of rain, and roughly 17 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
The Panama Canal lifts ships between two oceans at the Miraflores and Gatún locks near Panama City.
May in Panama Canal: expect compromises
May averages 28°C (83°F) and humidity near 82%, so the practical pattern is early mornings, a long midday break, and evenings back outside.
248 mm of rain puts this in monsoon territory — about 17 days with 6+ hours of sunshine across the whole month, and multi-day washouts are normal.
It scores 2.8/10 here, 6th of 12 months, against 7.7/10 in the destination's best month.
Pack the lightest breathable clothing you own, a hat, and more water than feels necessary, a proper rain shell rather than an umbrella.
Plan for low-season pricing, with crowds are light for this destination. That combination — decent conditions at the lowest rates of the year — is the best value window on this page.
Flexible dates? February scores 4.9 points higher here — enough to change the trip.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Panama Canal in May?
- In May, Panama Canal averages 28°C, 248 mm of rain, and about 17 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 2.8/10.
- Is May a good time to visit Panama Canal?
- May earns a 2.8/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Panama Canal in May?
- Expect about 248 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 82% and there are about 17 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in Panama Canal
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in Panama Canal
Panama Canal, Panama. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.