Best destinations to visit in April in Africa
Best destinations to visit in April in Africa
April is not the best month across all of Africa, with East Africa deep into its rainiest stretch of the year, while other regions stay dry and mild.
Kenya and Tanzania see their long rains peak in April, and many safari camps in the region close temporarily or scale back services until the rains ease. Cape Town and South Africa's Cape region continue their dry autumn instead, with warm days and cooler nights that make this one of the more comfortable months to visit. North Africa stays mild and pleasant too, a comfortable stretch before the summer heat sets in later in the year. Coastal areas along the Indian Ocean also tend to stay warm and mostly dry, even while East Africa's interior gets its heaviest rain.
The destinations on our list for Africa lean into that dry season strength, from the Cape coast to North Africa's mild spring weather.
Lists by region
Country
Morocco
Where desert meets Mediterranean magic
This country in northwest Africa has coasts on both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, along with mountains and desert. April is spring, with mild days in cities like Marrakech and Fez. Wildflowers and green valleys are common in the countryside. Desert camps near Merzouga are comfortable before the summer heat.
Country
Egypt
Ancient wonders meet desert landscapes
Ancient Egyptian civilisation developed along the Nile more than 5,000 years ago. This country still has its pyramids, tombs and temples. April is warm but not yet extremely hot, which suits sightseeing along the river. Red Sea beaches at Hurghada and Dahab are pleasant for swimming.
City in Egypt
Cairo
Where ancient history meets bustling life
This large city lies on the Nile at the start of the delta, close to the Giza pyramids. Days are warm and evenings are mild in April, before the summer heat. Walking tours of Islamic Cairo and visits to the pyramids are more comfortable at this time.
Road in South Africa
Garden Route
Scenic vineyards and coastal cliffs
April is early autumn along this coast in South Africa, with mild days and fewer visitors than in summer. Forest walks in Tsitsikamma National Park are comfortable at this time. Popular stops include Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and Wilderness. Whale watching begins later in the year, from about June.
National Park in South Africa
Kruger National Park
Where Africa's Big Five Roam Free
Many visitors drive themselves through this park. In the evening they gather for a braai, a South African barbecue, at the rest camps. April is at the end of the wet season, so the bush is green and lodges are less busy. Cooler mornings are comfortable for game drives.
City in Morocco
Fez
Labyrinthine Medina, Living Moroccan Heritage
The old medina of this Moroccan city has thousands of narrow lanes and is easy to get lost in. Spring temperatures in April are pleasant for long walks past workshops, fountains and old schools. Tanneries and metal workers can be seen at work. Orange trees are in bloom around the city.
Country
Zimbabwe
Wild safaris meet ancient ruins
Compared with the Zambian side, the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls offers wider views of the main curtain of water. Water levels are high and spray is heavy in April, so waterproofs help. Victoria Falls town has helicopter flights, bungee jumping and river cruises. Hwange National Park is a few hours away.
City in Egypt
Luxor
Ancient wonders on the Nile
Compared with Cairo, this Nile city is smaller and has more ancient sites within a short distance. Karnak, the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut's temple are all close together. April is warm. The afternoons are hot, so early starts help. A felucca ride at sunset is a calm way to end the day.
Country
Namibia
Desert wilderness meets wildlife wonders
This country was a German colony from 1884 and later came under South African rule. It became independent in 1990. April is at the end of the rainy season, so landscapes are green and lodge prices are often lower. Tourist numbers are low and skies are clear for photography.
Country
Zambia
Wild safaris meet thundering waterfalls
People in this country call Victoria Falls Mosi oa Tunya, meaning the smoke that thunders. In April the falls are near their highest water level after the rains, so spray is heavy. On the Zambian side visitors can walk to the Knife Edge Bridge. Livingstone is the base for river cruises and walking safaris.
National Park in Namibia
Sossusvlei
Towering red dunes meet white clay
This clay pan in the Namib Desert is surrounded by red sand dunes, some more than 300 metres high. Dune 45 and Big Daddy are well known climbs. Deadvlei has dead camel thorn trees standing against white clay. April is a quiet month, with clear skies and mild mornings for climbing.
Region in Morocco
Atlas Mountains
Majestic peaks echo ancient desert horizons
This mountain range extends across Morocco from the southwest to the northeast and includes Jebel Toubkal at 4,167 metres. April is spring, with snow on the high peaks and green valleys below. Hiking from the village of Imlil and stays in Amazigh guesthouses are popular. Marrakech is about two hours away by road.
Country
Seychelles
Tropical paradise with pristine beaches
This island nation in the Indian Ocean has a relaxed feel, with granite boulders and white sand beaches. April falls between the two monsoon seasons, with light winds and calm seas. Water is clear for snorkelling around Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Giant tortoises can be seen on Curieuse Island.
Town in Namibia
Swakopmund
Coastal charm meets desert horizons
Coastal temperatures are mild all year. April is comfortable for outdoor activities in this desert seaside town. Visitors can try sandboarding, quad biking and dolphin cruises from nearby Walvis Bay. German style cafes and old colonial buildings are found in the town centre. The cool coast also gives a break from the heat inland.
National Park in Namibia
Etosha National Park
Namibia's Wildlife Sanctuary
This national park in northern Namibia has an open, wild feel around a huge white salt pan. April is at the end of the rainy season, so the land is green and lodges are quiet. Animals are more spread out than in the dry months. Elephants, lions and rhinos still visit the waterholes.
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