Things to Do in Mozambique in April

April Weather in Mozambique

28°C (82°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

125mm (4.9 inches) Rainfall

78% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Post-rainy season clarity creates exceptional underwater visibility (25-30m/82-98ft) for diving and snorkeling along the coast
Shoulder season pricing means accommodation costs 30-40% less than peak July-September rates
Whale migration season - southern right whales pass through Mozambique waters, best viewing from Inhambane Province
Cashew harvest season provides fresh local cashews at roadside markets for 50-80 meticais per kg (2.2 lbs)

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms occur 8-10 days per month, typically 2-4pm, can disrupt boat schedules to islands
Roads in rural areas may have lingering damage from March rains, extending travel times by 20-30%
Some remote lodges in northern regions close for maintenance between rainy and dry seasons

Best Activities in April

Bazaruto Archipelago Marine Safaris

April offers the clearest water conditions of the year with 25-30m (82-98ft) visibility. Post-cyclone season means calmer seas and excellent dugong spotting opportunities. Water temperature is perfect at 26°C (79°F). Afternoon storms usually pass by 4pm, leaving clear evening conditions.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed marine operators. Full-day trips typically cost $80-120 per person including equipment. Morning departures (7-8am) avoid afternoon weather patterns. Look for operators with PADI certification and proper insurance coverage.

Inhambane Whale Watching Expeditions

Southern right whales migrate through Mozambique waters during April, with peak sightings from Tofo and Barra beaches. Early morning conditions (6-9am) offer glassy seas before afternoon breezes. This is the only month for reliable whale encounters combined with manta ray diving.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead with experienced boat operators. Half-day tours cost $60-90 per person. Departure times are tide-dependent - operators contact you 24 hours prior with exact timing. Choose operators with hydrophones for better whale location.

Maputo Cultural District Walking Routes

April's moderate temperatures (21-28°C/70-82°F) make walking tours comfortable before the dry season heat. The post-Easter period brings local art exhibitions and traditional music performances. Morning humidity drops significantly, perfect for 3-4 hour cultural immersion walks.

Booking Tip: Self-guided routes work well, or book local guides 2-3 days ahead for $25-40 per group. Start early (8am) to complete routes before afternoon heat. Focus on Baixa and Polana neighborhoods. Guided tours typically cost $30-50 per person for 3-hour experiences.

Gorongosa National Park Wildlife Tracking

April marks the transition period when animals concentrate around permanent water sources, making wildlife viewing more predictable. The park's restoration means excellent bird migration viewing. Cooler mornings (21°C/70°F) are perfect for walking safaris before midday heat.

Booking Tip: Book accommodation and guided walks 2-3 weeks ahead - this is prime season for the park. Day fees are $20 per person, guided walks additional $40-60. Morning game drives (6-10am) offer best wildlife activity before temperatures rise.

Pemba Dhow Sailing Adventures

April brings consistent southeastern trade winds (15-20 knots) perfect for traditional dhow sailing. The inter-monsoon period creates ideal conditions for island hopping in the Quirimbas Archipelago. Water is calm in morning hours with predictable afternoon breezes.

Booking Tip: Book traditional dhow trips 5-7 days ahead through established operators in Pemba town. Full-day sailing costs $70-100 per person including lunch. Half-day sunset sails cost $40-60. Ensure life jackets and radio communication equipment are provided.

Vilanculos Beach Lodge Combinations

April's shoulder season means 40% fewer tourists at beach lodges, allowing for spontaneous bookings and better service. Water sports conditions are optimal - consistent winds for kitesurfing but calm enough for kayaking. Perfect beach weather without December/January crowds.

Booking Tip: Accommodation rates drop 30-40% from peak season. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for better lodge selection. Beach lodge packages typically cost $120-200 per night including meals. Water sports equipment rental ranges $30-50 per day depending on activity type.

April Events & Festivals

Mid April

Maputo Jazz Festival

Annual jazz festival featuring southern African artists and international performers. Venues include the Centro Cultural Franco-Moçambicano and outdoor stages in Maputo Bay area. Three-day festival with evening concerts and afternoon workshops.

Throughout April

Cashew Harvest Celebrations

Traditional harvest festivals in northern provinces, particularly Nampula and Cabo Delgado. Local communities celebrate with traditional dances, cashew wine tasting, and fresh nut preparation demonstrations. Best experienced in rural village settings.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket - afternoon storms last 30-45 minutes with heavy downpours, but humidity makes waterproof breathable fabrics essential

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 9 and water reflection intensifies exposure during marine activities

Lightweight merino wool or bamboo clothing - 78% humidity makes cotton uncomfortable, natural fibers regulate temperature better

Waterproof phone case - essential for boat trips and unexpected afternoon storms, especially in coastal areas

Closed-toe water shoes - coral reefs and sea urchins are common, plus protection during beach walks at low tide

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - post-rainy season increases mosquito activity, particularly in evening hours

Lightweight long pants for evenings - temperatures drop to 21°C (70°F) and evening breezes can feel cool after hot days

Power bank/portable charger - rural areas may have inconsistent electricity, especially during afternoon storms

Cash in small denominations - many local markets and transport only accept meticais, ATMs scarce outside major cities

Dry bag for day trips - protects electronics and documents during boat transfers and unexpected weather changes

Insider Knowledge

Book domestic flights with LAM (Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique) at least 3 weeks ahead - April is maintenance season and some routes have reduced frequency

Afternoon storms create flash flooding in Maputo's baixa (downtown) area - locals avoid walking in these neighborhoods between 2-5pm during storm season

Fresh seafood is best purchased at 6am fish markets in coastal towns - afternoon heat affects quality and prices increase throughout the day

Rural roads are assessed weekly by local authorities in April - check current conditions at police checkpoints rather than relying on GPS routing

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning boat trips for afternoon hours - 70% of boat cancellations happen due to 2-4pm thunderstorms that operators monitor closely

Underestimating travel times on rural roads - post-rainy season conditions can double driving times, particularly on secondary routes

Assuming all lodges are open - some remote properties close for 2-3 weeks in April for maintenance between seasons, always confirm directly