Port-au-Prince in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Port-au-Prince

32°C (89°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Pre-rainy season timing means lower humidity than May-October, making outdoor exploration more comfortable during morning hours (7-11am)
Hotel rates are 30-40% lower than December-February peak season, with excellent availability in all neighborhoods
Mango season peaks in April - street vendors sell perfectly ripe mangoes for 25-50 HTG, and local juice stands offer fresh mango drinks
Easter celebrations bring busy street processions and traditional rara music performances throughout the city, especially in downtown areas

Considerations

Afternoon temperatures regularly exceed 35°C (95°F) with high humidity, making midday outdoor activities extremely uncomfortable
Sporadic power outages increase during hot weather, affecting air conditioning in budget accommodations and some restaurants
Dust levels peak before rainy season begins, creating hazy conditions that affect photography and can irritate sensitive airways

Best Activities in April

Early Morning Downtown Historical Walking Tours

April's cooler morning temperatures (23-27°C/73-81°F) make this the ideal time to explore Port-au-Prince's colonial architecture and iron market area. Start at 7am to avoid the intense midday heat and capture the city's awakening energy. The lower humidity in April compared to rainy months provides clearer views of the mountains surrounding the city.

Booking Tip: Book through established cultural tour operators 7-10 days ahead. Tours typically cost 1,500-2,500 HTG per person for 3-hour experiences. Look for guides certified by the Ministry of Tourism. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Pétion-Ville Art Gallery and Café Circuit

The cooler April weather is perfect for exploring Pétion-Ville's elevated art scene during late afternoon hours (4-7pm). The area's higher altitude provides relief from downtown heat, and many galleries offer air-conditioned spaces. April coincides with spring exhibitions at major galleries, showcasing contemporary Haitian art.

Booking Tip: Self-guided activity requiring taxi or car transportation. Gallery visits are typically free, café stops cost 200-500 HTG per person. Plan 4-5 hours including transportation. Book reliable transport 24 hours ahead through hotel concierge.

Boutilliers Mountain Sunset Excursions

April's clear, dry conditions provide spectacular sunset views over Port-au-Prince Bay from Boutilliers mountain areas. The reduced haze and humidity create optimal visibility for photography. Evening temperatures drop to comfortable levels (25-28°C/77-82°F) perfect for outdoor dining at mountain restaurants.

Booking Tip: Half-day excursions typically cost 3,000-4,500 HTG including transportation and guide. Book through licensed operators with proper vehicle insurance. Allow 5-6 hours total including drive time. See current mountain tour options in booking section below.

Traditional Music and Dance Performances

April brings Easter-season cultural events and traditional rara performances throughout the city. The weather is ideal for outdoor evening performances (temperatures drop to comfortable 25°C/77°F after 6pm). Many venues offer both indoor and outdoor seating to accommodate weather preferences.

Booking Tip: Performance tickets range from 500-2,000 HTG depending on venue and artist. Book through hotels or cultural centers 3-5 days ahead for popular shows. Look for venues with backup indoor spaces. Check current cultural events in booking section below.

Coastal Day Trips to Côte des Arcadins

April's minimal rainfall and calm seas make it excellent for beach excursions 1 hour north of the city. Water temperatures reach comfortable 27°C (81°F), and the dry season ensures clear water visibility. Morning departures (8am) avoid the intense midday heat while maximizing beach time.

Booking Tip: Full-day coastal trips typically cost 4,000-6,500 HTG per person including transportation and lunch. Book with operators who provide shade structures and fresh water. Verify vehicle air conditioning for return journey. See current coastal tour options in booking section below.

Traditional Market and Street Food Tours

Early morning market tours (6:30-9:30am) take advantage of April's cooler temperatures and peak fresh produce availability. Mango season means incredible variety and flavors, while morning hours ensure the freshest selections before heat affects food quality. Markets are less crowded in early morning.

Booking Tip: Guided food tours cost 2,000-3,500 HTG per person for 3-4 hour experiences including tastings. Book with guides who know vendor relationships and food safety practices. Start early to avoid heat and ensure food freshness. See current food tour options in booking section below.

April Events & Festivals

Late March to Early April (varies by Easter calendar)

Easter Week Processions and Rara Festivals

Traditional Easter celebrations feature colorful street processions, live drumming, and rara music performances throughout the city. Local communities organize elaborate parades with traditional costumes and instruments, creating busy street festivals particularly strong in downtown and residential neighborhoods.

Throughout April

Spring Art Exhibition Season

Major galleries in Pétion-Ville and downtown areas launch new exhibitions featuring contemporary Haitian artists. This coincides with slightly cooler weather making gallery visits more comfortable, and often includes opening receptions and artist talks.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight, loose-fitting cotton or linen shirts - synthetic fabrics become unbearable in 70% humidity and 32°C (89°F) temperatures

Wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen (50+) - UV index of 8 means sunburn risk in under 20 minutes of direct exposure

Comfortable walking shoes with breathable materials - avoid leather or non-breathable synthetics for extensive walking

Light rain jacket or compact umbrella - 10 rainy days typically bring short but intense afternoon downpours

Portable fan or cooling towel - essential for midday outdoor activities when temperatures exceed 35°C (95°F)

Insulated water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial, and cold drinks provide significant comfort in heat

Light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces - temperature differences between outdoor heat and indoor cooling can be dramatic

Dust mask or scarf - April's dry conditions create dust, especially in busy market areas and construction zones

Power bank and universal adapter - power outages increase during hot weather periods

Antacid tablets - rich local foods combined with heat and travel stress can affect sensitive stomachs

Insider Knowledge

Schedule all outdoor activities before 11am or after 5pm - locals avoid midday sun and you should too. Museums and galleries offer perfect midday refuge with air conditioning.

Carry small HTG bills (20, 25, 50 notes) for street vendors and tap-taps. April's mango vendors prefer exact change, and you'll find the best fruit prices with small denominations.

Book accommodations with backup generators - April heat increases power demand and outages. Properties in Pétion-Ville generally have more reliable power than downtown areas.

Learn basic Kreyòl greetings - 'Bonjou' (good morning) and 'Mèsi' (thank you) open doors and get better prices. April's heat makes everyone more patient with friendly visitors who make an effort.

Avoid These Mistakes

Attempting major outdoor sightseeing between 11am-4pm when temperatures exceed 35°C (95°F) - many tourists underestimate the intensity of Caribbean sun and humidity

Wearing synthetic clothing or jeans - cotton and linen are essential for comfort in April's heat and humidity levels

Not carrying water constantly - dehydration happens quickly in April heat, and safe drinking water isn't always immediately available at tourist sites