Haiti in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Haiti

30°C (86°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season conditions - April sits in the sweet spot between peak winter crowds and rainy season, with minimal rainfall and comfortable evening temperatures around 20°C (68°F)
Easter celebrations bring busy Rara music festivals and traditional folk performances throughout the countryside, especially in Jacmel and Cap-Haïtien
Optimal hiking weather for Pic la Selle (2,680m/8,793ft) and Citadelle Laferrière - clear skies provide impressive views and comfortable climbing temperatures before summer heat
Peak mango season means roadside markets overflow with over 50 local varieties at 25-50 HTG per piece, plus seasonal dishes like diri ak pwa kole (rice and beans with mango)

Considerations

Hotel rates increase 30-40% during Easter week (typically second or third week of April) with minimum 3-night stays required at many properties
Afternoon humidity peaks at 85% making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable - most locals retreat indoors 11am-3pm
Tourist infrastructure strain during Easter week creates longer wait times at restaurants and limited availability for domestic flights to regional destinations

Best Activities in April

Citadelle Laferrière Fortress Hikes

April's dry conditions make the 8km (5-mile) uphill trek from Milot manageable with clear views of the northern coast. Morning temperatures stay comfortable at 24°C (75°F) until 10am. The fortress, built by Henri Christophe, offers panoramic views that are crystal clear before afternoon humidity builds.

Booking Tip: Arrange through certified guides in Milot village (typically 1,500-2,500 HTG for guide services). Start before 8am to avoid midday heat. Book 3-4 days ahead during Easter week. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Jacmel Artisan Quarter Walking Tours

Easter season activates Jacmel's cultural scene with impromptu street art demonstrations and expanded gallery hours. April's lower rainfall means cobblestone streets stay dry for comfortable walking. Local artists prepare for summer tourist season, offering studio visits and painting workshops.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks work well, or arrange local cultural guides through your accommodation (typically 800-1,200 HTG for 2-3 hours). Morning tours 8-11am avoid peak heat and humidity. Current guided options available in booking section below.

Île-à-Vache Island Day Trips

April offers calm Caribbean seas with visibility up to 30m (98ft) for snorkeling. Water temperature reaches perfect 27°C (81°F) while trade winds keep surface conditions comfortable. Fewer cruise ship visits than winter months mean pristine beaches and authentic fishing village experiences.

Booking Tip: Book boat transfers from Les Cayes 2-3 days ahead (typically 3,000-4,500 HTG round trip including basic lunch). Morning departures at 8am return by 4pm to avoid afternoon weather changes. See current boat tour options in booking section below.

Port-au-Prince Street Food Markets

April brings seasonal specialties like fresh cashew fruit juice and early harvest sweet potatoes. Marché en Fer and Marché Salomon become most active 6-10am when temperatures stay comfortable. Local vendors prepare Easter specialties including traditional bread and bean dishes.

Booking Tip: Join organized food walks with local guides for safety and cultural context (typically 2,000-3,500 HTG for 3-4 hours including tastings). Early morning tours recommended when markets are freshest and temperatures coolest. Current food tour options in booking section below.

Northern Coast Beach Excursions

Labadee and Cormier beaches benefit from April's trade winds that keep temperatures pleasant while water stays warm. Fewer international visitors than winter peak season means more space and better service at beachside restaurants. Perfect conditions for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Cap-Haïtien cost 2,500-4,000 HTG including transport and basic meals. Book through established operators with proper safety equipment. Weekday visits less crowded than weekends. See current beach excursion options in booking section below.

Bassin Bleu Waterfall Adventures

April's moderate rainfall keeps pools full while reducing muddy trail conditions common in wet season. Water temperature stays refreshing at 24°C (75°F) perfect for swimming after the 45-minute hike through tropical forest. Clear weather provides excellent photography conditions.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides in Jacmel who know current trail conditions (typically 1,000-1,800 HTG plus transport). Waterproof bags essential for cameras and phones. Allow full day including travel time from Port-au-Prince. Current adventure tour options in booking section below.

April Events & Festivals

Easter Week (varies yearly - typically second or third week of April)

Easter Rara Festivals

Traditional musical processions featuring bamboo trumpets, drums, and costumed dancers move through villages throughout Holy Week. Jacmel and Léogâne host the most elaborate celebrations with midnight ceremonies and dawn parades.

Throughout April

Jacmel Film Festival Preparation Events

Pre-festival screenings and artist workshops increase cultural activity throughout April as the city prepares for its annual international film celebration. Local theaters show Haitian cinema with English subtitles.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon showers occur 10 days but typically last only 20-30 minutes

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid synthetic fabrics in 70% humidity that can become uncomfortable quickly

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 and reflects strongly off coastal areas

Comfortable hiking boots with good grip - trails to Citadelle and waterfalls can be steep and rocky even when dry

Quick-dry shorts and swimwear - water activities and unexpected rain showers make fast-drying clothes essential

Insect repellent with DEET - April's warmth increases mosquito activity especially near water sources

Cash in small bills (HTG) - many local services and markets don't accept cards or provide change for large denominations

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - essential for waterfall hikes and boat trips with splash potential

Light layers for evening - temperatures drop to 20°C (68°F) in mountain areas and can feel cool with trade winds

Comfortable walking sandals - for beach areas and as backup to hiking boots for less demanding terrain

Insider Knowledge

Local tap-taps (shared taxis) reduce frequency during hottest part of day (11am-2pm) - plan transportation around their natural schedule for easier travel

Haitian mangoes peak in April with over 50 varieties available - ask vendors for 'mango fransik' (sweet) or 'mango vèt' (tart) based on your preference

Many family-run restaurants close temporarily during Easter week as owners travel to visit relatives - confirm restaurant hours especially during Holy Week

Mountain areas like Portauprince can be 8-10°C (14-18°F) cooler than Port-au-Prince - perfect for day trips during April's warm weather

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking accommodation for Easter week without confirming minimum night requirements - many hotels require 3-4 night minimums during this period

Planning outdoor activities during 11am-3pm when humidity peaks at 85% and locals avoid being outside - schedule morning and late afternoon activities instead

Assuming all businesses operate normal hours during Easter week - many close Thursday-Monday for religious observances and family time