Windhoek in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Windhoek
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect autumn temperatures - days are warm 25°C (78°F) without the scorching summer heat, making outdoor activities comfortable throughout the day
- Minimal rainfall with just 38mm (1.5 inches) spread across 10 days - light showers clear quickly and rarely disrupt plans
- Post-rainy season landscapes are lush and green - perfect for photography at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve and Avis Dam
- Tourist season hasn't peaked yet - accommodations average 20-30% cheaper than June-August winter season, and attractions are less crowded
Considerations
- Temperature swings of 12°C (22°F) between day and night require layered clothing - mornings start cool at 13°C (55°F)
- Afternoon thunderstorms can roll in suddenly between 2-4pm, though they're brief and dramatic rather than day-ruining
- Some seasonal wildlife has dispersed after the rains - game viewing isn't at its winter dry-season peak
Best Activities in April
Daan Viljoen Game Reserve Wildlife Drives
April's post-rain vegetation creates impressive green backdrops for wildlife photography, and animals are active in the comfortable 25°C (78°F) temperatures. Morning drives at 6am catch the best wildlife activity when it's cool 13°C (55°F), while afternoon drives after 4pm avoid the brief thunderstorm window. The 40km (25-mile) road network is in excellent condition after maintenance season.
Katutura Township Cultural Tours
April's mild weather makes walking tours of Windhoek's most busy neighborhood comfortable. This is when locals are most active outdoors - perfect timing to experience authentic daily life, visit the bustling Oshetu Market, and enjoy traditional kapana (grilled meat) street food. Tours avoid the hot summer months when walking becomes uncomfortable.
Khomas Hochland Hiking Trails
The highland plateau surrounding Windhoek is spectacular in April - landscapes are green from recent rains but trails are dry and accessible. Perfect hiking temperatures of 20-23°C (68-73°F) at elevation, with impressive views over the capital. Wildflowers are still blooming, creating photogenic conditions you won't find in dry season.
Windhoek Craft Beer and Distillery Tours
April marks the start of Namibia's social season as people emerge from summer heat. Local breweries like Namibian Breweries and craft distilleries offer tours showcasing Namibia's German brewing heritage. The moderate temperatures make outdoor beer gardens and rooftop tastings pleasant, especially the popular Friday evening craft markets.
Christuskirche and Colonial Architecture Walking Tours
April's comfortable temperatures make exploring Windhoek's unique German colonial architecture ideal. The famous Christuskirche, Alte Feste, and Independence Avenue are best photographed in April's clear post-rain atmosphere. Golden hour lighting at 6pm showcases the sandstone buildings beautifully against green jacaranda trees.
Avis Dam Recreation Activities
April water levels are optimal after the rainy season, making this the perfect time for sailing, fishing, and lakeside picnics just 15km (9 miles) from central Windhoek. The dam is surrounded by green hills - a striking contrast to dry season visits. Weekend regattas and fishing competitions make it socially busy.
April Events & Festivals
Windhoek Oktoberfest
While traditionally October, many venues host pre-winter beer festivals in April celebrating Namibia's German heritage. Local breweries showcase seasonal brews, traditional German bands perform, and authentic food stalls serve bratwurst and pretzels. A uniquely Namibian take on German culture.
Namibian Arts Festival
Local galleries and cultural centers host exhibitions featuring contemporary Namibian artists. April marks the start of the cultural calendar with poetry readings, contemporary dance performances, and traditional music concerts at venues like the National Theatre and Warehouse Theatre.