Weather in April
April is the wettest month in northern Tanzania. Daily rainfall, often in heavy afternoon thunderstorms. Temperatures stay warm — 25–28°C (77–82°F) in the parks — but humidity is high.
Mornings are often clear. Afternoon downpours can be intense. Roads in the Serengeti's western and central corridors get muddy and some tracks become impassable. The southern parks (Ruaha, Nyerere) generally have less rain but are still affected.
Wildlife in April
Animals are still there — they don't migrate out of Tanzania during the rains. The Great Migration is moving north and west across the central Serengeti. Predator action continues, especially for lion and leopard that hunt openly on short rain-flushed grass.
April is exceptional for:
- Birding — over 200 migrant species pass through, plus all resident birds in breeding plumage
- Photography — green landscapes, dramatic stormy skies, clean light between showers
- Chimpanzees — Mahale and Gombe are excellent in April; chimps are active in any weather and camps are empty
For game-driving in the Serengeti, April requires patience. Sightings happen but require more searching than dry-season equivalents.
Best parks for April
- Mahale Mountains — chimpanzee trekking is best in green season, near-empty
- Gombe — same logic as Mahale
- Ruaha — drier than the north, almost no tourists
- Lake Manyara — birding peak, full lake, dramatic Rift Valley scenery
- Ngorongoro Crater — accessible year-round, often misty but productive
Many high-end Serengeti camps close in April for the rains. Verify operating dates when booking.
Crowds and costs
April is one of the quietest months. Some camps run at 20–30% occupancy. The Mara River crossings haven't started; the calving season is over; tourist volume is at its annual low.
Prices reflect this: 30–50% off peak rates. Some properties offer "stay 4, pay 3" or "stay 7, pay 5" promotions in April specifically. Mid-range camps that charge $400/night in August drop to $200–250/night in April.
What to pack
Heavy-duty rain protection: waterproof jacket and pants, waterproof shoes, dry-bags for all camera gear. Quick-dry shirts and pants. Insect repellent with DEET. A small umbrella for camp use.
Who should go in April?
April suits: experienced safari-goers who want green-season pricing and solitude, photographers who value dramatic landscapes, birders, chimpanzee-focused travellers.
April does not suit: first-timers, travellers with rigid itineraries, anyone who wants to see the Mara River crossings, or families with young children.