Cotonou in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Cotonou

32°C (89°F) High Temp

26°C (79°F) Low Temp

127 mm (5.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Rainy season brings lush green landscapes and dramatically cooler evenings around 26°C (79°F) - perfect for exploring markets and outdoor dining after 6pm
Hotel rates drop 25-40% compared to dry season (December-March) as this marks the beginning of low tourist season
Afternoon rain showers are predictable (typically 2-4pm) and brief (20-30 minutes), making morning activities from 7-11am ideal with clear skies
Benin stilt village visits are spectacular in April as water levels are optimal and lotus flowers begin blooming along the lake edges

Considerations

High humidity at 70% makes outdoor activities feel significantly hotter than the actual 32°C (89°F) temperature, especially between 11am-3pm
Unpaved roads in Benin and rural areas become muddy and difficult to navigate during and after rain periods
Beach activities at Benin are limited due to rough Atlantic swells and frequent afternoon storms rolling in from the ocean

Best Activities in April

Lake Nokoué and Ganvié Village Tours

April's rising water levels create perfect conditions for exploring West Africa's largest stilt village. Water hyacinths and lotus flowers begin blooming, creating impressive photo opportunities. Morning tours (7-11am) avoid afternoon storms and offer cooler temperatures around 28°C (82°F). The 1.5-hour boat ride showcases traditional fishing techniques and UNESCO-recognized architecture.

Booking Tip: Book morning departures between 7-9am to avoid afternoon storms. Tours typically cost 8,000-12,000 CFA francs ($13-20 USD) including boat transport and guide. Book 3-5 days ahead through licensed operators at the port. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Royal Palaces of Abomey Historical Tours

April's cooler mornings make exploring the UNESCO World Heritage palaces comfortable before 11am. The royal museums showcase Dahomey Kingdom artifacts in climate-controlled buildings - perfect refuges during afternoon storms. Local guides share oral histories passed down through generations, offering insights unavailable in guidebooks.

Booking Tip: Start tours by 8am to complete outdoor sections before heat peaks. Entry costs 2,000 CFA francs ($3.30) plus guide fees of 5,000-8,000 CFA francs ($8-13). Book guides through the official museum entrance, not street touts. Indoor exhibits provide excellent rainy day alternatives.

Cotonou Markets and Food Culture Experiences

April brings seasonal fruits like African plums and early mangoes to Dantokpa Market - West Africa's largest open-air market. Morning visits (6-10am) offer the best selection and cooler temperatures. Covered sections provide shelter during afternoon rains while you sample local specialties like akassa and grilled fish.

Booking Tip: Visit between 6-10am for best selection and cooler conditions. Food tours typically cost 6,000-10,000 CFA francs ($10-16) for 3-hour experiences including tastings. Hire guides at market entrances for 3,000-5,000 CFA francs ($5-8). Covered food sections remain active during rain.

Pendjari National Park Wildlife Safaris

April marks the end of dry season with animals concentrated around remaining water sources, making wildlife viewing exceptional. Temperatures remain manageable for early morning game drives (6-10am) at 24-28°C (75-82°F). Park roads are still accessible before major rains begin in May.

Booking Tip: Book 2-week advance during April as it's peak wildlife viewing before park closures in May-October. Day trips from Cotonou cost 45,000-65,000 CFA francs ($75-108) including transport and park fees. Multi-day packages with accommodation range 85,000-120,000 CFA francs ($140-200) per person.

Ouidah Slave Route and Voodoo Heritage Tours

April's overcast skies create respectful atmospheric conditions for visiting memorial sites along the 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) Slave Route to the beach. The Tree of Forgetfulness and this destination are less crowded during low season. Local voodoo practitioners are more available for authentic ceremonies during this period.

Booking Tip: Combine with indoor this destination visits during afternoon storms. Full-day tours cost 15,000-25,000 CFA francs ($25-41) including transport from Cotonou (40-minute drive). Book through cultural centers rather than beach touts for real feels. Memorial sites provide covered areas during rain.

Traditional Craft Workshop Experiences

April's afternoon rains make indoor activities ideal, and local artisans in Porto-Novo and Cotonou offer hands-on workshops in batik printing, bronze casting, and pottery. These sessions provide cultural immersion during weather breaks and support local craftspeople during slower tourist periods.

Booking Tip: Workshops typically run 2-4 hours and cost 8,000-15,000 CFA francs ($13-25) including materials. Book through cultural centers or hotels for real feels. Many workshops have covered outdoor areas perfect for April's variable weather. Small groups of 4-6 people get best instruction.

April Events & Festivals

Mid to Late April

International Jazz Festival of Cotonou

Annual jazz festival featuring West African and international artists performing across multiple venues including outdoor concerts at Marina Hotel and intimate indoor sessions downtown. Local musicians blend traditional rhythms with jazz influences, creating unique fusion performances unavailable elsewhere.

Throughout April

Vodoun Festival Ceremonies

Small-scale traditional ceremonies occur throughout April in Benin and surrounding villages as communities prepare for agricultural season. Unlike tourist-focused January festival, these authentic rituals offer genuine cultural experiences with local practitioners.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry breathable fabrics only - 70% humidity makes cotton take hours to dry and polyester becomes unbearably hot

Compact umbrella and light rain jacket - afternoon storms are brief but intense, often with wind

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index of 8 causes burns within 15 minutes despite cloud cover

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - sudden downpours can damage electronics quickly

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - red clay soil becomes extremely slippery when wet

Moisture-wicking socks - prevent fungal issues in humid conditions and muddy terrain

Lightweight long pants and sleeves - protection from UV, insects, and air conditioning in museums

Anti-malaria medication - April rains increase mosquito breeding, consult doctor 4-6 weeks before travel

Electrolyte supplements - high humidity and 32°C (89°F) temperatures cause rapid dehydration

Small towel for sudden weather changes - useful for rain, sweat, and humid conditions throughout the day

Insider Knowledge

Taxi-motos (motorcycle taxis) don't operate during heavy rain - always have backup transport planned or carry umbrella for walking to covered areas

Dantokpa Market vendors offer best prices between 7-9am when they're eager for first sales - afternoon rain delays create rushed, higher-priced transactions

Local restaurants serve freshest seafood on Tuesdays and Fridays when fishing boats return - April storms affect fishing schedules so confirm with restaurant staff

Hotel air conditioning costs extra at many mid-range properties - negotiate inclusion during April's low season for significant savings on comfort

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities after 11am - afternoon heat combined with 70% humidity becomes unbearable, and storms typically start by 2pm

Wearing sandals to markets and cultural sites - muddy conditions and cultural appropriateness require closed shoes in most locations

Not carrying cash - CFA francs required everywhere and ATMs frequently run out during rainy season when restocking trucks face road delays