Things to Do in Lilongwe in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Lilongwe
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect shoulder season with manageable crowds at major attractions like Lilongwe Wildlife Centre and Kamuzu Mausoleum - 40% fewer visitors than June-August
- Ideal hiking weather with comfortable daytime temperatures of 25°C (78°F) and low rainfall - only 43 mm (1.7 inches) for the entire month
- Post-harvest season means fresh produce floods local markets, with mangoes, avocados, and groundnuts at peak flavor and lowest prices
- Cultural calendar peaks with traditional beer brewing ceremonies in surrounding villages as communities prepare for winter storage
Considerations
- Nights drop to 14°C (58°F) requiring warm layers - many budget accommodations lack heating
- Variable weather patterns mean 10 rainy days scattered unpredictably throughout the month, disrupting outdoor plans
- Some rural roads become muddy after April showers, limiting access to remote villages and markets outside the city center
Best Activities in April
Lilongwe Wildlife Centre Walking Tours
April's mild temperatures make the 2 km (1.2 mile) walking circuit comfortable without the scorching heat of dry season. Wildlife is most active during cooler morning hours, and rehabilitation animals are easier to spot. The centre's outdoor enclosures are accessible even on light rain days.
Traditional Village Cultural Experiences
April coincides with post-harvest celebrations in surrounding villages. Cool morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) make the 15-30 km (9-18 mile) drives comfortable, and communities are engaged in traditional brewing and food preservation activities you won't see other times of year.
Kamuzu Mausoleum and Old Town Walking Circuits
April's moderate humidity (70%) and comfortable walking temperatures make the 3 km (1.9 mile) Old Town circuit manageable. Light rain every few days keeps dust down, improving visibility and air quality compared to dry season months.
Nature Reserve Day Trips to Dzalanyama Forest
The 45 km (28 mile) drive to Dzalanyama is pleasant in April's mild weather. Forest trails are lush from recent rains but not waterlogged, and the 1,500 m (4,920 ft) elevation provides cooling relief. Birdwatching peaks as migratory species are still present.
Local Market Food Tours
April is harvest celebration time - markets overflow with fresh groundnuts, sweet potatoes, and early mangoes. Cool mornings make market walking comfortable, and vendors are eager to share post-harvest specialties unavailable in other months.
Lake Malawi Weekend Extensions
April offers the last comfortable window before lake winds pick up in May. The 120 km (75 mile) drive to Salima or Senga Bay takes 2 hours on good roads, and lake temperatures remain warm at 24°C (75°F) while air temperatures are ideal for lakeside activities.
April Events & Festivals
Malawi International Trade Fair
Major annual trade exhibition showcasing local crafts, agriculture, and culture. Features traditional music performances, local food vendors, and craft demonstrations. Best opportunity to see concentrated display of Malawian products and meet local artisans.