Top Places for an April Trip

The Hoover Dam sits on the border of Nevada and Arizona. It is a massive concrete structure built during the Great Depression. April is a good time to visit because the desert heat has not yet reached its peak. You can walk around the site without the extreme temperature risks found in summer. Take the guided tour to see the inner workings of the dam. It provides context on how this massive project was completed in the 1930s.

Lake Atitlán is a natural lake surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountain range. It is the deepest lake in Central America. April offers dry weather in the highlands, making it easy to travel between the small towns along the shore by boat. The air is crisp and clear during this time. Most visitors stay in one of the primary lakeside towns. Each village has a different character and local culture.

The Pitons are two volcanic plugs on the island of Saint Lucia. They are recognized for their steep slopes and distinct shape. April is the end of the dry season here. You can hike the trails without worrying about heavy rain, though it remains warm throughout the day. Most people view them from the coast or take a guided hike up the Gros Piton. The climb is physically demanding and requires a guide.

Arenal is a stratovolcano located in the northern part of Costa Rica. It stands over 1,600 meters high and has a classic conical shape. April is one of the last dry months before the rains arrive. It is a good time to see the peak without heavy cloud cover blocking the view. Many visitors stay in La Fortuna. There are numerous trails to walk, though you cannot hike to the very top of the volcano.

Victoria Falls is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is one of the largest waterfall systems on the planet. April is a peak time to see the falls because the water volume is very high after the wet season. You will get wet from the spray while standing on the viewing paths. Be prepared for limited visibility due to the sheer amount of mist. The spray can be so thick that it obscures the base of the falls.

Iguazu Falls sits on the border between Argentina and Brazil. It is the largest system of waterfalls in the world. April is a comfortable time to visit because the humidity is lower than in the summer months. You can walk the extensive trail network without overheating. Most of the falls are on the Argentine side, while the Brazilian side offers better panoramic views. You need at least two days to see both sides properly.

The Atacama Desert is a plateau in northern Chile. It is trapped between two mountain ranges that block moisture from the ocean. April provides stable, clear skies for stargazing. Daytime temperatures are moderate, which makes exploring the salt flats and rock formations more enjoyable. There is almost zero rainfall here. It is a harsh environment, so carry water with you at all times when heading out into the desert.

Rio de Janeiro is the second-largest city in Brazil. It is known for its geography, including mountains and beaches. April is a transition month with fewer crowds than the peak summer season. The temperatures are lower, making it easier to explore the city without the intensity of mid-summer heat. Traffic in the city can be heavy. Use the metro system to move between neighborhoods instead of relying on taxis.

The Sydney Opera House is located on the harbor in Sydney. It is a center for performing arts and a famous piece of modern design. April is autumn in Australia. The air is cooling down, and the summer humidity has faded, which makes walking around the harbor pleasant. You can take a guided tour inside to learn about the construction challenges faced during its build in the 1960s and 1970s.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge connects the central business district to the North Shore. It is a steel arch structure opened in 1932. April weather is mild and suited for walking across the bridge. You get a clear view of the harbor and the Opera House on a sunny autumn day. Climbing the bridge is a popular activity, though it is quite expensive. You can also walk across the pedestrian path for free.