Weather in Rio de Janeiro in April

How April compares

April is the 5th warmest month of the year in Rio de Janeiro and ranks 34th of 134 destinations we compare for April - see where else is hot in April. Against London's average high of 13.5°C in April, Rio de Janeiro is 14.4°C warmer by day and 16.4°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in April

The typical April day in Rio de Janeiro peaks at 27.9°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 31.8°C or more. About 84% of days top 25°C and 1 in 4 pass 30°C. Nights average 21.5°C; one night in ten drops to 19.2°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest April day here reached 34.8°C (2016-04-26) and the coldest night 14.6°C (2014-04-30).

Rain in April

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 14 days with 1 mm or more, 103 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest April was 2004 with 208 mm, the driest 2016 with 38 mm. Humidity averages 81%.

Sea temperature in April

The sea averages 25.2°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 24.4°C to 26.0°C. For the warmest sea here, come in February (26.4°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 5.2 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 11.5 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:06 and sets about 17:40 local time in mid-April. Average cloud cover is 55%.

Is April a good time to visit Rio de Janeiro?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days but expect showers. The best months for Rio de Janeiro on our scoring are August, June, July; months averaging 25°C or more: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Hot days, warm evenings and a humid feel

Pack mainly for heat rather than mild spring weather. With 81% humidity, walking around can feel sticky, so breathable clothes and a relaxed pace are sensible. Days reach 30°C on 25% of occasions, making shade and breaks particularly useful around midday. Put more demanding outdoor plans earlier in the day rather than assuming April will feel gentle. Evenings usually stay warm enough for light clothing, although a thin layer is useful if you feel the cold. April suits travellers who enjoy warmth after sunset; it is less appealing if you need cool nights to feel comfortable. Look for accommodation where you can cool down properly.

Good swimming weather, with room for rain

The sea is a strong reason to consider April: at 25.2°C, it is warm enough for swimming without the bracing feel of cooler water. The catch is that beach time needs to fit around a wet month, rather than drive a rigid itinerary. About 5.2 hours of sunshine a day leaves scope for time outdoors, but does not promise clear skies throughout the day. Take a light waterproof and keep an indoor alternative available when rain interrupts your plans. The weather works best for a mixed holiday with swimming when conditions suit, not a trip whose success depends on uninterrupted sunshine. Check the forecast before committing to weather-dependent activities.