April is a good time to visit Manila, Philippines, as the weather is generally pleasant and dry. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip:
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Weather: April falls in the summer season in the Philippines, and Manila experiences warm and dry weather. Average temperatures range from 25 to 33 degrees Celsius (77 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it can get humid during the day, and occasional afternoon showers are possible.
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Crowds: April is not a peak tourist season in Manila, so you will find fewer crowds and lower prices compared to other months like December or January. This means you can enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable visit to the city’s attractions.
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Festivals and Events: April marks the start of the month-long Flores de Mayo (Flowers of May) festival, celebrating the Virgin Mary. During this time, colorful floral offerings and decorations can be seen in churches and homes throughout the city. Additionally, various cultural and religious events take place during the month, such as processions, parades, and street performances.
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Outdoor Activities: The warm and dry weather in April makes it ideal for outdoor activities. Take advantage of the pleasant conditions to explore Manila’s parks, gardens, museums, and historical sites. You can also enjoy outdoor activities like biking, jogging, or taking a leisurely walk along the Manila Bay waterfront.
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Tourist Attractions: Manila has a wealth of tourist attractions to explore, including historical sites like the Intramuros walled city, cultural landmarks such as the National Museum Complex, and modern shopping malls and entertainment venues. April is a great time to visit these attractions without having to deal with excessive crowds.
Overall, April offers a good balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and various cultural events, making it a suitable time to visit Manila. However, it’s worth noting that afternoon showers are possible during this time, so it’s advisable to pack an umbrella or raincoat.
Weather In Manila During April
The weather in Manila, Philippines during April is as follows:
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Temperature:
- Average high: 35°C (95°F)
- Average low: 24°C (75°F)
- Daily average: 29°C (84°F)
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Humidity:
- Average humidity: 70%
- Range: 50% - 90%
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Rainfall:
- Average rainfall: 65 mm (2.6 in)
- Number of rainy days: 8-10 days
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Wind:
- Average wind speed: 15 km/h (9 mph)
- Prevailing wind direction: Northeast
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Sunshine:
- Average daily sunshine hours: 6-8 hours
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Air Quality:
- Air quality index (AQI): Moderate (51-100)
April is one of the hottest months in Manila, and it can be quite humid. However, there is also a chance of rain, which can help to cool things down a bit. The wind speed is typically moderate, and the prevailing wind direction is from the northeast.
Overall, the weather in Manila during April is hot and humid, but it is also generally pleasant. However, it is important to stay hydrated and take precautions against the heat, such as wearing light clothing and drinking plenty of water.
Things To Do In Manila In April
- Visita Iglesia: During the Holy Week in April, many Filipinos participate in the Visita Iglesia tradition, where they visit seven different churches in one day and pray at each one.
- Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor): On April 9, the Philippines commemorates Araw ng Kagitingan, a national holiday that honors the Filipino soldiers who fought and died during World War II.
- Flores de Mayo (Flowers of May): While technically celebrated in May, the Flores de Mayo festival officially kicks off in late April. This month-long festival involves nightly processions and other events celebrating the Virgin Mary, with participants offering flowers as a symbol of devotion.
- Santacruzan (Procession of the Holy Cross): This procession is held on the last day of Flores de Mayo, with participants carrying intricately decorated crosses and statues of the Virgin Mary.
- Pahiyas Festival: Held in Lucban, Quezon Province (about three hours from Manila), the Pahiyas Festival is a colorful celebration that showcases the town’s agricultural bounty. Houses are adorned with colorful rice wafers, fruits, and vegetables, and there are parades and other festivities. (Note: The festival is typically held in mid-May, but the dates can vary, so it’s worth checking before planning your trip.)
Tourism In Manila, Philippines During April
The weather in Manila, Philippines in April consists of warm and humid days averaging at 88°F (31°C), with mild evenings at 80°F (27°C). It is considered as the hottest month in Manila. The humidity levels are high, and there is a chance of occasional thunderstorms or rain showers.
Pros of visiting Manila in April:
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Fewer tourists: April is considered the shoulder season in Manila, so there are fewer tourists compared to the peak season (December to February). This means you’ll have shorter lines at attractions and more availability for accommodations.
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Cheaper prices: With fewer tourists, prices for flights, hotels, and tours are generally lower in April compared to other times of the year.
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Cultural events: April is a great time to experience the vibrant culture of Manila. Several festivals and events take place during this month, including the Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) on April 9th, which commemorates the bravery of Filipino soldiers during World War II.
Cons of visiting Manila in April:
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Hot and humid weather: The weather in Manila in April is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the high 90s Fahrenheit (30s Celsius). If you’re not used to tropical weather, you may find it uncomfortable.
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Air pollution: Manila is known for its poor air quality, and this can be a concern for those with respiratory problems. The air pollution is typically worse during the hot and dry season (January to May).
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Crowds: While there are fewer tourists in April compared to the peak season, the city can still be crowded, especially during popular events and festivals.
Overall, April can be a good time to visit Manila if you’re looking for a less crowded and more affordable experience. Just be prepared for the hot and humid weather and consider bringing a face mask or respirator to protect yourself from air pollution.
Here are some specific suggestions for things to do in Manila in April:
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Visit the Intramuros Walled City: This historic district was once the center of Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines. Today, it’s home to several museums, churches, and other historical sites.
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Take a walk along the Manila Baywalk: This scenic promenade offers stunning views of Manila Bay and the city skyline. It’s a great place to relax, go for a stroll, or enjoy a bike ride.
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Explore the vibrant markets of Manila: The city is home to several bustling markets, including the Divisoria Market, the Quiapo Market, and the Greenhills Shopping Center. These markets are a great place to find souvenirs, clothing, and other goods.
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Experience the local cuisine: Manila is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include adobo, sisig, kare-kare, and balut.
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Enjoy the nightlife: Manila has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from.
