Uzbekistan

April is a prime opportunity for visiting the landlocked Central Asian nation of Uzbekistan, one of the remotest parts of the world. The country gives you a unique perspective on human culture and life, serving as a crossroads between East and West on the ancient Silk Road. 

Spring is a great time to enjoy Uzbekistan’s blooming landscapes. While the country can appear desert-like much of the year, April rains bring its parks and gardens to life. 

Most travellers start by exploring the country’s historic cities, including Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent. These locations are ideal for sampling the local cuisine, including shashlik (a type of grilled meat dish), manti (steamed dumplings), and plov (a variation on risotto cooked in a heavy-bottomed pot). Uzbek cities are famous for their hospitality and warmth, offering guests impeccable service throughout their stay. 

Travellers also indulge in Uzbekistan’s numerous outdoor activity opportunities. Popular options include camping and hiking in the country’s unspoiled mountains, deserts, and valleys. 

Georgia 

Georgia is a beautiful land nestled in the mountainous Caucasus region between the Black and Caspian Seas. The country is famous for its cuisine and historical sites. 

If you travel by air, your first stop will be the capital of Tbilisi. The city was a crossroads between the ancient Persian and Mongolian empires and has numerous landmarks, including the Sioni Cathedral, the Old Town and the Narikala Fortress. Tbilisi’s weather during April is temperate, offering pleasant conditions for visiting its various churches and archaeological sites. 

Just down the road is Mtskheta, a historical town home to the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The monument is the centrepiece of the country’s proud Orthodox Christian religious movement, which is still strong today. It is well worth attending its Easter celebrations, which often occur in April, depending on the church calendar that year.  

Nepal

Nepal is another popular location that travellers enjoy visiting in April. It offers elements of Indian culture but without the baking heat. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with clear views of the Himalayan mountain range. 

April is the peak of the rhododendron blooms in the country, providing fabulous photo opportunities. The hills come alive with vibrant pinks, purples, and oranges at this time of year, providing a rare visual spectacle unlike anything else in the region. Travellers regularly trek through mountain passes to soak in the beauty, stopping off at refreshment huts along the way. 

Unfortunately, April is too early in the season to attempt Nepal’s highest peaks. However, it is okay for lower-altitude trekking. Tours often go via the Langtang Valley or follow the famous Annapurna Circuit. 

You can also take so-called tea house treks, where you plan daily routes to start and end with hostels. These stop-off points offer hot soups and plenty of rice for weary hikers to recharge their batteries and prepare for the next day of their trips. 

Lastly, Nepal hosts some fabulous adventure sports in April. Travellers enjoy zip-lining, paragliding, and even touring biking through the lower mountain passes. 

Japan

Japan is the wealthiest and most technologically advanced country in East Asia. It is also an isolated island nation, offering one of the only examples of a culture entirely free from European influence in the Eastern hemisphere. 

If you want to see the famous cherry blossoms (locally called Sakura), April is the ideal time of year. Park authorities plant trees strategically around tourist attractions for spectacular photo opportunities in the main hubs of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The weather at this time of year is mild and comfortable, making it the season for walking through parks and enjoying the scenery.

April tourists should also check out the city’s Cherry Blossom Festival at Tokyo's Ueno Park. Thousands attend to view the park’s thousand-plus cherry trees. Shinjuku Gyoen is another option. Here, you will find a range of flowers in full bloom, carefully arranged. Many families descend on this green patch for hanami picnics under the falling blossoms. 

Besides the stunning seasonal changes, Japan is home to some of the world’s most delectable and unique. You can sample sushi (raw fish, rice, and seaweed), sashimi (slices of raw fish), and ramen (umami noodle soup). During April, chefs at upmarket restaurants use more seasonal ingredients to infuse dishes with authentic flavours. 

Bolivia 

April is the dry season in Bolivia, making it a great time to visit. The country is famous for its stunning vista and less crowded attractions off the beaten track. 

First on your list of places to visit should be the country’s salt flats at Salar de Uyuni, the largest in the world. During April, a thin layer of water often sits on top of them, creating a stunning mirror effect that reflects the surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect photo opportunity. 

Early April is also the time to visit the country’s other main attractions. These are less busy than peak season. Popular destinations include Lake Titicaca – one of the highest in the world – Potosi and Sucre, the capital city. You can spend days exploring these locations, visiting museums, going on boat trips, and exploring cobblestone streets. 

Bolivia is also a wonderful country if you love wildlife, thanks to its proximity to the Amazon rainforest. Many travellers head for the Madidi National Park in the Amazon basin. The area is drier in April, encouraging animals to seek out one of the few remaining water sources and making them easier to spot. See tapirs, capybaras, deer, giant river otters, cougars, and jaguars as they lap water. 

Albania

Nestled in the picturesque embrace of the western Balkans, Albania offers a captivating blend of history and culture mixed with pristine natural beauty that can only be found in this idyllic region. Woven together from Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Communist influences, Albania reveals itself as a diverse cultural landscape that has been shaped over a century-long transitional period.

Spring is one of the most ideal times to visit Albania. Flowers bloom in vibrant colours, and the mild weather makes exploring the sights and sounds a pleasure to indulge in. From the rugged mountains of Zla Kolata to the clear waters of the Albanian Riviera, there’s no shortage of lush landscapes and natural wonders to marvel at.

Explore the historic cities of Albania by wandering through the narrow cobblestone streets of Berat and Gjirokastër, two famous UNESCO World Heritage sites that have preserved their cultural and architectural identities since the Ottoman era. Alternatively, explore the bright and colourful city of Tirana, where you’ll find modern streets blending seamlessly with bustling local markets.

For those who want to delve into Albania’s ancient past, consider a trip to Butrint–one of the most famous historic sites in the country. Explore these ancient ruins that date all the way back to the 7th century BC, and study the impressive archaeological achievements made during these bygone periods.

Albania offers a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, creating an appealing destination for a wide variety of travellers who are looking for an authentic and grounded experience in the Balkans.

Bhutan

If you want to travel to a remote and mysterious country in April, Bhutan should be at the top of your list. This secretive mountain nation limits the number of tourists that can enter annually to protect its culture and people.

April marks the beginning of Bhutan’s festival season. Many people travel to the country at this time of year to experience Paro Tsechu, featuring dancing, mask performances, and local music. 

April is also the start of the country’s spectacular rhododendron blooms. Plants flower at this time of year, transforming the appearance of the country’s many mountainsides. 

We recommend relaxing in Bhutan’s hot springs at Gasa Tshachu at this time of year, close to the Mo Chhu River. Hikers often use these as a stop-off point after a long trek to revitalise and energise for the next leg of their trip.

We also suggest sampling fresh local dishes made of seasonal produce. Sample paksha paa (pork with red chillies) and ema datshi, a unique cheese and chilli stew. 

Vietnam 

April is a great time to visit the Southeast Asian country of Vietnam. Visitors enjoy pleasant weather, cultural festivals and seasonal landscapes at this time of year. 

We suggest heading out on a Halong Bay cruise first to indulge in the country’s natural beauty. These take you through the limestone karsts (massive rocks that protrude from the surrounding water), one of the most striking geological formations in the world. 

Next, you can go to the coast and enjoy resorts like Phu Quoc and Nha Trang that offer sunbathing, water sports, and exciting nightlife. April is also the perfect time for a beach holiday in the country. 

Those preferring to get off the beaten track might want to go hiking in the country’s northern mountainous regions, such as Sapa and Mai Chau. These areas play host to traditional villages and the famous terraced rice fields.

Finally, April is the time of Vietnam’s Da Lat flower festival. Locals celebrate the spring blooms with stunning homemade and professional flower displays. 

Namibia

April is autumn in Namibia, offering milder temperatures for outdoor activities. Expect cool breezes and a landscape in transition if you visit at this time of year. 

Most adventurers begin their Namibia expeditions in the Namib Desert, an arid patch of land that covers much of the country. Thanks to its unique rock types, the region is home to surreal towering red sandstone dunes and rock formations that make great photos. For the best experience, we recommend travelling to Deadvlei and Sossusvlei, with their pitch-black trees and deep blue skies. 

You might also want to visit the famous Namib-Naukluft National Park. Adventurers travel to this location to explore the Sesriem Canyon, which looks like a movie set, not a real place.  

Stargazers rejoice. Namibia has a nomadic culture, meaning the country doesn’t have much light pollution. Most of the desert remains undeveloped, providing unrivalled views of the southern skies. 

You can also go on coastal adventures in the Swakopmund area. Local tour guides offer sandboarding experiences, boat tours, and seal and dolphin sea safaris. Just make sure you wear your sunscreen. 

Jordan 

Thanks to its sunny weather and seasonal landscapes, Jordan is one of the best places to visit in April. However, it is also home to numerous historical sites and adventure opportunities. 

Your first stop should be the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Travellers love the location for its hypersaline waters and skin-enhancing, mineral-rich mud. You will find plenty of spas in the local area for additional revitalising treatments. 

While in the country, you also want to visit the Ajloun Forest Reserve in the northwest. It is home to Jordan’s most wooded and lush green landscapes and hosts several mediaeval forts. 

Lastly, for nature-related excursions, it is worth hiking Mount Nebo, one of the most picturesque spots in the country. The mountain provides spectacular views of the Dead Sea and Jordan Valley. 

As for food in Jordan, it is largely what you would expect in a Middle Eastern country. Locals love to cook mezze, falafel and mansaf, a traditional Levantine lamb dish celebrated throughout the country. 

The country’s historical sites are also worth visiting. The ancient city of Petra is the most famous and one of the wonders of the ancient world, but the country also hosts Jerash, Roman Ruins, and the Citadel in Amman.