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Best (& Worst) Time Of The Year To Visit Colombia 2024: Weather By Month

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Have you started planning your trip? To have the perfect holiday, you need to know when the best and worst times of the year to visit Colombia will be. So, I’ve put together this weather guide to help you plan.

Before you book anything, make sure you’re visiting your destination at the right time of year! The country can be divided into three regions: the West (Andes), the Northwest (Caribbean Coast), and the Amazon. These regions have mini dry and wet seasons and microclimates. 

On our last trip to Colombia, we were there in May, which is the start of the rainy season. Although it didn’t affect us too much, and we had a great time riding rapids in San Gil, Bogota was overcast, muggy and wet. 

However, since the climate in Colombia is dependent on altitude rather than seasons, and as an equatorial country, there will be somewhere you can visit all year long. 


Uncover Colombia’s Weather Month By Month And The Best (& Worst) Time To Visit For You!

Abi walking in the sunshine in Colombia during June is great time to visit
Hiking El Camino in June, Baricharra

In this post, we will cover the weather in Colombia in a detailed month-by-month guide to help you plan your perfect holiday! I’ll also include topics:

  • The best time of the year to visit Colombia
  • The worst time to visit Colombia
  • Our experience visiting Colombia in May
  • The Geographic overview of Colombia
  • Festivals and carnivals in Colombia not to be missed!

When Is The Best Time Of The Year To Visit Colombia?

It depends on your reasons for visiting Colombia. There are benefits to visiting all year round, even in the wet season. Keep in mind that western Colombia is much wetter than the northwest, and the Amazon has its own thing going on.

However, most people agree that the dry season is the best time to visit Colombia. It runs from mid-December through February. Depending on where you are in the country, there is also a mini dry spell around June, July, and August, which often gets forgotten about.

El Cocuy in Colombia during May
El Cocuy during May was a mixture of sunshine and overcast skies.

March and April on the Northwest Coast (Caribbean Coast) – Cartagena, Santa Marta, Barranquilla, etc. – continue to be dryer before being hit by the start of the rains in May. These shoulder months can be an excellent time to visit. Also, consider July.

As for West Colombia – Bogota, Cali, Medellin, etc. – the mini-dry period in July and August tends to be less popular with travellers than the dry season. Still, with only a few more wet days per month, there’s not much difference. It’s worth considering as it’s a more affordable and less crowded time. 

Summary: The Best Time To Visit Colombia

  • The best times for dry weather is December through March.
  • The best times for budget travellers are June, July and August.
  • The best time for Amazon tours is July through December.
  • If you’re hoping to see the migrating whales, the best months to visit Colombia are July, August, and September. You’ll need to head to the Pacific coast, where the Department of Chocó is the most popular destination.  
  • Colombia is also an incredible place for hiking, with a unique high-altitude ecosystem called Paramo. It’s a type of tropical alpine tundra characterised by a diverse array of plant species. The best time to visit the National Parks in the Andes is January to April and July to August.
  • Head to the Amazon during its dry season, which is opposite to the rest of Colombia. July through December is when you’ll have the best chance to spot wildlife since the water levels are lower, making tracking and navigation easier.

Questions To Consider BEFORE Booking

That said, there are some questions you should ask yourself to help narrow down the best time of the year for you to visit Colombia. Answer these questions to get started:

  • Which part of the country are you thinking of exploring?
  • Are you okay with variable terrains?
  • Does the presence of crowds bother you?
  • Does high humidity have a negative impact on your comfort?
  • Are you comfortable with cooler or warmer temperatures?
  • Do you lean towards spending your time outdoors hiking, by the beach or delving into a new city experience?

Give these questions some thought, and once you’ve determined the answers, you’ll be on your way to discovering when the best time to visit Colombia is for you.


What We Think Is The Best Time To Visit Colombia?

Since we aren’t big fans of large crowds and generally don’t like to splurge, Jack and I like to travel during the shoulder season. For Colombia, the shoulder season is March through August. However, keep in mind the mini wet season in Colombia, which is during April and May, and can make it a bad time to travel.

May can be a good or bad time of the year to visit Colombia depending on where you are.
El Cocuy National Park in May.

We didn’t realise this would be an issue until we arrived in Bogota to torrential rains in May and got bogged down. However, it was manageable. The start of the shoulder season still tends to be expensive compared to later in the year, so if you’re looking to save, consider June, July, and August.

Depending on where you’re visiting, I recommend March for west Colombia and April for the northwest (don’t miss Barranquilla Carnival) if you want to travel earlier in the year and early December if you want to travel during peak season. Otherwise, July is an excellent month to visit Colombia, and I suggest it as the best month overall.

Why July? It’s when the rainy season witnesses a mini-dry period, both the west and northwest dry up, the whales migrate along the Pacific Coast, the Amazon is dryer and less humid, the Andes are dry enough for safe hiking, and the country is more affordable. Sure, it’s not as dry as peak season, but it’s cheap enough to make it worthwhile!


What Is The Worst Time To Visit Colombia?

It’s hard to determine the worst time of year to visit Colombia since there are benefits to visiting throughout the year. However, it’s safe to say that most people agree that the months of October and November are the worst times to visit Colombia due to the heavy rains.

October and November are Colombia’s wettest months of the year. Most of the country experiences torrential rains that last a few hours. The skies are overcast, especially in the Andes region. 

Bogota in May is a bad time of the year to visit Colombia.
Rainfall over Bogota in May.

However, just because the weather is at its worst doesn’t mean Colombia can’t be visited. October is still a good time to visit the Pacific coast, where migrating whales can be seen. There are also a number of festivals in November where you can join in colourful parades.

For budget travellers, the worst time to visit is during the peak season, which, in contrast, is considered by most to be the best time to visit. However, it’s the most expensive and busiest time of the year to visit Colombia. Therefore, if you prefer to avoid crowds and are looking for an affordable trip, December, January, and February are to be avoided. 

The same goes for Amazong excursions. The Amazon experiences a dry and wet season, which is opposite to the rest of the country. January, February, and March can be considered some of the worst months to visit the rainforest. Although, in truth, you can visit all year long.

Pro tip >> The rainy season in the tropics rarely means it rains all day. Instead, you can expect a burst of rain followed by bright, sunny skies.

Summary: The Worst Time To Visit Colombia

  • The worst times for wet weather is October and November
  • The worst times for budget travellers is January and February
  • The worst times for beach days in October and November

Colombia Geographic Overview

Colombia is in the northwestern region of South America, with a total land area of 1.142 million km², so it’s pretty big! The country’s geography is diverse, including the Andes mountain range, Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, tropical rainforests, and the Amazon Basin. 

The Andes in Colombia during May can be a bad time to visit.
The Andes Mountain Range.

Interestingly, the climate in Colombia is primarily influenced by altitude, with temperature and rainfall varying depending on elevation rather than latitude, like many other places around the world. However, due to its tropical location, it has two seasons: a wet season from May to November and a dry season from December to April. However, there are some variations and microclimates that exist. 

That said, the average temperature in Colombia is around 24°C/75°F, with coastal regions experiencing warmer temperatures. For example, Cartagena averages 29°C/84°F, and the Andean mountain region gets cooler the higher you go. Bogota sits around 13°C/55°F. 

Taganga Beach, near Santa Marta.

The country’s coastlines are home to many beautiful beaches, while the tropical forests are rich in biodiversity. Even the Andes mountain range, which stretches through the centre of the country, includes several volcanoes and high-altitude lakes. 

Colombia’s beauty is its terrain. With a mix of mountains, valleys, plateaus, and plains, its unique geography and climate make it an exciting destination for adventure travellers, nature lovers, and beachgoers. 


Our Experience Visiting Colombia

Kali Uchis

We’ve been to Colombia once together and spent several weeks exploring. I also visited previously in 2015, where I was backpacking for almost two months. From that first trip, I fell in love with the country, the people, and the culture. 

I visited many places, including Cali, Bogota, Medellin, Salento, and the Valle de Cocora. I hitchhiked along the Caribbean Coast from Cartagena to Barranquilla, Santa Marta and the stunning Tyrona National Park, Palomino and Costeño Beach. And I even managed to get my PADI certificate in Taganga. It was an incredible trip!

However, since it’s the most recent trip, let’s talk about our last visit. We flew into Bogota in May as part of our trip around the world.

MAY

When we landed in Bogota, it wasn’t clear that it was going to be a wet couple of weeks. The sun was shining, although there were some dark clouds whirling around. We were there to see my cousin and his family, and due to his work commitments, we ended up staying longer in the capital than planned.

Abi in Bogota at Mount Monserrat in May looking at stormy clouds.
Stormy clouds over Bogota (standing at Mount Monserrat)

Over those next couple of weeks, we had a mixture of heavy downpours and sunny, bright skies. It was never too cold, apart from in the evenings; however, you’ll certainly need some layers: a jumper and jacket, but when the sun was out, it was warm.

While in Bogota, we visited the Salt Cathedral, an incredible religious site built into a salt mine, and the famous Mount Monserrat. We stayed in La Candelaria, a funky neighbourhood in central Bogota, and explored many museums, such as the Gold Museum; we visited Parliament Square, the Cathedral, and countless other churches and historical sites. Bogota is a great city, but just remember it’s not hot, with average temperatures settling around 13°C/55°F.

JUNE

Between May and June, we travelled north to the Caribbean Coast. It took us a few weeks, and we made plenty of stops. After Bogota, we visited El Cocuy National Park for one of the best hikes we did in Colombia. Afterwards, we spent a few days exploring the fossil-rich town of Villa de Leyva—a place not to be missed!

May can be a cloudy time of the year to visit Colombia - Villa de Leyva
Park in Villa de Leyva towards the end of May.

Leaving Villa de Leyva, we headed to San Gil and hit the rapids; San Gil is known for its adventure sports. But we also visited Baricharra and followed the ancient El Camino (hike) to Guane on a very, very hot afternoon. The views along this hike were spectacular, and there was not a rain cloud in sight.

After this, we caught a very long bus journey to Cartagena, which was and remains, one of my favourite cities. It’s hot, though, rather humid and with no decent beaches nearby, it can feel a little sticky. I recommend staying in a hotel with a swimming pool while in Cartagena.

Baricharra, Colombia, was very hot in June; it was a good time to visit.
Baricharra, Colombia, was very hot in June; it was a good time of the year to visit ad hike “El Camino”.

Would We Recommend Visiting Colombia?

I absolutely adore Colombia, and I 100% recommend visiting. It’s an incredible country with so much to offer travellers, from city escapes to tropical shores. The culture is intertwined with indigenous beliefs and Christianity, making it a unique place to visit with a long and fascinating history. 

It’s perfect for all types of people, from backpackers to luxury travellers, with colonial towns, mountain locations and bustling cities to explore. There’s adventure, nature, heritage, and even pre-Columbian archaeological sites to visit. 

For those who love nature and wildlife, the country hosts rare tropical mountain ranges, endemic species, and migrating whales. Let’s not forget the Amazon rainforest, which is home to over “427 mammal species, 1,300 bird species, 378 species of reptiles, and more than 400 species of amphibians”.


Colombia Weather By Month

Do you know which month you’re visiting Colombia? Find out below if it’s a good time to go.

Weather Stats For Colombia

Rainiest month(s) in Colombia: October & November (both), April, May (west), September (northwest), 
Driest month(s) in Colombia: January and February
Warmest month(s) in Colombia: Temperature remains constant with an average of 21°C/70°F (west) and 29°C/84°F (northwest). 
Coldest month(s) in Colombia: Average temperatures cool with the higher altitude.
Most crowded month(s) in Colombia: January and February
Least crowded month(s) Colombia: October and November

Pro tip >> Before continuing, consider the average temperatures noted below. Colombia is a tropical country with varying terrain, and the climate is affected by altitude. Temperatures average about 29°C/84°F along the northwest coast and 7–17°C/45–63°F as you move inland and head into higher-altitude areas.

Colombia In January

January is one of the best months to visit Colombia, especially if you’re looking for a break from the cold weather. West Colombia offers average highs around 21°C/70°F, whereas along the northwest coast, it quickly reaches a scorching 32°C/90°F. 

The country typically has plenty of sunshine and blue skies. Colombia is an ideal destination for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Nature trails are normally dry, so if you’re a hiking enthusiast, you can explore the forests and mountains of the Andes region, where the weather is cooler, and the scenery is astonishing.

If you’re a beach lover, the Caribbean coast is particularly lovely this time of year. The sandy beaches and turquoise waters of Palomino, Santa Marta, and San Andres are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. 

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It will still be busy, but if you prefer to avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting in late January.

That said, January is a peak tourist season, so I recommend booking your accommodation and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.

Pro tip >> Remember to pack sun lotion and light clothing to stay comfortable in the warm weather. (See what to pack below.)

Barranquilla, Santa Marta, Cartagena and Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, Bogota, Medellin, Cali, the Andes, the Coffee Regions

Colombia In February

If you’re planning a trip to Colombia in February, you’re in for a treat. The weather remains warm and pleasant in the west (20°C/68°F) and hot in the northwest (29°C/84°F) with lower humidity. February is part of Colombia’s dry season; expect sunny, bright days and clear skies.

If you’re looking for a beach vacation, the Caribbean coast is the place to be. The beaches along the coast are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and the islands, such as San Andrés and Isla del Rosario, are great for snorkelling. 

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If you prefer a more active break, you can easily explore the forests and mountains of the Andes region. Hiking enthusiasts can take on the challenging trails of the Cocora Valley and El Cocuy National Park or explore the coffee plantations of the Eje Cafetero region.

Keep in mind that February is peak season, so it will be a busier and more expensive time to visit. I also recommend booking your accommodation and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.

Barranquilla, Santa Marta, Cartagena and Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, Bogota, Medellin, Cali, the Andes, the Coffee Regions

Colombia In March

March is a wonderful time to visit Colombia; however, it’s a transitional month for the western parts of the country. The Andean regions offer cooler temperatures and breathtaking views. But they experience the oncoming rains earlier than the north coast, and March signals the start of it.

Nevertheless, the rainfall remains light, and the weather is still perfect for exploring landscapes and cities. Humidity is at its lowest, averaging 77%. As the dry season continues on the northwest shores of Colombia, the region remains sunny, and warm weather is expected. The daytime highs can reach 32°C/90°F, so the coastal areas are still scorching.

For the most part, you can expect clear skies and lower humidity levels (compared to the rest of the year). There will be a slight increase in rainfall in the west, but nothing that will spoil your holiday. This is still an excellent time to visit the main cities.

Easter sometimes falls during March; if it does, Holy Week brings big celebrations and parades. A good place to visit is Popayan, which holds a colourful procession and parade.

Bogota, the Coffee Region, and the Caribbean coast. Easter – Mompox, Pamplona and Tunja. Popayan, the Andes

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Colombia In April

April signals the final month of the dry season on the Caribbean Coast and offers the last of the dry weather before the wet season starts; however, in April, you can still expect sunshine. The average temperature remains around 29°C/84°F

In the west the temperatueres are about 21°C/70°F. Keep in mind a secondary rainy season takes hold of the west during April and May, and it becomes incredibly wet. The three big cities, Bogotá, Medellín and Cali, get particularly bogged down, although the sun still manages to shine through.

Nevertheless, April is still a good time to visit northwest Colombia. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, then the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is an excellent destination. This mountain range offers a unique ecosystem with snow-capped peaks, tropical forests, and beautiful beaches.

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Pro tip >> Due to regional variations in rainfall, it’s a good idea to check the local weather in your destination before booking anything during the wet season.

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Palomino, Barú, San Andrés and Providencia

Colombia In May

In the west, May continues with its mini-wet season and brings a torrent of rain to the cities.  We got caught out in Bogota and were left sitting in a cafe waiting for a downpour to stop. Temperatures remain around 21°C/70°F, and humidity levels have reached their highest at 82%. 

On the Caribbean Coast, May signifies the start of the shoulder season. It’s not the worst time to visit northwest Colombia, and although it’s wetter, it’s still not too bad. Averaging only eight days of rain in the entire month, you’ll still be able to have a fantastic holiday. 

Since May is considered a shoulder month, you’ll find prices for accommodation and tours have dropped, making it a good time for budget travellers. However, alongside October, May is probably one of the worst months to visit western Colombia. 

Still, if you don’t mind getting wet, a great place to visit is San Gil; it’s the adventure capital of Colombia. We went here in May, and due to the high water levels, it’s the best time for white water rafting, which we did and loved.

Pro tip >> Due to regional variations in rainfall, it’s a good idea to check the local weather in your destination before booking anything during the wet season or shoulder season.

San Gil, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Barranquilla, Palomino, Barú, San Andrés and Providencia

Colombia In June

June is another month of transition in Colombia. It marks the end of western Colombia’s mini-rainy season and the start of a few dryer months before the rain returns with a vengeance. 

In the west, and more or less returning to March weather patterns, it’s a better time to visit the cities compared to the previous two months. Average temperatures remain at 21°C/70°F, but humidity is still high. 

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Accommodations and attractions remain lower than peak seasons. June can be an excellent month to grab holiday deals for all regions of the country.

Rainfall continues to increase in San Andres, with more than half of the month receiving wet days. Remember that the rainy season seldom means rain all day. Instead, expect short bursts in the afternoons and at night.

In northwest Colombia, rainfall continues but remains at an average of 8 days within the month, which isn’t too bad. You can undoubtedly plan activities around the weather! The temperature is still a hot 29°C/84°F

Bogota, Cali, Medellin, San Gil, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Barranquilla, Palomino, Barú

Colombia In July

For those in the know, July is one of the best times (during the rainy season) to visit Colombia. The month experiences a downturn in rainfall, especially in western Colombia, including the Andes, but the Caribbean Coast also dries up slightly. 

July signifies the start of the Amazon visiting season. Although the Amazon can be visited all year, July is one of the driest months, making it a great time to navigate and explore the waterways. It’s also a less humid time of year, and wildlife is common.

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Average temperatures in west Colombia rise a degree to 22°C/72°F, but humidity levels drop. This is a great time to visit the cities, the Andes, and the coffee regions. If you’re planning a trip to Colombia in July, consider visiting the Coffee Triangle, where you can experience the country’s famous coffee farms.

The weather is generally dryer and sunnier in the west and northwest of the country, including cities like Medellin, Pereira, and Cali. While it may not be an ideal time to visit the beaches of Cartagena, it is still a great time to explore the cultural and historical landmarks of the city. 

P.S. Do you love wildlife? July is the start of the humpback migrating season to Colombia. You’ll be able to see them mate and give birth along the Pacific Coast.

The coffee region, Bogota, Cali, Medellin, San Gil, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Barranquilla, Palomino, Barú, Amazon – Puerto Nariño or Leticia, department of Chocó

Colombia In August

Colombia experiences a mixed weather pattern, which varies depending on the region. The average temperature in the country during this month is between 21°C/70°F and 29°C/84°F.

In August, West Colombia is still having its mini-dry season, and it’s a good time to visit the cities, the Andes, and the West Coast to spot humpback whales. The average temperature is 21°C/70°F, and humidity is lower than in the other months, although it’s still high at 78%.

The northwest is hit by rainfall, although it maintains relatively bright sunny days. Showers only come in bursts, getting longer towards the end of the month. If you’re visiting during this period, you can pick up some good deals, but it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat.

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The Amazon Rainforest is another excellent destination to witness in August when the lush foliage is in full bloom and the wildlife is thriving. Since it’s the “dry season” (The Amazon is never really dry), you’ll be able to navigate the trails a lot easier. However, it’s also the most expensive time to visit.

The coffee region, Bogota, Cali, Medellin, San Gil, Popayan, Amazon – Puerto Nariño or Leticia, department of Chocó

Colombia In September

By September, Colombia is returning to the rainy season, offering an average temperature of 21°C/70°F in the west and 29°C/84°F on the Caribbean Coast. It remains a good time to visit the Amazon Rainforest and the west coast for migrating humpback whales.

You can still get away with visiting the main cities in Colombia during early September; it’s not as wet as April and May. However, the rainfall steadily increases throughout the month and by the end, it might be unpleasant and challenging to enjoy walking and being outside.

The northwest is still going to be wet. About 11 days out of the month will see rain, and you can expect an equal mix of overcast skies with bursts of sunshine. This is one of the wettest months on the Caribbean Coast, but rainfall is still coming in short spurts, so it’s easy to plan your day around the weather. 

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San Andres is a no-go. It’s in the grips of a rainy season, and there will be rainfall more days than not. You can visit, but it’s one of the worst times of the year to visit this part of Colombia. Keep in mind the Caribbean is in hurricane season as well.

As well as the above, September is the last month to visit the Andes before the heavy rains set in; however, the weather can be unpredictable, so early September remains best. 

The coffee region, Bogota, Cali, Medellin, San Gil, Popayan, Amazon – Puerto Nariño or Leticia, department of Chocó

Colombia In October

October is Colombia’s wettest month. If you’re visiting during this month, plan for weather disturbances and have a flexible itinerary; you may find yourself in a bar for a few hours while the rain passes. 

The country remains hot and humid, with average temperatures between 21°C/70°F in the west and 29°C/84°F in the northwest. Throughout the country, flash floods are common and can wash out roads, affecting travel.  

Even though it is the rainiest month in Colombia, visiting the country during this time can still be a wonderful experience if you don’t mind getting a little wet. The scenery is magnificent and green, and there are fewer visitors to contend with for space.

However, be prepared for daily rain, which is usually torrential and lasts for several hours. Pack rain gear and plan indoor activities for the afternoons when the rain is most likely. I recommend getting out early to make the most of the sunshine and hit the museums and indoor attractions! 

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Consider planning a visit to the Amazon region between October and November if you are looking for affordable travel deals. You may want to visit Puerto Nariño or Leticia for guided jungle tours.

Pro tip >> This is the last month when you have a good chance of spotting humpback whales along the Pacific Coast.

The coffee region, Bogota, Cali, Medellin, San Gil, Popayan, Amazon – Puerto Nariño or Leticia, department of Chocó

Colombia In November

November can be a challenging month for travellers in Colombia due to heavy rainfall. Alongside October, November is the wettest time of the year but falls right at the end of the wet season, which means that it’s very damp and humid. The average temperature in November is around 27°C/81°F.

Despite the rain, there are still plenty of places to visit in Colombia during November. The Caribbean coast is usually the best option, as it often receives less rainfall than other parts of the country. 

The cities of Cartagena and Santa Marta are top-rated due to their colonial charm and nightlife, which means there are plenty of places to visit when you can’t go to the beach! During November, numerous festivals and celebrations take place, including Colombia’s Independence Day on the 11th, making it a fun time to visit despite the rain.

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The Amazon rainforest remains a fantastic destination to explore in November. The end of the dry season means it’s easy to explore the trails and waterways, and you’ll be able to spot lots of wildlife, specifically bird species. 

Due to the rain, expect fantastic deals on hotels and airfares. While November can be a challenging month to travel to Colombia, remember that it still offers plenty of unique experiences that are worth exploring. Just make sure to pack a raincoat and waterproof gear!

San Gil, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Barranquilla, Barú, Amazon – Puerto Nariño or Leticia

Colombia In December

Colombia’s weather is typically warm and sunny in December, perfect for a winter getaway. The average temperature in most parts of the country is 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), making it perfect for exploring the breathtaking beauty. 

The west and northwest regions of Colombia, including cities like Medellin, Cartagena, and Santa Marta, experience mostly sunny days with occasional rainfall, clearing up towards the end of the month.

From mid to late December is a great time to visit Colombia’s Caribbean coast, where you can soak up the sun on sandy beaches of Palomino and Santa Marta. The Tayrona National Natural Park is also worth visiting, where you can enjoy hiking, camping, and swimming in the clear blue waters. 

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If you are looking to explore Colombia’s cultural heritage, December is the best time to visit the capital city of Bogota. The historic district of La Candelaria is home to some of the country’s most important museums, art galleries, and architectural landmarks, including the Gold Museum, which is a must-visit. 

Pro tip >> As this is a peak tourist season, both domestic and international travellers are visiting the country in large numbers. Therefore, prices for hotels and flights are at their peak. I recommend booking your accommodation and transportation ahead of time, especially if you are planning to visit the northern coast.

Barranquilla, Santa Marta, Cartagena and Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, Bogota, Medellin, Cali, The Andes, the Coffee Regions


Colombian Festivals & Public Holidays

  • New Year’s Day – January 1
  • Epiphany Day – January 6
  • Barranquilla Carnival – February/March (varies annually)
  • St. Joseph – March 19 
  • International Film Festival of Cartagena – March (varies annually)
  • Holy Week – March/April (varies annually)
  • Labor Day – May 1
  • Saint Peter and Saint Paul – June 29
  • Independence Day – July 20
  • Battle of Boyacá Day – August 7
  • Assumption Day – August 15
  • Medellín Flower Fair – August (varies annually)
  • All Saints Day – November 1
  • Independence of Cartagena – November 11
  • Feast of the Immaculate – December 8
  • Christmas – December 25
  • Day of the Holy Innocents – December 28
  • Feria de Cali – December (varies annually)

Resources For Colombia

Is it your first time visiting Colombia? We’ve written lots of useful posts to help you plan your trip. You can check them all out on our Colombia Page herebut below are some of our most popular articles:

⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re going to be using your phone, don’t forget about overseas data roaming. You’ll get charged for using your data. Try Airalo’s eSIMs and download a digital data pack. It’s quick and easy; great if you’re in a hurry.


What To Pack For Colombia

Since Colombia has both wet and dry seasons, knowing what to pack can be confusing. In truth, you don’t need to pack too differently as the temperatures remain constant throughout the year.  

If you are visiting the Andes/West Colombia, you’ll need to pack a rain jacket and some warmer layers for the cooler evenings.

However, to quickly bullet point the essentials:


Does Colombia Have Seasons?

Colombia does not have the typical four seasons that most northern hemispheres experience. Instead, Colombia has two seasons: dry and rainy. 

These seasons can differ slightly depending on which region of the country you visit. The Andean region, including Bogotá and Medellín, has a wet/rainy season from April through November, a dry season from December to March, and a mini-dry season from June to August. 

The Caribbean coast has high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The dry season typically goes from December to March, while the wet/rainy season is from April to November. The Pacific coast also has high humidity and rainfall throughout the year. The heaviest rainfall occurs between April and November.

That said, Colombia is a year-round destination with a bunch of activities no matter what time of year you choose to visit.

Dry Season

During the dry season in Colombia, most of the country enjoys sunny days and minimal rainfall, especially on the Caribbean coast, where rainfall is almost non-existent. Due to the guaranteed sunshine, this is the busiest time to visit Colombia and, therefore, the most expensive time.

For hiking, popular places like the Andes mountain range and the group excursions into the national parks from the three main cities, Bogota, Medellin and Cali, can become crowded alongside excursions to the stunning Caribbean Islands.

That said, the peak season encompasses significant holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter, which can be a fantastic time to visit Colombia and experience the local culture. These holidays typically feature colourful parades.

👉 It’s best to pre-book all your tours during the high season. We use Get Your Guide and Viator to pre-book our tours. They are both safe and reputable companies that we love!

Wet Season

Colombia’s rainy season runs from mid-April to early December, with the heaviest rainfall from October to November. Travel to west Colombia, including the higher Andes regions, may be difficult or impossible during this time. 

The rainy season is the off-season, offering lower rates for travel, tours, and accommodation. Although the country is wet, the rain improves the natural beauty of Colombia’s landscape, and it’s the best time to witness the annual whale migration from July to September. 

Thunderstorms and tropical downpours are common on the Pacific Coast, while showers occur less frequently on the Caribbean side. However, they are still as strong, mainly in the afternoons and at night. The good thing is the rain pattern is predictable, allowing you to plan your itinerary.


Colombia Weather By Month FAQs

What Is The “Off Season” In Colombia?
The off-season in Colombia is often considered the wet/rainy season. This is when the country receives fewer visitors; however, Colombia can be visited all year round, even in the wet season.

What Month Does Everything Close In Colombia?
Most places in Colombia remain open all year long. Since it’s not a temperate climate, it doesn’t have seasons as we do in the northern hemisphere, and the temperatures remain constant, more or less. The rainy season may affect the opening of shops; however, it’s a temporary weather occurrence and not yearly.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Go To Colombia?
The cheapest months to visit Colombia are October and November. These are the rainiest months of the year and generally see fewer tourists. You’ll be able to pick up a good deal on flights, accommodations and tours.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Coastal Towns In Colombia?
Depending on your travel preferences, the best time to visit the northwest coast is generally the dry season. Between December and February, the region has almost no chance of rainfall. However, for budget-savvy travellers, consider July, which is when the country has a mini-dry period during the wet season, and it can be a great time to visit!

When Are The Best Times For Adventure Tours In Colombia?
The best time to visit Colombia for adventure tours is during the wet season. June, July and August experience a mini-dry spell, but with the previous months’ heavy rains, the rivers a perfect for rafting and watersports. The Andes are dry enough for trekking, and even the Amazon is fantastic to visit during these months! There are also whales migrating along the Pacific Coast.


Best & Worst Time Of The Year To Visit Colombia Conclusion

As always, I would like to leave you with my final thoughts about the best and worst times to visit Colombia. Overall, if you don’t mind a bit of rain, July can be a really interesting month to visit Colombia. You’ll get the rainy season deals with the bonuses of whale watching, Amazon excursions, and fewer crowds.

If you prefer to avoid any chance of rain and the cost isn’t a huge concern (Colombia is an affordable country compared to Western nations), then I’d recommend visiting in December. The country will be lush after the wet season, but there is little chance of rain, especially as you move into late December.

Budget travellers, don’t be put off by the rains in October and November. As a tropical country, you will witness torrential downpours, but it’s still going to warm, and they won’t last all day. You’ll get the best deals, and you can always find a relaxing coffee shop to wait it out.

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Thanks for reading. If you have any questions shoot me a message.