The best time to visit Colombia depends on which area you travel to. Weather variations are determined more by region than clearly defined seasons.
The main differences of note are in the highlands, where nights become chilly at higher altitudes.
Meanwhile, the lowlands enjoy a tropical climate year-round, with little temperature variation. More frequent rain showers will be noticeable in the wetter months of April to June, and again in October and November.
Overall, Colombia is a year-round destination, particularly along the Caribbean coast and in Medellín. Here, warm, dry weather is prevalent for almost the entire year.
Month-by-month guide for traveling in Colombia
Visiting Colombia in December - March
Colombia’s high season sees plenty of sunny days; ideal for exploring the country’s charming towns and cities, the coffee district, and relaxing on the beach. Early planning is crucial for December and January, which see a huge influx of domestic holidaymakers and international visitors.
Events & Festivals
- Festival of Lights (early December): Around the feast of the Immaculate Conception, Villa de Leyva marks the event with a small festival of light, where balconies and terraces are lit by candles and lanterns.
- Hay Literary Festival (January): With its four-day program usually filled with plenty of events and readings, this festival stages a partner event in Cartagena.
Visiting Colombia in April - June
The start of the rainy season brings slightly wetter weather in some places, but persistent rainfall is very unusual. You should plan ahead if you wish to visit over Easter as this is a popular time for regional tourism.
Visiting Colombia in July - August
In many areas a mini dry season returns to the country, bringing wonderful conditions once again for visiting Colombia’s cultural highlights, beautiful countryside, jungles and beaches. Some airlines will increase their fares in line with European and North American vacation periods.
Events & Festivals
- Medellín Flower Festival (August): This annual flower festival exhibits truly astonishing flower displays as well as live music and other festivities on the streets of Medellín.
Visiting Colombia in September - November
This is the low season in Colombia, but due to the country’s unique geographical position visitors to many of the main attractions will not find their travel hindered by prolonged periods of rain. Long spells of dry weather can still be enjoyed, and many take advantage of off-peak travel to get a wider choice of hotels and lower rates than in the months to follow.
Events & Festivals
- Independence Day of Cartagena (November 11): Visitors to Cartagena on this day can enjoy colorful parades, music and dance.
Colombia Climate Guide
| Destination | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bogotá | 66°F 1" | 68°F 2" | 68°F 3" | 66°F 5" | 66°F 4" | 64°F 2" | 64°F 2" | 64°F 2" | 66°F 2" | 64°F 5" | 66°F 4" | 66°F 3" |
| Cartagena | 88°F 0" | 88°F 0" | 90°F 0" | 90°F 1" | 90°F 4" | 90°F 5" | 90°F 3" | 90°F 3" | 88°F 5" | 88°F 8" | 90°F 4" | 90°F 1" |
| Medellín | 81°F 2" | 81°F 3" | 82°F 4" | 81°F 7" | 81°F 8" | 81°F 5" | 82°F 5" | 81°F 6" | 81°F 6" | 79°F 8" | 79°F 6" | 79°F 3" |
| Santa Marta | 90°F 0" | 91°F 0" | 91°F 0" | 91°F 1" | 91°F 2" | 91°F 3" | 91°F 2" | 91°F 2" | 91°F 4" | 90°F 4" | 90°F 2" | 91°F 1" |
| Tayrona National Park | 90°F 1" | 91°F 0" | 91°F 0" | 91°F 1" | 91°F 3" | 91°F 3" | 91°F 2" | 91°F 3" | 91°F 5" | 90°F 7" | 90°F 5" | 90°F 1" |
| Zona Cafetera | 73°F 7" | 73°F 7" | 73°F 9" | 72°F 12" | 72°F 10" | 72°F 7" | 73°F 5" | 72°F 6" | 72°F 8" | 70°F 14" | 70°F 12" | 72°F 9" |
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Travel advice
Practical tips for traveling to Colombia, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.
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Trip ideas and travel guides for exploring Colombia
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![Carmen Church, Bogotá]()
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What to do in Colombia: our highlights guide ![Colorful façades, Bogotá]()
What to do in Colombia: our highlights guide
What to do in Colombia: our highlights guide
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