When is the Best Time to Visit Colombia?

The rainy season in Colombia lasts from April to November, although the amount of rainfall can vary greatly depending on where you are. For example, the Andes experience a mini dry season in July and August, Cartagena sees the most rain in October, and the Amazon tends to be rainiest in March.

It’s still entirely possible to visit Colombia in the wet season, as the rain doesn’t usually get in the way of most activities. Even during the rainiest months you’re likely to enjoy some sunny days and dry periods – and temperatures will stay warm and pleasant throughout it all.

Colombia is truly a year-round destination. Temperatures vary more by region than by month, and some places are better to visit at certain times of year. But no matter when you choose to go, the weather isn’t likely to pose too much of an issue. That said, here’s a month-by-month climate guide to Colombia to help you decide when to visit, where to go and what to do.

January is one of the most popular months to visit Colombia, as it promises little rainfall in pretty much every part of the country. If you’re hoping to escape the cold, Cartagena and the coffee triangle are among the best destinations in Latin America for winter sun. It’s also the perfect time to go hiking in the north or explore Bogotá, where highs hover around 20ºC (68ºF).

Colombia remains relatively dry throughout February, with just a slightly higher chance of rain than in January. This is a fantastic time to visit Barranquilla, which hosts one of the world’s largest Carnival celebrations on the four days leading up to Lent. Expect parades, dancing, traditional music and wonderful weather, with highs around 32ºC (89ºF).

March marks the end of Colombia’s main dry season, as well as the peak tourism period. This means it’s a great time to take advantage of the lovely weather while avoiding the busiest months. Temperatures may rise just a bit in Cartagena and Medellín, but usually not to a noticeable degree. Overall, March is ideal for exploring any region of the country.

Colombia’s wet season begins in April and continues through May; if you’re travelling at this time expect some showers. That said, the rain doesn’t usually last for too long, so it’s still entirely possible to explore and enjoy the country. This may not be the best season for beach trips or hiking, but it’s a perfectly pleasant time to visit Colombia’s cities or the coffee triangle.

Colombia’s weather conditions in June can vary greatly according to the region. In Cartagena and the Tayrona Region this is one of the rainier months, but in Bogotá and Barichara it’s relatively dry. Despite generally being classified as part of the wet season, June is one of the best times of year to explore both the Andes and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

July tends to be somewhat rainy in the Andes, but it’s one of the drier months of the year in the Amazon. It’s a fantastic time to visit the country’s Pacific coast, where you can spot humpback whales on their annual migration route. July is also a great time to go surfing on the Pacific coast, though it’s not the best time to catch waves on the Caribbean side of the country.

This month brings a mini dry season to parts of Colombia, including the Andes and the Amazon. But one of the main reasons to go to Colombia in August is to attend Medellín’s gorgeous Feria de las Flores, or Flower Festival, which takes place in the first half of the month. The colonial town of Villa de Leyva also celebrates the three-day Wind and Kite Festival in mid-August.

September marks the start of another low season in terms of tourism, which makes it an excellent time to visit Colombia without large crowds. Rainfall is low to moderate in most regions, so it’s unlikely for the weather to interfere with your plans. Temperatures in Cartagena peak at around 31ºC (88ºF) and in Bogotá at around 19ºC (66ºF).

October and November are two of the wettest months in most regions of Colombia, with intense – but usually short – rain showers likely across the country. Even so, temperatures stay about the same and most days will have periods of dry weather, so you can still enjoy the outdoors. Cartagena celebrates its own Independence Day on 11th November with lively street parties.

December is the beginning of the dry season in Colombia. The skies clear up and the sunshine returns in full force, drawing visitors from near and far. If you don’t mind sharing the main sites and cities with other travellers, it’s definitely one of the best times to visit Colombia. Celebrate the Christmas holidays or go earlier in the month for the Festival of Lights in Villa de Leyva.

The best months to visit Medellín are December, January, July and August. The sunny and warm weather is ideal for exploring the city on foot, and these months also boast exciting celebrations – from the dazzling holiday lights and festivities of December to the famous Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) in August.

The best months to visit Cartagena are December, January, February and March, when the chance of rain is lowest. Although temperatures don’t fluctuate much throughout the year, clear skies create the best conditions for enjoying the city’s rooftop bars, outdoor live music and salsa dancing, beaches and boat trips to nearby islands.