Best Time To Visit Colombia

Fast Facts About Visiting Colombia

• December to February and June to August represent the peak seasons for tourism within Colombia. During these months, expect larger crowds and potentially higher prices.
• March to May and October to November constitute the two rainy seasons that Colombia experiences annually. Be prepared for showers if you travel during these times.
• The dry and warm season in Colombia extends from December to March, offering ideal conditions for many outdoor activities.
• July to mid-January is widely regarded as the optimal period to explore the wonders of the Amazon rainforest region.
• July also heralds the commencement of the whale-watching season along the stunning Pacific coast of Colombia.

When is the Best Time for Your Visit to Colombia?

Throughout the year, Colombia maintains remarkably consistent temperatures, generally fluctuating between 45-66°F (7-19°C) in the higher inland regions and around 75°F (24°C) along the beautiful coastline. The months of December through March offer the driest and warmest conditions, making them a popular choice for many travelers. If you are seeking a more temperate, spring-like climate, consider visiting between April and June or during October and November, when the lush rainforests receive their life-giving rains.

These weather variations are most noticeable when traveling in specific regions. For instance, the Amazon rainforest region experiences more pronounced wet and dry seasons. Similarly, the highlands, particularly mountainous areas at higher altitudes, can become significantly chillier during the evenings.

To assist you in planning your ideal trip, we have compiled the guide below, highlighting the best destinations to explore and the most captivating cultural events that take place each month in Colombia.

Dreaming of a Trip to Colombia? Regardless of whether you plan to travel during the refreshing rainy season or the sun-drenched dry season, for festive December holidays, or to immerse yourself in an exciting annual festival, our team of local experts is ready to assist you in crafting the perfect travel experience tailored to the specific season.

Climate Chart for the City of Bogota

December to February: The Dry and Busiest Season in Colombia

These months are undeniably the most popular for tourism in Colombia. The dry season brings incredibly festive and warm weather throughout the country. Given the high demand, especially in December and January, it is strongly recommended to make travel arrangements well in advance. Both Colombian citizens and international visitors alike flock to various destinations within the country during this period.

Medellin, adorned with dazzling lights and captivating decorations, stands out as an ideal city to explore before taking a convenient domestic flight to the captivating colonial towns that grace the Caribbean or Pacific coast. These coastal regions also mark the beginning of Colombia’s surf season, which extends from December to March, offering excellent opportunities for wave enthusiasts.

If you prefer to avoid the bustling beach parties and vibrant fiestas that characterize this time of year, consider venturing inland to discover the scenic Andean rivers and the picturesque mountains of the renowned coffee regions. However, rest assured that another lively fiesta on a different beach is sure to await you in the coming year.

Events in December

Festival of Lights, Northeast of Bogotá. Villa de Leyva comes alive with the enchanting Festival of Lights, celebrating the feast of the Immaculate Conception. During this time, candles and lanterns adorn balconies and taverns, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere as people mingle in the streets. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of traditional foods and the captivating sounds of folklore music, offering an authentic cultural experience.

Festival of Lights, Medellin. Every year, Medellin and its surrounding cities are transformed into a dazzling spectacle with millions of Christmas lights and festive decorations. “Chivas,” the iconic local, hand-painted party buses, take both locals and visitors on enchanting nightly tours, showcasing awe-inspiring firework displays that light up the sky.

The Parade of Myths and Legends Dance (Desfile de Danzas, Mitos y Leyendas), Medellin. This captivating festival attracts over 10,000 eager visitors, drawn in by the impressive displays of creativity, folklore, and traditional music and dance. Enormous, elaborately designed art floats gracefully navigate the city streets of Medellin, captivating onlookers with their artistry.

Art Festival of Memory & Imagination (Festival de Arte Memoria y Imaginación), Cartagena. This authentic Colombian festival gathers the most talented artists from across Colombia and around the world, injecting energy and creativity into Cartagena’s already vibrant atmosphere. Dance troupes, theatre ensembles, sculptors, painters, poets, filmmakers, and musicians all come together to showcase their art in one of Colombia’s most iconic displays of culture and artistic expression.

Events in January

Blacks and Whites’ Carnival (El Carnival de Blancos y Negros), Pasto. The largest carnival in Southern Colombia, and one of the country’s oldest celebrations, has roots dating back to the era of Spanish rule. Following New Year’s Eve, festival participants enthusiastically paint each other with black and white colors in a jubilant, two-day spectacle. This playful act celebrates the diverse races that comprise Colombia’s cultural tapestry, and also features a “Day of Water,” a symbolic event where people of all ages and backgrounds playfully drench each other in water. Other notable highlights include awe-inspiring displays of creativity by children, who host their own delightful carnival.

Events in February

La Noche del Rio, Barranquilla. In the week leading up to the grand Carnival in Barranquilla, get a sneak peek into the mesmerizing array of Colombian music and dance at the annual “La Noche del Rio” music festival. The talented musicians hail from the river communities along the mighty Magdalena River. Just as the Mississippi River holds immense significance for American music, the Magdalena River is an integral part of Colombian music. This cultural repository cradled musicians and artists during Colombia’s most challenging times, offering hope for peace and artistic expression.

Carnival, Barranquilla. From mid-January until the first four days of February, the bustling city of Barranquilla proudly hosts Colombia’s largest public street celebration: Carnival! Ranking as the second largest carnival in the world, after Brazil, Carnival Barranquilla showcases a mesmerizing fusion of dances, musical performances, and deeply rooted local traditions, including theatrical parades. Performers often masquerade as historic and contemporary public figures, drawing inspiration for their dramatizations from current events. Securing tickets in advance for official carnival events and strategically planning your accommodations well ahead of time is highly recommended.

March to May: The Wet Season in Colombia

If you are planning to travel to Colombia during Easter Holy Week (Semana Santa) in March, it is prudent to make your arrangements in advance. This period is a popular time for domestic tourism, and coastal cities tend to become quite crowded. April marks the start of wetter weather in many parts of the country, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring in May. However, persistent, continuous rainfall is uncommon, and the country generally experiences only a slight cooling effect at higher altitude zones.

March Events

Estéreo Picnic Music Festival, Bogotá. Estéreo Picnic stands as Colombia’s most prominent alternative music festival, showcasing a diverse range of top international and national talent spanning alternative rock, indie music, punk rock, reggae, electronica, and hip-hop. Drawing in approximately 60,000 attendees, it is recognized as one of the most influential and dynamic contemporary music festivals in South America.

The International Book Fair (Feria Internacional del Libro), Bogotá. The International Book Fair of Bogotá (FILBO) extends a warm welcome to world-renowned authors and prominent public figures, all united in promoting and celebrating the finest international and national literary works. Throughout the city, you will discover engaging lectures, book fairs, and captivating performances, all paying tribute to this globally recognized cultural event.

June to August: A Second Dry Season in Colombia

Embarking on a journey to Colombia between June and August proves to be an excellent choice. While it is not considered the absolute peak season for tourism, it offers an array of exciting adventure and enriching cultural excursion opportunities. In the Andes region, these months represent the driest period, creating perfect conditions for unforgettable hiking adventures.

If your travel plans include a visit to Medellin, often celebrated as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its consistently pleasant climate, it is advisable to book domestic flights well in advance, particularly during the last week of July and the first week of August. In July, consider heading towards the captivating Pacific coast to witness the enchanting start of the whale-watching season.

Events in June

International Tango Festival, Medellin. Paying homage to the legendary tango dancer Carlos Gardel, the International Tango Festival showcases the world’s most talented tango dancers. Throughout the duration of the festival, Medellin proudly plays host to citywide dance and singing competitions, engaging conferences, captivating art exhibitions, and unforgettable concerts. The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the prestigious official World Tango Championship.

Events in July

Salsa Festival, Medellin. Medellin truly comes alive during an electrifying weekend filled with salsa workshops, thrilling competitions, mesmerizing performances, and lively dances that take place in nearly every club and bar throughout the city.

Colombiamoda Fashion Week, Medellin. As the undisputed fashion and textile capital of Colombia, Medellin hosts its renowned Colombiamoda Fashion Week every July. While the exclusive runway shows are by invitation only, the captivating 3-day event is open to the public during the daytime, offering an opportunity to witness the latest trends and designs.

Flower Festival (La Feria de las Flores), Medellin. One of Colombia’s most cherished and unique festivals proudly presents the authentic culture of Antioquia. Spanning ten days, from the last week of July to the first week of August, the Flower Festival draws Colombians from every corner of the country, significantly increasing the population of Medellin. During this time, the city is adorned with breathtaking floral displays, and vibrant city-wide parades fill the streets with color and joy.

Festival of the Sea: Santa Marta. Originally conceived as a water sports festival and beauty pageant, the Festival of the Sea has evolved into a vibrant expression of coastal appreciation and music, featuring Afro-Caribbean concerts, extraordinary culinary offerings from the sea, and ocean conservation events. The gentle waves along the Santa Marta coastline of Parque Tayrona National Park welcome Colombia’s second surf season, lasting from July through September, inviting surf enthusiasts to ride the waves.

Events in August

Festival de Verano, Bogotá. As one of the most recognized festivals in Bogotá, the Festival de Verano showcases a diverse range of concerts and performances on the main stage of Simon Bolivar Metropolitan Park, as well as in trendy venues throughout the city.

September to November: The Second Wet Season in Colombia

For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting Colombia during this time, when international tourist numbers are at their lowest. Yet, the country hosts an incredible array of festivals and events that are sure to captivate. While the Caribbean coast experiences surprising rainfall in October, it offers excellent surfing opportunities in November. The lower water levels in the Amazon region provide rare opportunities for thrilling hiking adventures.

Events in September

Green Moon Festival, San Andres, Providencia, and Santa Catalina Islands. “Festival de la Luna Verde” is a captivating folk life tradition celebrated on the idyllic islands of San Andres, Providencia, and Santa Catalina. This multi-day festival is as unique as its Caribbean island setting, showcasing the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, tantalizing cuisine, and infectious music. Dance to the rhythm of Calypso and Reggae music, enhanced by the delightful influence of English lyrics, all while enjoying the breathtaking views of the sea from sunrise to sunset.

International Jazz Festival (Festival Internacional del Jazz del Teatro Libre), Bogotá. Established in 1988, this prestigious cultural event is one of the first internationally recognized music festivals in Latin America. With over 47,000 enthusiastic annual spectators and over 100 talented musicians from around the world and Colombia, it has become one of the most significant music festivals on the continent.

Events in October

International Film Festival, Bogota. For over 33 years, Bogota has proudly hosted its renowned film festival and competition, showcasing an impressive selection of over 270 films from more than 44 countries, including Colombia itself.

Events in November

Independence Day, Cartagena. Visitors to the historic city of Cartagena on November 11 can immerse themselves in the vibrant festivities of Independence Day, complete with colorful parades, enchanting music, and captivating dance performances. The celebratory atmosphere extends both before and after Independence Day, providing a fantastic introduction to the proud and lively Caribbean culture.

Ready to Begin Planning Your Adventure?

Our team of dedicated specialists is eager to assist you in crafting the perfect tailor-made trip to Colombia, ensuring an unforgettable and personalized experience.