The best travel time for Colombia is naturally useful to consider when choosing your travel period. This vibrant Latin American country offers a tremendous diversity of nature, culture, and dynamic cities. There are numerous holidays and events that are worth a visit or may be a reason to choose a different time to travel through Colombia. To fully enjoy all the beauty that the country has to offer, it’s wise to consider the best travel time for Colombia. In this article, we will delve deeper into the climate, special events, and holidays.
Best Travel Time for Colombia in a Nutshell
The most rainfall in Colombia occurs in the months of April to June, as well as October and November. To have an ultimate sunny trip, it’s better to avoid these months. However, traveling through Colombia is generally feasible throughout the year in terms of weather. In the rainy season, you often experience occasional heavy showers but not entire days of rain. The best travel time for Colombia also depends on the crowds. Late December to mid-January is when many Colombians are on vacation, and you’ll find yourself amidst national tourism. July and August see the highest number of international travelers. If you’re not fond of crowds, it’s better to avoid these periods.
The Climate of Colombia
Colombia is a large country with significant variations in altitude, resulting in different climate zones. Being located near the equator, Colombia experiences a constant and pleasant temperature throughout the year. In lower-lying areas, temperatures range between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius (77-86 degrees Fahrenheit). In higher-altitude regions like the capital city of Bogotá, the temperature averages around 15 to 20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit), and it cools down considerably in the evenings.
The Dry Season in Colombia
The dry season in Colombia lasts from December to March and from July to September. If you enjoy sunny travels, these months are the best time to travel through Colombia.
The Rainy Season in Colombia
In the period from April to June and the months of October and November, Colombia experiences the most rainfall. During the rainy season, you can expect scattered downpours in the afternoon. In the Amazon region, there is a chance of heavy showers throughout the year. If you’re a true nature enthusiast, the rainy season is the best travel time for Colombia. Everything blooms more due to the rain, and it’s extra green. If you prefer to avoid getting wet occasionally, it’s better to choose other months. Typically, there are one or two heavy showers daily, and the rest of the day remains dry.
Are there months to avoid in Colombia?
Colombians love to go on vacation within their own country, often in large groups, enjoying quality time with their families. Especially from mid-December to mid-January, popular destinations can be quite crowded as a result. Additionally, prices skyrocket during this period, which might put a strain on your budget. Therefore, this period is not necessarily the best travel time for Colombia.
Holidays and Special Events in Colombia
Colombia is a predominantly Catholic country, and as such, there are quite a few holidays dedicated to patron saints. These often fall on extended weekends (known as puente in Colombia), during which Colombians take the opportunity to go out in large numbers. It’s great to experience these holidays during your trip, but do expect high crowds. Here are some of the special events for you to consider:
- February 22 to 25: Carnival in Barranquilla
This is one of the most important celebrations in Colombia. During this four-day festival, the entire city of Barranquilla comes alive with music, dance, and vibrant colors. - Week before Easter (April): Semana Santa
In various towns and cities across Colombia, the Holy Week takes place a week before Easter. It is a week filled with ceremonies and parades. - July 20: Independence Day (Diá de la Independencia)
On this day in 1810, Colombia declared its independence from Spain. This holiday holds great significance for all Colombians. Throughout the country, there will be various parades featuring traditional costumes and lively music.
Check out all holidays in 2022 and all holidays in 2023.
How to Travel in Colombia?
Colombia is a very easy and safe travel destination that you can explore on your own. Planning your own trip not only saves you a lot of money but also gives you the freedom to choose destinations and hotels according to your preferences. We have visited Colombia twice and had an amazing time on both occasions. Based on our experiences, we have created the ultimate travel itinerary for Colombia. Additionally, we share all the tips to help you organize an incredible trip to Colombia here!
