Colombia is a privileged country thanks to its location in the tropics, which allows to enjoy a varied and stable climate for most of the year. However, when planning a trip, knowing the weather conditions of each destination is key to making the most of the experience. Cities such as Cartagena, Santa Marta, San Andres, Medellin, and the Coffee Cultural Landscape stand out among the most touristic destinations in Colombia. But, what is the best time of year to explore them?
Best time of year to visit Colombia
Cartagena
@thiagobritocl Ulala.. Cartagena ♥️🇨🇴 #Drone #bocagrande #cartagenadeindias #Cartagena #Colombia #fy #parati ♬ Ulala Cartagena – Joe Arroyo
Cartagena is warm all year round, with temperatures ranging from 27 to 32 degrees Celsius (80 to 90 Fahrenheit). The best time to visit is from December to April, when sunny skies and dry weather prevail. The rainiest season takes place between September and November, with frequent afternoon showers.
The city usually experiences its most intense heatwaves between June and August, when humidity makes the thermal sensation exceed 35 degrees Celsius (95 F). If you travel during this season, it is recommended to stay hydrated, wear light cotton clothing, a hat or cap, and schedule visits to the historic center early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Santa Marta
@santamarta_dronetrip Rodadero santa marta 🌊☀️⛰️ #videoviral #santamarta #colombia#fyp #sea #sunset#beach #turismo #sunsetlover#island #photography #videotiktok#video #drone #dji#fly #paradise #tiktok ♬ Apologize (Remxi) – 十八闲客&笑匠
Santa Marta combines paradisiacal beaches with the proximity of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Temperatures range from 26 to 31 C (78 to 88 F), and the best months to visit are from December to March, when the weather is drier and skies are clear. The heaviest rains occur between September and November.
Heatwaves in Santa Marta are most noticeable between July and September, when the sun is strongest and humidity rises. To cope with these conditions, it is best to seek shade during midday, avoid long walks under the sun, and prefer beach plans in the morning or late afternoon. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential.
San Andres
@imaagenaerea Hermosa vista de la bahia #sanandresislascolombia #dronevideo #djimini3 #dji #marcaribe #jetsky #CapCut #acuariosanandres #parasailing #dronevideograhy #yate ♬ La Travesia (Afro House) – Afro Nation
The archipelago is famous for its “sea of seven colors” and tropical climate, with stable temperatures between 27 and 30 C (80 to 86 F) throughout the year. The best time to visit is from December to May, when the sea is calmer and rainfall is minimal. The rainiest months are from September to November, coinciding with the Caribbean hurricane season, although the island rarely suffers major impacts.
In San Andres, the heat feels most intense between July and September, when humidity levels are very high. During this period, it’s best to enjoy aquatic activities such as diving and snorkeling, avoid prolonged sun exposure between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., and refresh yourself with tropical hydrating fruits such as coconut or watermelon, widely available on the island.
Colombian Andes: Medellin and the Coffee Cultural Landscape
Medellin
@medellinenelmapa Los climas de Medellín #MedellínEnElMapa #Colombia #Medellín #antioquia #Medallo ♬ Oh Qué Será? – Willie Colón
Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellin features pleasant temperatures between 18 and 28 C (64 to 82 F) all year round. The best time to visit is from December to March, when rainfall is lower. The rainiest months are May, October, and November. Medellin does not experience extreme heatwaves, making it a comfortable destination any time of year.
Coffee Cultural Landscape (Eje Cafetero)
@valeriepl Enamorada de este lugar😍 #ejecafetero #armenia #colombia #valledelcocora #travel #quindio #viaje ♬ La Tierra del Olvido – Carlos Vives
Made up of Armenia, Manizales, and Pereira, this region offers a temperate climate ranging between 18 and 25 C (64 to 77 F). The best time to visit is between December and March, when conditions are drier. The rainiest periods are April–May and October–November. Like Medellin, the region does not experience extreme heatwaves, although humidity can feel more intense during rainy months.