Climate & Weather

Climate & Weather in Colombia

Colombia's location on the equator means no traditional seasons. Instead, altitude determines climate - you can find your preferred weather by choosing the right city.

Climate Zones by Altitude

Tierra Caliente (Hot Land) - Sea level to 1,000m:

• Cartagena, Santa Marta, Caribbean coast, Amazon
• Hot and humid year-round: 80-95°F (27-35°C)
• AC essential
• Examples: Cartagena, Cali

Tierra Templada (Temperate Land) - 1,000-2,000m:

• Medellin, coffee region
• Perfect spring weather: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• No AC or heating needed
• Examples: Medellin (1,500m), Pereira

Tierra Fria (Cold Land) - 2,000-3,000m:

• Bogota
• Cooler, sweater weather: 45-65°F (7-18°C)
• Some heating helpful, no AC
• Example: Bogota (2,640m)

City Climate Comparison

Medellin - "City of Eternal Spring"

Why it's famous:

• Consistent 70-80°F (21-27°C) year-round
• Mornings slightly cool, afternoons warm
• No extreme heat or cold
• No need for AC or heating
• "Best weather in the world" according to many expats

Variations:

• El Poblado (higher elevation): Slightly cooler
• Laureles (lower): Slightly warmer
• Rainy season brings afternoon showers (quick, not all-day)

Bogota - Sweater Weather

Characteristics:

• Cooler due to altitude (8,600 feet)
• Morning fog and chill common
• Afternoon can be pleasant
• Rain possible any time
• Bring layers

Adjustment:

Coming from sea level, altitude adjustment takes a few days. Drink water, take it easy initially.

Rainy Seasons

Colombia has two rainy seasons (roughly):

• April-May (heavier)
• October-November (heavier)

Dry seasons:

• December-February (driest)
• July-August (relatively dry)

What rain means:

• Usually afternoon thunderstorms (1-2 hours)
• Not all-day rain like some places
• Life continues - bring umbrella
• Green landscapes year-round because of rain

Natural Phenomena

No hurricanes:

Colombia is south of the hurricane belt - major advantage over Caribbean islands.

Earthquakes:

Colombia is seismically active. Small tremors common. Major quakes possible but rare.

Rainstorms:

Occasional intense rain can cause flooding, landslides in mountainous areas.

What to Pack

For Medellin:

• Light layers (t-shirts, light sweaters)
• Rain jacket or umbrella
• Light pants and shorts
• Comfortable walking shoes

For Bogota:

• Warmer layers (sweaters, light jacket)
• Rain jacket (essential)
• Closed-toe shoes
• One warm outfit for cold nights

For coast:

• Light, breathable clothing
• Sunscreen and hat
• Swimwear
• Sandals

Climate and Health

Benefits:

• Medellin's climate is ideal for outdoor living
• No extreme weather stress
• Year-round outdoor exercise possible
• Fresh air (though Bogota has pollution)

Considerations:

• Bogota altitude can affect some people
• Coast humidity can aggravate some conditions
• Sun is strong at altitude - use sunscreen
• Air quality varies (Bogota worse than Medellin)