Weather in Colombia in February

Considering taking a trip to Colombia in February? Similar to January, the weather in Colombia in February sees minimal rainfall, especially in coastal and Andean regions. And, though temperatures vary in different regions, it’s generally pretty warm. As such, February lends itself well to all manner of travel experiences — from beach chilling and cultural pursuits, to adventure activities. Read on for detail on the weather in Colombia in February, and to discover the answer to that key question — is February a good time to visit Colombia?

What is the weather like in Colombia in February?

February is part of a dry season in Colombia that runs from December to March. As a result, generally speaking, the weather in Colombia in February is warm, with low rainfall and plenty of sun in many areas.

However, topographical variations mean there are regional differences in rain, humidity and temperatures — keep reading for an overview of exactly that.  

Andean region

Encompassing major cities like Bogotá, Medellín and Cali, Colombia’s Andean region experiences a mild climate in February, with temperatures varying according to altitude.

For example, Medellín — known as the "City of Eternal Spring — enjoys pleasantly warm weather and low rainfall, as revealed in our guide to the weather in Medellín in February.

Meanwhile Bogotá, the Colombian capital, is among the Andean region’s coolest spots in February. It also sees low rainfall.

Caribbean coast

Including captivating Cartagena and Santa Marta, Colombia’s Caribbean Coast enjoys hot, sunny weather in February — perfect for enjoying beach and water-sports activities alongside immersing yourself in the city’s cultural attractions, and exploring the wider region.

As a bonus, February also plays to the Barranquilla Carnival — one of the most vibrant festivals in Colombia.

Editor’s tip: read more detail on the weather in Cartagena in February.

Pacific coast 

Despite February sitting within the dry season, Colombia’s Pacific Coast sees frequent rain during this month, and it’s pretty humid, too. 

That said, rainfall is lower than during most months, and this is a good time to go whale watching. 

Amazon region

In the likes of Leticia in Colombia’s Amazon region, the weather is consistently hot and humid in February, with frequent rain showers — typical of a tropical rainforest climate.

But, while you will experience rain in February, be assured it’s less wet than many other months, and it’s a top time to enjoy wildlife trips and river tours.

Eastern plains

Though Colombia’s Eastern Plains start to shift to the wet season in February, the region remains dry for most of the month, with warm-to-hot temperatures enticing folk to take wildlife-watching trips.

Insular region 

Come February, the islands of San Andrés and Providencia in Colombia’s Insular region are warm and dry. With fewer crowds here than in January, this is a wonderful month to enjoy sublime swimming and snorkelling experiences.

Keen to visit Colombia? Talk to our local Colombia experts to kick-start creating your dream trip. 

Temperatures in Colombia in February

Considering regional variations of the weather in Colombia in February, here’s some detail on temperatures in different areas.

Andean region: Bogotá is cool in February, with a typical temperature range of 6°C to 19°C (43°F to 66°F). Meanwhile, Medellín is warmer, with average night-time lows of 16°C -18°C (61°F to 64°F), and average daytime highs of 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F). 

Caribbean coast: temperatures typically range from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F) in February.

Pacific coast: with a temperature range of 23°C to 29°C (73°F to 84°F), the Pacific Coast is also humid in February. 

Amazon region: come February, the tropical Amazon region sees a temperatures range of 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F).

Eastern plains: expect daytime highs of 33°C (75°F) and night-time lows of 24°C (91°F).

Insular region: ideal for the beach, Colombia’s Insular region sees temperature levels hover around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) in February.

Want an overview of the weather in Colombia around the year? Read up on the best time to visit Colombia.

Is February a good time to visit Colombia?

Those in the know often hail February one of the best months to visit Colombia. With most regions drier than average, and many areas warm and sunny, it’s a great time to take advantage of everything the country has to offer. 

For example, the mild, dry weather in the Andean region is well-suited to uncovering culture in cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali.

Looking for a blissful beach break? February is a fantastic time to visit the islands of San Andrés and Providencia, or to stay on the Caribbean Coast (hello, Cartagena and Santa Marta!). Here you can enjoy sunny, warm weather and throw yourself into the famous Barranquilla Carnival.

Still not sure where to go? Discover some of the best places to visit in February.

What about crowds and costs?

The first thing to note about crowds and costs in Colombia in February is that it sits within a high season that runs from December, with another high season running from June to August. 

The December-February peak period coincides with dry weather in most parts of the country and local holidays. For example, you can expect a high volume of local and international visitors in the February carnival season.

With increased visitor numbers comes increased demand for flights and accommodation, which in turn means higher prices. As a result, it’s wise to book accommodation and activities in advance. 

Travelling on a budget? You could consider visiting in one of the country’s low seasons, which run from April-June and September-November. Just be aware these are also Colombia’s wettest months.

Festivals and events in Colombia in February

If you’re hoping to sample local culture, February is a great time to visit, with the month playing host to the celebrated Carnaval de Barranquilla.

Carnaval de Barranquilla

The UNESCO-recognised Carnaval de Barranquilla is traditionally held four days before Ash Wednesday, which means the exact dates vary each year, usually falling in late February or early March. 

One of Colombia's biggest and most colourful events, it’s held in the city of Barranquilla and kicks off with “Battle of the Flowers” (Batalla de Flores) — a large parade led by the Carnaval Queen.

After the Gran Parada (Great Parade) showcases traditional dances, and Monday’s Orchestra Festival, the carnival concludes with the symbolic Burial of Joselito Carnaval.

Still making up your mind? Read up on the best things to do in Colombia, and get The Rough Guide to Colombia.

Looking for even more options for your winter getaway? Explore our guide to the best places for a February holiday.

Ready for your dream trip to Colombia in February?

If you fancy seeing a rewarding range of Colombia in February, consider taking a trip that’s been curated by a Rough Guides' local expert.

As revealed in our guide to back-packing Colombia, going it alone takes some planning and can present challenges. In contrast, taking the Rough Guides’ route means our experts will take care of planning an unforgettable trip that’s been 100% tailored to your preferences.

Here are a few sample itineraries to spark inspiration:

• Magnificent Colombian Highlights (11 days): from exploring bustling Bogota and charming Cartagena, to uncovering the natural wonders of Puerto Narino and Medellín’s vibrant culture, this trip is rich in experiences and magnificent in nature. 
• Fascination Colombia - Medellín and Cartagena (11 days): this immersive two-centre trip will see you divide your time between Medellin and Cartagena, with each base offering opportunities to experience a richness of Colombian culture, from taking authentic cooking classes, to exploring the great outdoors on horseback.
• Unforgettable Colombia - cities, coffee and islands (13 days): encompassing Colombia's three main areas, including the capital, Bogotá, the beautiful colonial town of Villa de Leyva, and Cartagena, this diverse trip will see you uncover coffee culture in lush hillsides and valleys before blissing out on the idyllic Islas del Rosario

Visit Colombia in other months

To be better informed before booking your trip, find out what to expect of the weather in Colombia around the year.

• January: this peak season month is packed with festivals, with low rainfall in most regions. It's mild in the Andes, and hot on the Caribbean coast.
• March: with moderate visitor numbers, this transitional month remains dry in the north as it becomes wetter in the south.
• April: with low visitor numbers, this is the beginning of the wet season in the Andean and Pacific regions.
• May: wet season weather ramps up in most regions, with high rainfall in the Andean and Amazon regions, and small visitor numbers. 
• June: while the drier season starts in the Andes, the Amazon remains rainy. Visitor numbers increase as school holidays begin.
• July: it’s dry season in the Andes and Caribbean, while Amazon is still wet, and visitor numbers are high due to summer vacationers. 
• August: similar to July, it’s dry in the north, wet in the south, and summer peak season continues.
• September: as the second rainy season starts in the Andes, visitor numbers decline.
• October: wet in most of the Andean region, October sees fewer tourists due to rain, though it’s drier on the Caribbean coast.
• November: this month sees the approach of the end of the rainy season in many regions, and visitor numbers increase through the month.
• December: as the dry season kicks in across most of the country, expect sun and high visitor numbers in this peak season month.