Weather in Colombia in November

Given its varied climates and altitudes, the weather in Colombia in November sees considerable differences around its regions. For example, while the Caribbean Coast and the Insular and Andean regions become drier, the Amazon sees increased rainfall, and the Pacific Coast remains very rainy. At the same time, the drier areas attract more tourists as December’s high season approaches. Read on to find out about the weather in Colombia in November, along with some itinerary ideas.

What is the weather like in Colombia in November?

As touched on above, as a result of differences in climate and altitude, the weather in Colombia in November varies according to region. Read on for detail.

Andean region

While Colombia's Andean region has a mild spring-like climate around the year, November is part of the rainy season. So, expect daily showers, particularly in the afternoon, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).

As a result of its altitude, Bogotá, the Colombian capital, is one of the coolest destinations in the region, while Medellín tends to be warmer — hence its City of Eternal Spring moniker.

Editor’s tip: read our guide to the weather in Medellín in November.

Caribbean coast

Come November, Colombia's Caribbean Coast — including Cartagena, Barranquilla, and Santa Marta — will be warmer and drier compared to other parts of the country.

With temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), and occasional showers, it’s a great time to enjoy beautiful beaches, and discover the history, culture and architecture of colonial cities before peak season crowds descend in December. 

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

Pacific coast

Colombia’s Pacific Coast sees notable rainfall around the year, with peak rains usually experienced in October. 

While November remains rainy, and humidity is also high, it’s a top time for whale watching.

Amazon region

If you’re planning to visit the likes of Leticia in the Amazon region in November, note that this month sees an increase of rain in a region that experiences significant precipitation around the year. 

For context, November sees around 300 mm (11.8 inches) — an increase on October’s 280mm (11 inches). Meanwhile, May sees in excess of 350 mm (13.8 inches).

While some hiking trails will be trickier to access in November, it can be easier to explore the Amazon by boat  — the heavy rains lead to higher river levels.

Insular region

In November, the islands of San Andrés and Providencia in Colombia’s Insular region shift to the dry season. 

Temperatures are warm, with an average daily high of 30°C (77°F to 86°F) — ideal for snorkelling, diving, and enjoying the islands' beaches.

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

Temperatures in Colombia in November

In line with regional variations in weather patterns, November sees areas around Colombia experience different temperatures. 

Read on for an overview of average low and high temperatures in a few key regions.

Andean region: in November, the Andean region sees a temperature range of 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). 

Caribbean coast: warm around the year, Colombia’s Caribbean coast sees daily lows of 24°C and highs of 30°C (75°F to 86°F) in November.

Pacific coast: expect high humidity and temperatures between 23°C to 29°C (73°F to 84°F). 

Amazon region: almost always humid, November in the Amazon region brings a temperature range of 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F).

Insular region: similar to the Caribbean Coast, the islands of San Andrés and Providencia see warm temperatures between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F).

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

Is November a good time to visit Colombia?

In a word, yes. Though the Pacific Coast remains very rainy, and the Amazon sees an increase in rain, the fact that November sits just ahead of peak season as many regions become drier makes it a great month to visit.

That’s especially the case if you looking for lower costs and smaller crowds, and also if you’re into wildlife-watching. For example, though wet, this is a top time to see humpback whales along the Pacific Coast, and to take boat trips on the Amazon.

If culture’s your thing, head to Cartagena on the Caribbean Coast to discover its UNESCO attractions and beaches. In addition, the city’s Independence Day celebrations on 11th November offer an excellent extra reason to visit this month.

Still thinking about where to vacation in November? Read the Rough Guide about the best places to travel in November and choose the right one for you.

What about crowds and costs?

Sitting in a shoulder season, November sees small-to-moderate crowds just ahead of the December-January high season. 

Hand in hand with this is the chance to secure lower costs on flights and accommodation, but be sure to book early if you’re planning to stay in Cartagena for Independence Day.

Festivals and events in Colombia in November

November sees Colombia host a few notable events including one of its most celebrated annual festivals – Cartagena’s Independence Day.

Celebrate Fiestas de Independencia

11th November sees Cartagena commemorate its 1811 declaration of independence from Spanish rule — a pivotal moment in the history of both the city and Colombia.

Lasting several days, it’s a vibrant, colourful event, with the Grand Parade (Desfile de la Independencia) a highlight around the street fairs.

Festival Pirarucú de Oro

Held in mid-November, predominantly in the city of Leticia, the Festival Pirarucú de Oro celebrates Amazonian music.

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

Ready for your dream trip to Colombia in November?

If you’re keen to experience a rewarding range of Colombia in November, 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.
• February: the weather is similar to January, with minimal rainfall (especially in coastal and Andean regions) and slightly fewer visitors than January.
• 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.
• December: as the dry season kicks in across most of the country, expect sun and high visitor numbers in this peak season month.