Colombia in December: Brace for the Peak Season

The weather in Colombia remains more or less unchanged throughout the year. As it is located near the equator, there are no remarkable seasonal differences, though temperatures vary with the change in altitude. In December, most parts of Colombia are dry, except the Amazon. Even the wettest region of Bogota enters into its annual dry spell in December. The Colombian capital experiences pleasant weather with highs of 20°C and lows of 9°C. Rainfall is limited to 79mm over a span of just 11 days. The coastal Cartagena is comparatively warmer. Here, average maximum temperature hovers around 31°C with a minimum of 26°C. Medellin, famous for its spring-like weather all year, has a maximum of 27°C and a minimum of 17°C.

For a seasonal overview of the country, check out our guide on the best time to visit Colombia.

Looking for a tropical winter escape? A trip to Colombia offers pleasant climes with a myriad of activities. Here are some of the top reasons why you should visit Colombia in December:

• Amazon Mix Season: December is a transitional month in the Amazon. While some areas are still submerged, there are still plenty of places to explore. Take a trek to the indigenous villages, or hop on a wooden canoe through the vast Amazon to search for pink dolphins.
• Surf Season: Surf season on Colombian coasts starts in December. The tide is ideal for both beginners and experts to ride on. Caribbean surf towns are more developed and accessible, while Pacific ones like Nuquí are offbeat and have hidden gems.
• Festivals: December, in Colombia, begins with an immersive light festival. Head to Villa de Leyva to participate in the celebration with the locals as the colonial town in the lap of the Andes lights up with colorful candles and lanterns. Relish the traditional festive food while listening to folk music. Apart from the Festival of Lights in Medellin, you can also witness a unique display of local art and culture with their Parade of Myths and Legends Dance, where art floats take over the city streets.

After a two-week closure in November for ritualistic cleansing, Tayrona National Park will be opened now. Soak up the sun and sink your toes in the sands of Playa Crystal as you catch a beach break in this mix of tropical forest, looming hills and picturesque beaches. Swim in the jewel tones of San Andres aquamarine Sea of Seven Colors. To experience the indigenous culture of the Wayuu people, visit the serene beaches of La Guajira.

Head to Cali to dance away in the salsa capital at their annual fair. Take part in a dance marathon or watch horse riding parades here. To top off all the parties and fiestas with some peace and quiet, spend a night or two in a traditional pueblo surrounded by coffee plantations. December is the end of the coffee harvest season, and Colombia's coffee country is abuzz with activities.

And to wrap up the year on a Colombian note, spend the New Year’s eve singing the song of the last year, or follow any of their quirky local traditions (yellow underwear) to usher in the new year.

The weather in Colombia in December might be perfect but it is also the start of the high tourist season. Travel and accommodation rates tend to increase during this time, while tourist crowds throng from beaches to bars to back alleys. So, set your expectations accordingly, and plan your trip to navigate the tourist season successfully.

Reach out to our local travel experts if you want a customized trip to Colombia. If you would like us to help plan a trip to Colombia, you can check out our guide on how many days to spend in Colombia. For more information, check out our trips to Colombia in December.