Weather in Colombia in September

As a result of its altitude variations, Colombia experiences regional differences in weather around the year, including September. For example, though the Andean region and Pacific Coast see a surge in rainfall in September, the Caribbean Coast remains relatively dry, while the Amazon region experiences similar rainfall to August. Want more detail? Read on to find out about the weather in Colombia in September.

What is the weather like in Colombia in September?

As highlighted above, the weather in Colombia in September varies according to region and the altitude of destinations, as detailed below.

Andean region

If you visit Colombia’s Andean region in September you can expect mild temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 23°C (73°F), and increased rainfall.

Thanks to its altitude, Bogotá, the Colombian capital, will be one of the coolest destinations in the region in September. In fact, the city is mild around the year, and drizzle is frequent. Meanwhile, Medellín, “City of Eternal Spring”, will be warmer.

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

Caribbean coast

This region remains warm in September with temperatures often rising to 32°C (90°F).

In the light of that heat, and given that it’s considerably drier than other areas, consider heading to Colombia’s Caribbean Coast in September to soak up the sun — and soak in bath-warm waters — in September. 

This is also a great month to explore Cartagena’s UNESCO attractions with fewer fellow visitors hampering your experiences.

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

Pacific coast

As is typical of this region, Colombia’s Pacific Coast experiences heavy rainfall in September, with high humidity accentuating the tropical heat.

In fact, only October sees more rainfall in than September, so come prepared.

Amazon region

In keeping with its tropical rainforest climate, expect high humidity, frequent rain showers, and temperatures between 23°C (73°F) and 31°C (88°F) if you visit the likes of Leticia in Colombia’s Amazon region in September.

That said, with an average of 220 mm (8.7 inches) of rainfall, September is not nearly as wet as other months. For context, May sees in excess of 350 mm (13.8 inches).

Insular region

In September, the islands of San Andrés and Providencia enjoy warm, tropical weather with less rain than the mainland.

So you know where to head if you’re after a blissful beach break, or sublime snorkelling experiences without high season crowds.

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

Temperatures in Colombia in September

Going hand in hand with regional variations in weather patterns, you can expect to experience a variety of temperatures in different parts of Colombia in September.

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

Andean region: expect mild temperatures ranging from 10°-23°C (50°-73°F).

Caribbean coast: this region remains warm and relatively dry with a temperature range of 25°-32°C (77°-90°F). 

Pacific coast: temperatures range from 23°C (73°F) to 29°C (84°F), though high humidity can make it feel hotter.

Amazon region: expect high humidity, frequent rain showers, and temperatures between 23°C (73°F) and 31°C (88°F).

Insular region: on the islands of San Andrés and Providencia, temperatures hover around 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F).

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

Is September a good time to visit Colombia?

As is always the case, the answer to this question depends on what you most want to see and do.

For example, while some visitors might be put off by the Pacific Coast’s heavy rainfall in September, this is a top month to visit to watch humpback whales migrate.

It’s also a great month to visit Colombia to enjoy boat tours and hikes in the Amazon, and we’ve already covered the benefits of visiting the Caribbean Coast and Insular region islands in September — low rainfall, smaller crowds, and big blasts of sun. 

All things considered, given the range of experiences you can enjoy, September is a pretty good month to visit Colombia — just come prepared for rain in some regions.

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

What about crowds and costs?

Due to increased rainfall in various regions — particularly in the Andean region and Pacific Coast — September is considered part of the low season in Colombia. 

As such, it sees fewer tourists, which can result in lower prices for accommodation and tours compared to the December-January high season.

That said, we suggest booking Amazon excursions early, and sorting your Caribbean Coast accommodation well ahead of travelling, too. That way, you won’t miss out on securing your preferred tours or place to stay, and you might be able to take advantage of early-bird deals.

Festivals and events in Colombia in September

In good news for culture vultures, September sees Colombia host a few notable festivals and events.

Jazz al Parque, Bogotà

Across a weekend in mid or late September, local and international musicians take over Bogotá’s parks to perform world-class jazz at the Jazz al Parque festival.

One of the biggest gatherings of its kind in South America, Jazz al Parque is a sensational experience for music-lovers.

Fiesta de San Pacho

From 3rd September to 5th October, the inhabitants of Quibdó city in Colombia’s Chocó department organise events that culminate in the UNESCO-designated Feast of San Pacho — a nickname given to people called Francisco.

Green Moon Festival, San Andrés

Celebrating the island's Afro-Caribbean heritage, San Andrés’ Green Moon Festival celebrates a richness of cultures and histories through music, dance, and food. 

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 September?

If you’re keen to experience a rewarding range of Colombia in September, 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.
• 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.