Colombia in August

August weather, activities, events & insider tips

August Weather in Colombia

32°C (90°F) High Temp

22°C (72°F) Low Temp

180mm (7.1 inches) Rainfall

85% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Lush green landscapes at peak beauty - waterfalls like Caño Cristales are at full flow and most spectacular in August
Shoulder season pricing with 20-30% lower accommodation costs compared to December-January peak
Perfect conditions for coffee farm tours in zona cafetera - harvest season provides authentic processing experiences
Amazon region accessibility is optimal with rivers at navigable levels for wildlife spotting cruises

Considerations

Daily afternoon downpours lasting 1-2 hours can disrupt outdoor plans between 2-4pm
Caribbean coast experiences heaviest rains with 200mm+ (7.9+ inches), making beach activities unpredictable
High humidity at 85% makes hiking strenuous - mountain treks feel significantly more challenging

Best Activities in August

Coffee Farm Tours in Zona Cafetera

August is peak harvest season in coffee triangle. Temperatures stay comfortable at 1,200-1,800m (3,937-5,906 ft) elevation while valleys swelter. Rain typically comes after 3pm, leaving mornings perfect for farm walks and cupping sessions. Humidity actually enhances coffee processing demonstrations.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through certified coffee farms. Tours typically cost 45,000-80,000 COP ($11-20 USD). Morning tours (8am-12pm) avoid afternoon rains. Look for fincas offering harvest participation experiences during August.

Medellín Urban Exploration

August's frequent rain makes Colombia's extensive metro system and cable cars invaluable. Eternal spring climate at 1,495m (4,905 ft) means 24°C (75°F) highs feel refreshing. Rain provides natural air conditioning and clears pollution. Museums, covered markets, and rooftop bars under awnings shine.

Booking Tip: Book walking tours for mornings (9am-12pm) before daily showers. City tours typically 35,000-60,000 COP ($9-15 USD). Metro day passes cost 2,500 COP ($0.65). Look for tours including covered markets and indoor cultural sites.

Amazon Jungle Expeditions

August rains swell rivers to perfect levels for navigation deep into jungle. Wildlife is active during cooler, overcast conditions. Rain creates spectacular acoustic experiences - howler monkeys and bird calls amplify. Rivers provide natural cooling from 28°C (82°F) heat.

Booking Tip: Book 14-21 days ahead through eco-lodges. 3-day packages typically 450,000-750,000 COP ($115-190 USD). Wet season means better wildlife viewing but pack completely waterproof gear. Choose lodges with covered walkways and observation decks.

Bogotá Cultural Immersion

At 2,640m (8,661 ft), Colombia stays cool year-round with August highs of 19°C (66°F). Rain is lighter than coastal areas and museums, galleries, and covered markets provide perfect rainy day refuges. August coincides with various cultural festivals and theater seasons.

Booking Tip: Book indoor-focused tours combining museums and covered markets. Half-day tours typically 40,000-70,000 COP ($10-18 USD). Bring layers - mornings start at 8°C (46°F). Look for tours including Museo del Oro and covered La Candelaria walking routes.

Thermal Springs Experiences

August's cool mornings and rainy afternoons make thermal springs irresistible. Natural hot springs at 38-42°C (100-108°F) feel luxurious against cool air. Rain on hot spring pools creates magical atmospheric experiences. Less crowded than dry season.

Booking Tip: Book thermal spring day trips 3-5 days ahead. Day packages typically 50,000-120,000 COP ($13-30 USD) including transport. Morning visits (9am-1pm) offer best weather windows. Choose facilities with covered areas and restaurant options.

Cartagena Colonial Architecture Tours

While rain is frequent, Colombia's colonial architecture provides endless covered walkways, courtyards, and arcades perfect for exploration. Morning tours (8-11am) typically avoid heaviest downpours. Rain cools 32°C (90°F) heat and creates dramatic photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Book morning walking tours ending before 12pm. Tours typically 40,000-65,000 COP ($10-16 USD). Look for routes emphasizing covered colonial courtyards, museums, and churches. Avoid beach combinations in August - focus on walled city exploration.

August Events & Festivals

Throughout August

Festival de Verano Bogotá

Annual summer festival featuring outdoor concerts, theater performances, and cultural activities across Colombia's parks and covered venues. Perfect for August's unpredictable weather with many indoor and covered outdoor options.

Early August

Feria de las Flores Medellín

Colombia's most famous flower festival celebrating the region's year-round spring climate. August timing coincides with optimal flower blooming conditions enhanced by regular rainfall.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight, quick-dry rain jacket - afternoon showers are guaranteed and last 1-2 hours daily

Waterproof phone case and electronics protection - humidity reaches 85% even without rain

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes unbearable in high humidity

Closed-toe shoes with good grip - cobblestone streets in colonial cities become slippery when wet

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 9 and you'll be fooled by overcast skies

Compact umbrella - locals always carry one and you'll stand out as tourist without

Moisture-wicking undergarments - cotton underwear stays damp all day in 85% humidity

Layers for altitude changes - Colombia mornings start at 8°C (46°F) while coastal areas hit 32°C (90°F)

Waterproof daypack or dry bag - essential for protecting belongings during sudden downpours

Antifungal powder - high humidity creates ideal conditions for foot fungus

Insider Knowledge

Locals adjust daily schedules around 2-4pm rain window - plan indoor activities or late lunches during this time

August is 'winter' vacation for local families, so domestic attractions see increased Colombian visitors but fewer international tourists

Flights are cheapest in August as it's considered low season - book international flights 6-8 weeks ahead for 25-30% savings versus December

Many restaurants in tourist areas offer 'rainy day' specials during August afternoon showers - perfect time for extended coffee breaks

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning beach days on Caribbean coast - August brings heaviest rains with 200mm+ (7.9+ inches) making beach time miserable

Packing only for warm weather - mountain cities like Colombia require jackets and pants year-round

Scheduling outdoor activities after 1pm - afternoon rains are predictable and unavoidable