Colombia in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Colombia

30°C (86°F) High Temp

19°C (66°F) Low Temp

89mm (3.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Rainy season ending means lush green landscapes and fewer afternoon downpours - only 10 rainy days versus 18-20 in October
Ideal temperatures for hiking in coffee regions with cool mornings (19°C/66°F) and warm but not scorching days
Water levels perfect for whitewater rafting and canyoning adventures before dry season lowers rivers
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs 25-30% less than December peak season but weather is dramatically improved from September-October

Considerations

Some remote trekking routes in Cocuy National Park may still have muddy sections from recent rains
Caribbean coast experiences occasional late-season tropical storms affecting boat schedules to islands
Flower blooming season hasn't peaked yet - wait until January-February for maximum floral displays in coffee regions

Best Activities in November

Coffee Region Hiking and Farm Tours

November's post-rain landscapes create perfect conditions for exploring coffee plantations around Salento and Filandia. Cool morning temperatures (19°C/66°F) are ideal for hiking through Cocora Valley's wax palm forests, while afternoon temperatures (30°C/86°F) warm up just enough for comfortable farm tours. The rainy season has ended, meaning clear mountain views and lush green hillsides without daily afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Book coffee farm tours 5-7 days ahead through certified eco-tourism operators. Half-day tours typically cost 45,000-65,000 COP. Look for operators offering transportation from Salento town center and English-speaking guides. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Whitewater Rafting Adventures

November offers optimal water levels for rafting near San Gil and Suesca. Recent rainy season keeps rivers full but not dangerously high, creating Class III-IV rapids perfect for intermediate adventurers. Water temperatures remain comfortable at 22-24°C (72-75°F), and reduced rainfall means consistent trip schedules without weather cancellations.

Booking Tip: Book rafting excursions 10-14 days ahead through licensed adventure operators. Full-day trips including gear and lunch typically range 85,000-120,000 COP. Ensure operators provide certified guides and safety equipment meeting international standards.

Cartagena Colonial Walking and Street Food

November brings relief from oppressive rainy season humidity in Colombia. Daytime temperatures hover around 29°C (84°F) with significantly less rainfall, making extended walking tours through the walled city comfortable. Evening temperatures drop to pleasant 24°C (75°F) - perfect for street food exploration in Getsemani neighborhood without the sweltering heat of December-March.

Booking Tip: Book guided historical tours 3-5 days ahead. Walking tours cost 35,000-50,000 COP per person and typically last 3-4 hours. Choose morning departures (8-11am) to avoid midday heat. Food tours range 65,000-85,000 COP including tastings.

Tayrona National Park Coastal Hiking

Post-rainy season conditions make Tayrona's coastal trails more accessible with less mud and clearer ocean visibility for swimming. November temperatures remain warm (28-30°C/82-86°F) but humidity drops from rainy season peaks. Fewer afternoon storms mean full-day hiking to beaches like Cabo San Juan becomes reliable without weather interruptions.

Booking Tip: Park entry costs 54,500 COP for foreigners. Book eco-lodge accommodations 14-21 days ahead as November marks return of international visitors. Budget 2-3 days minimum. Camping permits available but book in advance through national parks website.

Medellín Urban Innovation Tours

November's reduced rainfall makes exploring Colombia's hillside neighborhoods via metro cable cars consistently accessible. Temperatures range 18-26°C (64-79°F) - perfect for walking through Comuna 13's outdoor art installations and riding the innovative public transport system. Clear skies provide better views of the Aburrá Valley from cable car stations.

Booking Tip: Metro day passes cost 2,500 COP and include cable car access. Book Comuna 13 graffiti tours through community-based operators (25,000-35,000 COP) who directly support local residents. Tours run daily but morning slots (9am-12pm) offer best lighting for photos.

Amazon Basin Wildlife Spotting

November marks the beginning of drier conditions in Colombian Amazon near Leticia, improving wildlife visibility as animals gather near remaining water sources. River levels remain high enough for boat access to remote areas, but reduced daily rainfall means more reliable departure schedules and better chances of spotting pink dolphins, caimans, and diverse bird species.

Booking Tip: Book Amazon lodge packages 21-30 days ahead as November begins peak wildlife viewing season. 3-day packages typically cost 350,000-500,000 COP including meals, guides, and transportation. Choose lodges offering night excursions and indigenous community visits for complete experiences.

November Events & Festivals

Early November

Salsa al Parque

Bogotá's massive free salsa festival showcases Colombia's rich musical heritage with international and local artists performing across multiple outdoor stages in Simón Bolívar Park. November's improved weather conditions make this outdoor celebration more enjoyable than rainy season months.

Mid to Late November (biennial - even years only)

Festival Iberoamericano de Teatro

One of Latin America's largest theater festivals transforms Bogotá into a performing arts capital every two years (next edition 2026). When it occurs, November provides ideal weather for outdoor performances and street theater throughout the city.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket - November still sees 10 rainy days with quick 30-45 minute afternoon showers

Layers for altitude changes - temperatures vary 15°C (27°F) between coast and mountains within Easttimor day

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8-9 at high altitudes near equator, higher than most travelers expect

Waterproof day pack cover - protects electronics during unexpected showers while hiking

Quick-dry pants and shirts - 70% humidity means cotton takes hours to dry after rain

Closed-toe shoes with good grip - trails remain slippery from recent rainy season, especially in coffee regions

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - mosquito activity increases after rains, particularly in Amazon and coastal areas

Power bank and waterproof phone case - rural areas have limited charging opportunities and weather remains unpredictable

Light fleece or hoodie - mountain towns like Colombia drop to 8°C (46°F) at night

Electrolyte tablets - combination of heat, humidity, and altitude changes causes faster dehydration than expected

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in coffee region towns (Salento, Manizales, Armenia) by mid-October - November marks return of international visitors after rainy season but before December price spikes

Avoid internal flights on weekends in November - Colombian families travel more as weather improves, causing delays and higher prices on Avianca and LATAM domestic routes

Carry small bills (5,000 and 10,000 COP notes) - many rural coffee shops and local transport don't have change for 50,000 COP bills, especially after recent peso fluctuations

Download offline maps before visiting Tayrona or Los Llanos regions - cell coverage remains spotty and November's improving weather brings more visitors to remote areas, straining network capacity

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming dry season has fully arrived - November is transitional, so don't leave rain gear behind or book exclusively outdoor activities without backup plans

Overpacking summer clothes for 'tropical' Colombia - mountain cities like Bogotá average 14°C (57°F) in November and require warm layers for morning and evening

Booking Amazon trips expecting peak dry season wildlife viewing - water levels still fluctuate in November, affecting some remote lodge access and animal behavior patterns