Weather in Colombia

Colombia, located in the northwest corner of South America, boasts a diverse range of climates and weather patterns due to its unique geographical features, including its proximity to the equator, the Andes Mountains, and its coastline along the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Here’s an explanation of the different weathers and climates found in Colombia:

1. Tropical Rainforest Climate (Af):
   • Found in the Amazon Basin and the Pacific Coast region, this climate is characterized by high temperatures, abundant rainfall, and high humidity throughout the year.
   • Average temperatures range from 24°C to 27°C (75°F to 81°F).
   • Rainfall is evenly distributed, with precipitation occurring year-round, but with slightly drier periods.
2. Tropical Monsoon Climate (Am):
   • Predominantly found along the Caribbean Coast and the eastern plains (Llanos), this climate features distinct wet and dry seasons.
   • Wet season typically lasts from May to November, with heavy rainfall and high humidity.
   • Dry season occurs from December to April, with relatively lower humidity and less rainfall.
3. Tropical Savanna Climate (Aw):
   • Commonly found in the eastern plains (Llanos) and parts of the Orinoco River basin, this climate exhibits a pronounced dry season.
   • Temperatures remain warm throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 30°C to 32°C (86°F to 90°F).
   • Rainfall is concentrated in the wet season (April to October), while the dry season (November to March) experiences minimal precipitation.
4. Subtropical Highland Climate (Cfb, Csb):
   • Present in the Andean region, including cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali, this climate is characterized by moderate temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons.
   • Temperatures vary with altitude, but typically range from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F) in lower elevations and decrease with altitude.
   • Rainfall is more pronounced during the wet season (April to November), while the dry season (December to March) experiences less precipitation.
5. Cold Mountain Climate (Cwc):
   • Found in higher elevations of the Andes Mountains, including the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy, this climate features cold temperatures and frequent precipitation.
   • Average temperatures decrease with altitude, ranging from 0°C to 12°C (32°F to 54°F) depending on elevation.
   • Precipitation occurs year-round, often in the form of snow at higher altitudes.
6. Desert Climate (BWh):
   • Limited to small areas in the Guajira Peninsula in the north, this climate is characterized by high temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall.
   • Temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F) during the day, while nighttime temperatures drop significantly.
   • Rainfall is scarce, with most precipitation occurring in sporadic bursts during the rainy season (September to November).

These diverse climates contribute to Colombia’s rich biodiversity and offer visitors a wide range of experiences, from exploring lush rainforests to trekking through snow-capped mountains or relaxing on sunny Caribbean beaches.