Bogota

Climate Characteristics of Bogotá

General Overview

Bogotá is located on a high plateau in the Andes, at an altitude of approximately 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level. This high elevation is the primary factor determining its climate, categorized as subtropical highland. Unlike most of Colombia, Bogotá is not tropical and hot, but rather cool and temperate year-round. Temperatures remain very stable, without extreme seasons like scorching summers or snowy winters.

Temperatures and Daily Variations

Daytime temperatures consistently average between 18°C and 20°C (64-68°F), while nighttime lows drop to 7°C-10°C (45-50°F). It is often said that one can experience "four seasons in one day" in Bogotá—the morning can start very cold, the midday can be warm and sunny, the afternoon may bring rain, and the evening turns cold again.

Rainy Seasons (March-May and October-November)

These are the periods with the highest rainfall. Rain in Bogotá typically appears as short, heavy showers, usually in the afternoon as skies cloud over quickly. April and October are generally considered the wettest months of the year.

Dry Seasons (December-February and June-August)

These are the sunniest and clearest periods in Bogotá, considered ideal times to visit. During these months, there is less cloud cover, visibility from the Monserrate mountains overlooking the city is at its best, and the air feels dry and crisp.

Weather in Bogotá by Month

January

The driest and sunniest month. 20°C (68°F) daytime and 7°C (45°F) at night. Excellent time for hiking and photography.

February

Still relatively dry (20°C/68°F daytime). Many clear days with blue skies.

March

Start of the first rainy season. 19°C (66°F) daytime. Skies begin to cloud over more frequently in the afternoon.

April

One of the wettest months. 19°C (66°F) daytime. An umbrella is regularly needed due to heavy showers.

May

Still rainy and cool (19°C/66°F daytime). The city is very green, and the air is fresh.

June

Start of a short dry period. 18°C (64°F) daytime. Skies tend to be partially cloudy but with less rain.

July

Relatively dry and very windy month (18°C/64°F daytime). Strong winds blow across the plateau.

August

Similar to July (18°C/64°F daytime). Comfortable weather for tours, though evenings remain cold.

September

Slight warming and volatility (19°C/66°F daytime). Rainfall begins to increase again.

October

The wettest month of the second season. 18°C (64°F) daytime. Grey and rainy days are very common.

November

Still rainy (18°C/64°F daytime). Toward the end of the month, there are first signs of clearing.

December

Return to dry and festive weather. 19°C (66°F) daytime and 8°C (46°F) at night. Very popular time for tourism.