Colombia in July Travel Guide: Festivals, Weather, and More
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Colombia in July is magical! I had the chance to spend 10 days in Colombia this past July, and trust me, it was such an unforgettable experience. July is the peak of the dry season, so the weather is perfect for exploring everything this amazing country has to offer—from the stunning Andes to the colorful streets of Medellín.
And don’t even get me started on the cultural events! Whether you’re after adventure, amazing food, or just soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Colombia in July has you covered. I’m so excited to share everything I learned with you in this guide—trust me, you’re gonna want to plan your trip here asap!
Weather in Colombia in July
So here’s the thing about Colombia’s weather in July: it’s pretty diverse! The country’s geography creates all kinds of climates, meaning you could be chilling by the beach in Cartagena and then head to Bogotá, where you’ll need a jacket. But don’t worry, July is the dry season in most places, making it a prime time to explore.
Andean Region
Cities like Bogota and Medellin are perfect in July, with mild, pleasant temperatures during the day—usually between 57°F and 73°F (14°C to 23°C). But at night? It cools off a bit more, with temperatures dipping down to 46°F to 57°F (8°C to 14°C). If you’re heading here, be sure to pack layers. I learned the hard way that Bogota gets pretty chilly once the sun goes down.
But on the bright side, the dry weather means clear skies, and you’ll have better views of all those gorgeous mountain landscapes. Perfect for exploring charming colonial towns, lush valleys, and those beautiful cloud-covered peaks!
Caribbean Coast
Now, if you’re looking for sunshine and beach vibes, the Caribbean Coast is calling your name. Cities like Cartagena and Santa Marta are hot, with temperatures ranging from 82°F to 90°F (28°C to 32°C) during the day. It’s warm enough for sunbathing and enjoying all the water activities you can handle.
But here’s the thing—humidity is real. I felt like Cartagena was even more humid than Florida, so be sure to stay hydrated and rock light, breathable clothing.
Amazon Rainforest
Okay, so if you’re venturing into the Amazon, you should know July is not exactly the driest month. It’s still rainy, but the lush greenery and wildlife make it totally worth it. Just prepare for some showers and be sure to pack waterproof gear. Trust me, you don’t want to be caught without it! And bug spray—don’t forget that either, because the mosquitoes will find you if you let them.
Even though it’s a bit rainy, the Amazon’s beauty is just unreal. The vibrant jungle, exotic animals, and the overall adventure make it one of those bucket-list experiences you won’t forget.
Festivals + Events in Colombia in July
July is packed with festivals and events that’ll let you dive deep into Colombia’s vibrant culture. Seriously, it’s a celebration of all things music, dance, and food!
One of the biggest highlights is Medellin’s Feria de las Flores. This festival, which takes place every July (the dates change a bit), is all about celebrating the region’s flower-growing history and Antioquian culture. Imagine a colorful parade of silleteros (flower farmers) marching through the streets with stunning, intricate flower arrangements on their backs. You’ll also catch tons of live music, dance performances, and mouthwatering local food.
There’s also July 20th, which is Colombia’s Independence Day. This national holiday celebrates Colombia’s freedom from Spanish rule in 1810. You’ll find fireworks, concerts, street parties, and a whole lot of pride everywhere you go. It’s a huge celebration, and you’ll definitely feel the energy!
Along with these, tons of other regional festivals take place all over Colombia, giving you even more chances to connect with the local culture and experience everything from traditional dances to the best of Colombian cuisine. It’s the perfect time to be there if you want to soak it all in!
Travel Tips for Colombia in July
If you’re heading to Colombia in July, here are a few travel tips to make sure everything goes smoothly:
- Book your accommodations ahead of time – July can get pretty busy with festivals and travelers, especially in major cities. To snag the best spots (and rates!), make sure to book your place early—especially in the tourist hotspots.
- Pack smart for the different climates – Colombia’s got it all when it comes to weather. Light clothes are key for the coast, but don’t forget a jacket or some layers for the cooler Andean regions. And sunscreen! You’ll need it. The sun is no joke, so a hat wouldn’t hurt either.
- Stay hydrated – The coastal heat can catch you off guard, so always keep a water bottle handy. Trust me, it makes a huge difference on those hot days.
- Cash is your friend – While most places in cities will accept cards, remote spots or smaller towns may not. It’s smart to carry some cash just in case.
- Keep your stuff secure – Colombia’s come a long way in safety, but still be cautious, especially in busy areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid flaunting any flashy gear or jewelry.
- Try all the food – Seriously, Colombian food is everything! Street food, traditional dishes—don’t hold back. You’ll find some of the most amazing flavors that you can only get there.
- Respect the culture – Colombia is full of warmth and pride, so show respect for local customs. Chat with locals, buy some handmade goods, and really take in the culture. It’s all part of the experience!
Crowds + Costs in Colombia in July
July in Colombia is a total vibe, but it comes with bigger crowds and higher prices in popular spots like Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogota. To make it easier on yourself, book your accommodations and tours in advance—trust me, it’ll save you some stress!
If you want to avoid the hustle, try exploring less touristy areas or head to the big attractions early or later in the day when they’re quieter. A flexible itinerary is key, so you can switch things up if needed.
As for costs, yeah, July can get a bit pricier, but the good news is that there are tons of free or low-cost cultural events and festivals happening. Plus, staying in budget accommodations, using shared transport, and joining group tours are great ways to keep expenses in check.
And of course, support local businesses—whether it’s trying street food or buying crafts, it’s a win-win! Soak up all the magic of Colombia, crowds and all, without stressing the budget!
Also keep in mind, that while Colombia in July may be a little bit more expensive than other months of the year, it’s still pretty dang affordable compared to the US!
Is July a Good Time to Visit Colombia?
Whether or not July is the best time for you to visit Colombia totally depends on what you’re after! Here’s the lowdown on the pros and cons to help you decide.
Advantages of Visiting Colombia in July:
- Festive spirit— July is a lively and celebratory month in Colombia. With all the festivals and cultural events, you’ll get to dive into the country’s traditions and customs.
- Pleasant weather— It’s the dry season, so the weather is pretty fantastic for outdoor adventures (except maybe Cartagena, which was super hot—but everything else was great!).
- Cultural experiences— This is your chance to get up close to Colombia’s rich culture, especially with all the cool events going on.
- Opportunity to interact with locals— The festivals are perfect for interacting with friendly Colombians, getting a feel for their traditions, and just soaking in the good vibes.
Considerations for Visiting Colombia in July:
- Crowds and costs— July is a peak travel month, so some touristy spots might be crowded, and prices could be a little higher. But don’t worry, we still found times of day when things were much quieter!
- Weather can vary— Most areas are perfect in July, but the Amazon and Pacific coast can get wetter, so check the forecast if you’re heading there.
- Plan ahead— Festivals mean a lot of visitors, so booking early is key if you want your top accommodations and activities. We found some of our favorite spots were already fully booked, and a few things we wanted to do weren’t available.
Pro tip: Use Booking.com and Viator.com to plan your stays and activities—most places let you cancel up to 24 hours before, so no stress!
Are you ready to experience Colombia in July?!
Colombia in July is an absolute blast! Whether you’re soaking in the lively energy of the festivals, exploring breathtaking landscapes, or indulging in the rich culture, this month offers so much to experience. If you’re planning on visiting, just make sure to book in advance, pack for all kinds of weather, and get ready to fall in love with Colombia’s charm!
I hope this guide helped you get excited for your trip! What are you most looking forward to doing in Colombia?! Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Colombia blog posts:
