Whether you're trying to escape the summer heat back home or are looking to ramp up the thermometer on a tropical holiday, there are plenty of spots in Colombia that will appeal to you, like the Pacific coast, now that humpback whales are making their annual appearance. Also, one of the most famous festivals in the entire country takes place during this month.

Weather

Due to Colombia's position near the equator, it doesn't enjoy seasons in the strictest sense of the word. Temperature variations in the country depend on location and altitude: the coast, including the Insular region (San Andrés, Providencia, etc.) is always hot and humid (low to mid 80s Fahrenheit); Bogotá in the Andes region is mostly drizzly, overcast, and chilly during the nights (daily averages of 57°F/14°C). The higher (or lower) you travel in terms of altitude, the various climates you'll experience.

Wet and dry seasons exist in most areas of the country, with precipitation levels varying between locations. The Pacific coast and Amazon region, for example, continue to be rainy, though at a reduced rate, putting Colombia's Amazon region into its low-water season (June until November). This means there are more opportunities for tours and better chances for spotting wildlife.

Crowds & Costs

August is the last month of the mini dry season (July to August) and, therefore, continues to be a popular time for travelers visiting Colombia. Expect varying crowd levels and prices depending on the region. The Andean cities are moderately busy, with slightly higher prices than in the low wet seasons, but still more affordable than during the December/January holidays. Coastal hubs like Cartagena and Santa Marta stay popular year-round, so while August isn't peak season, you'll still encounter some crowding, especially at main attractions.

On the flip side, the Pacific coast remains quieter and more affordable—just book early if you're heading there for whale watching, as accommodation can be limited.

Where to Go

One of the great things about Colombia is that, because there's such diversity of topography and climates, there are places that will appeal to any kind of traveler. If you want a bit of jungle and river adventure, you can visit the Amazon. As mentioned above, August falls within its low-water season. Lower river levels mean more opportunities for wildlife spotting, more tours are open, and lovely Amazonian villages like Puerto Nariño have more land to enjoy.

For those looking for a refreshing alternative to the scorching summer months back home, consider visiting Medellín. Its perpetual springlike climate (its average highs fall into the 71-74°F/22-23°C range) means this city and its surrounding Antioquia Department are a refreshing alternative to the hotter locales. Plus, there's a lot to do here, be it flying high over the city on its gondola cable car network, or making a day trip to Guatapé and hiking up the massive El Peñón rock. Another reason to come to Medellín in August is that this is when the Feria de Flores occurs (see below).

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What to Do

If you only visit one place and do one thing during your Colombian holiday in August, make sure it's Medellín and the Feria de Flores. This "Festival of the Flowers" is such an ingrained part of the Paisa (people from Medellín) culture that it's akin to the New Year's Times Square Ball Drop or Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. 

That's because Medellín is the world's largest exporter of cut flowers. Local flower farmers, known as silleteros, prepare all year for a celebration of this heritage by designing giant, elaborate floral displays. Then they take to the streets of downtown Medellín in a parade known as Desfile de los Silleteros. Back in 1957, when the festival first started, some 40 silleteros marched. These days, you'll see hundreds parading down the streets in long processions, showing off their labor of love like giant strutting peacocks. 

Events in August

Feria de Flores, Medellín. In the "City of the Eternal Spring," flowers are always in bloom. Medellín celebrates this every year during the first two weeks of August, when harvesters line the streets carrying great floral displays on their backs. There are also horse shows, concerts, and street parties.

Festival del Viento y de los Cometas, Villa de Leyva. Whatever the windiest August weekend is in Villa de Leyva, that's when the town holds its famous kite festival. For three days, everyone packs the central plaza to display their aerial prowess. Contests involve, among other things, the best handmade kite and the best practitioner in the kids' division.

Traveling to Colombia in August? Check out these great itineraries

Cartagena, Flower Festival & the Colombian Amazon - 11 Days. This unique itinerary hinges on Batalla de Flores, or "Festival of the Flowers," an event which takes place in Medellín every August. It's one of the biggest spectacles in the entire country. So set aside some time at the end of summer and prepare for an excursion that you won't soon forget.

Adventure in Colombia's Amazon Region - 7 Days. Hike to Maloka Macuna to experience the Indigenous way of life, sleep in a treehouse in the rainforest at Reserva Natural Tanimbuca, and take a peque-peque (motorized dugout canoe) to explore Lago Tarapoto and see the famous pink river dolphins.

Wild Colombia: Hiking, Hot Springs & Whale Watching - 10 Days. This fast-paced adventure provides an intimate glimpse into the wild heart of Colombia. You'll explore the bustling metropolis of Medellín, experience the traditional farm life of Manizales, relax in the tropical beauty of the Pacific coast, and go whale watching off the shores of the Tribugá Gulf. 

More Helpful Information

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Best Time of Year to Visit Colombia
How Many Days to Spend in Colombia