Weather
It's one of Colombia's rainiest months, but not all regions are equally wet. The Caribbean coast and San Andrés and Providencia islands are drier, making them a great pick for sunseekers looking to avoid the heavier rains inland. Temperatures stay warm, though you'll want to be ready for humidity, especially in cities like Cartagena. The Amazon region also sees slightly less rain in October now that it's in the low-water season, so it's a decent time to explore the jungle if you don't mind the occasional downpour.
Meanwhile, the Andean region, including Bogotá and Medellín, experiences cooler temperatures (48°F/9°C to 70°F/21°C) and consistent showers—pack layers and a rain jacket if you're visiting, though keep in mind that the latter will be warmer. The Pacific coast is at its wettest this month, the added humidity making it feel even hotter than it is (84°F/29°C).
Crowds & Costs
Colombia sees fewer foreign travelers in October thanks to the rainy season in many regions, which means you'll likely enjoy better availability and potentially lower prices on flights and hotels compared to the December-January crush and July-August mini peak season. Tours and activities may also offer more flexibility, and even the chance of discounted rates. While the Caribbean coast still draws visitors due to its drier weather, it's far less busy than during the high season—a bonus if you're after sun with smaller crowds.
Where to Go
Those here in October will want to consider heading as far south as you can go in Colombia—to the Amazonas Department. The Amazon doesn't have a wet and dry season, but rather high-water/low-water seasons. The low-water season here is from June to November, so if you fancy a jungle trip, October is a great time to come—the lower river level means more wildlife is visible and more sights, like various nature reserves, are accessible. So come and visit Leticia, Puerto Nariño, and Isla de los Micos—you'll have a blast.
Another idea is to head to the little-visited Chocó Department, which is the Pacific coast region of Colombia. What makes it ideal during this time is that the Pacific sees humpback whales migrating to its coast from July through November. So come to the little fishing village of Nuiquí and spot some humpback whales during their migration to warm equatorial waters.
October is also the peak time to visit Caño Cristales in La Macarena National Park. Located in the south of the country, a short flight from Bogotá, Caño Cristales is a river whose bed, at certain times of the year, comes alive in bright shades of yellows, reds, and blues. The colors are so vibrant, in fact, that Caño Cristales is known as the "River of Five Colors." Note: you can only enter this area with a licensed guide. If you want to experience this rare natural phenomenon, check out this eight-day itinerary from Bogotá.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
What you can do in Colombia this month depends on the region you visit—but there's still plenty on offer, even with the rain. On the Pacific coast, it's the tail end of humpback whale watching season, so if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures, now's your chance (though this coast is at its wettest). In the Amazon, October is one of the drier months, making it an excellent time for jungle hikes, boat tours, and wildlife spotting with fewer mosquitoes and slightly more comfortable conditions.
Meanwhile, the Caribbean coast and San Andrés or Providencia islands offer a nice escape from the wetter inland regions. You can enjoy sunny beach days, snorkeling, and island-hopping with relatively low crowds. And in the Andean cities like Bogotá and Medellín, October is a good time to dive into the cultural scene—think cozy cafés, museums, and indoor markets (not to mention epic, costumed parties (more on that below)—and take advantage of the smaller crowds at major attractions. Just be sure to pack a rain jacket and plan for occasional showers.
Events in October
Día de la Raza, Nationwide (October 12). Columbus Day is much the same as it is in the United States, in that it's an official holiday (Colombians get the day off work, too) that most people don't pay much attention to. Keep in mind that some businesses may be closed.
Halloween, Nationwide (October 31). Halloween is also similar to the United States in that parents dress up their children. However, trick-or-treating from house to house isn't as common here (parents typically take their kids to shopping malls or stores to ask for candy). Visitors should be pleased to know that in the big cities (particularly Medellín), you can find many options for costume parties at local bars and discos. These are often multiday affairs, too, as All Saints Day is celebrated on November 1, so many Colombians have three-day weekends over these holidays.
Traveling to Colombia in October? Check out these great itineraries
San Andrés & Providencia - 6 Days. With fewer visitors this month, this itinerary has you starting in San Andrés, the more developed of the two islands, where you'll have time to experience Raizal culture before heading to Providencia for three days of hiking, diving, and slow island life.
Luxury Adventure on Colombia's Rainbow River: Bogotá, Caño Cristales & Medellín - 7 Days. This luxury trip that combines rugged outdoor excursions with luxurious creature comforts begins in Bogotá with sightseeing in the historic center and a trip to Caño Cristales, a river that shines in a bright rainbow of colors. Enjoy stays in 5-star boutique hotels and a luxury ecolodge before finishing in Medellín with organic cooking classes and visits to storybook countryside towns.
Colombia's Amazon Rainforest & Canyon Tour - 8 Days. Colombia's Amazon region is particularly well-suited for visiting in October, given the low water levels and ease of access to more nature reserves. What does this mean? Better wildlife viewing and more to explore.
More Helpful Information
Colombia in November
Colombia in September
Best Time of Year to Visit Colombia
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