Colombia is a country with a remarkable diversity of climates, driven by its geographical location near the equator and its varied topography. Stretching from the coasts of the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean to the peaks of the Andes and the lowlands of the Amazon rainforest, Colombia exhibits a wide range of climatic conditions depending on the region.

Coastal Regions

Colombia's coastal regions, both on the Caribbean and Pacific, have a tropical climate. These areas experience high temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 24°C to 30°C. The Caribbean coast has distinct dry and rainy seasons. The dry season runs from December to March, while the rainy season lasts from April to November. The Pacific coast, on the other hand, is one of the rainiest regions in the world, with high rainfall throughout the year, especially between April and November.

Andean Region

The Andean region, forming Colombia's central backbone, displays significant climatic variation due to altitude differences. In lower altitudes, such as the Cauca Valley and Magdalena Valley, the climate is hot, with average temperatures from 24°C to 30°C. In mid-altitudes, where cities like Medellín are located, the climate is temperate, with average temperatures from 18°C to 24°C, often referred to as "eternal spring." In higher altitudes, such as Bogotá and other Andean cities, the climate is cooler, with average temperatures between 10°C and 18°C. The highest peaks of the Andes experience an alpine climate with year-round snow.

Amazon Region

The Amazon region in southeastern Colombia has an equatorial climate characterized by high temperatures and extreme humidity. Temperatures usually range from 25°C to 30°C, and it rains frequently, contributing to the lush vegetation of the Amazon rainforest. This region lacks distinct seasons; instead, rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year.

Orinoco Plains

The Orinoco Plains, known as Los Llanos, is a vast savanna region in the eastern part of the country. This region has a tropical climate with clear dry and rainy seasons. The dry season lasts from December to March, while the rainy season extends from April to November. During the dry season, temperatures often rise above 30°C, while the rainy season brings cooler temperatures and frequent flooding.

Climatic Challenges

Colombia faces various climatic challenges due to its diverse climates and topographical features, including floods, landslides, and droughts. Climate change exacerbates these challenges, leading to more unpredictable weather patterns and extreme weather events.