What’s Bogotá’s Weather Like? How to Prepare for Your Visit

What Makes Bogotá’s Climate Unique

At 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level, Bogotá sits high in the Andes Mountains, which plays a big role in shaping its climate. Unlike many places where the seasons are determined by the calendar, Bogotá’s weather is largely influenced by its altitude. This keeps temperatures relatively mild throughout the year, but also highly variable within the same day.

Most mornings in Bogotá are cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging between 8°C and 10°C (46°F–50°F), and as the day progresses, the sun will warm things up to around 18°C–20°C (64°F–68°F). By evening, temperatures drop again. These shifts mean you’ll experience everything from a chilly morning to a pleasant afternoon and a cool night—all in one day.

This mix of sunshine and cool air is a hallmark of Bogotá’s daily rhythm, and it’s important to remember that the city doesn’t experience the four traditional seasons. Instead, Bogotá alternates between dry and rainy periods, which brings a sense of seasonal variation, without the extreme heat or cold that other cities might have.

Temperatures Throughout the Year

Bogotá’s average temperatures range from 8°C (46°F) in the early mornings and evenings to about 20°C (68°F) during the warmer parts of the day. Though this might sound like “perfect spring weather,” the truth is that Bogotá can feel quite different depending on the time of day. It’s not uncommon to leave your hotel in the morning feeling like you’re in the middle of winter, only to be greeted by a warm, almost spring-like afternoon sun.

The secret to staying comfortable is layering. Whether you’re heading out for a quick morning stroll or a full day of exploring, it’s always a good idea to pack an extra jacket or sweater. Even if you’re just going to a café or museum, temperatures can vary dramatically, so layers help you adjust to the changing conditions.

Rainy and Dry Periods

Bogotá is often described as having two main rainy seasons: one from April to May and another from September to November. During these times, you can expect more frequent, short but intense showers. These rains tend to come in bursts—sometimes it will rain for just 20 minutes, and then the sun will be out again, creating a beautiful rainbow over the city.

The rest of the year is typically drier. From December to March and July to August, the weather is generally clearer and sunnier, though you’ll still experience occasional rain showers. For example, in July and August, you’ll notice that the city is much drier, but it’s still wise to carry an umbrella—rain can strike at any moment.

When it rains, the city doesn’t shut down, so embrace it. The cloud cover often gives a dramatic sky, and it can make museums or cafés the perfect retreat. Bogotá is filled with cultural spots to discover on a rainy day, from art galleries to historic sites, making the rainy season an excellent time to enjoy the city’s indoor gems.

Sunlight and Daylight Hours

Being close to the equator means Bogotá enjoys fairly consistent daylight hours all year round—about 12 hours of daylight each day. While the sun rises around 6:00 a.m., the real beauty lies in how quickly evenings come. Sunsets in Bogotá are at 6:00 p.m. like clockwork, meaning that the days feel short, and nights come early.

When planning outdoor activities or looking to capture those perfect photos, it’s important to keep this in mind. You’ll have plenty of daylight to explore, but you’ll also need to wrap up your day’s adventures early to catch the evening glow.

How Weather Shapes Local Life

The weather plays a huge role in how Bogotá’s residents live their everyday lives. Locals have adapted to the city’s ever-changing climate by dressing in layers—think light sweaters, jackets, and scarves for the cool mornings, and short sleeves or shirts for the midday sun. An umbrella is a common accessory in Bogotá; people will often carry one just in case a quick downpour comes out of nowhere.

The cool evenings also shape local dining habits. Bogotá’s culinary scene features plenty of comforting dishes perfect for chilly evenings. Soups like ajiaco (a hearty chicken and potato stew) are a favorite, as are hot drinks like coffee and chocolate. You’ll find people lingering in cozy cafés and restaurants, enjoying a warm meal as the evening cools down.

Weather also affects weekend plans. On Sundays, Bogotá hosts the Ciclovía, where major streets are closed to traffic and opened for cycling and walking. Despite occasional rain, the locals still get outside to enjoy the fresh air and active lifestyle.

Month-by-Month Snapshot

January–March: Expect cooler temperatures early in the year with sunny periods and occasional rain, especially in March. These months are a great time to explore Bogotá’s outdoor spaces with a pleasant, not-too-hot climate. The days are mostly dry, with temperatures ranging from 9°C (48°F) in the mornings to 19°C (66°F) during the day.

April–May: These months mark the start of Bogotá’s rainy season. Rainfall increases, and showers can happen unexpectedly throughout the day. Mornings are cool and damp, but by afternoon, temperatures can rise to around 20°C (68°F). Be prepared for sudden showers, but don’t let them stop you from exploring the city’s cultural hotspots.

June–August: A drier stretch of the year, especially in July. It’s a great time to see the city with mostly sunny skies and cooler evenings. Temperatures stay mild, ranging from 8°C (46°F) in the mornings to 19°C (66°F) in the afternoon. However, don’t be surprised by a brief shower here and there.

September–November: Rain returns, and these months can be the wettest in Bogotá. Expect cooler days with a mix of sunshine and heavy showers. While it’s a fantastic time to see the lush, green landscapes, it’s also a good idea to carry an umbrella for those sudden downpours.

December: The rain tapers off, and Bogotá begins to dry out. Daytime temperatures hover around 20°C (68°F), and evenings are crisp. It’s one of the best months for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s parks.

Prepare Like a Pro With Cielo Travel

If you approach your trip to Colombia’s capitals the right expectations, every day in Bogotá can feel like the perfect season—cool mornings, sunny afternoons, and crisp evenings. Pack wisely, layer up, and get ready to enjoy a truly unique climate. 

Take advantage of the city’s other special traits with help from the local experts at Cielo Travel. We’ll make sure you see Bogotá like a local—just with all the comforts of a well-planned vacation, like top-notch hotels and culinary experiences.