Weather in Bogota, Colombia in November
Weather in Bogota in November
November in Bogotá is wet — but not unbearable. Colombia’s capital sits at 2,600 meters in the Andes, which keeps the average temperature mild year-round. Bogotá’s equatorial latitude means it doesn’t experience traditional seasons, but its climate follows two rainy and two dry cycles — and November lands squarely in the second rainy season.
This month suits travelers who don’t mind occasional rain and want fewer crowds than peak season. It’s also a good time for budget-conscious visitors: prices are lower and the city is uncrowded. If you’re set on dry skies every day, december to march is a better window. For accommodation options across the city, see where to stay in Bogota.
Quick Weather Snapshot
- Average high: 18°C / 66°F
- Average low: 8°C (46°F)
- Rainfall level: Heavy — one of the wetter months of the year
- Humidity level: Moderate to high (around 80%)
- Season: Second rainy season (Oct–Nov)
- Crowd level: Low to moderate
- Overall comfort rating: 6/10 — pleasant when dry, disruptive when it rains
What Is the Climate in Bogotá Like in November?
Mornings in Bogotá in November tend to be clear and crisp — the best window for outdoor activities. Skies are often blue before noon, with temperatures comfortable enough for walking without a heavy jacket. Weather patterns shift fast: by mid-afternoon, cloud cover builds and rain arrives.
Showers can be heavy and last 1–2 hours. Evenings often bring clearer skies again but get cold quickly. Sightseeing is entirely doable, but you’ll need flexibility in your schedule and waterproof layers on standby.
Average Temperature in Bogotá in November
Daytime highs hover around 17–19°C (63–66°F). The low temperature at night drops sharply to 8–10°C (46–50°F), particularly in higher-elevation neighborhoods like La Candelaria and Chapinero. UV index can still be high at altitude when the sun does appear — even through cloud cover.
Compared to October (also rainy), November is similar in temperature but sees slightly increased rainfall. December to March brings clearer skies and drier conditions as Bogotá transitions toward its longer dry season.
Average Precipitation and Rainfall in Bogotá in November
November is one of Bogotá’s rainiest months. According to climate data from IDEAM, the city receives roughly 100–130mm of precipitation in November, spread across 18–22 rainy days.
Rain typically arrives in the afternoons as short but intense storms rather than all-day drizzle. Flash showers can flood streets temporarily in low-lying areas. The average daily sunshine hours are limited — typically 3–4 hours — but mornings are usually your best window. Morning plans are rarely disrupted; afternoon outdoor excursions are a gamble without rain gear.
Humidity in Bogotá in November
Bogotá’s altitude moderates what would otherwise be oppressively humid conditions. The city’s Andean topography — sitting on a high plateau (the Sabana de Bogotá) flanked by mountain ridges — channels moisture from lower regions while keeping the worst of the humid lowland air at bay.
At 80% relative humidity, the air feels damp rather than sticky. For most travelers it isn’t oppressive. Those with respiratory sensitivities or anyone accustomed to dry climates may find the persistent dampness tiring after several days.
Is Bogotá Busy in November? (Tourism Levels)
November is not a peak tourist month. International arrivals are moderate, and you won’t encounter the long lines or inflated prices typical of December holidays. Most major museums, tours, and restaurants are accessible without advance booking.
Colombian school holidays don’t fall in November for most regions, keeping domestic tourism lighter as well. Prices for flights and hotels trend lower than in December or the June–July high season — it’s definitely worth a visit if your schedule is flexible.
Is November a Good Time to Visit Bogotá?
November weather in Bogotá is manageable, but it requires realistic expectations. November is a great month to visit if you want fewer tourists, lower prices, and don’t mind planning around afternoon rain. It’s not the best time to visit Colombia if your priority is outdoor-heavy itineraries or reliable sunshine hours.
For context on the best time to visit Colombia overall: december to april (the long dry season) is consistently sunnier and drier across most of the country. Cartagena on the Caribbean coast, for example, is drier and warmer — with temperatures ranging up to 30°C — while Bogotá stays cool regardless of season. If you’re combining a Bogotá itinerary with coastal Colombia, november to march works well for Cartagena, making it a practical combo trip despite Bogotá’s November rain. The best time to visit Colombia depends heavily on which region of the country you’re prioritizing.
Best Things to Do in Bogotá in November
- Visit Museo del Oro (Gold Museum): World-class indoor attraction — ideal when rain hits in the afternoon. Plan your visit here.
- Explore the street art in La Candelaria: Best done on clear mornings; the historic center rewards early walkers — wander the colorful streets before afternoon clouds move in
- Take the Teleférico to Monserrate: Go early — clouds often obscure views by midday; check conditions before heading up
- Tour the Botero Museum: Free entry, indoor, and one of the most compelling art collections in South America
- Day trip to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá: 90 minutes from Bogotá; mostly underground, so rain is irrelevant — a great time to explore if the weather turns
- Explore the Usaquén neighborhood: Boutique shops, cafés, and Sunday flea market (weather permitting)
- Ciclovía on Sundays: Major roads close to cars — perfect for outdoor activities in the morning if skies are clear
- Bogotá Graffiti Tour: Operates rain or shine; a legitimate time to explore the city’s political and artistic history
Events & Festivals in November
- Festival Iberoamericano de Teatro (FITB): This major biennial theater festival typically occurs in even years; confirm the schedule before planning around it
- Bogotá International Book Fair (FILBO): Usually held in late April–May — no major equivalent this month
- Día de las Velitas (late November prep): Candle-lighting celebrations build in late November ahead of December 8; a low-key but atmospheric local tradition
November has no blockbuster events. The city runs on its regular cultural calendar — galleries, live music, and local markets.
What to Pack for Bogotá in November
Clothing:
- Lightweight waterproof jacket (essential)
- Layering pieces — fleece or light sweater for cold evenings
- Long-sleeve shirts and light pants; shorts are unnecessary
- Warm layer for Monserrate or higher-altitude day trips
Footwear:
- Waterproof walking shoes or ankle boots
- Avoid sandals or canvas sneakers — wet streets are the norm
Sun & Rain Protection:
- Compact umbrella (non-negotiable)
- High-SPF sunscreen — UV levels are intense at altitude even on overcast days
- Sunglasses
Seasonal Travel Tips for November
- Plan outdoor activities before noon — afternoon rain is consistent and often heavy
- Book Monserrate visits for weekday mornings — fewer crowds and better odds of clear skies
- Carry cash and an umbrella at all times — not every vendor is card-friendly, and rain arrives fast
- Bogotá’s altitude hits within 24 hours — limit exertion on day one; drink water and avoid alcohol until acclimatized
- Rideshares (InDriver, Cabify) are more reliable than street taxis — useful when rain makes walking impractical
- Layer, don’t bulk — temperatures swing 10°C between noon and midnight; a packable jacket beats a heavy coat
Weather Hazards in Bogotá in November
Altitude sickness is the most relevant risk. At 2,600m, newcomers commonly experience headaches, fatigue, or nausea in the first 24–48 hours. Rest, hydrate, and ascend gradually if combining Bogotá with higher-altitude destinations.
Flash flooding in low-lying streets is possible during heavy afternoon storms, particularly around La Candelaria and parts of the south. It typically clears within an hour. Cold nights can catch travelers off guard — the coldest month in terms of nighttime feel is often November or October, and most accommodation does not have central heating. UV exposure is counterintuitively high at altitude; cloud cover doesn’t eliminate the risk.
No hurricane or severe storm risk. No extreme heat. Earthquake activity is possible but not seasonally elevated.
Key Takeaways
- November is part of Bogotá’s second rainy season — expect rain on most days, especially afternoons
- Average temperatures are mild (17–19°C days, 8–10°C nights) — never hot, sometimes cold at night
- Crowds and prices are lower than peak season — a budget-friendly window
- Morning hours are the most reliable for outdoor plans; afternoons are unpredictable
- Altitude sickness is a real consideration — allow 24 hours to acclimatize before heavy activity
- Indoor attractions (Gold Museum, Botero Museum, Salt Cathedral) make excellent rainy-day anchors
- December to March is drier — consider it if weather is a top priority
FAQs
Is November a good time to visit Bogotá?
It depends on your tolerance for rain. November offers lower prices, fewer tourists, and mild temperatures — but afternoon downpours are frequent. Travelers with flexible itineraries and good rain gear will find it entirely manageable.
How much does it rain in Bogotá in November?
Bogotá typically receives 100–130mm of precipitation in November across 18–22 days. Most rain falls in the afternoon as short, heavy showers rather than all-day drizzle. Morning conditions are generally clear.
Is Bogotá cold in November?
Bogotá is cool rather than cold. Daytime highs reach 17–19°C (63–66°F), but the low temperature at night drops to 8–10°C (46–50°F). Light layers and a waterproof jacket are sufficient; heavy winter clothing is unnecessary.
What should I wear in Bogotá in November?
Waterproof shoes, a packable rain jacket, and lightweight layers are the core of any November packing list. Avoid sandals and light canvas footwear — wet streets are the norm throughout the month.
What’s the best time to visit Colombia if I want less rain?
The best time to visit Colombia for drier weather is december to march, when Bogotá and many other destinations see less rain and more sunshine. Cartagena is at its driest and most pleasant during this window as well.
