December In Colombia (Christmas): How Is It?
Editeur
Mis à jour le
Do you have any idea what Christmas in Colombia is like? It’s so much more than just lights and feasts. 😉
Married to a Colombian and living here since 2015, I will show you how to make the most of Colombia in December. Follow me for tips, traditions, and unforgettable discoveries!
We are on a quest across Colombia to discover the top local agencies to establish a trustworthy network of experts and gather unique, valuable insights for each destination. Our aim? To make you fall in love with Colombia effortlessly.
- In Colombia since 2015
- + 1000 verified experiences
- + de 100 experts met
- + 150 optimized itineraries
COMING TO COLOMBIA FOR CHRISTMAS
How to enjoy Colombia in December
WEATHER IN DECEMBER
The dry season is approaching (in most places).
December marks the beginning of the dry season in the Andean region.
In Medellín and Pereira, temperatures are pleasant, ranging between 17°C (63°F) and 25°C (77°F) with an average of 20.5°C (69°F). Due to the low humidity, especially in Medellín, the air remains comfortable even if the sky is somewhat cloudy.
Though the month sees about 20 days of rain, the precipitation is brief.
In Bogotá at a higher altitude, the temperatures are cooler, ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 18°C (65°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). Mornings and evenings can be pretty chilly, but the air is comfortable thanks to the dry conditions, and the sky is partly clear.
With just 13 rainy days, showers are short and light.
Further south in the Cali region at a lower altitude, temperatures are higher, varying from 19°C (66°F) to 28°C (83°F), with an average of 23°C (73°F). The air is warm and humid, with cloudy skies most days.
There are relatively few rainy days (9.6 days), and the showers are short.
December is the dry season on the Caribbean coast. Temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 31°C (87°F), with an average of 27°C (81°F). The high humidity makes it feel very hot and humid, sometimes even oppressive, during the hottest parts of the day.
Rain is scarce, with only about 3.6 rainy days, and the showers are brief. Most days are sunny.
December also marks the beginning of the windy season, which can make sea travel rough.
The Pacific coast is Colombia’s rainiest region, with rainfall year-round and a short and barely noticeable “dry” season.
In December, it’s warm with temperatures between 24.5°C (76°F) and 27°C (80°F), with an average of 25.5°C (78°F).
Rain falls on 25.5 days on average during the month, with heavy downpours, especially at night.
The humidity is very high, creating an oppressive atmosphere, and daytime skies are often cloudy.
In December, the Amazon region experiences temperatures ranging from 23°C (74°F) to 30°C (86°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F), making it hot.
It’s the rainy season and the start of the high-water period for the Amazon River. December, like March, has the most rainy days (23.4 days), although the total rainfall is less than at the peak of the wet season (February).
The extremely high humidity can make the air feel oppressive, and the sky is mostly cloudy throughout the day.
With temperatures ranging from 20.5°C (69°F) to 31°C (87°F) and an average of 26°C (78°F), Los Llanos is quite warm in December, particularly at midday.
It’s the start of the dry season, with an average of 10.3 rainy days and a marked decrease in rain from the beginning to the end of the month. Precipitation is light.
The low humidity makes the air quite comfortable. The sky is 77% cloudy on average, meaning it’s covered for part of the day.
WHAT TO DO IN COLOMBIA IN DECEMBER
December will delight nature lovers and adventurers.
December is perfect for exploring these imposing and astonishing geological formations in the Guainía department east of the country (between Los Llanos and the Amazon). These granite mountains, revered by the indigenous people and steeped in legends, rise above the jungle, crossed by the Inírida River.
You’ll find beautiful white sand beaches along the river, the perfect place to relax after taking in the view from the top of one of these giants and watching the sunrise or sunset. The clear, starry skies at night make the area even more mysterious.
The wind picks up on the Caribbean coast, making it the perfect time to grab your kite if you’re a kitesurfing enthusiast!
With ideal weather conditions and breathtaking scenery, Cabo de la Vela, in the Guajira desert at the northeastern tip of Colombia, is a top spot coveted by kitesurfers from around the globe. Thanks to its experienced instructors, Riohacha also offers excellent options for beginners in Guajira.
Further south along the coast, you’ll find other excellent spots near Santa Veronica and Cartagena.
If you’re an animal lover or a passionate birdwatcher, don’t hesitate to go on a safari in Los Llanos in December.
During the dry season, the vast plains dry out, revealing scarce waterholes that make it easier to spot wildlife like capybaras, caimans, deer, otters, anteaters, or even anacondas as they come to drink early in the morning or at sunset.
Imagine riding across these immense plains on horseback with your llanero guide or exploring by jeep before heading back to your hato for a good night’s sleep.
Yopal, in the Casanare department, is my favorite starting point for a safari in Los Llanos.
With less rain and a lower chance of encountering muddy paths, December is the perfect month for nature lovers and hikers, and Colombia offers routes for every level of difficulty.
For more seasoned trekking enthusiasts, December is the ideal time to explore a páramo, a unique ecosystem between 3000 and 4500 meters in altitude. It is home to the fascinating Frailejon, an endemic plant.
The Cundinamarca and Tolima departments boast some of these stunning locations, such as the Páramo de Sumapaz. If you’re in the Boyacá department, the Páramo de Cocuy is breathtaking.
The more adventurous can also consider a multi-day trek in Los Nevados National Park.
December in the Amazon marks the start of the river’s water rise, as the jungle begins to flood once again.
This makes trekking in the jungle less tiring, since much of your movement will be by boat rather than on foot. Plus, taking submerged shortcuts will save you time.
You can go kayaking through the flooded jungle, which is my favorite activity in the Amazon, and easily spot pink dolphins returning to Lake Tarapoto, located near the charming town of Puerto Nariño.
© Tomplanmytrip
EVENTS IN DECEMBER
During December, Colombia lights up and parties.
From the very start of December, every street, bridge, and park in Medellín is adorned with dazzling Christmas lights (alumbrados), while musicians fill the streets and shopping centers with festive songs. This festival of lights is accompanied by concerts and other cultural events, turning the city into a spectacular sound and light show, renowned even beyond Colombia’s borders.
If, like Colombians, you’re enchanted by the magic of Christmas, take a stroll through the streets and immerse yourself in the cheerful, festive atmosphere. Be sure to visit Parque Ciudad del Rio, north of the El Poblado neighborhood, to admire the stunning decorations that illuminate the park along the banks of the Rio Medellín. The theme of the display changes every year, making it a must-see.
Spending New Year’s in Cartagena de Indias lets you experience the colonial charm of the Caribbean’s gem from a new perspective. The historic center is beautifully adorned with garlands and sparkling lights, making the city even more magical. Various concerts and cultural events fill the streets, and the city hosts a spectacular fireworks show.
If you’re a food lover, why not treat yourself to a delicious New Year’s Eve dinner crafted by one of the city’s upscale restaurants?
Ah! A little tip: if you want a prosperous new year, don’t forget to wear yellow underwear and red if you’re seeking love. You can also fill your pockets with lentils to ensure financial security.
Personally, I recommend taking a walk around the neighborhood with your suitcase—they say it’s a promise of an upcoming year full of wonderful travels! 😉
Like many cities in Colombia, Cali lights up in December, hosting concerts and cultural events throughout the city.
But the highlight of the festivities is the Feria de Cali, held from December 25th to 30th. The celebration kicks off with a grand parade through the streets and at the Plaza de Toros. The streets come alive with processions of Caleño salseros (salsa dancers from Cali) swaying to the fiery rhythms of salsa, a dance for which Cali is the world capital. Trust a salsa fan—you’ll be itching to move, too!
You can also attend the Salsodromo, a competition where salsa dancers showcase their skills, and the Superconcierto, a massive concert celebrating different Colombian musical genres.
For a more laid-back but deeply authentic atmosphere, how about attending the Festival de Luces (Festival of Lights) in Villa de Leyva, located in the Boyacá department?
On December 7th and 8th, the locals of this beautiful colonial village, with its cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses, light hundreds of candles and lanterns to celebrate the Immaculate Conception. The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display.
Don’t forget to stroll through the Christmas market and taste local specialties while enjoying the sounds of traditional music.
© Tomplanmytrip
CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS IN COLOMBIA
December in Colombia is a joyful month full of traditions.
Most Colombians are profoundly religious and place great importance on traditional religious celebrations. La Noche de las Velitas is a Catholic holiday that officially begins the Christmas season.
During La Noche de las Velitas (Night of the Little Candles), a family tradition on the evening of December 7th, Colombians place thousands of candles and lanterns on their windowsills and in the streets to celebrate the Immaculate Conception, a religious holiday dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
This religious practice, introduced by the Franciscan fathers in the early 18th century, marks the nine days leading up to Christmas (December 16-24). Throughout the novena, participants dressed in Christmas-themed clothing gather in places like churches or decorated parks, and read prayers. These prayers are often accompanied by Christmas songs, and traditional treats such as biscuits and custards are served. In some families, children receive gifts.
The Novena de Aguinaldos is also celebrated at home, often around the nativity scene, and has extended into companies, adding a social dimension to the religious tradition.
If you’re visiting Cartagena and want to experience this tradition, you can attend the Novena de Aguinaldos at the beautiful San Pedro Claver Church.
In Colombia, Christmas Eve—known as Noche Buena, held on December 24th—is the highlight of the holiday season.
It’s mainly a family event, though close friends may be invited to share a late-night Christmas meal, sing, and play games while enjoying traditional desserts, waiting for midnight to arrive.
Some people attend midnight mass, while others go out around 1 a.m. to finish the celebration at a nightclub.
December 25th is generally quiet, with most people recovering from the previous night’s indulgence.
In Colombia, it’s not Santa Claus, the Three Wise Men, or Saint Nicholas, as in other countries, who brings the gifts to children at midnight, but El Niño Dios (the Child God), meaning the baby Jesus.
However, like many children around the world, Colombian kids write a letter to El Niño Dios to guide him in choosing their gifts. Of course, the condition is that they have been well-behaved and worked hard at school throughout the year! 😉
The nativity scene, also called “Pesebre” (Stable), is a key part of traditional Christmas decorations in Colombia. It is usually placed near the Christmas tree and represents the birth of Jesus in a Bethlehem stable, surrounded by Joseph, Mary, and the Three Wise Men.
Some nativity scenes are more elaborate, featuring a village, plants, animals, and various figures.
In some cities, giant nativity displays are set up alongside the traditional urban Christmas lights in public squares.
Tradition holds that the baby Jesus is placed in the manger at midnight.
© Tomplanmytrip
What do people eat at Christmas
December is the perfect time to share hearty and delicious recipes.
The Lechona is a suckling pig stuffed with onions, potatoes, peas, and spices. It’s often served with rice and an arepa.
The pig is slow-roasted in the oven and must be basted frequently with orange juice until the meat is perfectly tender.
This dish, typical of the Tolima and Huila regions, dates back to the Spanish conquistadors‘ introduction of pork in Colombia. At that time, it was a delicacy reserved for the wealthy on special occasions.
Today, la lechona is a traditional dish for major festivities, especially at Christmas. It’s a shared dish, with the number of diners depending on the size of the pig.
Colombians love sugar!
It’s no surprise, then, that Natilla, a smooth vanilla custard, and Buñuelos, fried corn flour fritters filled with cheese (traditionally Queso costeño), are among their favorite Christmas treats and have a prime spot on the holiday dessert table.
Colombians start eating Buñuelos as early as December 7th, during La Noche de las Velitas. Truth be told, they love them so much that they enjoy them year-round, often with hot chocolate or coffee. 😉
This traditional Christmas hot drink from Colombia originates from the Andean mountains, where it was commonly consumed to fight off the cold.
El Canelazo is a sweet and alcoholic mix. The traditional recipe involves dissolving sugar or panela (unrefined cane sugar shaped like a block) in a cup of hot water, flavored with cinnamon and cloves. Aguardiente, a popular anise-flavored liquor in Colombia, is added.
It’s the perfect drink to get into the festive Christmas spirit.
The tamal originated in pre-Columbian times. It’s typically made from a dough of corn flour, filled with meat, vegetables, and spicy sauces, then wrapped in banana or corn leaves and cooked in water or steamed. Initially, it was a practical dish for warriors and peasants to carry with them.
Tamales are now part of the traditional meals served during significant celebrations like baptisms, weddings, and Christmas.
The recipe for tamal, which is also called “pastel de Navidad” (Christmas cake) in the Caribbean, varies slightly depending on the region.
Sancocho is a thick soup made from a mix of meats and root vegetables cooked in a broth flavored with herbs like parsley or cilantro. Just so you know, Colombians love cilantro—they add it to almost everything!
Colombian cuisine offers a wide variety of Sancocho recipes, with endless variations in the choice of meat (chicken or beef in the Andean regions, seafood on the coast) and vegetables (beans, pigeon peas, corn). There are as many Sancochos as there are cooks!
It’s typically prepared in large quantities over an outdoor wood fire, often by the river during family gatherings. Christmas is the perfect occasion for this communal dish.
© Tomplanmytrip
Tourism IN DECEMBER
Tourist boom and price hikes.
December marks the start of peak season in Colombia, with high tourist traffic lasting primarily from mid-December to mid-January.
As a consequence, flight and hotel rates rise considerably!
Some hotels enforce a minimum night stay in top tourist destinations like Cartagena, so it’s crucial to book in advance.
Also, remember to ask for prices ahead of time when they aren’t posted, especially with meterless taxis in Cartagena, to avoid surprises.
You’ve probably gathered by now how eagerly Colombians await the Christmas season. A perfect example is the popular song, “Desde septiembre se siente que viene diciembre” (Since September, you can feel December coming), which you hear everywhere nationwide!
The long school holidays start at the end of November, and most Colombians take their vacations during this time, traveling to reunite with family.
They love admiring the Christmas lights in cities like Medellín and heading to the Caribbean coast, especially Cartagena, which becomes packed.
In addition to the many local tourists, foreign visitors escaping the winter and seeking sunshine also flood in. So, you certainly won’t be alone!
I recommend reserving your accommodations and activities early enough to ensure flexibility with your budget and itinerary. Similarly, if you’re planning a Christmas Eve dinner at a gourmet restaurant—like in Cartagena—make sure to book early to secure your table.
© Tomplanmytrip
PACK YOUR BAG FOR DECEMBER
Practical tips to adjust according to your itinerary.
Remember to bring your hat and some sunscreen to shield yourself from the sun, especially if you’re “coming from winter.” The December sun near the equator can take you by surprise, even in higher-altitude cities like Bogotá.
Don’t forget your camera and a pair of binoculars if possible. If those are your destinations, you’ll want to capture the Christmas lights and document your adventures in Los Llanos or the Amazon.
If you plan to explore the Cerros de Mavecure or hike in a national park, pack comfortable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. Don’t forget to bring warmer layers if you plan to ascend into the paramos, as it can get very cold at high altitudes.
For a trek in the Amazon, pack long pants and long-sleeved shirts to protect against mosquitoes. Also, make sure to pack insect repellent.
Bring comfortable pants if you plan on horseback riding in the Llanos plains.
And remember to carry a backpack that suits your hiking plans.
Depending on your location, if you’re planning to wander the festive streets of Medellín or enjoy the salsa parades in Cali, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket for the cooler evening air.
For the Caribbean coast, stick to light, breathable clothing, and, of course, don’t forget your swimsuit—but I bet that’s already on your list! 😉
Colombians love to dress up when going out. If you’re planning to sip a drink while watching the sunset from a rooftop in Cartagena or enjoy dinner at a fancy restaurant for New Year’s Eve, make sure to bring your best party outfit.
Some trendy spots may even have a dress code.
© Tomplanmytrip
Favorite experiences in Colombia
Directly contact the best local agencies for these tours
La Guajira : Cabo de la Vela, Punta Gallinas & Macuira park 4d
Colombia
4 Days
1 place
Enjoy 4 days of adventure in the La Guajira desert, with a mix of classic and new destinations.
View this tour
Cartagena: Rent a boat to explore the Rosario Islands 1d
Colombia
1 Day
3 places
A tailor-made boat trip to enjoy the Rosario Islands: Find the most stunning islands and either dodge the tourists or party with them.
View this tour
Santa Marta : The Lost City [Ciudad Perdida] trek 4d
Colombia
4 Days
1 place
Discover the magic of the Ciudad Perdida and its importance for the indigenous communities.
View this tour
The Cerros de Mavecure and Its Unforgettable Landscapes 4d
Colombia
4 Days
2 places
Imagine three massive hills rising from the ground in the middle of a vast jungle plain.
View this tour
Leticia: the Amazon from a jungle ecolodge, comfort option 5d
Colombia
5 Days
1 place
Stay in the world's largest forest and discover its wonders and diversity.
View this tour
Yopal : Safari in los Llanos from a nature reserve 4d
Colombia
4 Days
3 places
Gallop at full speed across the vast plains of the Llanos, discovering an admirable natural habitat.
View this tour
Caño Cristales: discover the famous rainbow river - group option 4d
Colombia
4 Days
1 place
Imagine the spectacle of a multicolored river winding through unique landscapes.
View this tour
Los Nevados: Santa Isabel glacier ascent 3D
Colombia
3 Days
1 place
The perfect combo of high and medium-altitude mountains plus the discovery of numerous ecosystems.
View this tour
Guachalito: Whale watching and peaceful ecolodge 4d
Colombia
4 Days
1 place
Picture yourself observing the whales' ballet from an ecolodge on a secluded beach.
View this tour
Looking for more activities?
We personally select and test the best tours in Colombia—to help you make the right choices.
Traveler Reviews
When To Vist Colombia
Select a Region of Colombia
Western Caribbean Coast
Follow us on Instagram!
Tomplanmytrip helps travelers fall in love with Colombia for free. To thank us, please use our booking links (Booking, Viator, GetYourGuide) and our online forms to contact the experts we recommend. This helps us earn a small commission and continue this amazing adventure. Rest assured, there are no extra fees. You’ll pay the same price as if you were booking locally.
Tom & Adrien
Discover More About Colombia
To learn everything about Colombia, check out our page dedicated specifically to this country!
