When is the best time to visit the Colombian Amazon?
The Amazon is one of the most beautiful destinations in all of Colombia, where you’ll be surrounded by some of the most spectacular flora and fauna in the world. The remote Amazon region is a one-of-a-kind destination for adventurous travelers and the perfect place to reconnect with nature. Not only is the rainforest home to stunning biodiversity and unique wildlife, but it is also home to many unique indigenous communities. Did you know that almost a third of Colombia is made up of jungle? Although much of the rainforest is inaccessible, the Amazonian capital of Leticia and the beautiful eco-village of Puerto Nariño are accessible at any time of year. Visiting the Colombian Amazon is a rewarding experience, and although you can enjoy this natural paradise year-round, there are a few things we think you should be aware of before you head off on your adventure….BEST TIME TO GO TO THE AMAZON: AMAZON WEATHER
TEMPERATURE
As you might expect thanks to its location in the tropical jungle, the climate in the Colombian Amazon is hot and humid. Here, you can enjoy warm temperatures throughout the year, with an average daytime temperature of around 25°C (with highs of 35°C and lows of 23°C). Although days are hot, night times can be significantly cooler with evening temperatures often dropping up to ten degrees.DRY & RAINY SEASON
Although temperatures vary little throughout the year, the Amazon region does experience a dry and a rainy season. Wet season – approx. January to June Dry season – approx. July to December March – known to be the wettest month.June – November is the dry season season, perfect for walking or hiking in the jungle.
December – May is the rainy season with high waters, the best time to navigate the Amazon River.
Travel Packages to the Amazon, Colombia
AMAZON DECEMBER – MAY: HIGH WATERS
During the rainy season, the river waters are running high, and you can easily access different parts of the Amazon by boat. Although some walking trails become inaccessible, it’s the perfect time to swim in black water creeks and kayak through the treetops of the flooded rainforest. However, you will likely see fewer animals in the wet season as they often retreat to remote dry forests. Humidity is very high and there are also more mosquitos.
Visit the Amazon during these months for:- Navigating the Amazon River
- Navigating other rivers and lakes, such as Lake Tarapota
- Kayaking
- Recreational fishing
- Swimming in black water creeks
- Observing the pink dolphins of the Amazon River
Do you want to visit the Colombian Amazon? Click here and explore our “Natural Amazon Adventure” plan. You can also create a tailor-made travel package by contacting MyTripColombia directly. Come and create unforgettable memories amongst the stunning biodiversity of the Colombian Amazon.
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AMAZON JUNE – NOVEMBER: LOW WATERS
Low river waters coincide with the dry season when it rains less. With less water in the rivers, more of the hiking trails are open and you can explore deeper into the jungle on foot. Lots of wildlife is easier to spot during the dry season, and some animals that are not as commonly observed in the rainy season are more visible as they come in search of water. There are also far fewer mosquitos.
- Better trail access. Enjoy long walks & hikes deep in the jungle.
- Bird watching – This is a great time to see beach-nesting birds like black skimmers and many kinds of terns
- More opportunity to see wildlife as you can hike further into the jungle.
- Fewer mosquitos
- More opportunity to see the caiman crocodiles (this is when they mate and lay their eggs)
- Less Rain
- Exploring the beaches that form in the Amazon. A truly special natural wonder.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING THE COLOMBIAN AMAZON: TIPS FOR THE JUNGLE
DON’T FORGET TO PACK INSECT REPELLENT
Regardless of the season that you travel, the Amazon is home to plenty of insects. Effective insect repellent is essential for keeping the bugs at bay. Mosquito-proof clothing and mosquito nets for sleeping are also strongly advised.BRING APPROPRIATE CLOTHING
In the Colombian Amazon, you might encounter sun, rain, and even the cold. So, what clothes should you take to the jungle? It is best to bring a different outfit for every day in case of rain and humidity (shorts, dresses, light pants, t-shirts, polo shirts). We also recommend bringing warm clothes in case it gets cold at night.GET VACCINATED
You will need your yellow fever vaccination to enter Colombia and travel to the Amazon.PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN
The sun is extremely strong in the Amazon, and although many of the tall forest canopies provide shade, it is still essential to use a high factor sunscreen. A sun hat is also advisable.BRING YOUR CAMERA AND BINOCULARS
Don’t forget your camera to take photos of the spectacular biodiversity of the Amazon. Binoculars are also handy for spotting birds, monkeys, snakes, and more! As you can see, the Amazon is an amazing destination that can be enjoyed at any time of year. Some of the activities that don’t depend on the water levels include:- A trip to Monkey Island
- Sleeping in the middle of the jungle at one of the beautiful natural reserves
- Discovering more about the indigenous communities of the Amazon
- Enjoy the local cuisine – see our article on what to eat in the Colombian Amazon
IIf you are here it is because you are already interested in traveling to the Colombian Amazon… don’t think twice about it and come and explore the lungs of the world!
Travel with My trip Colombia, a travel agency with over 29 years of experience.
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