Following the recent commemorations of April 9th, a day of profound national reflection, citizens are beginning to consult the calendar to plan their upcoming holidays. With the second half of April upon us, attention is now turning to the May holidays, a month that traditionally offers significant breaks for the workforce and the tourism sector. However, this year planning depends not only on the major holidays but also on the extreme weather conditions currently affecting the country.
May holidays: Key dates for national rest
May 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated months for those seeking a short break from their daily routines. The first major event is May 1st, International Workers' Day, which this year falls on a Friday, creating the first long weekend of the month. This date, in addition to its symbolic nature and the usual union marches, represents an economic boost for regions that depend on short-haul tourism.
Later, the calendar marks Monday, May 18th, as the Feast of the Ascension. Although the religious holiday originally falls on a Thursday, Law 51 of 1983, known as the Emiliani Law, moved the holiday to the following Monday, thus creating the second long weekend in May. These days are crucial for local businesses, especially in departments like Cundinamarca, Antioquia, and the Coffee Region, where the flow of travelers typically increases significantly.
It is important to remember that, before reaching these dates, the country has experienced days of great social significance. Recently, the website reported on the commemorations for the Day of Remembrance and Solidarity with the Victims , an event that sets the tone for the public agenda in April and serves as a prelude to the transition to the months of greater recreational activity.
The impact of weather on travel plans for upcoming long weekends
Despite the excitement surrounding the upcoming holidays, environmental and risk management authorities have issued warnings that travelers should take seriously. Colombia is currently experiencing a severe weather phenomenon. As reported in previous analyses of Super El Niño in Colombia , reservoir levels and the stability of roads are under constant monitoring.
The Colombian Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) has warned that, although May is typically a transitional month towards rain in some regions, the intensity of the current weather phenomenon could generate abrupt changes in the climate. This means that travelers should be prepared for both intense heat waves in low-lying areas and sudden thunderstorms in the mountain ranges. Planning land routes should include constantly checking reports from the Traffic Police and the National Roads Institute (Invías), given that unstable terrain may lead to preventative road closures.
Recommendations for travelers in the face of the Super El Niño phenomenon
For those planning to take advantage of the May bank holidays, it is vital to follow a series of safety and sustainability recommendations. First and foremost, water and energy conservation should not be neglected during the holidays. Many tourist destinations in the Caribbean and the Pacific are facing supply restrictions due to the prolonged drought. Tourists are urged to practice responsible consumption in hotels and hostels to avoid exacerbating the situation for local communities.
Secondly, wildfire prevention is a priority. Authorities strictly prohibit campfires in nature reserves and dry rural areas. A small oversight on a day off could trigger a major environmental tragedy, especially under the current conditions of low humidity and high temperatures. For more details on at-risk areas, please consult the news section where red alert maps are updated.
Economic and tourism outlook for the end of the semester
The hotel sector and travel agencies maintain a moderate but positive outlook for the May holidays. Despite economic uncertainty and fluctuations in the dollar exchange rate, domestic tourism remains the preferred option for Colombians. Nature destinations and heritage towns are emerging as favorites, offering experiences that don't require expensive international travel.
Furthermore, the dynamics of long weekends help mitigate the impact of complex economic news, such as recent fluctuations in the Stock Market or adjustments to the national budget. Spending during these extended breaks injects liquidity into sectors like gastronomy, intercity transportation, and handicrafts—sectors that are vital for job recovery in the regions. We encourage travelers to plan ahead, check road conditions, and always maintain respectful behavior toward the environment and local regulations in each destination.
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