Planning a vacation can be an exciting but also challenging task, especially when it comes to timing it with a country's official holidays. In Colombia, a country known for its cultural and natural diversity, there are numerous holidays throughout the year that can serve as excellent opportunities for a memorable vacation.
Colombia has a fairly extensive calendar of national holidays, with 18 official holidays throughout the year. These holidays are divided between those of a religious nature and those of a civic or historical nature. Some of these holidays are fixed, while others are moved to the nearest Monday to create long weekends, known as "bridges."
Fixed Holidays
New Year's Day (January 1): This is a perfect day to start the year with a short getaway. Many Colombian families celebrate the new year on the Caribbean coast or on country estates.
Labor Day (May 1) : An opportunity to rest and reflect on work. Ideal for a short break from the routine.
Independence Day (July 20): A date to celebrate national pride. It is an ideal time to visit historical places and learn more about the history of Colombia.
Battle of Boyacá (August 7): Another important civic day, commemorating a crucial battle in the country's independence.
Columbus Day (October 12): This day celebrates the cultural diversity of Colombia.
Cartagena Independence Day (November 11): Cartagena de Indias, with its rich history and beautiful beaches, is a popular destination on this date.
Christmas (December 25): A time to share with family and enjoy Colombian Christmas traditions.
Mobile Holidays
Easter (March or April): This is one of the longest holiday periods of the year. Ideal for long trips.
Ascension of the Lord (May or June): Celebrated 40 days after Easter.
Corpus Christi (June): Celebrated 60 days after Easter.
Sacred Heart (June): Celebrated 68 days after Easter.
Saint Peter and Saint Paul (June 29): Moved to the nearest Monday.
Assumption of the Virgin (August 15): Moved to the nearest Monday.
All Saints' Day (November 1): Moved to the nearest Monday.
Immaculate Conception (December 8): Moved to the nearest Monday.
Vacation Planning According to Holidays
January - Beginning of the Year
New Year's is an excellent opportunity to start the year with a revitalizing trip. Many Colombians opt for beach destinations such as Cartagena, Santa Marta, and San Andrés. If you prefer a cooler climate, you can consider destinations in the coffee region or in the mountains of Antioquia.
Holy Week - March/April
Holy Week is one of the most important periods of the year in Colombia. During this week, cities and towns celebrate processions and religious events. Popayán is known for its impressive processions and can be a fascinating destination. If you are looking for something less religious and more relaxing, the Caribbean coast remains a popular option.
May - May Holidays
Labor Day and Ascension Day offer two long weekends in May. This is a good time for a short getaway. You can consider visiting Medellín to enjoy its mild climate and botanical gardens, or explore the Pacific beaches in Nuquí or Bahía Solano.
June - Diversity of Options
June has several holidays such as Corpus Christi and the Sacred Heart. These days are ideal for a longer trip. The Colombian Amazon, with its impressive biodiversity, is an excellent option for nature lovers. Alternatively, you can visit the Boyacá region, known for its beautiful landscapes and hot springs.
July - National Celebrations
Independence Day in July is a perfect opportunity to learn more about Colombia's history. Bogotá and its surroundings offer interesting museums and historical sites. If you prefer nature, the El Cocuy National Natural Park is an incredible destination for hiking.
August - Holidays in August
The Assumption of the Virgin holiday in August can be a good time to visit the lesser-known areas of the country. The Tatacoa Desert offers a surreal landscape and the opportunity to observe the stars in one of the clearest skies in Colombia.
October - Celebrating Diversity
Columbus Day in October celebrates the cultural diversity of Colombia. This month you can explore indigenous cultures by visiting the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and meeting the Koguis and Arhuacos. It is also a good time to enjoy the Manizales International Theater Festival, if you are a lover of the performing arts.
November - Cartagena and More
The month of November has the Cartagena Independence holiday. This city, with its colonial history, beaches and vibrant nightlife, is a must-see. Additionally, November is a good time to visit the Amazon region before the rainy season begins.
December - Christmas and New Year's Eve
Christmas in Colombia is a magical time. The cities are filled with Christmas lights and decorations. Medellín is famous for its Christmas lighting, which attracts visitors from all over the country. It is a good time to enjoy local cuisine and festivities with the family.
Vacation Planning Tips
Book in Advance: Holidays are periods of high demand. It is advisable to reserve accommodation and transportation in advance to ensure availability and best prices.
Avoid Popular Destinations: If you prefer to avoid crowds, consider lesser-known destinations during the holidays. Colombia has many beautiful places off the main tourist routes.
Weather and Seasons : Keep the weather in mind when planning your vacation. Colombia has a great climatic diversity due to its geography. Check the weather conditions of the destination you want to visit.
Take advantage of the Long Weekends: The holidays that are moved to Monday allow you to enjoy long weekends. Plan short and revitalizing getaways taking advantage of these bridges.
Local Activities: Research local activities and festivities celebrated during the holidays. Participating in local events can enrich your experience and allow you to learn more about Colombian culture.
Recommended Destinations by Season
Summer (December - February)
Cartagena and Santa Marta: Beaches, history and culture.
San Andrés and Providencia: Paradise islands with crystal clear waters.
Coffee Axis: Green landscapes, coffee and traditional farms.
Rainy Season (March - May)
Amazon: Biodiversity, jungle and ecological adventures.
Nuquí and Bahía Solano: Whale watching and secluded beaches.
Medellín: City of eternal spring, botanical gardens and cultural life.
Mid-Year Season (June - August)
Boyacá: Mountainous landscapes, colonial towns and hot springs.
El Cocuy National Natural Park: Hiking and virgin nature.
Tatacoa Desert: Desert landscapes and astronomical observation.
New Year's Eve Season (September - November)
Cartagena: Colonial history, beaches and nightlife.
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: Indigenous cultures and nature.
Manizales: Culture, art and festivals.
Planning your vacation around the holidays in Colombia can be an excellent strategy to maximize your free time and explore this beautiful country. Always remember to consider factors such as weather, transportation and accommodation availability, and local activities. Take advantage of the holidays to discover new destinations, learn more about Colombian culture and enjoy an unforgettable vacation.
Organize your calendar, make your reservations in advance and get ready to enjoy all the wonders that Colombia has to offer. Happy journey!