Last updated: January 18, 2025
San Andrés y Providencia, Colombia, experiences a tropical climate classified as Am according to the Köppen-Geiger system. Characterized by consistently warm temperatures, the region sees a minimum of 24°C (75°F) in February, an average of 27°C (81°F) throughout the year, and peaks at 30°C (85°F) in September. This stable thermal regime, combined with the archipelago's lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems, makes it a unique destination for both residents and visitors alike.
San Andrés y Providencia, Colombia, exhibits a relatively stable temperature pattern throughout the year, typical of its tropical climate. From January to March, the region maintains minimum temperatures around 24°C (75°F) and averages 26°C (79-80°F), with maximums reaching 28°C (83°F). As spring approaches in April and May, a slight warming trend is observed, pushing the minimums to 25°C (76°F) and averages up to 27°C (81°F), while maximum temperatures hover around 29°C (84°F). This warmth continues into the summer months of June and July, where temperatures remain consistent, although August and September see a peak with maximums hitting 30°C (85°F). As the year closes, temperatures cool slightly, particularly in December, yet remain comfortably warm, ensuring a pleasant tropical climate year-round.
In the region of San Andres y Providencia, the climate shows consistent warm temperatures across different areas. Mountain experiences a minimum of 24°C (75°F) in February and rises to a maximum of 30°C (85°F) in September, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Mountain data. Similarly, Santa Isabel has a steady minimum of 24°C (75°F) in January, peaking at 30°C (85°F) in September, which can be explored further in the monthly temperatures in Santa Isabel resource. Meanwhile, San Andres maintains a minimum of 24°C (75°F) in February and reaches a maximum of 29°C (85°F) in September, as outlined in the monthly temperatures in San Andres.
San Andrés y Providencia experiences significant variability in precipitation throughout the year, with monthly totals fluctuating widely. The wettest months typically occur from May to October, where rainfall peaks dramatically—May alone records 165 mm (6.5 in), while October sees an even higher total of 268 mm (10.5 in). This period is characterized by frequent rain days, averaging 22 to 27 days per month, which significantly contributes to the lush tropical landscapes that the archipelago is known for.
In contrast, the drier months of January to April see much lower rainfall, with January receiving 62 mm (2.5 in) and February only 32 mm (1.3 in). These months feature fewer rainy days, ranging from 12 to 15. Although the precipitation levels in the early part of the year are modest, they provide a welcome respite and support the diversity of flora and fauna, setting the stage for the more intense rainfall that follows during the late spring and summer months.
San Andrés y Providencia enjoys a noteworthy amount of sunshine throughout the year, with patterns that reveal distinct seasonal trends. Notably, the sunniest months occur in the early part of the year, particularly March, which boasts an impressive 341 hours of sunshine. February follows closely behind with 302 hours, showcasing a steady rise in sunlight as winter transitions to spring. The duration remains strong through April, with 336 hours, before dipping slightly in May; however, the total remains robust at 310 hours. This period reflects the vibrant energy of tropical sunlight, essential for the archipelago’s diverse ecosystems.
As the year progresses into summer and fall, the sunshine duration stabilizes around 290 to 330 hours per month. June and October, although slightly lower at 292 hours and 298 hours respectively, still provide ample sunlight for outdoor activities. By September and November, sunshine hours return to 315 hours and 294 hours, illustrating a consistent pattern of bright days. Overall, the consistent availability of sunlight throughout the year not only enhances the region’s allure for tourists but also plays a crucial role in supporting its lush vegetation and vibrant atmosphere.
San Andrés y Providencia experiences exceptionally high levels of UV radiation throughout the year, with the UV Index frequently classified as extreme. From January to April, the UV Index peaks at 14 in April, with values consistently above 11 during these months. This extreme exposure level indicates a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes for fair-skinned individuals, highlighting the necessity for diligent sun protection measures during this period.
As the year progresses into the summer and fall, the UV Index stabilizes at a notable 13, maintaining the extreme exposure category from May through October. In November, it slightly declines to 11, and December records a lower yet still very high UV Index of 10, extending the potential for harmful effects. Despite the reduction in December, the adjusted burn time increases to 15 minutes, indicating a slight respite. Overall, the persistent high UV Index underscores the importance of sun safety practices for both residents and visitors to this tropical paradise.
UV Risk Categories
San Andrés y Providencia boasts a relatively consistent pattern of daylight duration throughout the year, with only slight variations. In January and February, the islands experience 11 hours of daylight, providing ample time for both residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities under the warm tropical sun. The transition into March marks a notable increase, where daylight extends to 12 hours, a duration that remains steady through to October. This consistent daylight allows for vibrant ecosystems and a rich array of experiences on the islands.
As the year shifts from October to December, the daylight hours decrease again, returning to 11 hours. Despite this reduction, the island's equatorial positioning ensures that the variation in daylight is minimal, promoting a predictable rhythm of life year-round. This relatively stable daylight duration enhances the allure of San Andrés y Providencia, as it facilitates year-round tourism and outdoor exploration, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this tropical paradise.
The climate in Mountain, Colombia, is characterized by relatively stable temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 26°C (79°F) in the cooler months to 28°C (82°F) during the warmer periods. Precipitation varies significantly, peaking in October with 269 mm (10.6 in), while May and June also experience heavy rainfall. Sunshine hours fluctuate with a high of 342 hours in March, ensuring ample daylight for outdoor activities. This unique climate creates lush landscapes and a vibrant ecosystem, making it a remarkable destination. For more details, visit Mountain climate.
San Andres, Colombia experiences a tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round, ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F). The island sees a significant increase in precipitation from May to October, peaking in October with 268 mm (10.5 in) of rain. Sunshine varies throughout the year, with March receiving the most hours at 341. Although May has the highest rainfall, it still enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit San Andres climate.
Santa Isabel, Colombia experiences a warm tropical climate characterized by consistent temperatures throughout the year, with average monthly highs ranging from 26°C (79°F) to 29°C (84°F). Rainfall is notably highest from May to October, particularly in October, which receives approximately 267 mm (10.5 in) of precipitation. Moreover, sunshine is abundant, peaking in March with 342 hours. The combination of warmth, significant rainfall, and ample sunshine fosters a lush environment, making it a unique destination. For more detailed information, visit Santa Isabel climate.
In conclusion, San Andrés y Providencia stands out as a vibrant tropic destination, characterized by its notable climatic features, including warmth, ample sunshine, and high UV exposure throughout the year. The island's consistent temperature provides a pleasant environment for outdoor activities, while its dynamic precipitation patterns enrich the lush landscapes. With a steady daylight duration and extreme UV Index, visitors are reminded to embrace sun safety practices while savoring the long, sunlit days. Together, these climatic elements not only enhance the allure of this archipelago but also play a vital role in sustaining its unique biodiversity and vibrant culture, making it a captivating locale for exploration and relaxation.