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Weather Comparison

Medellin vs Bogota

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Medellin: 26°CBogota: 19°C239 km apart

January Weather: Medellin vs Bogota

MetricMedellinBogotaBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer26°C (79°F)19°C (66°F)Medellin
Average LowHigher is milder16°C (61°F)10°C (50°F)Medellin
Rain DaysFewer is drier21 days14 daysBogota
PrecipitationLess is drier133 mm58 mmBogota
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/dayBogota
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer44Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better6 km/h9 km/hMedellin

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Bogota edges ahead as the better destination in January. Bogota offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 14 rain days, while Medellin sees 10 sunshine hours and 21 rain days.

Medellin sits in the comfortable travel range at 26°C. Bogota is also comfortable at 19°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Bogota is the stronger choice in January. Bogota receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in January

Medellin reaches an average high of 26°C (79°F) and drops to 16°C (61°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Bogota averages 19°C (66°F) for the high and 10°C (50°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°C. There is a notable 7°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in January.

Rainfall Comparison in January

Medellin receives approximately 133 mm of rainfall across 21 rain days during January. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Bogota sees 58 mm over 14 rain days. That makes Bogota the drier option by 7 rain days and 75 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Medellin vs Bogota

Packing for Medellin in January

Highs of 26°C, lows of 16°C, 21 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Bogota in January

Highs of 19°C, lows of 10°C, 14 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: Medellin vs Bogota

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.January is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthMedellinBogota
HighRainHighRain
Jan26°C21d19°C14d
Feb26°C23d19°C15d
Mar26°C28d19°C19d
Apr26°C28d19°C19d
May26°C29d18°C17d
Jun26°C26d18°C11d
Jul26°C25d18°C10d
Aug27°C24d19°C7d
Sep26°C27d20°C9d
Oct25°C29d19°C17d
Nov24°C29d19°C21d
Dec25°C24d19°C16d
26°

Medellin Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

19°

Bogota Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Medellin warmer than Bogota in January?
Yes. In January, Medellin is warmer with an average high of 26°C (79°F) compared to Bogota at 19°C (66°F), a difference of 7°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Medellin or Bogota?
Medellin gets more rain in January with 21 rain days and 133 mm of precipitation. Bogota is the drier option with 14 rain days.
Is it better to visit Medellin or Bogota in January?
It depends on your preferences. Medellin averages 26°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 21 rain days. Bogota averages 19°C with 11 sunshine hours and 14 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Medellin. For fewer rain days, Bogota is the better pick.
How far apart are Medellin and Bogota?
Medellin and Bogota are approximately 239 km (148 miles) apart. Medellin is located in Colombia (South America) while Bogota is in Colombia (South America).
What is the best month to visit Medellin and Bogota?
For Medellin, August tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 27°C. For Bogota, August is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 19°C highs.

Compare Medellin and Bogota in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Medellin coordinates: 6.24°N, -75.58°E | Bogota coordinates: 4.71°N, -74.07°E