Colombia, South America
Medellin in November
Still rainy but easing, and the Christmas lights usually switch on around the end of the month.
The straight answer
November is a quiet, good-value month to visit Medellin. Still rainy but easing, and the Christmas lights usually switch on around the end of the month.
- Weather
- Wet, highs near 80F (27C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What November is like in Medellin
November is still rainy in Medellin, with highs near 80F (27C) and afternoon storms, but the rain eases as the month goes on. Crowds and prices are low. Around the end of the month, the Alumbrados Navidenos usually switch on, lighting up the Medellin River and parks with millions of lights.
Late November suits families and couples who want to see the Christmas lights before the December rush and peak prices. Early November is better for remote workers and city-focused visitors who do not mind rain. For reliably dry mountain trips, wait for late December to February.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Medellin this month.
The lights switch on
The Alumbrados Navidenos usually begin around the end of November, so you can see them before the holiday crowds arrive.
Quiet city before the holidays
Low season means easy restaurant bookings and good hotel rates.
Parque Explora on rainy days
The science museum and aquarium is an easy indoor plan with kids.
What to pack for November
- A rain jacket
- Waterproof shoes
- A warm layer for evening light walks
- A small umbrella
Our timing tip
Book the last week of November to catch the first nights of the Christmas lights at low-season prices, and walk the river displays after dark on a weeknight.
Book Medellin for November.
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- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in MedellinOpens a hotel search for Medellin in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in MedellinWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in MedellinTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Medellin for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in November
Alumbrados Navidenos
Late November or early December through early January
Millions of lights along the Medellin River and in parks across the city. Evenings are crowded with families.
Things to do in Medellin
Comuna 13
Visit with a local guide from the neighborhood to understand the history behind the murals and escalators. Mornings are less crowded.
Metrocable and Parque Arvi
Ride the cable cars up over the hillside neighborhoods to the Arvi forest park. Line L to Arvi is usually closed on Mondays.
Museo de Antioquia and Plaza Botero
Botero's largest collection in his hometown, with 23 bronze sculptures in the plaza outside. Keep valuables close in the busy downtown area.
Guatape and El Penol
A day trip to climb the 740 steps of the Penol rock and wander the brightly painted town. Go midweek; weekends are packed.
Museo Casa de la Memoria
A moving museum about Colombia's armed conflict and the city's recovery.
Jardin Botanico
A free botanical garden with an orchid house near the university. A calm break from the city.
Beat the crowds
- For the Feria de las Flores, book hotels months ahead and reserve a seat in the stands for the silleteros parade.
- Visit Guatape and Comuna 13 on weekdays; weekends are packed with local visitors.
- See the Christmas lights on a weeknight in early December, before the holiday crowds peak.
- February and September are quiet months with good weather and lower prices.
Know before you go
- Colombia has many Monday public holidays that bring heavy weekend crowds to Guatape and nearby towns.
- Parque Arvi and the Arvi Metrocable line usually close on Mondays; check current hours.
- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day close many businesses, while the days before are festive and busy.
- Heavy rain in April, May, October, and November can cause landslides and road closures in the surrounding mountains.
Medellin in November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Medellin?
November is a quiet, good-value month to visit Medellin. Still rainy but easing, and the Christmas lights usually switch on around the end of the month.
What is the weather like in Medellin in November?
Wet, highs near 80F (27C).
Is Medellin crowded in November?
November is one of the quieter months in Medellin; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Medellin in November?
Alumbrados Navidenos (late november or early december through early january).
Keep planning Medellin.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
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