Medellín, Colombia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Medellín, Colombia? If you're planning to go to Medellín, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Medellín, Colombia

Based on the climate and weather in Medellín, Colombia, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Medellín, Colombia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Medellín, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Medellín, Colombia by month

January

If you visit Medellín during January, you will probably notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Medellín is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Medellín is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April is warm and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you visit Medellín during May, you may notice that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally around 60 during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you vacation in Medellín during June, you might notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you go to Medellín in July, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Medellín is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in Medellín is a perfect temperature and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Medellín is warm and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you vacation in Medellín during November, you may find that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December for Medellín is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Colombia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Medellín. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Jardín Botánico, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Medellín, Colombia

Medellín, Colombia is one of the most exciting cities to visit in South America. It is renowned for its fascinating history, awe-inspiring architectural designs, and a blend of friendly people and a unique culture that makes it unforgettable. Visitors to the city are spoiled for choices when it comes to things to see and do. Therefore, to help you get the most out of your trip, we have compiled a list of the best tourist attractions in Medellín, Colombia.

1. Plaza Botero: No trip to Medellin is complete without a visit to Plaza Botero. This plaza is home to the largest collection of sculptures created by Fernando Botero, a famous Colombian artist. The sculptures are larger than life, and they are an excellent representation of Botero's unique style.

2. Comuna 13: Comuna 13 is a neighborhood that has undergone a massive transformation in recent years, from an area known for its violence to a community filled with color, art and music. A great way to explore this area is to take a Graffiti Tour, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant street art and get a unique perspective of the city.

3. Pueblito Paisa: Pueblito Paisa is a replica of a typical Antioquian Village located atop Nutibara Hill. It is designed to give visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the inhabitants of the region. With traditional food, music, and crafts, Pueblito Paisa is worth a visit.

4. Medellin Botanical Garden: The Medellin Botanical Garden is one of the most extensive botanical gardens in Colombia, comprising of more than 1,000 plant species. The gardens are designed to showcase the diversity of the local flora and fauna and are perfect for nature lovers.

5. Plaza de las Luces: Plaza de las Luces is a square that forms the heart of the city's historic district. The square is named after its illuminated pillars and offers visitors an opportunity to explore the history of Medellín.

6. Museo de Arte Moderno de Medellin (MAMM): The Museum of Modern Art in Medellín is a true celebration of Colombian Art. The museum's collection includes works by modern and contemporary Colombian artists, as well as pieces from other Latin American artists.

7. Parque de los Pies Descalzos: Parque de los Pies Descalzos is a park located in the center of the city that is designed to be experienced with bare feet. The park includes three pools filled with water, rocks and sand and inspires a sense of tranquility in the middle of the city.

In conclusion, Medellín is an exciting city with plenty to see and do. The above-mentioned tourist attractions are just a few of the many jewels that make up the city's crown. With a thriving cultural and artistic scene and a warm and friendly population, Medellín is an outsized city with a small-town feel which makes it an excellent place to explore.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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