Venezuela Weather by Month
Venezuela, located in the northern part of South America, has a tropical climate with variations depending on the region. The country’s vast geographical diversity, which includes the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes Mountains, the Caribbean coast, and the Orinoco River Basin, means that its weather patterns can differ significantly from one area to another. Venezuela experiences two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season. In this article, we will explore the weather in Venezuela month by month, examining the temperature, rainfall, and regional differences throughout the year.
January: The Heart of the Dry Season
General Overview
January is one of the driest months in Venezuela, especially in the central and coastal regions. With clear skies and sunshine dominating, this is an ideal time for outdoor activities, especially for tourists. The weather across the country is warm but not excessively hot, as the dry season has already taken hold. The highland areas such as Mérida, in the Andes, enjoy cooler temperatures, while the plains and tropical regions experience warmer weather.
Temperature and Rainfall
Temperatures in January vary widely depending on the region. In the coastal areas like Caracas and Valencia, temperatures typically range between 22°C and 30°C (72°F to 86°F), while inland areas like Maracay and Barquisimeto experience slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures reaching between 23°C and 33°C (73°F to 91°F). In the Andes, temperatures drop significantly, especially at higher elevations, with average temperatures between 14°C and 22°C (57°F to 72°F). Rainfall is minimal during this month, with most regions receiving very little rain, although sporadic showers are still possible in some parts of the country.
Regional Variations
Caracas, the capital city, and other coastal regions, such as Maracaibo, experience dry and sunny weather, making this an excellent time to explore the urban landscape. The mountain regions, such as Mérida, offer a cooler alternative with refreshing temperatures. Meanwhile, the rainforests in the Amazonian region, though still experiencing the dry season, may see occasional afternoon showers, but these are brief and less frequent than in the wet season.
February: A Warm and Dry Month
General Overview
February continues the dry season for most parts of Venezuela, with warm and sunny days throughout the month. This is an ideal time to visit the country’s coastal areas and the cities in the Andean mountain range. While the country’s tropical lowlands remain warm, the dry season brings relief in the form of lower humidity and clearer skies. For those interested in adventure tourism or exploring Venezuela’s national parks, February is a great month.
Temperature and Rainfall
In February, temperatures in the coastal areas remain warm, ranging from 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F), with some higher temperatures in the inland regions, which can range from 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F). The cooler mountainous regions of Mérida and the Andes see temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). Rainfall is still quite low in most parts of the country, with only a few areas in the southern rainforests receiving light showers. The dry season’s grip continues to hold, ensuring the weather remains mostly clear and warm.
Regional Variations
The capital city, Caracas, and the Caribbean coast, such as La Guaira, experience relatively dry and sunny conditions, making it perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the beaches. The highland areas, including Mérida, enjoy pleasant, cool weather, which contrasts with the warmth of the lowlands. As the month progresses, the southern and eastern parts of Venezuela, including parts of the Amazon region, might see slight increases in rainfall, but the weather remains largely dry.
March: Transition Month with Increasing Heat
General Overview
March marks the end of the dry season and the transition toward the wetter months. The weather continues to be warm and dry, with increased heat as the month progresses. As the country enters the pre-rainy season, temperatures begin to rise, especially in the lowlands and the plains. Humidity levels also start to increase, making it feel warmer. The highland regions remain cooler, providing a comfortable escape from the increasing heat in the cities and lowlands.
Temperature and Rainfall
In March, temperatures in the coastal cities such as Caracas and Valencia hover between 23°C and 32°C (73°F to 90°F), while the interior regions experience higher temperatures, with averages ranging from 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F). In the Andes, areas like Mérida experience more comfortable conditions, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 23°C (61°F to 73°F). Rainfall begins to increase slightly, particularly in the southern and eastern parts of the country, though the majority of Venezuela remains dry. Areas in the Amazon region, like Puerto Ayacucho, see an uptick in rainfall, which starts to signal the arrival of the rainy season.
Regional Variations
The central and coastal regions, including Caracas, Maracaibo, and La Guaira, remain mostly dry, though there is a noticeable increase in humidity. The northern Andes, such as Mérida, continue to experience cool weather, making it a desirable location for travelers seeking relief from the heat. The southern parts of Venezuela, including the Amazon and Orinoco regions, start to experience more frequent rain showers as the country moves toward the wet season.
April: The Start of the Wet Season
General Overview
By April, Venezuela begins to experience the full onset of the wet season, especially in the central and eastern regions. The warm temperatures combined with increasing rainfall create a humid atmosphere, which is typical for this time of year. While the northern and coastal areas still experience drier conditions, the rest of the country sees more frequent rain showers, particularly in the Amazon region and the plains.
Temperature and Rainfall
In April, temperatures remain high, with coastal cities like Caracas and Valencia experiencing average temperatures between 23°C and 32°C (73°F to 90°F). Inland cities, such as Maracay and Barquisimeto, see slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F). The mountainous Andes regions, including Mérida, remain cooler, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 23°C (63°F to 73°F). Rainfall increases across Venezuela, especially in the Amazon region, where it can exceed 100mm for the month. The Caribbean coast remains drier, although there may be brief rain showers.
Regional Variations
The coastal regions of Caracas and Maracaibo experience less rainfall than the rest of the country, with occasional light showers. The central plains and the lowlands near the Orinoco River begin to see more regular rainstorms. In the Amazonian regions, including Puerto Ayacucho and Ciudad Guayana, the rain becomes more consistent and frequent. The highland areas of Mérida continue to enjoy cooler, drier weather, offering a refuge from the humid lowlands.
May: Peak of the Wet Season
General Overview
May is one of the wettest months of the year in Venezuela, as the rainy season is in full swing across most of the country. The northern and central regions experience heavy rainfall, with thunderstorms and afternoon downpours being common. This is also a time when the heat and humidity increase, making the air feel even warmer. The wet season is particularly intense in the Amazon and Orinoco regions.
Temperature and Rainfall
In May, coastal areas like Caracas and Valencia experience temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). Inland cities such as Maracay, Barquisimeto, and Valencia experience warmer conditions, with temperatures averaging between 25°C and 34°C (77°F to 93°F). The cooler mountain regions, such as Mérida, see temperatures between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Rainfall is high, particularly in the Amazon, where monthly rainfall can easily exceed 150mm. In the Orinoco River basin and lowlands, rainfall is also frequent, although less intense compared to the southern regions.
Regional Variations
The central and coastal areas, including Caracas, experience rain showers and thunderstorms, especially in the afternoon. The eastern and southern parts of Venezuela, including cities like Ciudad Guayana and Puerto Ayacucho, experience more persistent rainfall. The highland regions such as Mérida continue to enjoy cooler weather, but they may also experience light rainfall or mist in the afternoons. This is a good time to visit the Andes for cooler temperatures, but the wet conditions can make travel in the lowlands and rainforests more difficult.
June: Wet Season Continues
General Overview
In June, the rainy season continues to dominate Venezuela’s weather, with heavy rains and thunderstorms becoming more frequent across the country. The temperatures remain high in the lowlands, with increased humidity, while the highlands enjoy a slight drop in temperature. The wet season is now in full swing, particularly in the northern and central regions.
Temperature and Rainfall
Temperatures in June are similar to May, with coastal cities experiencing averages between 24°C and 31°C (75°F to 88°F), while inland cities experience slightly warmer conditions ranging between 25°C and 34°C (77°F to 93°F). The mountain regions like Mérida have cooler temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). The rainfall is abundant throughout Venezuela, especially in the Amazon region and the lowlands. This month is one of the rainiest, with many areas seeing upwards of 150mm of rainfall, particularly in the southern and eastern regions.
Regional Variations
The northern and central parts of Venezuela, including Caracas and Maracaibo, experience regular thunderstorms, but rainfall can be brief. The southern Amazon region experiences the heaviest rain, with frequent downpours and flooding becoming a concern. The highland areas continue to have a more temperate climate, with mild temperatures and occasional rain showers, making it a favorable destination for travelers.
July: Intense Rain and Warm Temperatures
General Overview
July is marked by high temperatures and intense rainfall throughout most of Venezuela, with the country experiencing the height of the wet season. The rainy conditions continue to be a defining feature of the weather, especially in the eastern and southern regions. However, the mountainous regions remain relatively cooler and less affected by the rain.
Temperature and Rainfall
In July, coastal regions like Caracas and Valencia experience temperatures between 24°C and 32°C (75°F to 90°F), with warmer inland cities such as Maracay experiencing temperatures between 25°C and 34°C (77°F to 93°F). The Andes experience slightly cooler temperatures, ranging between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Rainfall is substantial, particularly in the Amazon, where the monthly rainfall can exceed 150mm. In other parts of the country, including the Orinoco River Basin, rainstorms are frequent, although they may not be as intense as in the southern regions.
Regional Variations
The majority of Venezuela experiences intense rain during this month, with frequent thunderstorms and downpours across most regions. Caracas and the coastal areas experience less rain than the rest of the country, although brief showers are still possible. The Andean region of Mérida remains cooler and drier, providing a pleasant contrast to the rest of the country.
August: Wet Season Continues with High Humidity
General Overview
August is another month dominated by heavy rainfall as Venezuela’s wet season continues. The rain showers and thunderstorms can be intense in many parts of the country, and the humidity levels remain high. However, the weather in the Andes and other highland regions remains more temperate, providing a reprieve from the heat.
Temperature and Rainfall
In August, temperatures in coastal regions remain between 24°C and 32°C (75°F to 90°F), with inland cities experiencing slightly higher temperatures ranging from 25°C to 34°C (77°F to 93°F). The mountainous regions experience cooler temperatures, ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). The rainfall remains abundant, particularly in the Amazon and Orinoco regions, where rainfall totals can exceed 150mm for the month.
Regional Variations
The eastern and southern parts of Venezuela, including the Orinoco River Basin and Amazon regions, experience the heaviest rainfall. The coastal regions, including Caracas and Maracaibo, see less rain but still have increased humidity and occasional thunderstorms. The Andes region, such as Mérida, remains a popular destination for travelers seeking cooler temperatures and less rain.
September: Transition Toward the End of the Wet Season
General Overview
September marks the transitional period between the peak of the wet season and the onset of the dry season. While rain is still common, the intensity begins to decrease, particularly in the northern and coastal regions. The southern parts of Venezuela, however, continue to experience frequent rainfall as the wet season slowly fades.
Temperature and Rainfall
In September, temperatures are similar to previous months, with coastal cities experiencing temperatures between 24°C and 32°C (75°F to 90°F), while inland cities like Maracay experience temperatures between 25°C and 34°C (77°F to 93°F). The Andean region enjoys cooler temperatures between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F). The rainfall continues in most areas, with significant rain still affecting the Amazon region and parts of the Orinoco River Basin.
Regional Variations
The central and northern regions, including Caracas and Maracaibo, see less rain compared to earlier months, but the southern regions, such as Ciudad Guayana and Puerto Ayacucho, continue to experience heavy rainfall. The Andes region remains a preferred destination due to its cooler weather and relative dryness.
October: End of the Wet Season
General Overview
By October, the wet season begins to taper off in many parts of Venezuela, but the southern and Amazon regions continue to experience rain. The central and northern regions experience decreasing rainfall, leading to more dry days, although brief showers can still occur.
Temperature and Rainfall
Temperatures in October are similar to those of earlier months, with coastal cities like Caracas experiencing temperatures between 24°C and 31°C (75°F to 88°F). The inland areas such as Maracay experience slightly warmer temperatures ranging between 25°C and 33°C (77°F to 91°F). In the Andean region, temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). The rainfall continues to decrease in most areas, with the Amazon region and Orinoco Basin experiencing the last of the intense rain.
Regional Variations
The coastal regions see less rain, with clear skies and occasional showers. The southern regions continue to experience frequent rainstorms, though these gradually become less intense. The highlands of Mérida remain cooler and drier, making it a good time to visit the region.
November: Transition to Dry Season
General Overview
In November, the dry season begins in earnest in most of Venezuela, with rainfall decreasing significantly across the country. The northern and coastal areas see mostly dry weather, while the southern and Amazon regions still receive rain. This is a transitional month with variable weather patterns as the country prepares for the dry season.
Temperature and Rainfall
Temperatures in November remain consistent with the previous months, with coastal cities experiencing temperatures between 24°C and 31°C (75°F to 88°F). Inland areas experience temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C (77°F to 91°F), and the Andean region remains cool, with temperatures between 18°C and 24°C (64°F to 75°F). Rainfall begins to decrease significantly in most areas, except in the southern regions.
Regional Variations
In the northern and central regions, the dry season begins, with clearer skies and warmer temperatures. The Amazon and Orinoco regions continue to receive some rainfall, but it is less frequent. The Andes remain a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the heat and humidity.
December: Full Swing of the Dry Season
General Overview
By December, Venezuela is fully in the dry season, especially in the northern and central parts of the country. The weather is warm, sunny, and relatively dry across most regions, with the exception of the southern areas where rain still occurs. This is a great time to visit Venezuela for outdoor activities, beach holidays, and exploring the Andean mountains.
Temperature and Rainfall
In December, temperatures in coastal cities like Caracas range between 24°C and 30°C (75°F to 86°F), with inland areas experiencing temperatures between 25°C and 33°C (77°F to 91°F). The Andean region continues to enjoy cooler conditions, ranging from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). Rainfall is minimal, and the country experiences predominantly dry weather.
Regional Variations
The dry conditions prevail across the northern and central regions, including Caracas and Maracaibo. The southern and Amazon regions, however, still experience some rainfall, though it is less frequent and lighter than during the peak wet season. The highlands remain a cool and pleasant destination, ideal for travelers seeking a break from the tropical heat.
