Weather in Cartagena

Planning to spend time in Cartagena? Check out the latest weather information! In this section, you will find up-to-date weather reports, detailed forecasts, and clear charts to help plan your day.

The climate in Cartagena, located in Colombia, is characterized as tropical with clearly defined dry and wet seasons. The city is distinguished by high temperatures that remain stable throughout the year, with monthly averages around 27-28°C. Fluctuations between day and night temperatures are also minimal, ensuring consistently warm weather.

Two main seasons are clearly distinguished in Cartagena. The dry season usually lasts from December to March. During this period, especially from January to March, rainfall is minimal (0 mm), and the number of rainy days is low, making this time popular for tourists. The hottest and driest months are February and March, when the maximum temperature can reach 32°C.

The wet season begins around April and continues until November. During this time, the number of rainy days increases; for example, in October there can be up to 29. However, it is important to note that despite the frequency of rain, the total amount of precipitation remains moderate, not exceeding 7 mm in the wettest months. Air temperature during this period also remains high, creating conditions of high humidity.

The annual temperature trend in Cartagena demonstrates high stability, typical of a tropical climate, with very insignificant fluctuations between months. The annual range of average temperatures is small: the hottest months are February and March, when the average temperature reaches 28.7°C, and daytime highs can rise to 32.2°C. It gets slightly "cooler," if that term is applicable to Cartagena, in November, with an average temperature of 27.1°C and minimum night-time temperatures around 25.1°C. Overall, even in the "coolest" months, it is very warm here, and the weather is conducive to relaxation.

The nominally "summer" months, roughly from January to April, are characterized by the highest temperatures. During the day, the thermometer regularly exceeds 31-32°C, and nights remain very warm, with temperatures around 25-26°C. During this period, especially from January to March, very little precipitation falls. From May to November, the temperature drops slightly but remains high: daytime highs usually hold around 29-30°C, and night-time lows are around 25-26°C. This period coincides with the rainy season, which can increase the perceived humidity. Temperature fluctuations between day and night in Cartagena are moderate, usually ranging from 4°C to 7°C, with the greatest difference observed in the drier months at the beginning of the year.

Cartagena's climate is characterized by clearly defined dry and wet seasons. The dry season falls on the period from December to March. At this time, precipitation is extremely rare: January, February, and March can boast an almost complete absence of rain (0 mm) and a minimal number of rainy days (from 2 to 5). December is also a relatively dry month with a small amount of precipitation (1 mm) and approximately 8 rainy days.

The transition to the wet season begins in April, when the number of rainy days rises sharply to 16, and rainfall volume reaches 3 mm. The main rainy season in Cartagena lasts from May to November. In these months, the number of days with precipitation is significant: from 24 days in May and July to a peak of 29 days in October. However, despite the frequency, the total amount of precipitation remains moderate, reaching a maximum of 7 mm in June and October. This suggests that the rains are likely frequent but not too intense or prolonged downpours, possibly drizzle.

The wettest months in terms of precipitation amount are June and October (7 mm each), while October leads in the frequency of rainy days (on average 29 days), followed by September (28 days) and June with August (26 days each). Snow does not fall in Cartagena due to consistently high temperatures throughout the year.

When planning a trip to Cartagena, be prepared for hot and humid weather throughout the year. The average annual temperature hovers around 27-28°C, so the basis of your wardrobe should be light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics – cotton and linen would be the ideal choice. Shorts, T-shirts, tank tops, summer dresses, and skirts will ensure comfort on hot days. Do not forget swimwear, as Cartagena is famous for its beaches. Essential items will be high-factor sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection against the intense tropical sun. Comfortable walking shoes, such as sandals or light trainers, are also extremely important for exploring the colourful streets of the city.

Despite the consistently high temperature, the amount of precipitation in Cartagena varies noticeably. From May to November, with a peak in October, the rainy season sets in, when frequent but usually short-lived tropical showers are possible; in these months, the number of rainy days can reach 24-29 per month. During this period, it is recommended to take a light waterproof raincoat or poncho, as well as a compact umbrella. Quick-drying clothing will be very useful. In the drier months, from January to March, rain happens rarely (2-5 rainy days per month), but a small folding umbrella wouldn't hurt. In the evening, a pleasant sea breeze may bring a slight coolness, but special windproof clothing is usually not required – a light cover-up is sufficient.

Besides basic clothing, it is worth thinking about insect repellent, especially for evening walks or visiting green zones. For evening outings or visiting air-conditioned places, a light cardigan, shawl, or stole may come in handy. Given the hot and humid climate of Cartagena, give preference to loose clothing that will ensure good ventilation and make your journey as pleasant and comfortable as possible.