Cartagena
Climate Characteristics of Cartagena
General Overview
Cartagena is located at sea level along the Caribbean coast and features a tropical wet and dry climate. Unlike Bogotá, it is very hot year-round without interruption. Humidity in Cartagena is very high, which makes the perceived temperature significantly higher than the actual reading.
Temperatures
Daytime temperatures consistently range between 31°C and 33°C (88-91°F) and rarely drop below 24°C (75°F) even at night. The warm air and Caribbean Sea make the city a perfect destination for beach holidays, but visiting the Old City requires plenty of water and sunscreen due to the intense sun.
Dry Season (December to April)
This is peak season in Cartagena. Skies are clear and blue, there is almost no rain, and pleasant sea breezes from the Caribbean help moderate the heavy heat. January and February are considered the least humid and most comfortable months for touring.
Rainy Season (May to November)
During this period, humidity spikes and the heat becomes more stifling. Rain typically appears as short, intense tropical downpours, after which the sun usually returns. October is generally the wettest month. Notably, Cartagena is outside the main hurricane belt, so devastating storms are very rare.
Cartagena: Weather by Month
January
This is widely considered the best month to visit. It is the peak of the dry season, featuring clear blue skies and almost zero rain. Strong sea breezes known as "Los Alisios" provide a cooling effect against the average high of 31°C (88°F).
February
Very similar to January. It remains very dry and sunny with consistent breezes. Highs stay around 31°C (88°F). The humidity is at its lowest for the year, making it much more comfortable to walk around the Walled City.
March
The dry season continues, though the cooling winds begin to weaken slightly. It feels a bit hotter with average highs of 32°C (90°F). It is still an excellent time for boat trips to the Rosario Islands.
April
A transitional month where the heat intensifies. Expect highs of 32°C (90°F) and a noticeable increase in humidity. While still mostly dry, you might experience a few sudden tropical showers toward the end of the month.
May
The official start of the rainy season. Humidity levels jump, making the air feel very heavy and "sticky." Temperatures average 32°C (90°F). Rain usually falls in short, intense bursts in the late afternoon.
June
Hot and humid with average highs of 32°C (90°F). Tropical showers are common but rarely last all day. The sea is very warm, perfect for swimming, but the sun is extremely intense.
July
Often sees a short break in the heavy rains, known as the "Veranillo." It remains very hot (32°C / 90°F) and humid, but with more frequent sunny spells compared to June.
August
The humidity remains high, and temperatures hover around 32°C (90°F). Afternoon thunderstorms become more frequent, often providing a temporary (if humid) relief from the intense midday sun.
September
One of the more humid and rainy months. Expect highs of 32°C (90°F) but a much higher "real feel" temperature. This month often sees the most overcast days, though the sun still breaks through regularly.
October
Statistically the wettest month of the year in Cartagena. Rainfall is frequent and can be quite heavy, occasionally causing temporary street flooding in certain areas. Highs average 31°C (88°F).
November
The rains begin to subside, especially toward the end of the month. It remains quite humid with temperatures around 31°C (88°F). The air starts to feel a bit fresher as the dry season approaches.
December
The return of the dry season and the famous trade winds. The humidity drops, and the pleasant breeze returns to the city. Average highs are 31°C (88°F). It is a festive and very popular month for tourism.