How hot is Cartagena? This is one of the most common questions travelers ask when planning a Caribbean getaway to Colombia’s enchanting coastal city. Cartagena de Indias, known for its colonial charm, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches, is hot all year round, but not all months feel the same. If you’re preparing for a vacation, honeymoon, or even a longer stay, understanding the monthly weather patterns will help you pack smarter and plan better.
This guide gives you a detailed month-by-month breakdown of the temperature, humidity, and overall climate to answer the question: how hot is Cartagena throughout the year?
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January: Dry and delightful
January is one of the most pleasant months in Cartagena. How hot is Cartagena in January? Daytime temperatures average around 31°C (88°F), while nights drop slightly to 24°C (75°F). Humidity levels are lower, and there’s minimal rain, making this month ideal for beach days and long walks through the old city. With warm breezes from the Caribbean Sea, the heat feels less oppressive. If you’re looking for the perfect time to visit, January is a top contender.
February: Sunshine and breezes continue
How hot is Cartagena in February? The answer remains consistent with January. You can expect temperatures around 30–31°C (86–88°F), with very little rainfall. The breeze picks up in February, offering relief from the strong sun. The humidity begins to rise slightly, but overall, February is still considered part of Cartagena’s dry season, making it a comfortable and popular month for tourism.
March: The end of the dry season
In March, the dry season begins to taper off. How hot is Cartagena in March? The thermometer climbs a bit higher, with average highs around 32°C (90°F). The air becomes a little heavier with humidity, and short rain showers may begin to appear near the end of the month. While still an enjoyable time to visit, March marks the transition toward a wetter season, so lightweight, breathable clothing becomes essential.
April: Hotter days, first rainfalls
How hot is Cartagena in April? This month brings an increase in both temperature and humidity. Daytime highs often exceed 32°C (90°F), and the humidity can make it feel even warmer. April also brings more frequent rainfall, especially in the late afternoons. While mornings remain sunny, the afternoons can be unpredictably wet. Despite this, April is still a good month to explore the city if you’re okay with a few tropical showers.
May: Humid and rainy, yet warm
How hot is Cartagena in May? Very hot and noticeably humid. Average highs remain around 32°C (90°F), but what changes is the consistent presence of humidity, which can make the air feel thick. May is part of the wet season, so expect frequent rain, often in the form of dramatic afternoon storms. However, the sun still shines for several hours each day, and rain showers tend to be short-lived, leaving plenty of time for sightseeing or relaxing by the coast.
June: Steady heat with intermittent rain
By June, the weather stabilizes with a pattern of heat and scattered showers. How hot is Cartagena during this month? The answer remains: very. The average temperature stays around 31–32°C (88–90°F), and although the rain continues, it’s usually concentrated in short bursts. June is the start of the low tourist season due to the higher humidity, but for those seeking fewer crowds and lower prices, it can be an excellent time to visit.
July: Hot but manageable
How hot is Cartagena in July? Still hot, but slightly more manageable. Rainfall begins to decrease a bit, though humidity lingers. Average highs remain around 31°C (88°F), but the sea breeze often brings relief during the hottest parts of the day. If you’re traveling in July, it’s best to plan outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon, when the heat is less intense.
August: High heat, low crowds
August keeps the temperature dial turned up. How hot is Cartagena in August? Temperatures hover at a consistent 32°C (90°F), and while there’s still occasional rain, it’s less frequent than in May or June. August falls within the quieter travel months, meaning you can enjoy more of the city without the large tourist crowds. The heat, however, can be draining, so staying hydrated and taking breaks indoors is key.
September: Rain peaks, heat persists
How hot is Cartagena in September? Still hot, arguably the most intense combination of heat and humidity all year. Temperatures stay near 32°C (90°F), but September also brings the peak of the rainy season. The rains can be more persistent, with heavy downpours that sometimes last several hours. Still, there are usually windows of sunshine each day, and the city remains lively despite the weather.
October: Humidity at its highest
How hot is Cartagena in October? The temperature doesn’t change much, but humidity levels reach their peak. This month is often the wettest, with rainfall recorded on most days. Although the thermometer still reads around 31–32°C (88–90°F), the real-feel temperature can be much higher. October is not the most popular month for travel, but if you don’t mind the weather, you’ll find fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates.
November: Rain decreases, heat holds steady
By November, the rains begin to subside. How hot is Cartagena now? Still around 31°C (88°F), but with less oppressive humidity. Skies start to clear up, and more sunshine returns. November marks the end of the wet season and the beginning of the transition back into Cartagena’s high tourist season. It’s a great time to visit if you want to experience warm weather without the intense crowds of December.
December: Sunny, warm, and festive
How hot is Cartagena in December? Delightfully hot, with average highs around 31°C (88°F) and lower humidity. December brings clear skies, refreshing breezes, and a festive atmosphere as both locals and international tourists prepare for holiday celebrations. It’s one of the busiest months of the year, so plan and book early. Cartagena in December offers the perfect blend of heat and holiday charm.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hottest month in Cartagena?
Typically, April, May, and September are considered the hottest months due to a combination of high temperatures (around 32°C or 90°F) and peak humidity. These months also coincide with the rainy season, which can make the heat feel more intense, so travelers often prefer to avoid them if they’re sensitive to heat.
How hot is Cartagena compared to other Caribbean destinations?
Cartagena’s temperatures are quite similar to many Caribbean cities, generally hovering around 30–32°C (86–90°F) year-round. However, Cartagena’s proximity to the equator means it has less temperature variation throughout the year compared to some Caribbean islands, making it reliably warm no matter when you visit.
When is the best time to visit Cartagena to avoid the heat?
Cartagena is hot all year, but the most comfortable months with less humidity and rain are during the dry season, particularly from January to March and again in December. These months offer warm but more manageable heat levels, along with plenty of sunshine and breezes.
So, How Hot Is Cartagena?
In summary, how hot is Cartagena? The city is warm year-round, with temperatures consistently between 30–32°C (86–90°F). The major differences month to month lie in humidity and rainfall rather than temperature alone. Cartagena doesn’t experience seasons like in temperate climates, it has a dry season (roughly December to April) and a wet season (May to November). Understanding these subtle but impactful differences will help you choose the best time for your trip based on your preferences.
Whether you’re escaping a northern winter or chasing tropical sun, Cartagena delivers steady heat and Caribbean vibes every month of the year. Just be ready to sweat a little, and fall in love a lot.