Colombia
Best Time to Visit Cartagena
Cartagena’s tropical climate means warm weather year-round, but the best time to visit balances dry, sunny days with manageable tourist numbers. The city’s real seasonal split is between a dry season (December–April) and a wet season (May–November).
✦ Visit in January to March for the perfect mix of sunny weather, cultural events, and comfortable crowds.
✅ Best months
January to March: lowest rainfall, plenty of sunshine, and comfortable humidity. Late January’s Cartagena International Music Festival and February’s carnival season (though not as big as Barranquilla’s) add cultural appeal without overwhelming crowds.
🔥 Peak season
December and January: holidays bring a surge of Colombian and international tourists. Hotel prices spike by 30–50%, and attractions like the Walled City and Rosario Islands are packed. Christmas and New Year’s events are the main draw.
💷 Shoulder (best value)
April and November: April often extends dry weather with fewer crowds; November is the tail end of the wet season with lower prices and still decent conditions for exploring. Both offer 15–25% discounts on accommodation.
🌙 Quietest & cheapest
May and October: the rainiest months, with muggy conditions and risk of afternoon downpours. Hotels are cheapest (up to 40% off), but outdoor tours may be disrupted and humidity can be oppressive.
Cartagena season by season
Spring (Mar–May)
Weather: 28–32°C, increasing humidity; March is dry, April–May brings more rain
Crowds: low to medium after Easter
Good for lower prices in late spring, though book outdoor activities for mornings.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Weather: 27–31°C, frequent showers and high humidity
Crowds: medium (domestic holidays)
Easier to find deals, but expect sticky heat; beach time is best in clear mornings.
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Weather: 27–31°C, peak of rainy season with heavy but brief downpours
Crowds: low
Cheapest time; use for budget trips, but be flexible with plans.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Weather: 26–30°C, driest and most pleasant (less humidity)
Crowds: high in Dec–Jan
Prime time for exploring the city and islands; book well ahead.
🎭 Events worth timing a trip around
Cartagena International Music Festival (January) – classical and world music in historic venues; Independence of Cartagena (November 11) – week-long party with parades and concerts.
🧳 What to pack
Pack a light rain jacket or compact umbrella even in dry season, as sudden tropical showers can occur year-round.
Found your dates? Get your hotel briefing.
Room tips, the 14-day forecast for your exact stay, dining, transport and more — free for any Cartagena hotel.
Guide last updated June 2026.