Weather in Cartagena in February

If you’re looking to visit the Colombian city of Cartagena to enjoy warm, dry season weather, without peak season crowds and prices, shoulder-season February is a great time to visit. With daytime temperatures averaging 31°C (88°F) and low rainfall, the conditions are ideal for hitting the beaches, exploring islands, and uncovering extraordinary historic sites. And all this in company of smaller crowds than December and January. Read on for more detail on the weather in Cartagena in February, along with inspirational itinerary ideas.

Is February a good time to visit Cartagena?

February is an excellent time to visit Cartagena. Falling in the dry season that typically runs from December to April, this month offers sunny days and minimal rainfall. As such, it’s the ideal time to enjoy a classic beach vacation with cultural activities on hand for the (slightly) cooler mornings and evenings. 

Additionally, while shoulder-season February sees Cartagena remain vibrant, it draws a smaller number of international visitors than the peak season months of December and January. 

As such, the weather in Cartagena in February offers the best of both worlds — it’s warm, dry, and pleasantly lively without being over-run with tourists.

Keen to visit Cartagena? Talk to our local Colombia experts to kick-start creating your dream trip. 

Average temperatures in Cartagena in February

Having a tropical climate, Cartagena enjoys year-round warmth, with the weather in Cartagena in February being on a par with January when it comes to temperatures.

In terms of the numbers, we’re talking a range of 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). In comparison, the April to June period is more humid and slightly hotter, averaging 26°C (79°F) to 31°C (88°F).

Part of the December-April dry season, February sees little rain. As in January, this averages 1mm (0.04 inches) in comparison with 206mm (8.11 inches) falling in October.

Editor’s tip: for a bigger picture of the weather, read up on the best time to visit Colombia.

What about the crowds and cost?

On balance, Cartagena can be quite crowded in February. Coming right after the peak tourist season of December and January, favourable weather conditions mean this month remains a popular time to visit.

While not as busy as it is during the end-of-year holiday season and early January — or as it is during the Semana Santa Easter week period — you can expect Cartagena’s historic sites, beaches, and restaurants to be busier than they are during the off-peak months.

If you’re looking for the smallest crowds — and lowest prices — visit in the June-November low (and rainy) season, or during the February-April and late-November to early December shoulder seasons.

The same pattern is true of costs — while you can expect to pay a little less for flights and accommodation than you would in December and early January, you won’t find the biggest bargains in February, either. 

As always, book early to secure the best deals, and look to travel later in the month if you want to try to save more cash. 

Still not sure where to go? Discover some of the best places to visit in February.

Unforgettable customisable Colombia itineraries

If you fancy seeing a rewarding range of Colombia, consider taking a trip that’s been curated by a Rough Guides' local expert.

As revealed in our guide to backpacking Colombia, going it alone takes some planning and can present challenges. In contrast, taking the Rough Guides route means our experts will take care of planning an unforgettable trip that’s been 100% tailored to your preferences.

Here are a few sample itineraries to spark inspiration:

• Magnificent Colombian Highlights (11 days): from exploring bustling Bogota and charming Cartagena to uncovering the natural wonders of Puerto Narino and Medellín’s vibrant culture, this trip is rich in experiences and magnificent in nature. 
• Fascination Colombia - Medellín and Cartagena (11 days): This immersive two-centre trip will see you divide your time between Medellin and Cartagena, with each base offering opportunities to experience a richness of Colombian culture, from taking authentic cooking classes to exploring the great outdoors on horseback.
• Unforgettable Colombia - cities, coffee, and islands (13 days): encompassing Colombia's three main areas, including the capital, Bogotá, the beautiful colonial town of Villa de Leyva, and Cartagena, this diverse trip will see you uncover coffee culture in lush hillsides and valleys before blissing out on the idyllic Islas del Rosario.

What to do and see in Cartagena in February

With such warm, dry weather, and fewer crowds than in January and December, visiting Cartagena in February means you can make the most of everything it has to offer.

Visiting beautiful beaches, uncovering rich cultural history, and devouring local cuisine alfresco are among some of our suggestions for the best things to see and do during the month, with the bonus of a special literary festival on hand for book lovers.

Explore the Walled City

A must-visit attraction whenever you visit, we’ll kick off with the obvious — exploring Cartagena’s UNESCO World Heritage Site Walled City and Old Town.

A bedazzlement of colourful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and lively plazas, be sure to visit landmarks like the San Felipe de Barajas Castle, the Palace of the Inquisition, and the Santo Domingo Church.

Editor’s tip: time your stroll of the city to sip a sun-downer at Café del Mar on the city walls.

Attend the Hay Festival

If you're visiting in early February, don't miss the Hay Festival, an international literary event that attracts writers, artists, and thinkers from around the world.

Be sure to check the dates if this is your top priority — it’s sometimes held at the end of January.

Soak up the captivating coast and islands

Take advantage of the warm, dry weather by visiting the city's nearby beaches, such as Bocagrande, Castillo Grande, and La Boquilla. 

Editor’s tip: book a day-trip to the ravishing Rosario Islands. Known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, the snorkelling is out-of-this-world.

Looking for even more options for your winter getaway? Explore our guide to the best places for a February holiday.

Take a cultural tour to San Basilio de Palenque

Visit San Basilio de Palenque, a unique village that’s known for being the first free African settlement in the Americas. 

Founded by escaped enslaved people in the 17th century, this symbol of resistance is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural significance. 

On a tour, you’ll have opportunities to learn about Afro-Colombian history, enjoy traditional music like Champeta, and taste distinct local cuisine. 

Feast on local flavours

Continuing with the food theme, the weather in Cartagena in February is perfect to dine al fresco or take a culinary tour to sample local specialities such as arepas de huevo and ceviche.

Editor’s tip: Cartagena is also esteemed for its lively nightlife. Known for its street art, bars, and salsa clubs, the vibrant Getsemaní district is a great place to eat, drink, and make merry into the wee hours.

Still, making up your mind? Read up on the best things to do in Colombia, and get the Rough Guide to Colombia.

Visit Cartagena in different months

To be better informed before booking your trip, find out what to expect of the weather in Cartagena around the year.

• January: expect hot, dry weather and average temperatures of 31°C (88°F) in this peak season month.
• March: the heat continues as the dry season transitions towards more humid conditions later in the month — still ideal for hitting the beach.
• April: this marks the start of the wet season, with increased humidity, occasional showers and fewer visitors as the shoulder season shifts to low season.
• May: expect more frequent rain showers as the wet season progresses, while temperatures remain warm, averaging around 31°C (88°F).
• June: the wet season continues with regular rain in this low season month, though there are still plenty of sunny intervals. 
• July: similar to June, July offers a mix of rain and sunshine, with daytime temperatures still hitting an average of around 31°C (88°F).
• August: another mix of rain, and hot, sunny days. Expect visitor numbers to remain low, and look to mix the beach with indoor cultural activities.
• September: this low season month sees the city enter the peak of the wet season, but it remains hot.
• October: this is usually the wettest month, so expect significant rainfall and prepare to be flexible with your travel plans.
• November: the rain starts to decrease during November as the region shifts back to the dry season, with visitor numbers increasing as the month wears on.
• December: the dry season begins with less rainfall and more sunny days. Temperatures average around 31°C (88°F), making it a popular time for visitors.