What is the weather like in Cartagena in December?

December is hot, sunny and humid, with daytime highs around 30–31°C (86–88°F) and nights around 24–25°C (75–77°F). It marks the start of the dry season, so rain is light and the sea breeze makes the evenings pleasant.

Does it rain in Cartagena in December?

Much less than in October and November. December is the start of the dry season, which runs through April. You may get a short shower early in the month, but it rarely ruins a day.

What should I wear in Cartagena in December?

Light, breathable clothes in cotton or linen, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen. Bring one outfit that covers shoulders and knees for churches, and something slightly dressier for dinner.

When are the crowds worst in December?

From about December 20 to January 6, when Colombian holiday travel peaks. Early December is noticeably calmer. Whatever your dates, start sightseeing early in the morning.

Cartagena in December: Weather, What to Wear & How to Beat Peak-Season Crowds

“What’s the weather like in December?” is the question I get most from travelers planning a holiday trip to Cartagena. The short answer: hot, sunny and beautiful. The long answer, with a local’s tips on what to wear and how to dodge the crowds, is below.

My name is Martín Rosales. I was born in Cartagena and have spent more than 30 years walking these streets with visitors from all over the world, in every season.

30-Second Summary (Key Takeaways)

Hot and sunny: Highs around 30–31°C (86–88°F), nights around 24–25°C (75–77°F).
Dry season begins: Much less rain than in October and November.
The breeze arrives: Trade winds make December evenings pleasant.
Dress light, but pack one modest outfit for churches.
The busiest stretch is December 20 to January 6. Early December is calmer.
Explore early: The first hours of the morning are the coolest and least crowded.

December Weather in Numbers

	Average
Daytime high	30–31°C (86–88°F)
Nighttime low	24–25°C (75–77°F)
Rain	Light; December starts the dry season
Humidity	High, around 75–80%
Sun	Strong UV all day
Sea temperature	Warm, ideal for swimming

The numbers tell only half the story. With the humidity, midday can feel hotter than the thermometer says, which is why timing your day matters so much.

The Dry Season and the Famous Breeze

December marks the start of Cartagena’s dry season, which runs through April. After the rains of October and November, the skies clear and the sunsets over the Caribbean are spectacular.

December also brings the trade winds, the breezes we call las brisas. They cool the evenings and make walking the walls at sunset a real pleasure. It is one of the reasons December is my favorite month in the city.

What to Wear in Cartagena in December

For daytime sightseeing:

Light, breathable clothes in cotton or linen. Avoid dark colors and synthetic fabrics.
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip. The colonial streets are paved with uneven stones.
A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen. Reapply often.
A small bag with a refillable water bottle.

For churches and the fortress:

Bring an outfit that covers shoulders and knees if you plan to go inside churches like San Pedro Claver or the Cathedral. A light scarf works perfectly.
At Castillo San Felipe there is a lot of climbing and very little shade, so wear sturdy shoes and visit in the morning.

For the evening:

Cartagena dresses up a little at night, especially in the Walled City over the holidays. Smart-casual linen shirts, summer dresses or light trousers fit right in.
You won’t need a jacket. Even at night, it stays warm.

Crowds and Prices: Early vs Late December

December is high season, but not all of it is equally busy:

December 1 to 19: The weather is already great and the city is lively but noticeably calmer. Hotels and tours are easier to book.
December 20 to January 6: Peak season. Colombian families travel for the holidays, cruise ships keep arriving and the Old Town is at its busiest. Book hotels, restaurants and tours well in advance.

If your dates are flexible, early December offers the best balance of weather, atmosphere and calm.

The Best Hours to Explore

My golden rule for December: follow the shade and the clock.

7:30–11:00 AM: The best time for open-air sites like Castillo San Felipe, La Popa and the walls.
11:00 AM–3:00 PM: The hottest hours. Head for shaded colonial streets, museums, cloisters and a long lunch.
4:00 PM onwards: The breeze picks up. Walk the walls at sunset and enjoy the Christmas lights after dark.

👉 Our Cartagena City Tour and Private Walking Tour are built around these hours, with air-conditioned transport between stops.

Holiday Safety Basics

Cartagena is welcoming and lively in December, and a few simple habits keep it that way:

Keep valuables out of sight. Locals call it “no dar papaya”: don’t make yourself an easy target.
Use ride-hailing apps or arranged transport instead of hailing taxis on the street, especially at night.
Be careful with new acquaintances from dating apps and never leave your drink unattended.
Agree on prices before any service, from a taxi to a photo with a palenquera.
Check the current U.S. State Department advisory for Colombia at travel.state.gov before you travel.

👉 For door-to-door peace of mind, see our Private Transportation in Cartagena.

Plan Your December Trip With a Local

December is one of the most beautiful times to visit Cartagena: dry skies, gentle breezes and a city dressed up for Christmas. Plan it well and you get the best of everything.

Send us your dates on WhatsApp and we’ll help you choose the best tours and times for your trip.