Cartagena
ISO3: COL
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I've visited ✅
Time Zone: America/Bogota
"La heroica | The Heroic City"
10.3932° N, 75.4832° W
About:
Cartagena, Colombia, was founded in 1533 by Spanish commander Pedro de Heredia. It quickly became a major center of early Spanish settlement in the Americas due to its strategic location and wealth. In the 17th century, the city's fortifications were built, making it one of the most heavily fortified cities in the Americas. Cartagena declared independence from Spain in 1811, but was not securely free until 1821. Today, it's a bustling tourism and cultural hub, known for its colonial architecture and history.
When to visit:
Cartagena, a stunning coastal city in Colombia, experiences a tropical climate with consistent temperatures year-round. The best time to visit Cartagena on a holiday would be during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. This period offers plenty of sunshine and lower chances of precipitation, making it ideal for exploring the city's historic sites, relaxing on its beautiful beaches, and enjoying outdoor activities. It is advisable to plan your trip during these months to make the most of your holiday in Cartagena.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Cartagena, Colombia on a holiday is during the rainy season, which typically occurs from May to November. During this time, visitors may experience heavy rainfall, high humidity, and potential disruptions to outdoor activities. The combination of inclement weather and crowded tourist attractions can detract from the overall travel experience. Travelers may want to consider visiting during the dry season from December to April for more favorable weather conditions.
Rainy Season (May-Nov)
The warmest part of the year in Cartagena, Colombia, typically spans from December to April, with an average daily high temperature above 88°F (31°C). The hottest month is usually March, with an average high of 90°F (32°C) and low of 76°F (24°C).
Rainfall during these months is minimal, with the driest month often being January. The city experiences an average of 8 to 10 hours of sunlight per day, providing plenty of daylight for exploring.
Humidity levels are quite high, typically ranging from 70% to 90%, which can make the heat feel more intense. The sky is usually partly cloudy, with a cloud cover ranging between 40% to 70%.
For a visitor, a typical day would feel hot and humid, especially during the afternoon. The mornings and evenings are a bit cooler and more comfortable. Despite the heat, the city's coastal location provides a nice breeze, which can make the high temperatures more bearable. It's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. The plentiful sunshine makes it perfect for beach activities and exploring the city's historic sites, but don't forget your sunscreen!
"Hot Season (December–April)"
The warmest part of the year in Cartagena, Colombia, typically spans from December to April, with an average daily high temperature above 88°F (31°C). The hottest month is usually March, with an average high of 90°F (32°C) and low of 76°F (24°C).
Rainfall during these months is minimal, with the driest month often being January. The city experiences an average of 8 to 10 hours of sunlight per day, providing plenty of daylight for exploring.
Humidity levels are quite high, typically ranging from 70% to 90%, which can make the heat feel more intense. The sky is usually partly cloudy, with a cloud cover ranging between 40% to 70%.
For a visitor, a typical day would feel hot and humid, especially during the afternoon. The mornings and evenings are a bit cooler and more comfortable. Despite the heat, the city's coastal location provides a nice breeze, which can make the high temperatures more bearable. It's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. The plentiful sunshine makes it perfect for beach activities and exploring the city's historic sites, but don't forget your sunscreen!
Language:
spanish
Cartagena, a city in Colombia, predominantly speaks Spanish, which is the official language of the country. The local dialect is Coastal Caribbean Spanish, characterized by its distinct pronunciation and vocabulary influenced by indigenous cultures, African languages, and European settlers. English is also understood in tourist areas due to the city's popularity as a tourist destination.