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Weather Comparison

Cartagena vs Medellin

Side-by-side weather comparison for August

Cartagena: 30°CMedellin: 27°C461 km apart

August Weather: Cartagena vs Medellin

MetricCartagenaMedellinBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer30°C (86°F)27°C (81°F)Cartagena
Average LowHigher is milder25°C (77°F)16°C (61°F)Cartagena
Rain DaysFewer is drier27 days24 daysMedellin
PrecipitationLess is drier178 mm176 mmMedellin
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/dayMedellin
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer88Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better15 km/h8 km/hMedellin

Which City is Better in August?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Medellin edges ahead as the better destination in August. Medellin offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 24 rain days, while Cartagena sees 10 sunshine hours and 27 rain days.

Cartagena can feel quite hot at 30°C, so plan for heat. Medellin is also comfortable at 27°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Medellin is the stronger choice in August. Medellin receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in August

Cartagena reaches an average high of 30°C (86°F) and drops to 25°C (77°F) at night during August. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Medellin averages 27°C (81°F) for the high and 16°C (61°F) for the low, with a daily range of 11°C. The 3°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in August.

Rainfall Comparison in August

Cartagena receives approximately 178 mm of rainfall across 27 rain days during August. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Medellin sees 176 mm over 24 rain days. That makes Medellin the drier option by 3 rain days and 2 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Cartagena vs Medellin

Packing for Cartagena in August

Highs of 30°C, lows of 25°C, 27 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Medellin in August

Highs of 27°C, lows of 16°C, 24 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during August.

Year-Round Comparison: Cartagena vs Medellin

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.August is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthCartagenaMedellin
HighRainHighRain
Jan32°C2d26°C21d
Feb33°C2d26°C23d
Mar33°C5d26°C28d
Apr32°C15d26°C28d
May30°C26d26°C29d
Jun30°C25d26°C26d
Jul30°C25d26°C25d
Aug30°C27d27°C24d
Sep30°C28d26°C27d
Oct29°C29d25°C29d
Nov29°C24d24°C29d
Dec30°C10d25°C24d
30°

Cartagena Weather in August

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

27°

Medellin Weather in August

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cartagena warmer than Medellin in August?
Yes. In August, Cartagena is warmer with an average high of 30°C (86°F) compared to Medellin at 27°C (81°F), a difference of 3°C.
Which city gets more rain in August, Cartagena or Medellin?
Cartagena gets more rain in August with 27 rain days and 178 mm of precipitation. Medellin is the drier option with 24 rain days.
Is it better to visit Cartagena or Medellin in August?
It depends on your preferences. Cartagena averages 30°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 27 rain days. Medellin averages 27°C with 11 sunshine hours and 24 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Cartagena. For fewer rain days, Medellin is the better pick.
How far apart are Cartagena and Medellin?
Cartagena and Medellin are approximately 461 km (286 miles) apart. Cartagena is located in Colombia (South America) while Medellin is in Colombia (South America).
What is the best month to visit Cartagena and Medellin?
For Cartagena, January tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 32°C. For Medellin, August is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 27°C highs.

Compare Cartagena and Medellin in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Cartagena coordinates: 10.39°N, -75.48°E | Medellin coordinates: 6.24°N, -75.58°E