Weather Comparison
Cartagena vs Medellin
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Cartagena vs Medellin
| Metric | Cartagena | Medellin | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 30°C (86°F)▲ | 26°C (79°F) | Cartagena |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 25°C (77°F)▲ | 17°C (63°F) | Cartagena |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 26 days▲ | 29 days | Cartagena |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 176 mm▲ | 329 mm | Cartagena |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day▲ | 8h/day | Cartagena |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 82% | 82% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 8 | 8 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 16 km/h | 5 km/h▲ | Medellin |
Which City is Better in May?
Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Cartagena edges ahead as the better destination in May. Cartagena offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 26 rain days, while Medellin sees 8 sunshine hours and 29 rain days.
Cartagena can feel quite hot at 30°C, so plan for heat. Medellin is also comfortable at 26°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Cartagena is the stronger choice in May. Cartagena receives 2 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Temperature Comparison in May
Cartagena reaches an average high of 30°C (86°F) and drops to 25°C (77°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Medellin averages 26°C (79°F) for the high and 17°C (63°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°C. The 4°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.
Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.
Rainfall Comparison in May
Cartagena receives approximately 176 mm of rainfall across 26 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Medellin sees 329 mm over 29 rain days. That makes Cartagena the drier option by 3 rain days and 153 mm of total precipitation.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.
What to Pack: Cartagena vs Medellin
Packing for Cartagena in May
Highs of 30°C, lows of 25°C, 26 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 May
Highs of 26°C, lows of 17°C, 29 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 May.
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.May is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Cartagena | Medellin | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 32°C | 2d | 26°C | 21d |
| Feb | 33°C | 2d | 26°C | 23d |
| Mar | 33°C | 5d | 26°C | 28d |
| Apr | 32°C | 15d | 26°C | 28d |
| May | 30°C | 26d | 26°C | 29d |
| Jun | 30°C | 25d | 26°C | 26d |
| Jul | 30°C | 25d | 26°C | 25d |
| Aug | 30°C | 27d | 27°C | 24d |
| Sep | 30°C | 28d | 26°C | 27d |
| Oct | 29°C | 29d | 25°C | 29d |
| Nov | 29°C | 24d | 24°C | 29d |
| Dec | 30°C | 10d | 25°C | 24d |
Cartagena Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Medellin Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities