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Weather Comparison

Medellin vs Cartagena

Side-by-side weather comparison for August

Medellin: 27°CCartagena: 30°C461 km apart

August Weather: Medellin vs Cartagena

MetricMedellinCartagenaBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer27°C (81°F)30°C (86°F)Cartagena
Average LowHigher is milder16°C (61°F)25°C (77°F)Cartagena
Rain DaysFewer is drier24 days27 daysMedellin
PrecipitationLess is drier176 mm178 mmMedellin
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day10h/dayMedellin
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer88Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better8 km/h15 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.

Medellin sits in the comfortable travel range at 27°C. Cartagena runs hot at 30°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

Medellin reaches an average high of 27°C (81°F) and drops to 16°C (61°F) at night during August. The daily temperature range is 11°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Cartagena averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 5°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

Medellin receives approximately 176 mm of rainfall across 24 rain days during August. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Cartagena sees 178 mm over 27 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: Medellin vs Cartagena

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

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

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

Year-Round Comparison: Medellin vs Cartagena

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.

MonthMedellinCartagena
HighRainHighRain
Jan26°C21d32°C2d
Feb26°C23d33°C2d
Mar26°C28d33°C5d
Apr26°C28d32°C15d
May26°C29d30°C26d
Jun26°C26d30°C25d
Jul26°C25d30°C25d
Aug27°C24d30°C27d
Sep26°C27d30°C28d
Oct25°C29d29°C29d
Nov24°C29d29°C24d
Dec25°C24d30°C10d
27°

Medellin Weather in August

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Cartagena Weather in August

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Medellin warmer than Cartagena in August?
No. 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, Medellin or Cartagena?
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 Medellin or Cartagena in August?
It depends on your preferences. Medellin averages 27°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine with 24 rain days. Cartagena averages 30°C with 10 sunshine hours and 27 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Cartagena. For drier weather, Medellin is the better pick.
How far apart are Medellin and Cartagena?
Medellin and Cartagena are approximately 461 km (286 miles) apart. Medellin is located in Colombia (South America) while Cartagena is in Colombia (South America).
What is the best month to visit Medellin and Cartagena?
For Medellin, August tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 27°C. For Cartagena, January is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 32°C highs.

Compare Medellin and Cartagena 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.

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