Medellin vs Cartagena

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Cartagena edges ahead as the better destination in January. Cartagena offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 2 rain days, while Medellin sees 10 sunshine hours and 21 rain days.

Medellin sits in the comfortable travel range at 26°C. Cartagena runs hot at 32°C.

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

Medellin reaches an average high of 26°C (79°F) and drops to 16°C (61°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Cartagena averages 32°C (90°F) for the high and 24°C (75°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. There is a notable 6°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

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

Medellin receives approximately 133 mm of rainfall across 21 rain days during January. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Cartagena sees 9 mm over 2 rain days. That makes Cartagena the drier option by 19 rain days and 124 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.