Weather in Cartagena in April

Marking the start of the wet season, visiting the Colombian city of Cartagena in April means increased humidity, occasional showers, and fewer visitors as the shoulder season shifts to low season. As a result, if you avoid Easter week, it’s a good time to visit for lower prices, more space on beaches, and fewer tourists to contend with when exploring the city’s UNESCO-designated attractions. Read on for more detail on the weather in Cartagena in April, along with some inspirational itinerary ideas.

Is April a good time to visit Cartagena?

With warm, tropical weather, and temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F), April can be a great time to visit Cartagena. 

Just be aware that the weather in Cartagena in April marks a transition to the rainy season, so it will be wetter than the preceding months. That said, showers are usually short and tend to fall in bursts in the afternoon, so they won’t really hamper your plans. 

At the same time, April is a shoulder season month, which means it offers an attractive balance of conditions and cost. Namely, you’ll experience less rainfall than the full-on wet season, moderate crowds, and favourable prices, with the exception of Easter week, when that falls in April.

All in all, this makes April a smart choice for travellers who want to keep an eye on their budget and enjoy everything the city and surrounding area has to offer — beautiful beaches, incredible cultural sites, and outdoor adventuring.

Keen to visit Cartagena? Talk to our local Colombia experts to kick-start creating your dream trip. 

Average temperatures in Cartagena in April

The weather in Cartagena in April sees average daytime temperatures of 31°C (88°F) and a drop to around 25°C (77°F) at night. This is slightly warmer than the January-March average range of 24°C (75°F) to 30°C (86°F).

April is also usually more humid than the preceding months as the rain season starts to kick in. Across the month, rainfall averages 28mm (1.10 inches). This compares with January, February and March only experiencing 1mm (0.04 inches). At the other end of the scale, October sees around 206mm (8.11 inches).

In summary, the weather in Cartagena in April means warm, tropical temperatures, and moderate rain in the afternoon.

Editor’s tip: for a bigger picture of the weather, read up on the best time to visit Colombia.

What about the crowds and cost?

Being a shoulder season month, visiting Cartagena in April means crowds are low in comparison with the peak season periods that run from mid-December-January, and during Semana Santa (Easter week). On that subject, if you’re thinking of visiting in April, be sure to check when Easter falls.

In general, as in other shoulder-season periods (February, March and late-November to early-December), you can expect to pay a little less for flights, accommodation and tours than you would during the peak season.

If you’re looking for the smallest crowds — and lowest prices — visit in the June-November low season, though come prepared for plenty of rain in these months.

For a favourable balance between costs, crowds, and rain, April has much to commend it. 

Still not sure where to go? Discover some of the best places to visit in April.

Unforgettable customisable Colombia itineraries

If you fancy seeing a rewarding range of Colombia, consider taking a trip that’s been curated by a Rough Guides' local expert.

As revealed in our guide to backpacking Colombia, going it alone takes some planning and can present challenges. In contrast, taking the Rough Guides’ route means our experts will take care of planning an unforgettable trip that’s been 100% tailored to your preferences.

Here are a few sample itineraries to spark inspiration:

• Magnificent Colombian Highlights (11 days): from exploring bustling Bogota and charming Cartagena to uncovering the natural wonders of Puerto Narino and Medellín’s vibrant culture, this trip is rich in experiences and magnificent in nature. 
• Fascination Colombia - Medellín and Cartagena (11 days): this immersive two-centre trip will see you divide your time between Medellin and Cartagena, with each base offering opportunities to experience a richness of Colombian culture, from taking authentic cooking classes to exploring the great outdoors on horseback.
• Unforgettable Colombia - cities, coffee, and islands (13 days): encompassing Colombia's three main areas, including the capital, Bogotá, the beautiful colonial town of Villa de Leyva, and Cartagena, this diverse trip will see you uncover coffee culture in lush hillsides and valleys before blissing out on the idyllic Islas del Rosario.

What to do and see in Cartagena in April

Being tropically warm, with some rain falling in the afternoon, if you visit Cartagena in April we suggest planning outdoor activities and beach time for the mornings and setting aside the afternoons to explore its cultural offerings. 

Read on to find out about some of the amazing things you can see and do in the city — and beyond — during your visit. 

Explore idyllic islands

One of the best day trips from Cartagena is to book a boat excursion to the beautiful Rosario Islands. 

The coral reefs around the Rosarios teem with colourful fish, sea turtles, and a variety of corals. As such, they’re beloved by newbie snorkellers and experienced divers alike.

To enjoy the islands’ natural beauty — and get a bit of exercise —you could kayak or paddle-board the calm waters that lap their idyllic shores. Then, when you’ve had your fill of water-based activities, chill on out sublime Playa Blanca.

Editor’s tip: for something different, experience the magic of bioluminescent plankton on a night-time tour. 

Tour the wonders of the Walled City

Visiting Cartagena’s UNESCO World Heritage Site Walled City and Old Town is a must-do no matter which month you choose to visit.

We suggest taking a guided tour to understand the history behind the likes of San Felipe de Barajas Castle, the Palace of the Inquisition, and the Santo Domingo Church.

Discover Afro-Colombian history in San Basilio de Palenque

The first free African settlement in the Americas, the village of San Basilio de Palenque is a symbol of resistance that we can’t recommend visiting more highly.

Founded by escaped enslaved people in the 17th century, it’s recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural significance. 

Take a tour to learn about Afro-Colombian history, and enjoy traditional music and local cuisine. 

Eat, drink, and get your art on in Getsemaní 

The vibrant neighbourhood of Getsemaní is a great place to spend the afternoon soaking up street art, local craft products, and the city’s vibrant café culture.

After dark, enjoy eating alfresco before hitting the district's lively bars and clubs. 

Editor’s tip: head to Plaza de la Trinidad to see street performers.

Uncover nature

If you love nature and wildlife, take a trip to La Boquilla mangroves.

You’ll board a traditional canoe in the company of a local expert who’ll point out local and fauna, with birdlife being especially notable.

Further afield (some four hours away from the city) Tayrona National Natural Park is well worth visiting if you love walks on the wilder side.

Still, making up your mind? Read up on the best things to do in Colombia, and get The Rough Guide to Colombia.

Visit Cartagena in different months

To be better informed before booking your trip, find out what to expect from the weather in Cartagena around the year.

• January: expect hot, dry weather and average temperatures of 31°C (88°F) in this peak season month.
• February: similar to January, shoulder-season February sees hot, dry conditions with temperatures averaging 31°C (88°F), and fewer tourists than January.
• March: the heat continues as the dry season transitions towards more humid conditions later in the month — still ideal for hitting the beach.
• May: expect more frequent rain showers as the wet season progresses, while temperatures remain warm, averaging around 31°C (88°F).
• June: the wet season continues with regular rain in this low season month, though there are still plenty of sunny intervals. 
• July: similar to June, July offers a mix of rain and sunshine, with daytime temperatures still hitting an average of around 31°C (88°F).
• August: another mix of rain, and hot, sunny days. Expect visitor numbers to remain low, and look to mix the beach with indoor cultural activities.
• September: this low season month sees the city enter the peak of the wet season, but it remains hot.
• October: this is usually the wettest month, so expect significant rainfall and prepare to be flexible with your travel plans.
• November: the rain starts to decrease during November as the region shifts back to the dry season, with visitor numbers increasing as the month wears on.
• December: the dry season begins with less rainfall and more sunny days. Temperatures average around 31°C (88°F), making it a popular time for visitors.