Weather in Cartagena in May

Considering visiting the Colombian city of Cartagena in May? While temperatures remain hot, averaging around 31°C (88°F) during the day, you should expect more rain as the wet season kicks in. At the same time, given that May sits in a shoulder season, you’ll get to explore the city’s UNESCO wonders in the company of smaller crowds just before the rain really ramps up. For more detail, read on to find out everything you need to know about the weather in Cartagena in May, along with itinerary ideas and suggestions for things to see and do. 

Is May a good time to visit Cartagena?

If you like it hot, aren’t averse to rain showers, and are keen on the idea of exploring a blend of city and underwater landscapes, May is a very good time to visit Cartagena.

And the reasons? Though part of the wet season, the weather in Cartagena in May doesn't necessarily mean constant rain. In fact, May’s tropical downpours tend to be quick to come, and quick to leave, with the benefit of bringing a refreshing break from the heat. 

As a result, you could find yourself exploring the city’s UNESCO treasures, street art, and cafés in cooler conditions once the showers have passed — the city isn’t short of activities that can be enjoyed regardless of rain.

In addition, having a tropical climate, the weather in Cartagena in May remains hot, with an average daytime temperature of 30.8°C (87.4°F). 

While May isn’t within the peak tourist season, the city still has a lively vibe, and you’ll most likely be able to enjoy lower prices for accommodation and flights compared with the peak dry season months.

Moreover, if you enjoy snorkelling or diving, the wet season, including May, might be a good time to visit as the waters can be calmer and clearer.

So, if you're planning a visit to Cartagena in May, pack lightweight rain gear, enjoy the lower prices and smaller crowds, and prepare for hot weather with some rain. 

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

Average temperatures in Cartagena in May

The weather in Cartagena in May sees average daytime temperatures of 31°C (88°F) and a drop to around 26.8°C (80.2°F). This decrease can make evenings and nights more comfortable when you fancy dining outdoors or enjoying the city’s nightlife.

This pattern is slightly warmer than the January-March average range of 24°C (75°F) to 30°C (86°F).

As mentioned above, May sees the rainy season kick in. Across the month, rainfall averages around 110mm (4.3 inches). 

This compares with January, February, and March only experiencing 1mm (0.04 inches), and April seeing around 28mm (1.10 inches). 

At the other end of the scale, October sees around 206mm (8.11 inches).

In summary, the weather in Cartagena in May means hot tropical temperatures and some rain showers 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?

Sitting in shoulder season, visiting Cartagena in May means crowds are significantly smaller than those seen in the peak season period that runs from mid-December-January.

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

If you’re looking for the smallest crowds — and lowest prices — you’d be better off visiting in the June-November low season, if you’re prepared for more rain.

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

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 May

Despite the rain, visiting Cartagena in May offers visitors a vibrant mix of cultural activities and beach-and-water-based experiences. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:

Explore the Old City

Offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past, meandering the cobbled streets and lively plazas of Cartagena's Walled City is a highlight of any trip.

If you’re a glass half full kinda traveller, May's showers can add a brooding romantic atmosphere to the charming streets —  a bonus for photography enthusiasts.

Editor’s tip: the cooler, post-rain afternoons are ideal for exploring the grand San Felipe de Barajas Castle and the city’s other historic UNESCO-designated fortifications.

Relax on beautiful beaches 

Head to the beaches of Bocagrande and Castillogrande in the mornings, or when the weather clears.

While the sea remains blissfully bath-warm, Cartagena’s beaches are less crowded in May.

Editor’s tip: book a boat excursion to the beautiful Rosario Islands to snorkel, dive, kayak, or chill. The coral reefs around the islands teem with tropical fish.

Explore museums and galleries

Take advantage of the smaller crowds to discover Cartagena's rich history and art during rainier afternoons. 

For example, the Museo del Oro Zenú (Gold Museum) reveals fascinating insights into the Zenú indigenous culture and showcases exquisite gold artefacts.

Meanwhile, the Museo Naval del Caribe (Caribbean Naval Museum) offers a deep dive into the maritime history of the Caribbean and Colombia in a beautiful colonial building. 

Into art? Don’t miss visiting the Museo de Arte Moderno (Museum of Modern Art) to appreciate contemporary and modern art pieces by Colombian and Latin American artists. 

Editor’s tip: head to the hip and happening Getsemaní district to see incredible street art — it has plenty of bars and cafés to shelter in when showers strike.

Take a food-themed walking tour

With local food markets less crowded with curious international tourists during the rainy season, May is a great month to visit them in the company of a local guide.

Many food-themed tours will cover the markets, along with stop-offs at notable local delis and restaurants that'll see you sampling regional specialties like arepas and ceviche at their best.

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 of 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.
• April: this marks the start of the wet season, with increased humidity, occasional showers and fewer visitors as the shoulder season shifts to low season.
• 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.