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Weather Comparison

Medellin vs Cartagena

Side-by-side weather comparison for March

Medellin: 26°CCartagena: 33°C461 km apart

March Weather: Medellin vs Cartagena

MetricMedellinCartagenaBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer26°C (79°F)33°C (91°F)Cartagena
Average LowHigher is milder17°C (63°F)25°C (77°F)Cartagena
Rain DaysFewer is drier28 days5 daysCartagena
PrecipitationLess is drier261 mm19 mmCartagena
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/dayCartagena
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better5 km/h27 km/hMedellin

Which City is Better in March?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Cartagena edges ahead as the better destination in March. Cartagena offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 5 rain days, while Medellin sees 10 sunshine hours and 28 rain days.

Medellin sits in the comfortable travel range at 26°C. Cartagena runs hot at 33°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in March

Medellin reaches an average high of 26°C (79°F) and drops to 17°C (63°F) at night during March. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Cartagena averages 33°C (91°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. There is a notable 7°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 March.

Rainfall Comparison in March

Medellin receives approximately 261 mm of rainfall across 28 rain days during March. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Cartagena sees 19 mm over 5 rain days. That makes Cartagena the drier option by 23 rain days and 242 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Medellin vs Cartagena

Packing for Medellin in March

Highs of 26°C, lows of 17°C, 28 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Cartagena in March

Highs of 33°C, lows of 25°C, 5 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during March.

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.March 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
26°

Medellin Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

33°

Cartagena Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Medellin warmer than Cartagena in March?
No. In March, Cartagena is warmer with an average high of 33°C (91°F) compared to Medellin at 26°C (79°F), a difference of 7°C.
Which city gets more rain in March, Medellin or Cartagena?
Medellin gets more rain in March with 28 rain days and 261 mm of precipitation. Cartagena is the drier option with 5 rain days.
Is it better to visit Medellin or Cartagena in March?
It depends on your preferences. Medellin averages 26°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 28 rain days. Cartagena averages 33°C with 11 sunshine hours and 5 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Cartagena. For fewer rain days, Cartagena 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