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Weather Comparison

Medellin vs Cartagena

Side-by-side weather comparison for September

Medellin: 26°CCartagena: 30°C461 km apart

September Weather: Medellin vs Cartagena

MetricMedellinCartagenaBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer26°C (79°F)30°C (86°F)Cartagena
Average LowHigher is milder16°C (61°F)25°C (77°F)Cartagena
Rain DaysFewer is drier27 days28 daysMedellin
PrecipitationLess is drier242 mm200 mmCartagena
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day9h/dayMedellin
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better6 km/h14 km/hMedellin

Which City is Better in September?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Medellin edges ahead as the better destination in September. Medellin offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 27 rain days, while Cartagena sees 9 sunshine hours and 28 rain days.

Medellin sits in the comfortable travel range at 26°C. Cartagena runs hot at 30°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in September

Medellin reaches an average high of 26°C (79°F) and drops to 16°C (61°F) at night during September. The daily temperature range is 10°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 4°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

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

Rainfall Comparison in September

Medellin receives approximately 242 mm of rainfall across 27 rain days during September. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Cartagena sees 200 mm over 28 rain days. That makes Medellin the drier option by 1 rain day and 42 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Medellin vs Cartagena

Packing for Medellin in September

Highs of 26°C, lows of 16°C, 27 rain days

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

Packing for Cartagena in September

Highs of 30°C, lows of 25°C, 28 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 September.

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.September 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 September

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Cartagena Weather in September

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Medellin warmer than Cartagena in September?
No. In September, Cartagena is warmer with an average high of 30°C (86°F) compared to Medellin at 26°C (79°F), a difference of 4°C.
Which city gets more rain in September, Medellin or Cartagena?
Cartagena gets more rain in September with 28 rain days and 242 mm of precipitation. Medellin is the drier option with 27 rain days.
Is it better to visit Medellin or Cartagena in September?
It depends on your preferences. Medellin averages 26°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 27 rain days. Cartagena averages 30°C with 9 sunshine hours and 28 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