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Weather Comparison

Panama City vs Cartagena

Side-by-side weather comparison for September

Panama City: 29°CCartagena: 30°C469 km apart

September Weather: Panama City vs Cartagena

MetricPanama CityCartagenaBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer29°C (84°F)30°C (86°F)Cartagena
Average LowHigher is milder24°C (75°F)25°C (77°F)Cartagena
Rain DaysFewer is drier29 days28 daysCartagena
PrecipitationLess is drier264 mm200 mmCartagena
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day9h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better12 km/h14 km/hPanama City

Which City is Better in September?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Cartagena edges ahead as the better destination in September. Cartagena offers 9 hours of daily sunshine with only 28 rain days, while Panama City sees 9 sunshine hours and 29 rain days.

Panama City can feel quite hot at 29°C, so plan for heat. Cartagena runs hot at 30°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Cartagena is the stronger choice in September.

Temperature Comparison in September

Panama City reaches an average high of 29°C (84°F) and drops to 24°C (75°F) at night during September. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

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 two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

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

Rainfall Comparison in September

Panama City receives approximately 264 mm of rainfall across 29 rain days during September. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Cartagena sees 200 mm over 28 rain days. That makes Cartagena the drier option by 1 rain day and 64 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Panama City vs Cartagena

Packing for Panama City in September

Highs of 29°C, lows of 24°C, 29 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • 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: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during September.

Year-Round Comparison: Panama City 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.

MonthPanama CityCartagena
HighRainHighRain
Jan29°C5d32°C2d
Feb30°C3d33°C2d
Mar31°C4d33°C5d
Apr30°C15d32°C15d
May29°C29d30°C26d
Jun29°C29d30°C25d
Jul29°C30d30°C25d
Aug29°C30d30°C27d
Sep29°C29d30°C28d
Oct28°C30d29°C29d
Nov28°C27d29°C24d
Dec29°C17d30°C10d
29°

Panama City Weather in September

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Cartagena Weather in September

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Panama City warmer than Cartagena in September?
No. In September, Cartagena is warmer with an average high of 30°C (86°F) compared to Panama City at 29°C (84°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in September, Panama City or Cartagena?
Panama City gets more rain in September with 29 rain days and 264 mm of precipitation. Cartagena is the drier option with 28 rain days.
Is it better to visit Panama City or Cartagena in September?
It depends on your preferences. Panama City averages 29°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 29 rain days. Cartagena averages 30°C with 9 sunshine hours and 28 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Cartagena. For fewer rain days, Cartagena is the better pick.
How far apart are Panama City and Cartagena?
Panama City and Cartagena are approximately 469 km (291 miles) apart. Panama City is located in Panama (North America) while Cartagena is in Colombia (South America).
What is the best month to visit Panama City and Cartagena?
For Panama City, February tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 30°C. For Cartagena, January is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 32°C highs.

Compare Panama City 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.

Panama City coordinates: 8.99°N, -79.52°E | Cartagena coordinates: 10.39°N, -75.48°E