December Weather in Cartagena, Colombia

Last updated: August 21, 2025

December in Cartagena, Colombia offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with maximum temperatures soaring up to 32°C (90°F) and a comfortable average of 28°C (82°F). Visitors can expect mild evenings, as temperatures rarely dip below 25°C (77°F). The month brings a modest precipitation total of 34 mm (1.3 in), spread over approximately 8 days, ensuring a mix of sunny skies and occasional rain. With an average humidity level of 78%, the tropical climate provides a refreshing energy, perfect for exploring the vibrant streets, historic sites, and stunning beaches that make Cartagena a must-visit destination during this festive season.

December Temperature in Cartagena

As December arrives in Cartagena, Colombia, the city experiences warm and inviting temperatures that are characteristic of its tropical climate. The month begins with a minimum temperature of 25°C (77°F), which is slightly higher than previous months, hinting at the festive warmth of the holiday season. Daytime temperatures typically peak around 32°C (90°F), providing ample opportunities to explore the historic streets or relax on the sun-kissed beaches. The consistent average temperature of 28°C (82°F) ensures that visitors can enjoy comfortable weather throughout their stay, making December an ideal time to experience the vibrant culture and lively atmosphere of this coastal gem.

December Weather in Cartagena: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Cartagena, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Cartagena, December typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec818282828282828282818182
Data source: Temperature data for Cartagena generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Cartagena

In Cartagena, Colombia, December marks a transition as rainfall begins to taper off from the intense wet season. With an average precipitation of 34 mm (1.3 in) over approximately 8 days, this month's rainfall is significantly lower than the peak months of October and November, which saw an impressive 226 mm and 162 mm respectively. Compared to the earlier months, December's precipitation signifies a gradual shift towards a drier climate, making it a more favorable time for visitors seeking to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and stunning coastal views. While it is still wet, the reduced rainfall invites a more balanced blend of sunshine and occasional showers, perfect for exploring Cartagena’s historical charm.

December Precipitation Trends in Cartagena

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Cartagena, with values for each month alongside December’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how December’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Cartagena, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123146517018115120519422616234
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Cartagena

In December, Cartagena, Colombia experiences a modest decline in humidity, dropping to 78%. This mild reduction follows the peak humidity months of June and July, where levels soar to a humid 85% and 87% respectively. Notably, the transition from November’s 82% signifies a gradual easing as the year wraps up. Despite the slight dip, December retains a level of humidity akin to the earlier months of the year, which hover consistently around 77% to 79%. This trend suggests that while Cartagena does see fluctuations throughout the year, it maintains a generally tropical climate, keeping the air rich and vibrant even as the holiday season approaches.

December Average Humidity in Cartagena

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Cartagena, with December’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In December, average humidity in Cartagena is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec77%77%77%79%79%85%87%85%85%83%82%78%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Cartagena

In December, Cartagena, Colombia experiences a UV Index of 10, categorized as very high with a burn time of 15 minutes. While the UV levels dip slightly from the extreme readings seen in previous months—peaking at 15 in April—the sun's intensity remains significant. From January through November, the UV Index consistently showcases extreme levels, hovering between 11 and 15, emphasizing the importance of sun protection year-round. As you enjoy the beautiful weather in Cartagena, remember to stay vigilant against overexposure by utilizing sunscreen and protective clothing. For more detailed information, visit Cartagena UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Cartagena for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Cartagena in December, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In December, the maximum UV index in Cartagena typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec111113151313121313131110
Data source: Cartagena December UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

December Sunshine in Cartagena

December in Cartagena, Colombia, shines brightly with an impressive 330 hours of sunshine, highlighting the city's vibrant atmosphere as the year draws to a close. This month stands out with a significant uptick compared to the preceding months, particularly following a string of consistently sunny periods from July to November, where hours hovered between 279 and 308. Interestingly, after experiencing peak sunshine in March at 339 hours, December's sunshine closely follows with a glow that invites both locals and visitors to bask in the festive spirit of the holiday season. Overall, these trends reflect Cartagena’s enviable weather, making it a perfect destination for sun-seekers anytime of the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Cartagena: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Cartagena experiences direct sunlight during the month of December, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of December with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec269h309h339h312h285h279h308h291h279h295h290h330h
Data source: Cartagena December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Cartagena During December

In Cartagena, Colombia, December presents a noticeable shift in weather patterns, offering a 42% chance of sunny days that stands out amidst the typically cloudy months preceding it. As the year progresses, we see a decline in sunny probabilities from April’s peak of 17% down to just 14% in September. However, as we approach December, the potential for sunshine resurfaces, hinting at a brief reprieve from the gloom of the rainy season. This modest increase reflects a transition towards sunnier days, making December an appealing time for visitors hoping to soak up some vibrant Caribbean sun before the year ends.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Cartagena

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Cartagena throughout the year, with December highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Cartagena experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec60%72%49%17%16%20%24%13%14%16%27%42%
Data source: Cartagena December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Cartagena in December

In Cartagena, Colombia, daylight duration exhibits a fascinating rhythm throughout the year. From January to February, the city basks in 11 hours of daylight, creating a perfect setting for vibrant festivities. As spring approaches in March, daylight increases to 12 hours, offering more time for exploration and adventure. This trend of prolonged daylight continues through the summer months, with April to September maintaining the enjoyable 12-hour span. However, as the year winds down, daylight begins to taper off again, returning to 11 hours in October and persisting through December. This cyclical pattern not only highlights the consistent warmth and brightness of Cartagena but also sets the stage for year-round engagement with its enchanting culture and scenery.

Average Daylight Hours in Cartagena for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Cartagena throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 34m11h 47m12h 3m12h 21m12h 35m12h 42m12h 38m12h 25m12h 9m11h 52m11h 37m11h 30m
Data source: Cartagena daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Cartagena

As the year draws to a close, December in Cartagena, Colombia, ushers in a refreshing change in the breeze, with average wind speeds reaching 4.3 m/s (10 mph). This marks a notable increase compared to the calmer months of June and September, where winds blew at a gentle 2.3 m/s (5 mph) and 2.5 m/s (6 mph), respectively. The trend becomes even more striking when looking back at the previous months; while the winds dipped to their lowest in the heart of summer, they gradually picked up again in the fall, leading up to December's inviting gusts. This month’s breezy charm serves as a delightful departure from the humid stillness of summer, creating an ideal atmosphere for both locals and visitors to revel in the coastal beauty of Cartagena.

Average December Wind Speed in Cartagena

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Cartagena, with values for each month shown alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how December's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.14.95.53.83.12.33.22.72.52.32.94.3 m/s
Data source: Cartagena December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Cartagena Compares to Other Months

Weather in Cartagena varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Cartagena, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In December, temperatures in Cartagena typically range from a minimum of 25°C (77°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F). The month sees about 34 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days and a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, January offers slightly cooler conditions, with a minimum temperature of 23°C (74°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), maintaining an average of 27°C (82°F). This month is notably drier, receiving only 12 mm (0.5 in) of rainfall on 3 days, and features a similar humidity level of 77%. For more detailed information about January weather, visit Cartagena weather in January.

December and February in Cartagena present fairly similar average temperatures, with December witnessing a minimum of 25°C (77°F) and an average around 28°C (82°F), while February has slightly lower minimums at 23°C (75°F) but peaks at a higher maximum of 33°C (92°F). December is characterized by higher precipitation, averaging 34 mm (1.3 in) over 8 rainy days, compared to February's dryness with just 3 mm (0.1 in) and no rain at all throughout the month. Humidity levels are comparable, with December at 78% and February slightly lower at 77%. For more details on February weather, you can check Cartagena weather in February.

In December, the weather is characterized by a warm climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 25°C (77°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), accompanied by an average temperature of 28°C (82°F). This month experiences more precipitation, with 34 mm (1.3 in) falling over 8 days and a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, March presents slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), while maintaining the same average of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is notably lower in March at just 14 mm (0.6 in) over 3 days, with humidity decreasing slightly to 77%. For more detailed information, you can check Cartagena weather in March.

In December, the weather maintains a warm tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 25°C (77°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is relatively low at 34 mm (1.3 in), occurring over about 8 days, and the humidity stands at 78%. In contrast, April experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and a peak temperature of 35°C (94°F), while also averaging around 28°C (83°F). However, April sees increased rainfall, totaling 65 mm (2.6 in) across 14 days, along with a similar humidity level of 79%. For more detailed insights, check out Cartagena weather in April.

In comparing the weather of December and May, both months exhibit warm temperatures with minimal variation, as December's temperatures range from a low of 25°C (77°F) to a high of 32°C (90°F), while May sees slightly higher maximum temperatures peaking at 34°C (93°F). December experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 34 mm (1.3 in) over about 8 days, whereas May is significantly wetter, with 170 mm (6.7 in) of rainfall occurring across 25 days, indicating a much higher likelihood of rain. Humidity remains consistent in both months, hovering around 78% in December and 79% in May, providing a similarly tropical feel year-round. For a detailed look at the weather specifics in May, you can visit Cartagena weather in May.

December and June both feature warm temperatures, with daily averages around 28°C (82°F) and 28°C (83°F) respectively. However, June tends to be slightly warmer at its peak, reaching up to 33°C (92°F), compared to December's maximum of 32°C (90°F). One significant contrast is the precipitation levels; December sees much less rain, with only 34 mm (1.3 in) over about 8 days, while June experiences heavier rainfall totaling 181 mm (7.1 in) over 26 days. This contributes to increased humidity in June, averaging 85%, compared to December's 78%. For a more detailed look, you can check the weather specifics here: Cartagena weather in June.

In December, the weather in Cartagena is warm, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 25°C (77°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation at 34 mm (1.3 in) over about 8 days, with humidity levels averaging 78%. In contrast, July sees slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (76°F), an average of 28°C (83°F), and a maximum of 33°C (92°F). However, July is much wetter, receiving 151 mm (5.9 in) of rainfall across 24 days and higher humidity at 87%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, check out Cartagena weather in July.

In December, the weather is warm with a minimum temperature of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F), peaking at 32°C (90°F). It experiences lower precipitation at 34 mm (1.3 in) over about 8 days, and the humidity level is relatively comfortable at 78%. In contrast, August sees slightly cooler minimum temperatures at 24°C (75°F), but can reach a higher maximum of 34°C (93°F), with the same average of 28°C (82°F). However, August is significantly wetter, receiving 205 mm (8.1 in) of rainfall spread across 28 days, and the humidity rises to 85%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Cartagena weather in August.

In comparing the weather between December and September, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with minimums around 25°C (77°F), averages at 28°C (82°F), and maximums reaching 32°C (90°F). However, December is notably drier, receiving only 34 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over 8 days, while September sees a significant increase in rainfall, totaling 194 mm (7.6 in) across 28 days. Additionally, September tends to be more humid, with levels at 85% compared to December's 78%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Cartagena weather in September.

In December, the weather remains warm, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 25°C (77°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), and a slight decrease in humidity at 78%. Precipitation is lower than in October, totaling 34 mm (1.3 in) over just 8 days. In contrast, October experiences similar temperature ranges, but with more significant rainfall, accumulating 226 mm (8.9 in) over 28 days, resulting in higher humidity at 83%. For a detailed look at October's weather conditions, check out Cartagena weather in October.

In comparing the weather patterns of December and November, December brings slightly warmer temperatures with a minimum of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F), while November's temperatures start a bit cooler with a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 27°C (82°F). Despite a higher maximum temperature in November at 33°C (91°F), December enjoys a more stable and humid climate, with less rainfall—34 mm (1.3 in) over just 8 days—compared to November's significant 162 mm (6.4 in) spread across 24 days. Overall, December offers a drier and warmer experience, as humidity slightly decreases from November's 82% to 78%. For a detailed overview of November's weather, you can refer to Cartagena weather in November.

Compare Cartagena's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Cartagena

In December, Cartagena welcomes the end of the year with warm temperatures and a touch of humidity, making it distinct from the cooler months that precede it. With an average temperature hovering around 28°C (82°F) and maximum highs reaching 32°C (90°F), visitors can expect a tropical climate ideal for exploring the vibrant city. While there's a slight increase in rain, with about 34 mm spread over 8 days, the warmth persists, allowing plenty of opportunities to enjoy both sunny days and refreshing breezes. December's weather encapsulates the essence of Cartagena, inviting you to embrace its lively atmosphere before the new year arrives. To learn more about what to expect throughout the year, check out our detailed section on Cartagena Climate.