Colombia, South America
Cartagena in September
The rainy season sets in. Lower prices and fewer visitors in exchange for sticky, still air.
The straight answer
September is a month of real tradeoffs in Cartagena. The rainy season sets in. Lower prices and fewer visitors in exchange for sticky, still air.
- Weather
- Hot, humid, highs near 89F (32C), frequent storms
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What September is like in Cartagena
September is when the rainy season sets in properly. Highs are near 89F (32C), the air is sticky and still, and afternoon storms are frequent. Visitor numbers drop, and prices fall with them. Mornings are often usable for sightseeing, but expect wet, steamy afternoons.
September suits flexible, budget-minded couples who do not mind heat and rain. Families and first-time visitors will have a better time in the dry season, from December to April. If you go, keep plans loose and build in indoor options.
Make the most of September
What is especially good about Cartagena this month.
Lower prices and fewer visitors
Hotels offer good deals, and even popular restaurants are easy to book.
Palacio de la Inquisicion
A colonial mansion and museum on Plaza de Bolivar that makes a good rainy-afternoon stop.
Moody storm light on the walls
Breaks between storms often bring dramatic skies at sunset over the old city.
What to pack for September
- A sturdy umbrella
- Sandals that can handle puddles
- Quick-dry clothes
- Insect repellent
Our timing tip
Plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning, and choose a hotel with a pool and air conditioning for the steamy afternoons.
Book Cartagena for September.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for September
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in CartagenaOpens a hotel search for Cartagena in September, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in CartagenaWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in CartagenaTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Cartagena for September. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Cartagena
The walled old city
Walk it in the early morning or after 4pm, when the heat eases. Sunset on the walls near Cafe del Mar is the city's ritual.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
The largest fortress Spain built in its American colonies, with tunnels you can walk. Go at opening to avoid the midday heat.
Getsemani
Street art by day, Plaza de la Trinidad and salsa bars by night. Stay here for better value than the walled city.
Rosario Islands and Baru
Day trips or overnights by boat. Calmer seas in the late dry season make the ride more comfortable.
Museo del Oro Zenu
A small free gold museum on Plaza de Bolivar run by Colombia's central bank, with pre-Hispanic goldwork from the region.
Palacio de la Inquisicion
A colonial mansion and museum on Plaza de Bolivar covering the Inquisition and city history.
Beat the crowds
- Skip mid December through the first week of January, when Colombian holidays drive peak prices.
- Walk the walled city at 7am before the heat and the cruise ship groups arrive.
- Stay in Getsemani instead of the walled city for lower rates and a livelier local feel.
- Book island trips midweek; weekends fill with day-trippers from the city.
Know before you go
- Semana Santa and the late December holidays fill hotels and beaches; some businesses close on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
- Colombia has many Monday public holidays (puentes) that bring weekend crowds from Bogota and Medellin. Check the calendar when booking.
- Boat trips to the Rosario Islands can be canceled by high winds in the dry season or storms in the wet season.
- Museums in the old city usually close one day a week and keep shorter hours on holidays.
Cartagena in September, quick answers
Is September a good time to visit Cartagena?
September is a month of real tradeoffs in Cartagena. The rainy season sets in. Lower prices and fewer visitors in exchange for sticky, still air.
What is the weather like in Cartagena in September?
Hot, humid, highs near 89F (32C), frequent storms.
Is Cartagena crowded in September?
September is one of the quieter months in Cartagena; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Cartagena.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in September
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