December is when Cartagena's high season begins. The rains ease, the trade winds arrive and take the edge off the heat, the walled city is lit up for Christmas, and Colombians from the rest of the country come on holiday. By New Year's Eve, it's one of the most festive places in the Caribbean.
Weather in December#
Hot, sunny and breezy. Days are around 30°C. The trade-wind breezes that arrive in December make the heat much easier, and rain becomes rare as the month goes on. Pack light clothes, sunscreen and a hat.
Crowds and prices#
December, and especially mid-December to early January, is peak season. Colombians on their own holidays join foreign visitors.
- Book rooms early, especially inside the walls and in Getsemaní.
- Book island trips ahead, and go early in the day.
- See the famous spots in the morning, before the heat and the crowds.
Christmas in the walled city#
The old town's squares and balconies are decorated for Christmas, and the streets are busy every evening. Many Colombian families celebrate with novenas, prayers and gatherings on the nine nights before Christmas, and a big dinner on December 24.
New Year's Eve in Cartagena#
Midnight is celebrated in the walled city's squares, on rooftop terraces, at restaurant dinners and at private parties, with fireworks over the city. Colombian traditions to join:
- 12 grapes at midnight, one per wish.
- Yellow underwear for luck in the new year.
- A walk around the block with a suitcase for a year of travel.
Book dinners and rooftop tickets well ahead. For a wider choice of cities, see where to spend New Year's Eve 2026.
Tips#
- Stay central so you can walk home after midnight. The Cartagena travel guide compares the areas.
- Mind your phone in the crowds and agree taxi prices. Is Cartagena safe? covers it.
- Eat where locals eat: where locals eat in Cartagena.
Spend December with a costeño#
A Local Friend knows which square is best at midnight, where to eat away from the crowds and how to get around in peak season. Roavi Local Friends in Cartagena set their own rates and message you directly before you meet.
Ring in the New Year with someone from Cartagena.
Meet a Local Friend in CartagenaFrequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to visit Cartagena?
Yes for weather: the dry season begins and the breezes make the heat more comfortable. It's peak season, though, so it's busier and more expensive, especially in the last two weeks.What is the weather like in Cartagena in December?
Hot and sunny, around 30°C (mid 80s Fahrenheit) by day, with trade-wind breezes that arrive in December and last into the first months of the year. Rain becomes rare as the month goes on.How do people celebrate New Year's Eve in Cartagena?
In the walled city's squares and streets, on rooftop terraces and at restaurant dinners, with fireworks at midnight. Colombians eat 12 grapes, wear yellow underwear for luck, and walk around the block with a suitcase for a year of travel.Is Cartagena crowded in December?
Yes, especially from mid-December to early January, when Colombians are on holiday too. Book rooms and island trips early and visit the old town's most famous spots in the morning.Is Cartagena safe at New Year?
The old town and tourist areas are busy and generally fine with normal care: keep your phone in a front pocket, agree taxi prices or use apps, and stay in lit, busy streets. Our Cartagena safety guide has more.