February is Cartagena with the January crowd gone and the January weather kept. And the biggest carnival in Colombia is a bus ride away.
Weather#
| Typical | |
|---|---|
| Days | Around 31°C |
| Nights | Around 24°C |
| Rain | Almost none |
| Wind | Steady, a touch gentler than January |
January is windier and busier; March is hotter and brings Semana Santa in some years.
The Barranquilla Carnival#
Four days before Ash Wednesday, two hours up the coast. The Batalla de Flores parade on Saturday, the Gran Parada on Sunday, the Festival de Orquestas on Monday, Joselito's funeral on Tuesday. Base in Cartagena and commute for one or two days, or stay in Barranquilla for the full thing. Buses from the Cartagena terminal run all day; book parade stand tickets ahead if you want a seat rather than the kerb.
Crowds and prices#
Quieter and cheaper than January. Valentine's weekend brings couples: Cartagena for couples. Carnival weekend fills hotels with commuters. Where to stay, Cartagena on a budget.
What to do#
The walled city early and late, Getsemaní at night, the Castillo at opening. Rosario Islands on a calmer sea than January: day trips. Things to do in Cartagena, where locals eat.
What to pack#
Light clothes, sun protection, a hat, and for carnival something white, comfortable and washable; you will be covered in foam and cornflour.
Plan it#
The 5-day itinerary with a carnival day swapped in. Post your dates on Roavi Community. Roavi has very few Local Friends in Cartagena yet; browse who is on Roavi and post early. How to meet locals in Cartagena.
Cartagena in February? Carnival weekend needs a local.
Post on CommunityFrequently Asked Questions
Is February a good time to visit Cartagena?
One of the best. Dry-season weather, fewer Colombians than January, lower prices, and the Barranquilla Carnival within reach. Valentine's weekend is busy with couples.Can I go to the Barranquilla Carnival from Cartagena?
Yes. Barranquilla is about two hours by bus or car. Many people base in Cartagena and go for the Battle of the Flowers on the Saturday or the Gran Parada on the Sunday, returning the same night. Book transport and, if you want seats, parade tickets ahead.When is the Barranquilla Carnival?
The four days before Ash Wednesday, so late February or early March depending on the year's Easter. Check the dates before booking.What is the weather like in Cartagena in February?
Highs around 31°C, nights around 24°C, nearly no rain, a steady breeze that is slightly gentler than January's. The sea is calmer for boat trips.