November in Cartagena has two moods. For one week around November 11, the city throws its biggest party of the year, the Fiestas de Independencia. For the rest of the month it's a hot, slowly drying shoulder season with prices below the December peak.
Weather in November#
Hot, humid, drying out. Expect around 30°C. October and November are the wettest months, but rain usually comes as short, heavy showers rather than grey days. By late November the trade-wind breezes of the dry season start to arrive, which makes a real difference in the walled city.
The Independence festivities#
Cartagena celebrates its independence from Spain (November 11, 1811) with parades, costumes, street music and the national beauty pageant. Expect crowds, water and foam fights, and a city that's awake all night. The Independence festivities guide explains the days and how to enjoy them.
Prices#
| Dates | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Early November | Quiet shoulder season, good prices |
| Independence week (around Nov 11) | Busy, book rooms early |
| Late November | Calm again, breezes arriving |
| December | High season begins (Cartagena in December) |
What to do#
- The walled city and Getsemaní, early morning or after 5pm in the heat.
- Islands on a day without showers forecast.
- Eat: where locals eat in Cartagena.
- The full list: things to do in Cartagena, and is Cartagena safe?.
Celebrate with a costeño#
The festivities are a local party first, and a local knows which parade to watch, which square to dance in and when to go home. Roavi Local Friends in Cartagena set their own rates and message you directly before you meet.
See the Independence week with someone from Cartagena.
Meet a Local FriendFrequently Asked Questions
Is November a good time to visit Cartagena?
Yes, with two faces: the Independence week around November 11 is one of the liveliest times of the year, while the rest of the month is quieter shoulder season with better prices. Expect some rain early in the month and breezes by the end.What is the weather in Cartagena in November?
Hot and humid, around 30°C. October and November are the wettest months, but the rain usually comes as short, heavy showers, and the dry-season breezes arrive towards the end of November.What are the Fiestas de Independencia in Cartagena?
The celebration of Cartagena's independence from Spain on November 11, 1811: parades, street music, costumes, and the Miss Colombia pageant. The city fills with Colombian visitors for the week.Is Cartagena busy in November?
Busy during the Independence week, calmer before and after. December is when the long high season begins.Is Cartagena safe during the festivities?
The parades are crowded and lively. Keep your phone in a front pocket, avoid flashing valuables, use registered taxis or apps, and expect water and foam fights in the streets.