UV Index
UV Index
Today's UV index in Cartagena, Colombia 
will be up to 12.3, indicating a extreme level of sun exposure for the average person. Check our tips for today to make sure you're safe in the sun.
Last checked: 2025-05-21
UV index at 12.3 in Cartagena means extreme risk: limit outdoor time especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., actively seek shade, wear protective clothing, broad-brimmed hat, apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours, and wear UV-blocking sunglasses. Watch for bright surfaces like water and snow increasing UV exposure.
The UV index in Cartagena is usually very high, often ranging from 10 to 13, meaning the sun is very strong most days. It stays high year-round due to Cartagena's close location to the equator.
Cartagena has a hot and humid climate with little temperature change throughout the year. There are two main seasons: a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November, with the most rain in October.
Compared to other cities in Colombia, Cartagena is warmer and more humid because it is on the coast. It is sunnier and hotter than places like Bogotá or Medellín. Compared to neighboring countries, Cartagena is similar to coastal cities in Panama and Venezuela in temperature but usually wetter than some parts of northern Venezuela.
See the UV index hour by hour for Cartagena, along with the temperature and how cloudy it is. If the UV level is higher than moderate, it's best to avoid direct sunlight.