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Santa Marta

Weather in Санта-Марта by month: what to expect

Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

Weather overview

Санта-Марта enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it a great destination for travelers who prefer consistent warmth. The city experiences two distinct seasons: a dry season and a rainy season, each offering a different experience.

From January to April, Санта-Марта is at its driest, with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall. This period is ideal for exploring the city’s beaches and outdoor attractions without worrying about sudden downpours. The transition months of May and November bring moderate rainfall, while the rainy season peaks from June to October, with frequent showers and higher humidity.

Despite the seasonal changes, Санта-Марта remains warm throughout the year. Even during the wettest months, the rain often comes in short bursts, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the city’s coastal charm.

Temperature

Temperatures in Санта-Марта stay consistently warm, with little variation between seasons. The average monthly temperature hovers around +28.7 °C to +30.1 °C, making it a comfortable destination for those who enjoy tropical warmth. The hottest months are April and May, when temperatures can reach up to +34.7 °C during the day.

Nighttime temperatures in Санта-Марта are also mild, rarely dropping below +23 °C even in the cooler months. The lowest temperatures occur in January and December, with averages around +23.4 °C at night. This steady warmth means travelers can enjoy outdoor activities at any time of year without needing heavy layers.

The sea temperature in Санта-Марта is equally inviting, ranging from +26.3 °C in February to +30.2 °C in September. The warmest waters coincide with the rainy season, making it a great time for swimming and water sports if you don’t mind occasional showers.

Average air temperature °C
Average air temperature
Month Minimum Maximum
January 23 34
February 23.9 34.8
March 24.7 34.8
April 25.8 34.7
May 26.3 34.3
June 25.4 34.1
July 25.2 34.3
August 25 34.2
September 24.8 34.4
October 24.5 33.8
November 24.3 33.3
December 23.4 33.7

Precipitation

Санта-Марта has a clear dry season from January to April, with rainfall as low as 0.6 mm in January. This is the best time to visit if you want to avoid rain and enjoy uninterrupted sunshine. The dry season also brings the most daily sunshine hours, averaging around 9 hours per day in January and February.

Rainfall increases significantly from May, peaking in October with 128.2 mm of precipitation. The wettest months, June through October, see frequent rain showers, though they are often short-lived. Even during this period, Санта-Марта still enjoys several hours of sunshine each day, averaging around 6.6 to 7.3 hours.

Travelers visiting Санта-Марта during the rainy season should be prepared for sudden downpours, especially in the afternoons. While the rain can be heavy, it rarely lasts all day, and the lush greenery that follows makes the city even more picturesque.

Precipitation amount mm
Precipitation amount
Month Precipitation
January 0.6
February 4.8
March 1.6
April 20.2
May 38.3
June 98.7
July 86.1
August 97.6
September 91.7
October 128.2
November 69.7
December 3.2

What to pack

For a trip to Санта-Марта during the dry season, pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the warm temperatures. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for protecting yourself from the strong tropical sun. Since evenings remain warm, you won’t need heavy layers, but a light jacket or shawl can be useful for breezy nights.

If you’re visiting Санта-Марта during the rainy season, include a compact umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket in your luggage. Quick-drying clothes are a good idea, as humidity can make fabrics take longer to dry. Waterproof footwear or sandals will help you navigate wet streets and beaches comfortably.

Regardless of the season, swimwear is a must for Санта-Марта, as the sea remains warm year-round. A reusable water bottle will also come in handy, especially during the hotter months, to stay hydrated while exploring the city’s attractions.

Average monthly wind m/s
Average monthly wind
Month Wind speed
January 3.8
February 4.2
March 4
April 3.4
May 2.9
June 2.6
July 2.7
August 2.7
September 2.8
October 2.8
November 2.7
December 3