Getting Around Colombia

Colombia has several international airports. Most travelers arrive at Bogotá or Medellín.

El Dorado International Airport (BOG) — Bogotá

Colombia's largest airport and main international hub.

• Distance to city: 15 km from downtown (30-45 min by taxi)
• Taxi cost: $15-25 USD to city center
• Airport shuttle: $8-12 USD
• Uber/Didi: $10-15 USD
• Car rental: Available from major companies

José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) — Medellín

Second-largest airport, serving Medellín and the Coffee Triangle.

• Distance to city: 30 km from Medellín (45-60 min)
• Taxi cost: $20-30 USD to El Poblado
• Uber/Didi: $15-20 USD
• Airport shuttle: $10-15 USD

Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) — Cartagena

Gateway to the Caribbean coast.

• Distance to city: 5 km from downtown (10-15 min)
• Taxi cost: $8-12 USD
• Uber/Didi: $6-10 USD

Airport Tips

• Use official airport taxis or Uber/Didi apps
• ATMs are available for currency exchange
• USD is widely accepted but Colombian pesos get better rates
• Book airport transfers in advance if possible

Given Colombia's large size and mountainous terrain, domestic flights are often the best option for long distances.

Major Airlines

• Avianca: Colombia's largest airline
• LATAM: Major South American carrier
• Viva Air: Budget airline
• Wingo: Budget airline

Popular Routes & Cost

• Bogotá to Medellín: 1 hour; $50-120 USD
• Bogotá to Cartagena: 1.5 hours; $60-140 USD
• Medellín to Cartagena: 1 hour; $50-120 USD
• Bogotá to Santa Marta: 1.5 hours; $60-140 USD

Booking Tips

• Book in advance for better rates
• Budget airlines (Viva Air, Wingo) are cheaper but have baggage fees
• Check websites directly for best prices
• Flights often have delays; allow extra time

Buses are the cheapest way to travel between cities. Colombia has an extensive bus network with various comfort levels.

Bus Types

• Regular buses: Cheapest but basic comfort
• Ejecutivo (Executive): More comfortable, reclining seats
• Cama (Bed): Premium with lie-flat seats, best for overnight travel
• Minibuses: Smaller, faster for shorter routes

Popular Routes & Cost

• Bogotá to Medellín: 8-10 hours; $30-60 USD
• Bogotá to Cartagena: 20+ hours; $40-80 USD
• Medellín to Salento: 4-5 hours; $15-25 USD
• Santa Marta to Cartagena: 4-5 hours; $15-25 USD

Major Bus Companies

• Blablacar (ride-sharing, often cheaper)
• Greyhound Colombia
• Expreso Brasilia
• Copetran

Bus Tips

• Book tickets in advance during peak seasons
• Overnight buses are common for long distances
• Bring a light jacket (buses are cold)
• Keep valuables secure; petty theft occurs on buses
• Expect delays; Colombian buses don't always depart on time

Taxis

• Yellow taxis: Official taxis with meters
• Cost: $2-10 USD depending on distance
• Tip: Not expected but appreciated (round up)
• Safety: Generally safe; use official taxis or call ahead

Uber & Didi

• Available in: Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and other major cities
• Cost: Similar to taxis, sometimes cheaper
• Advantage: Transparent pricing, no negotiation needed
• Safety: Very safe; ride is tracked

Blablacar

• Ride-sharing service: Connect with drivers going your direction
• Cost: Often cheaper than buses for long distances
• Best for: Flexible travelers with time

Rental Companies

• Hertz, Budget, Avis, Enterprise (at major airports)
• Local companies often cheaper

Cost

• Economy car: $40-70 USD per day
• SUV: $60-100 USD per day

Requirements

• Valid driver's license (US, Canadian, or International)
• Passport
• Credit card for deposit
• Minimum age: 21-25 years

Driving in Colombia

• Side of road: Right side (US system)
• Speed limits: 60 km/h in cities, 80-120 km/h on highways
• Road conditions: Main highways are good; mountain roads can be winding
• Traffic: Chaotic in cities; aggressive drivers
• Fuel: Abundant gas stations; fuel is reasonably priced

Driving Tips

• Drive defensively; local drivers are aggressive
• Avoid driving at night on unfamiliar roads
• Mountain roads can be dangerous; drive slowly
• Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight
• Carry your driver's license and rental papers

Bogotá

• Metro: Modern subway system (limited coverage)
• Buses: Cheap but crowded; use TransMilenio (bus rapid transit)
• Taxis/Uber: Best for tourists
• Walking: La Candelaria and Usaquén are walkable

Medellín

• Metro & Cable Car: Efficient and cheap
• Taxis/Uber: Very affordable
• Walking: El Poblado is very walkable

Cartagena

• Walking: Old city is very walkable
• Taxis/Uber: For longer distances
• Horse-drawn carriages: Touristy but fun

Santa Marta

• Walking: Downtown is walkable
• Taxis: Cheap and available
• Buses: Connect to nearby towns