Expert Guide to Transportation in Colombia

Updated: July 2026 · by Frank Spitzer

Expert Guide to Transportation in Colombia

Colombia’s transportation network varies dramatically by region — modern airline networks (Avianca, LATAM, JetSMART, EasyFly) connecting all major cities, the Bogotá TransMilenio BRT bus system, intercity coaches via Bolivariano or Expreso Brasilia, and Uber/DiDi/InDriver in all major cities. This guide covers all transportation modes you’ll need in Colombia.

I am Frank Spitzer, founder of Pelecanus Travel (RNT 51402, IAGTO member, Bogotá-based since 2017). We arrange pre-booked airport transfers and intercity transport coordination. Send me a message to start planning.

This Bogotá Public Transportation Guide walks through the city’s TransMilenio + SITP bus integration — the system you’ll likely use most as a visitor.

Colombia’s Geographic Diversity and Transportation Infrastructure

Colombia, located in the northwestern region of South America, boasts diverse landscapes ranging from the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean and Pacific coasts and vast plains.

This country has a unique mix of geographical and cultural diversity, divided into distinct regions, each with its own characteristics. The Andes form the central axis of Colombia, splitting it into three parts: the Andean, Caribbean, and Pacific regions. Additionally, Colombia features the impressive Amazon region and the expansive Orinoquía region.

While Colombia’s roadways have improved over time, traveling in some areas can still be challenging. Highways between major cities are in good condition, but rural roads are often narrow and winding. As a result, many people prefer flying to avoid long overland journeys.

Alongside air travel, Colombia has a comprehensive bus network connecting cities and towns nationwide. These range from simple local transport to luxury buses equipped with air conditioning and reclining seats.

Flying in Colombia: The Ultimate Guide

Colombia is well-connected by an extensive network of air routes. In the first quarter of 2024 alone, over 13 million passengers traveled by plane, a 14.8% increase from the same period last year. Internationally, Colombia has 692 weekly flights connecting to 38 cities in 23 countries across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, South America, and Europe, thanks to 22 airlines.

However, note that while most regions are accessible by air, some rural and remote areas require alternative transportation methods.

Why Fly in Colombia?

With an area of 440,000 square miles (1.14 million square kilometers), Colombia is as large as France and Spain combined. Road travel can be tedious; a trip from Bogotá to Medellín takes 9 hours by car but only 1 hour by plane.

Flying offers several advantages:

• Efficiency: Reach almost any city in less than 2 hours.
• Access to remote places: Visit destinations inaccessible by land, such as Leticia (gateway to the Amazon), Nuquí (a whale-watching paradise), or Providencia (a Caribbean island with a coral reef).
• Competitive prices: Take advantage of airline competition to find affordable fares.

The 2026 domestic airline landscape

The domestic-flight scene in Colombia shifted after 2023 (Ultra Air and Viva Air both ceased operations). The five carriers currently flying scheduled domestic routes, ranked by 2026 scheduled-flight volume, are:

• Avianca — ~17,578 scheduled flights. Widest domestic network, serves 25+ destinations including all secondary cities. Star Alliance member.
• LATAM Airlines Colombia — ~4,488 flights. Major-city coverage (Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, Santa Marta). Oneworld member.
• Clic Air — ~3,507 flights. Regional subsidiary flying ATR turboprops to smaller cities from Bogotá hub.
• JetSMART Colombia — ~2,927 flights. Chilean-owned ultra-low-cost carrier, entered Colombia in 2023. Serves Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, San Andrés and secondary cities (Cúcuta, Pasto, Montería, Pereira).
• Wingo — ~1,984 flights. Low-cost subsidiary of Copa Airlines. Point-to-point routes plus regional connections to Aruba, Curaçao, Panama City.

Wingo and JetSMART consistently list base fares 30–50% lower than Avianca on identical routes, but the difference disappears once you add checked baggage, seat selection, and any change fee. For a round-trip with one bag, an all-in comparison beats a base-fare comparison every time.

Major Domestic Airlines in Colombia

Colombia has several well-known national airlines and a growing number of low-cost carriers. Here are some of the most popular:

• Avianca: The oldest and largest airline in Colombia, founded in 1919, with a fleet of over 100 aircraft flying to more than 20 domestic destinations.
• Latam Colombia: A subsidiary of the largest airline group in Latin America, operating flights to over 10 domestic destinations.
• Satena: A state-owned airline specializing in serving remote and isolated regions, flying to more than 30 domestic destinations, including areas near the Pacific coast, the Amazon, and Los Llanos.
• Copa Airlines: A Panamanian airline flying between Bogotá and Panama City, with connections to other Central American and Caribbean destinations.
• Clic: A low-cost airline serving over 20 domestic destinations.
• Wingo: A budget airline operating flights to more than five domestic destinations, including Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Cartagena, and San Andrés.

Check our blog for the main air connections in Colombia.

How Much Does It Cost to Fly in Colombia?

Domestic flight prices in Colombia can vary significantly. Here’s a detailed guide to understanding these costs:

Main Routes:

• Bogotá to Medellín: The average flight price ranges between $20 and $100, depending on the season and availability.
• Bogotá to Leticia: Less-traveled routes like this tend to have higher prices due to less frequent flights and lower airline competition.

High Demand Seasons:

• During major events like the Barranquilla Carnival, held before Ash Wednesday, flight prices typically increase significantly.

Booking in Advance:

• Booking your flight early can help you get better prices. For example, a flight from Medellín to Cali might cost as little as $25 if booked well in advance.

Low-Cost Airlines:

• Airlines like Clic offer fares starting at COP 70,000. However, up to 70% of this cost can be attributed to taxes and additional fees.

Taxes and Fees for Domestic Flights in Colombia

Domestic flight tickets in Colombia do not include certain taxes and fees, which depend on the route and airline.

Some of the most common taxes and fees for domestic flights in Colombia are:

• Departure Tax: If you stay more than 90 days, you pay a tax for internal flights.
• Tourism Tax: All passengers traveling to San Andrés Island pay COP 137,000 per person in 2024, payable at the departure airport before your flight.
• Baggage Fee: Some airlines charge for checked luggage, with the amount varying by airline and the weight and size of your baggage.
• Seat Selection Fee: Some airlines charge for choosing your seat on the plane, with the amount varying by airline and seat location.
• Snack Fee: Some airlines charge for onboard snacks or beverages, with the amount varying by airline and the item.

Driving in Colombia

Here’s a simple piece of advice: don’t drive in Colombia! Yes, even if you consider yourself a top-notch driver.

Colombia’s diverse geography and underdeveloped roads make driving here challenging. Expect to encounter reckless drivers and massive trucks on narrow mountain roads. And don’t be surprised to find cattle crossing the road—yes, literally cows and other animals.

Routes between major cities in the central region are somewhat easier to navigate, but the abundance of reckless drivers still makes it difficult. It’s ironic, as Colombians are incredibly friendly, but on the road, it’s a different story.

Traffic can be a nightmare. You risk being blocked, honked at, yelled at, and feeling like you’re on the brink of a collision because someone decides to overtake without looking. Traffic accidents are a leading cause of death here, often due to minors riding motorcycles on poorly maintained roads. If you can avoid it, it’s better to use other means of transportation.

After traveling over 43,500 miles (70,000 kilometers) across Colombia, I discovered my average speed was just 25 mph (40 km/h), which equates to 73 days of driving over the past seven years. If time isn’t an issue, driving in Colombia could be a viable option.

Check out this video for some crazy footage from my driving adventures in Colombia. If you want to record your road trips, check out this high-quality dashcam provider in the USA.

Car Rentals in Colombia

Your best bet is to use car rental services, but be warned—they can be pricey! Rentals can cost at least COP 200,000 per day, and gasoline is expensive, reaching up to COP 15,600 per gallon.

Do your research and choose reasonably priced car rental companies. Some good options are Enterprise Rent a Car, Alamo Rent a Car, Rent Cars, Renting Carz, Avis, Hertz, and Budget. Rentcars also allows you to compare rental services and book at the best prices.

Your foreign driver’s license: 180 days of validity in Colombia

Article 25 of Ley 769 of 2002 (the Colombian traffic code), together with Article 50 of Decree 1743 of 2015, sets the tourist rule: a valid foreign driver’s license lets you drive in Colombia for up to 180 days from the date of your entry stamp. You do not need an International Driving Permit, a Colombian translation, or a registration procedure. Carry both your passport (with the entry stamp) and your original license at all times — rental companies will not release a car without the pair, and traffic police can request either during a routine stop. Past 180 days you legally need a Colombian licencia de conducción, which requires a cédula de extranjería.

Keep in mind:

• Driving: In Colombia, you drive on the right side of the road.
• Insurance: Car insurance is mandatory.
• Driver’s License: A valid international driver’s license is required, although some companies may accept your national license.
• Child Safety: Child seats and seat belts for all passengers are mandatory.
• Speed Limits: Vary by area; 19-37 mph (30-60 km/h) in urban areas, 50 mph (80 km/h) in rural areas, and up to 62 mph (100 km/h) on highways.

Also, note:

• Fines and Violations: If your windshield is cracked, your car can be impounded, and you might face hefty fines.
• Police Corruption: There is a risk of being stopped by corrupt police officers seeking bribes.
• Accidents: As a foreigner, you might be targeted for extortion in case of accidents.
• Pico y Placa: This system restricts vehicle circulation in several cities based on license plate numbers, which can limit your mobility and affect your plans. These cities include Bogotá, Bucaramanga, Barranquilla, Cartagena, Cali, Manizales, Medellín, Pasto, Pereira, Cúcuta, and Armenia. For the current Pico y Placa status, visit the Pico y Placa Today website in Colombia.

Taking a Taxi in Colombia

Ride-hailing apps in 2026 — Uber, Cabify, DiDi, InDrive

Ride-hailing is legally a grey zone but functionally universal in Colombian cities. In 2026 the Administrative Court of Cundinamarca ruled that blocking Uber, DiDi, or Cabify at the network level would violate the principle of “technological neutrality” — the platforms are therefore not illegal, even though the sector is not formally regulated. In practice all four services below are used daily by locals, expats, and visitors, and drivers accept trips normally at airports, hotels, and residential zones.

• Uber — most brand-recognised. UberX (car), UberBlack (executive), Uber Moto (motorcycle, faster in traffic). Card + cash accepted.
• Cabify — Spanish operator that absorbed the earlier Colombian apps Tappsi and EasyTaxi (the merger consolidated the yellow-taxi + ride-hail market). If you see old blogs recommending Tappsi, they mean Cabify.
• DiDi — Chinese platform, competitive prices, strong Bogotá + Medellín coverage.
• InDrive (formerly InDriver) — bid-your-fare model where you propose the price and a driver accepts.

Yellow street-taxis remain the traditional option; insist on the meter (taxímetro) and use the Cabify app to hail one if you prefer digital tracking. For airport pickups in Bogotá (El Dorado), Medellín (Rionegro), and Cartagena, the ride-hail apps generally pick up from a dedicated waiting zone marked in the app.

Taking a taxi in Colombia can be a more affordable and safer option than renting a car. However, be aware of fare practices, as taxi drivers may overcharge tourists. They may also have an aggressive driving style, so be prepared for a fast ride.

In cities like Bogotá, Cali, and Medellín, taxis have meters, but in other cities, meters might not exist or be used inconsistently. Therefore, it’s recommended to:

• Verify the Price: Confirm the fare before starting the trip to avoid surprises.
• Negotiate: Be prepared to negotiate with the taxi driver, especially in places without meters.

Additionally, Uber operates in a legal gray area in Colombia, functioning under the car rental with driver model. While not technically legal, it is widely used. If you use it, sit in the front seat to avoid being identified as an Uber passenger. There have been incidents of violence where taxi drivers have identified and attacked Uber drivers, reflecting the tension between traditional taxi services and ride-sharing apps.

Alternative taxi apps in Colombia include:

• Cabify
• Uber
• inDriver
• DiDi

Intercity Buses in Colombia

Traveling by intercity bus in Colombia is an economical and safe option, ideal for those who want to explore multiple cities on a budget and have more time.

• The transportation infrastructure has improved, with a network of roads and highways facilitating transit.
• Affordable Prices: An overnight 10-hour trip can cost between 60,000 and 100,000 pesos (around 25 USD).
• Accessible Terminals: Bus terminals are easy to navigate, with well-known companies like Bolivariano, Berlinas, Brasilia, and Rápido Ochoa.
• For easier bus travel planning, the redBus app can be a useful tool, allowing you to plan and book your routes easily.

Buses for All Tastes

Buses vary in comfort and distance, from shared minibuses to long-distance buses with air conditioning and executive-class seats. Intercity buses offer amenities like Wi-Fi and legroom.

For overnight trips, it’s recommended to wear warm clothing and use noise-canceling headphones. Keep an eye on your luggage, as buses stop at security checkpoints. Buses usually have restrooms and make stops for meals.

For more detailed information, check out our blog on intercity bus travel in Colombia, offering recommendations and useful tips for your trip.

Public Transportation in Colombian Cities

In Colombian cities, public transportation is a popular option for locals and tourists.

Public Transportation in Bogotá

Bogotá’s public transportation system, known as the Integrated Public Transport System (SITP), offers several options to navigate the city:

TransMilenio

• TransMilenio is a network of articulated buses operating on exclusive lanes. It includes 12 lines, 136 stations, and 6,787 bus stops, providing a fast and efficient way to travel across Bogotá’s main avenues.

SITP Zonal

• Zonal buses complement TransMilenio by covering non-trunk routes. These include urban, feeder, complementary, and special buses.

TransMiCable

• TransMiCable is a cable car system connecting the city’s higher areas with the SITP.
• Currently, it has one line linking Portal El Tunal with Ciudad Bolívar.

Payment Methods:

• TuLlave Card: This rechargeable card is used to pay for TransMilenio, SITP Zonal, and TransMiCable. It is available at TransMilenio stations and authorized vendors.
• Fare: In 2024, the unified fare for all services is $2,950 COP.

Metro

Currently under construction, Bogotá’s metro is expected to be operational by 2028.

Coming soon: Bogotá Metro Line 1 and RegioTram de Occidente

Bogotá is the largest capital in the Americas without a metro — but not for much longer. As of June 30, 2026, construction of Metro Line 1 had reached 80.37% overall progress. The elevated line runs 23.9 km from Portal Américas in the south-west to Calle 72 in the north, with 16 stations integrating with TransMilenio at multiple points. Trial operations are scheduled for September 2027, with commercial passenger service in 2028. The Calle 26–Atrio integration station is already partially operational as a TransMilenio node.

Alongside the metro, the RegioTram de Occidente commuter rail (40%+ complete as of mid-2026) will link Facatativá and other Cundinamarca municipalities to central Bogotá. Its first stage from Facatativá to Fontibón is scheduled to open in late 2027, and the second stage will connect to Calle 26 with Caracas (integrating with Metro Line 1 and TransMilenio) in 2028.

Pico y Placa 2026 — driving-restriction schedules

Colombia’s three largest cities enforce Pico y Placa, a plate-ending driving restriction aimed at reducing congestion. If you are renting a car, the restriction directly affects when you can enter the city core; if you are taking taxis or ride-hail, these are Pico y Placa exempt. Motorcycles are also exempt in all three cities.

• Bogotá — Monday to Friday, 6:00 am to 9:00 pm. On odd calendar days plates ending 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 may drive; on even days plates 6, 7, 8, 9, 0 may drive. Weekends unrestricted. (Source: Secretaría Distrital de Movilidad, bogota.gov.co.)
• Medellín and the Valle de Aburrá — Monday to Friday, 5:00 am to 8:00 pm, plate-ending rotation coordinated across the metropolitan area municipalities.
• Cali — Monday to Friday, 6:00 am to 7:00 pm, plate-ending rotation.

Rental cars can also be Pico y Placa Solidario–enrolled: the rental company pays an annual fee that exempts the vehicle from the restriction. Ask before you sign the contract if this matters to your itinerary.

Public Transportation in Cali

Cali’s public transportation comprises several systems:

Integrated Mass Transport System (MIO):

• The main public transportation system in Cali consists of articulated, standard, and feeder buses operating on trunk lines and feeder routes.
• Payment is made using the MIO electronic card.

Traditional Buses:

• These buses complement the MIO by serving areas not covered by it.
• Fares are paid in cash to the driver and vary based on the distance traveled.

Other Options:

Additional public transport includes minibuses, motorcycle taxis, and bicycle taxis.

Fares:

• MIO: The fare is $2,700 COP for articulated and standard buses, and $2,200 COP for feeder buses.
• Traditional Buses: Fares range from $1,800 to $2,500 COP.
• Taxis: Taxi fares vary based on distance, typically ranging between $10,000 and $20,000 COP.

Public Transportation in Medellín

Medellín offers a modern, efficient, and safe public transportation system known as the Integrated Transport System of the Aburrá Valley (SITVA), combining various modes of transport for convenient travel across the city and metropolitan area.

Metro

• Medellín’s Metro, one of the most modern in Latin America, has 2 lines, 27 stations, and serves over 1 million passengers daily. It’s a fast and efficient way to navigate the city center.

Metrocable

• This urban cable car system connects Medellín’s higher neighborhoods with the rest of the city, providing an affordable and safe alternative for residents.

Metroplús

• Metroplús operates articulated buses on Medellín’s main avenues, offering a fast and comfortable service with modern, accessible stations.

Tram

• The Ayacucho tram is a modern system operating in central Medellín, serving as a cultural and tourist option to enjoy the urban landscape.

Buses

Medellín’s extensive urban bus network covers the entire city, providing an economical but slower option compared to other transport modes.

• Integration:
• SITVA allows integrated travel using a single ticket, enabling seamless transfers between different transport modes.

Cards and Fares:

• Cívica Card: Required to access SITVA, available at Metro, Metrocable, Metroplús, and tram stations, and authorized vendors.
• Fares: Vary depending on the transport mode and distance traveled. Check the Metro de Medellín website for updated fare information.

Public Transportation in Barranquilla

Barranquilla’s public transportation consists of several systems, with the most utilized being:

Transmetro

• A mass transit system featuring articulated, standard, and medium-sized buses.
• It has two main lines, Olaya Herrera and Murillo.
• Along with feeder and pre-trunk routes connecting to these lines.
• Payment is made using a smart card or cash at stations.
• It offers a comfortable, safe and efficient service.

Urban Buses

• Operated by private companies, urban buses cover an extensive network throughout the city.
• You can identify them by their color and route number.
• Payment is made in cash to the driver.
• They are an economical option but can be slower and more congested than the Transmetro.

Mototaxis

• Mototaxis are a more affordable alternative to regular taxis and ideal for short distances.
• However, they are not as safe as taxis and are not recommended for long trips.

Fares

• Transmetro Card: The rechargeable card used to pay for the Transmetro bus system. In 2024, the fare is $3,100 COP (approximately $0.80 USD) from Monday to Saturday, and $3,200 COP (around $0.82 USD) on Sundays and holidays. This unified fare applies to both the Transmetro and traditional bus systems.
• Mototaxi: Fares vary based on distance and negotiation with the driver. Mototaxis are common in Barranquilla for short trips or when speed is essential.

Point-to-Point Express Service in Colombia

In cities like Santa Marta and Cartagena, passenger transport services often operate differently from traditional central terminals. Many companies offer point-to-point express services from their own locations or commercial points, avoiding the congestion and delays associated with main terminals.

These services, often provided by vans or minibuses, are ideal for direct travel between nearby cities. Before booking, check the departure and arrival points and the schedule to plan your trip effectively.

Cycling in Colombia

Cycling has become increasingly popular in Colombia, not just for exercise and recreation, but also as a sustainable and efficient mode of transport.

The country offers diverse cycling routes, from leisurely rides through parks and avenues to mountain biking and interurban journeys.

Adventure Cycling

Exploring Colombia’s diversity by bike is a visually enriching experience. The country boasts popular cycling routes for all kinds of adventures, from mountain biking to city-to-city treks.

Cycling in Medellín

EnCicla, Medellín’s public bike system, promotes sustainable transportation with over 103 stations and 114,000 users. Registration is easy through their website.

Cycling in Cali

Biciestación offers free bike rentals. Register online and use the bikes at various city stations, with a 45-minute limit per use. Available to residents and tourists over 16, they also provide technical assistance through “Bici doctores.”

Cycling in Bogotá

Bogotá features an extensive network of bike paths, with over 400,000 daily trips. On Sundays and holidays, the city hosts ‘Ciclovía,’ closing streets for cyclists and skaters.

Tembici

This bike-sharing system allows you to rent bikes via a mobile app (iOS and Android), with several payment plans. Simply download the app, create an account, choose a plan, and unlock a bike at one of 300 stations using a QR code or proximity card. More info is available on their official website.

Buying a bike can be expensive, but renting is an affordable option, especially near parks in coastal areas. For second-hand bikes, check Mercado Libre for deals.

Tourists are advised to use caution on roads and wear helmets and protective gear.

Traveling by Boat in Colombia

Before modern roads, rivers were the primary transport routes in Colombia. Places like Puerto Nariño in the Amazon are still accessible only by water.

With coastlines on both the Atlantic and Pacific, Colombia offers unique sailing experiences. Major ports like Cartagena, Barranquilla, Santa Marta, and Buenaventura are gateways to maritime adventures.

Available Boats

• Speedboats: Small, powerful boats reaching speeds over 57 mph, used for transporting people and goods, especially in remote areas.
• Sailboats: Services like ‘Velero Amande’ offer all-inclusive trips from Panama to Colombia for $550 to $850 per passenger.
• Cruises: Enjoy a relaxing cruise with stops in cities like Cartagena.
• Cargo Ships: For a more leisurely experience, travel the Magdalena River and enjoy views from Buenaventura.
• Private and Rental Boats: Hotels can arrange rentals for personalized experiences, such as fishing in Rionegro or parties on a catamaran in Cartagena.

Hitchhiking in Colombia: A Personal Perspective

To be honest, I only tried hitchhiking a bit in Colombia, and it really depends on the region. In Bogotá and its surroundings, people seem to be in a constant state of fear, which appears to be part of the city’s culture. So, it’s unlikely that anyone will pick you up unless you fit a specific profile.

However, in rural areas, it’s a different story. I was often surprised to see how readily lone girls or older women would get into my car without hesitation. For the agricultural population, which often can’t even afford a bicycle, this seems normal.

Still, as a foreign tourist, I’m not sure I would attempt to hitchhike across the country. Although Colombia is much safer today, I wouldn’t want to take the risk.

Colombian Transport Dictionary

• Bicitaxi: The Colombian version of the rickshaw, adapted with a bicycle.
• Chiva: Traditional, colorful buses without windows, used for parties in Bogotá and transport in rural areas, iconic in Colombian culture.

• Colectivo: Unofficial vehicles, from jeeps to buses, transporting people and goods in both rural and urban areas.
• Metro: The mass transit system currently only in Medellín, modern and efficient, but not underground.
• Metrocable: Cable cars in Medellín, integrated with the Metro system, connecting elevated areas.
• MotoTaxi: Motorcycles for quick transport in warm regions, though not always safe. Passenger restrictions exist in some areas to prevent crime.
• TransMiCable: Cable cars in Bogotá easing access to work in mountainous and less developed areas.
• TransMilenio (TM): Red buses in Bogotá operating on exclusive lanes for mass transit.
• TransCaribe (TC): Similar to TransMilenio, with orange buses in Cartagena.
• Willy: Jeeps in the coffee region used for transporting people and goods, also serving as school buses and tourist attractions.

Colombia is emerging as a contemporary powerhouse, with a surge in tourism and hospitality. With various travel options within this magical country, tourists can choose based on their budget and itinerary. Happy travels!

FAQ

How do I get between Colombian cities?

Flights are best for long distances (Bogotá-Cartagena 1.5 hr vs 18 hr by bus). Intercity coaches via Expreso Brasilia, Bolivariano, or Copetran for 4-12 hour trips. New autopistas have made driving viable.

Are Colombian airlines safe?

Yes — Avianca, LATAM, JetSMART, and EasyFly have excellent safety records. Avianca is the legacy carrier and most reliable. Smaller carriers (Satena, EasyFly) for remote destinations like the Amazon and Chocó.

How does Uber work in Colombia?

Uber, DiDi, InDriver all operate in major cities. Functional and cheap. Local taxis at airports use registered services; avoid unauthorised taxis. Major cities also have official radio-taxi apps.

What is TransMilenio?

Bogotá’s articulated bus rapid transit (BRT) system. 14 trunk lines covering most of the city. Pre-paid TuLlave card needed. Very crowded at rush hour. Convenient for visitors familiar with major routes.

Can I drive in Colombia?

Yes with international driving permit. Highways have improved dramatically since 2018 (new tunnels, autopistas). Avoid driving at night outside major cities. Rental cars are widely available at major airports.

Is public transport safe for tourists?

Yes during daylight hours and on busy routes. Watch belongings in TransMilenio rush hour. Bus terminals in major cities are safe; avoid late-night arrivals to smaller terminals.

References

• Ministry of Transport of Colombia

About the Author

I’m Frank Spitzer — Swiss-born, Bogotá-resident since 2015, founder of Pelecanus. From first inquiry through return flight, you deal with me personally — not a handoff team. I’ve driven across 30 of Colombia’s 32 departments to inspect roads, hotels, guides and routes myself, and documented it in 400+ first-hand videos on the COLOMBIAFRANK YouTube channel. Before a destination goes into a trip, I’ve been there, often more than once, and I’ve slept in the bed I’d recommend. That field scouting sits on top of a 20-year background in finance, an MBA from the Universidad de los Andes in Bogotá, and a First-Lieutenant commission in the Swiss Army. I work in German, English, Spanish, French and Portuguese, which is why luxury, golf, eco and wildlife travellers from Switzerland, Germany, the US and Latin America trust us to build trips that feel custom — not catalogued. Pelecanus operates under Colombian RNT 51402 and is an active IAGTO member.

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