Updated on 07/09/2024
Dear reader,
I would also like to recommend our Colombia travel guide, which provides a perfect overview of the tourist attractions in Colombia. Enjoy reading it!
Discover Colombia, a country of diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, stretching from the Andes to the Amazon, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. While the thought of traversing this vast territory may seem daunting, our transportation guide, backed by over 43,500 miles (70,000 km) of experience on Colombian roads, offers invaluable insights for your journey.
This guide makes exploring Colombia easy, providing details on the most efficient routes and the best transportation options, including planes, cars, buses, and boats. Set aside your travel worries and enjoy a smooth, safe journey with our assistance, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Colombia.
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.
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.
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
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:
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.
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!
More about transportation in Colombia
- How To Get Around Colombia Like A Pro: An Expert Transportation Guide
- Flight guide to Colombia
- How to travel by bus in Colombia without problems
- What charter flights are and why you should choose them for your next trip
- Charter flights and helicopter tours in Colombia
