Guide to Transportation in Colombia

Transportation in Colombia is convenient and affordable, capable of taking you to most tourist attractions. There’s no reason to be afraid to use public transportation in Colombia, even if you’re a solo traveler or if you don’t speak Spanish. 

In this post I’ll guide you through the different ways to get around in Colombia. I’ll review what to expect and how to stay safe for each transport option. For buses in Colombia, I’ll dive into details such as how to find a route and how to buy tickets. 

I’ll also cover flight options, but I really encourage you to take local transportation and buses whenever possible! Public transportation in Colombia is affordable and will lower your carbon footprint. You’ll also get a more genuine glimpse into the local lifestyle, from engaging with snack vendors on the bus to sharing a lively minivan with livestock.

Related Articles:
Colombia Travel Guide
Colombia Itineraries
Colombia Packing List
Colombia Safety Tips

Flights in Colombia

Colombia is a major flight hub in South America, making it easy to find flights into the country. You’ll also find domestic flights within Colombia for as low as 40 USD. Flights between major cities should not be more than 2 hours in duration.

When taking a budget domestic airline in Colombia, review the baggage policy carefully. Some airlines may charge for carry-on luggage placed in the overhead compartment, with only a bag that fits under the seat in front of you being free.

Key international airports in Colombia include:

BOG – Bogotá
CLO – Cali
MDE – Medellín
CTG – Cartagena

For tips on finding affordable flight deals, refer to my guide to travel the world on a budget. Remember that when flying, you’ll need to figure out the best way to get from the airport to the city center. To pre-book an airport transfer, check out GetTransfer.

Bus Transportation in Colombia

As a tourist, you’ll probably rely heavily on buses as a form of transportation in Colombia. Buses run between all of Colombia’s major destinations, making it easy and affordable to get around the country. Night buses in Colombia are safe and a common way to travel long distances. 

Be aware that Colombian buses may sometimes run late. Traffic and road conditions (landslides, flooding, etc.) can impact journey times and sometimes add several hours onto a trip. To be on the safe side, don’t plan any connecting flights on the same day you arrive somewhere by bus.

Cost of the Bus in Colombia

Colombia buses usually cost 1 – 3 USD per hour of travel. There are no extra fees for checked baggage, but it’s still a good idea to travel light to avoid the hassle of handling extra bags.

Useful Words for the Bus in Colombia

• Terminal: Station
• Boleto: Ticket
• Silla, puesto: Seat
• Rampa: Gate number
• Cama, poltrona: More spacious seats that recline
• Parada: (Bus) stop
• Directo: Direct

How to Find a Bus in Colombia

Use online platforms like BusBud or redBus to search for buses in Colombia. I’ve heard some advice suggesting that you should travel with pricier companies due to their apparent greater reliability. However to be honest, I’ve always chosen the cheapest bus transportation in Colombia and never had any safety issues. 

When selecting night buses, you may have the option of choosing between different types of seats. Reclining seats will be more expensive but may be worth it for a better night’s sleep. 

If you don’t find the bus route you’re looking for, inquire at the bus station. Sometimes the bus route exists but isn’t posted online, and other times you’ll have to connect somewhere. The bus station employees are usually very helpful in assisting you in getting where you need to go.

Keep in mind that on holidays, buses in Colombia may run less frequently or not at all.

How to Purchase Bus Tickets in Colombia

You can purchase your bus ticket in Colombia online on BusBud or redBus. Before boarding the bus, check in at the ticket counter because sometimes they need to print a physical ticket for you.

Alternatively, you can buy your ticket in person at the bus station. You may find additional options that aren’t listed online and can also try to negotiate the prices lower.

In Colombia, purchasing bus tickets the day of or the day before you travel is usually fine, except during situations like busy holiday travel.

What to Pack for the Bus in Colombia

Many Colombian bus routes wind through mountains, which could be uncomfortable if you’re prone to motion sickness. Bring medication and consider taking a flight instead if you’re extremely sensitive. Even if you’re not prone to motion sickness, sometimes you may not sleep well on night buses (I know I didn’t) due to sliding around in your seat and shifting bags.

Pack a good jacket because the AC on the buses in Colombia can be very strong. Also bring snacks, water, toilet paper, and a portable charger and cable. Many buses don’t have power outlets. 

Pack fragile items in your day pack since bags put in the luggage compartments below are not handled delicately. Your day pack should be small and comfortably fit on your lap or at your feet.

Many buses in Colombia claim they have WiFi but most of the time I found that it didn’t work. Download any important logistical information in advance or get a data plan with a SIM card. For entertainment, download some movies or bring a book. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck watching the sometimes comically chosen movies played on the bus. The movies and music played by the bus driver can be quite loud, even at night, but don’t sleep with earplugs for safety reasons.

What to Expect on Bus Transportation in Colombia

Before boarding the bus, you’ll wait in line to load your checked baggage into the lower compartment. You will receive a ticket to retrieve your luggage later. 

Once you’re inside the bus, never put anything in the overhead compartments, which are targets for thieves. Keep your valuables strapped to you in a cross-body bag, ideally concealed beneath a jacket. Your day pack should stay at your feet or on your lap. For more information, read my Colombia safety tips. 

Day buses in Colombia may make occasional stops for restrooms and meals, while night buses typically do not. 

Vendors will spontaneously board the bus, offering everything from phone chargers to food. I recommend trying their snacks, which are cheap and very good! Be cautious of vendors who distribute “free” gifts (herbs, bracelets, etc.). They will return later expecting payment. Just politely tell them “no, gracias”.

Restrooms on the Bus

Restrooms on buses in Colombia are usually for “liquids only”, so you’ll need to ask the driver to stop for other needs. Bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer or soap, as these are not provided. 

The constant movement of the bus while winding along mountain roads makes restroom breaks or even just navigating the bus aisles challenging. While I know this sounds unhealthy, you can avoid this issue by hydrating heavily during the day of a night bus. Then, completely stop drinking liquids at least 2 hours before boarding the bus. I’m convinced that locals do this as well since the bus restrooms are not often used.

Local Bus Transportation in Colombia

Larger cities in Colombia have local bus systems that can be used to reach most tourist attractions. In some cities, you can find bus route information on Google Maps. If not, check the city’s transit website or inquire at your accommodation for details. In some larger cities, you’ll need to purchase a bus card in advance. In others, you’ll simply board the bus, inform the driver (or assistant) of your destination, and pay on the spot.

Metro Transportation in Colombia

Medellín is the only city in Colombia with a metro system, known for its cleanliness, safety, and efficiency. The city’s metro system includes cable cars that impressively navigate the hilly terrain.

Aside from the metro, there are no trains in Colombia.

Collectivo Transportation in Colombia

Transportation in Colombia includes collectivos, which are common in smaller towns and rural areas. Collectivos are shared minivans that usually cost 1 – 3 USD per hour of travel. They are heavily used by locals and you might share the space with livestock, agricultural goods, and household items. There is no AC and the atmosphere is cramped but lively. If you speak the local language, you might make some new friends!

You’ll typically find collectivos departing from a town’s main square. Sometimes, drivers will approach you or call out their destination from the window. Before boarding, ask the driver about the fare. Confirming the normal price at your accommodation beforehand is a good idea.

Collectivos usually depart once they are full. If several are heading to the same destination, choose one that’s nearly full, as it’s likely to leave sooner. Space for baggage is limited, so try to board with just a day bag. Collectivos follow a set route and can drop you off anywhere along it; just tell the driver where you want to stop. To catch a collectivo for your return journey, simply flag one down from the road.

Taxis and Rideshare Apps in Colombia

You may occasionally need to take taxis when getting around in Colombia. Aside from driving you around the city, your taxi driver can be a valuable resource for local restaurant recommendations! If you plan to stay in the area and appreciated your driver’s service, consider getting their contact information for future rides.

While tipping for taxis is not customary in Colombia, rounding up the bill or giving a 10% tip for exceptional service is appreciated.

To prevent theft, avoid using your phone in a taxi with open windows or unlocked doors. When paying, ensure you receive the correct change and no counterfeit bills.

Taxi Transportation in Colombia

Taxis in Colombia may not always have meters, so agree on a fare with the driver before leaving Confirm the price in advance with your accommodation.

Try not to flag down taxis from the street, especially in Bogotá, because this is not always safe. Official taxis in Colombia are safest, and you should catch them from designated stands or by calling them from your accommodation.

Rideshare Apps and Uber in Colombia

Rideshare apps are a cheaper and sometimes safer form of transportation in Colombia than taxis. Some of the most popular Colombia taxi apps are Uber, Didi, and Cabify. Rideshare apps are not available in some destinations in Colombia.

Uber is safe to use in Colombia, but it has faced legal challenges there. As a result, you may not see an “Uber” sign on the car and drivers may ask you to sit in the front seat.

Motorcycle Taxis in Colombia

In places like Cartagena and Santa Marta, motorcycle taxis are available. They are a fast and economical option, especially for solo travelers. I’ve taken them many times! However if you don’t feel safe weaving at high speeds through traffic then this isn’t the right Colombia transportation option for you. When taking a motorcycle taxi in Colombia it’s best to travel with only light baggage, and make sure the driver offers you a helmet.

Walking

Walking is a great way to sightsee and get around in Colombia. Just make sure you are walking in safe areas. Be careful at intersections, which don’t always have official crosswalks or pedestrian signals. 

You may want to limit your time walking around destinations like Cartagena, where the heat and humidity can be unbearable. Bring good shoes when traveling to Colombia, because the colonial towns have hilly cobblestone surfaces.

Boat Transportation in Colombia

Transportation in Colombia also includes boats, which will take you to islands and beaches on the Caribbean coast. For shorter trips, you can purchase tickets directly from vendors at the marina. Be sure to inquire about what is included and the return times.

Additionally, many travelers use boat tours departing from Cartagena to reach Panama.

Cycling in Colombia

Cycling is a very popular sport in Colombia. Every Sunday, many large cities close off major roads to cars, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy them. Bike rental is available in some tourist destinations.

Car Rental in Colombia

Public transportation in Colombia is safe and efficiently connects you to tourist destinations. Renting a car is unnecessary unless you want to explore off the beaten path. If you do end up going off the beaten path, be very careful about safety.

Thanks for reading, and I hope these tips help you feel more confident in navigating transportation in Colombia! Have you taken a night bus or collectivo before? Let me know your thoughts in the comments, I’d love to hear from you.

Looking for more Colombia travel tips and destination guides? Head to my Colombia page.

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