Getting to Cartagena, Colombia

Getting There and Away

Written by Marcus Kayode, Marika Maslanka, Santiago Rodriguez

03/08/2025

Charming street in Cartagena with vibrant buildings and cathedral in view, ideal for travel inspiration.

Ariel Foletto, Pexels

Cartagena's primary transport hubs include Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) for air travel and the Terminal de Transporte de Cartagena for intercity bus services.

By Air:

Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) serves Cartagena, located approximately 4-6 kilometers from the city center. Flights connect Cartagena to major Colombian cities such as Bogotá (around 1.5 hours, $35-$140 USD) and Medellín (around 1 hour, $60-$190 USD), as well as some international destinations like Fort Lauderdale ($65-$178+ USD). From the airport, taxis offer fixed fares to the city center (around $12,100 COP to the Historic Center, $20,700 COP to Bocagrande) or private transfers are available. Public Metrocar buses also connect the airport to the city center for about $2,000 COP.

By Bus:

The main intercity bus terminal, Terminal de Transporte de Cartagena, is located outside the city and is about a 30-minute taxi ride to the historic center (around $19,300 COP). Direct bus services connect Cartagena to various cities:

Bogotá: Approximately 18-22 hours, with fares ranging from $25-$80 USD.
Medellín: Approximately 11.5-24 hours, with fares from $21-$49 USD.
Barranquilla: Around 2-3 hours, costing $7-$17 USD.
Santa Marta: Around 3-4.5 hours, with fares from $13-$17 USD.

By Ferry:

Ferry services primarily connect Cartagena to nearby islands like Isla Grande. Ferries depart from Muelle de Bodeguita, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours and prices starting around $18-$25 USD, plus a port fee.

By Car Rental:

Car rentals are available in Cartagena, with daily costs generally starting from $33-$46 USD.

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