You can get from Medellin to Bogota by bus, private transfer, flight, or rental car.
The cheapest option is by bus, which costs USD 32 and takes between 9 and 17 hours.
The most popular option is the flight, being the quickest and most convenient alternative.
The fastest way is also by flight, which takes less than one hour!
I’ve traversed Colombia’s varied terrains, using every mode of transport available. In this guide, I’m eager to share my knowledge on exploring this beautiful country best and help you get from Medellin to Bogota by breaking down each transportation option!
Getting to Bogota from Medellin
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | 9-17 hrs | $32 to 44 |
| Private Transfer | ~9 hrs | $109 to 197 |
| Flight | 50 min | $62+ |
| Rental Car | ~9 hrs | – |
1. Bus
Journey Duration: 9-17 hours
In the heart of Colombia, an adventure awaits you as you navigate from the breathtaking city of Medellin to the dynamic capital, Bogotá!
As the road unwinds between these two Colombian gems, the Coach Bus provides a seamless and affordable transportation. The journey, typically spanning about 9 to 10 hours, is punctuated by stunning landscapes.
With a range of operators, such as Rapiddo Ochoa and Empresa Arauca, offering multiple departures throughout the day, choosing a time that suits your travel schedule becomes convenient.
Coach Bus Schedule
The table below displays the coach bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:40am | 04:40pm | 9h | $37 |  |
| 06:30pm | 02:50am | 8h 20m | $37 | |
| 09:00pm | 05:32am | 8h 32m | $37 | |
| 04:00am | 02:00pm | 10h | $39 | |
| 08:20am | 06:20pm | 10h | $39 | |
| 10:15pm | 08:15am | 10h | $39 | |
| 11:00pm | 09:00am | 10h | $39 | |
Opting for a Luxury Bus takes the experience a notch higher. These buses offer a premium travel experience, featuring amenities like plush reclining seats, air conditioning, onboard Wi-Fi, and personal entertainment systems.
They provide an excellent opportunity to soak in the Colombian terrain’s beauty while ensuring utmost comfort, making your journey as enjoyable as the destination itself!
However, they travel longer, taking approximately 17 hours to reach Bogota.
Whether you choose a Coach Bus for its economic advantage or a Luxury Bus for its superior comfort, the convenience of both options is unmatched!
Browse the different ticket options ranging from USD 32 to USD 44, and book your seat here!
Luxury Bus Schedule
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:20am | 11:20pm | 17h | $32 | |
| 10:00am | 03:00am | 17h | $37 | |
| 12:30pm | 05:30am | 17h | $37 | |
| 03:30pm | 08:30am | 17h | $37 | |
| 05:00pm | 10:00am | 17h | $37 | |
| 07:30pm | 12:30pm | 17h | $37 | |
| 09:45pm | 02:45pm | 17h | $37 | |
| 02:00pm | 01:00am | 11h | $37 | |
| 09:30pm | 07:30am | 10h | $37 | |
| 02:00pm | 01:00pm | 11h | $44 | |
| 09:30pm | 07:30am | 10h | $44 | |
2. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom Time
While this is typically more expensive than taking a coach or luxury bus, the added convenience and flexibility make it a popular choice for many travelers.
Private transfers offer door-to-door service, picking you up from your accommodation in Medellin and dropping you off at your desired location in Bogota.
This eliminates the need to navigate public transportation with luggage or find directions in a new city, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a hassle-free travel experience.
The journey, which spans around 416 kilometers, takes approximately 8 to 9 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Moreover, you can request breaks whenever you wish to stretch your legs or capture the scenery.
Many companies provide private transfer services and offer various vehicle options to accommodate varying group sizes and budget constraints. Some even offer English-speaking drivers, who can double as informal guides.
In summary, a private transfer from Medellin to Bogota provides a personalized, convenient, and comfortable travel option, making the journey as memorable as the destination.
Prices for a private transfer:
- Up to 3 passengers (Standard Car): USD 109
- Up to 3 passengers (Standard Car): USD 124
- Up to 7 passengers (Standard Minivan): USD 179
- Up to 8 passengers (Standard Minivan): USD 197
3. Flight
Journey Duration: 50 minutes
Colombia’s robust domestic air network ensures excellent connectivity between these two vibrant cities, making flying a popular choice for many travelers!
The flight time is approximately one hour, a significant reduction compared to overland travel options.
Several airlines, including Avianca, LATAM, and SATENA, operate multiple daily flights between Medellin’s José María Córdova International Airport and Bogota’s El Dorado International Airport.
Ticket prices for these flights vary throughout the year but usually start at about USD 62. To secure your flight, check the flight prices and availability ahead of time and book your tickets online!
In short, flying from Medellin to Bogota combines speed, efficiency, and comfort, providing an excellent choice for the modern traveler!
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: ~9 hours
This mode of transportation offers an unrivaled level of freedom and flexibility, perfect for those who love the open road and the thrill of a self-guided adventure.
Renting a car allows you to make the journey at your own pace, with the freedom to detour, explore off-the-beaten-path locations, and stop whenever you wish to enjoy the stunning Colombian landscapes!
The drive takes around 9 hours under typical conditions. Still, with the freedom of a rental car, you can extend this over a couple of days, turning the journey itself into part of your Colombian exploration!
Numerous car rental agencies are available in Medellin, offering various vehicles to suit different needs. Most companies provide the option of picking up the car in Medellin and dropping it off in Bogota for an additional fee.
Renting a car for the trip from Medellin to Bogota offers an exciting and flexible journey that puts you in the driver’s seat, allowing you to experience Colombia in a truly unique way.
Best day tours in Bogota
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there direct flights?
Several airlines, including Avianca, LATAM, SATENA and Viva Air, operate multiple direct flights daily.
Are there night buses?
Yes, several bus companies operate night services between Medellin and Bogota. It’s advisable to check the schedules and book in advance, especially during peak travel periods.
Is there luggage storage available on buses or flights?
Yes, both buses and flights provide luggage storage. However, each airline and bus company has its own baggage policy, so checking this before booking is advisable.
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