Planning a trip from Bogota to Cartagena, Colombia? Knowing how to get from Bogota to Cartagena, including flights, buses, and driving options, is essential for a smooth journey.
The cities are separated by nearly 1,000 kilometers (about 610 miles “as the crow flies”), but driving or bus routes stretch slightly longer due to the country’s mountainous terrain. Travelers can choose between fast, convenient flights that take roughly 1 hour 30 minutes, long-distance buses requiring 18 to 24 hours, or a road trip offering flexibility but demanding planning and stamina.
Knowing the distances, travel times, costs, and comfort levels of each method helps you choose the option that best fits your schedule, budget, and travel style. This guide explains exactly how far Bogota is from Cartagena and the best ways to make the trip.
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How Far from Bogota to Cartagena Is It?
The straight-line distance between Bogota and Cartagena is approximately 981 kilometers (610 miles), the figure most relevant for flights. This “as the crow flies” measurement often comes up when travelers ask how far is Bogota to Cartagena or how far is Cartagena to Bogota.
By road, the distance is longer due to Colombia’s mountainous terrain and the routes required to cross it. Driving or taking a bus usually covers 1,050 to 1,100 kilometers (650 to 685 miles), depending on the route. Most travelers follow sections of the Ruta del Sol, the main route connecting the capital to the Caribbean coast.
This difference between straight-line and road distance explains why flights take just 1 hour 30 minutes, while bus and car journeys can last a full day or more. Understanding these distances helps travelers choose the option that best fits their time, comfort, and budget.
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Best Way to Get from Bogota to Cartagena?
For most travelers, flying is the fastest and most convenient way to get from Bogota to Cartagena. Covering nearly 1,000 kilometers, a nonstop flight takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, drastically reducing what would otherwise be an 18 to 24 hour bus or car journey. With frequent daily flights, competitive fares, and no connections needed, air travel offers the best balance of speed, comfort, and cost.
Long-distance buses and driving remain alternatives for travelers with flexible schedules or those who want to experience Colombia overland. Bus trips typically take a full day and can cost nearly as much as discounted flights, while driving requires significant time, stamina, and familiarity with Colombian roads.
In short, if you’re wondering how to get from Bogota to Cartagena efficiently, flying is usually the best choice. It lets you maximize your time in Cartagena, arriving rested and ready to enjoy the Caribbean coast.
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How to Get from Bogota to Cartagena: Plane (Fastest Option)
Flying is the quickest way to get from Bogota to Cartagena, with nonstop flights from El Dorado International Airport to Rafael Núñez International Airport, conveniently located near Cartagena’s main historical and cultural sites. Several airlines operate this route daily, including Avianca, LATAM, JetSmart, and Wingo. Low-cost carriers often offer competitive fares for carry-on passengers, while full-service airlines typically include checked baggage in the base fare.
The flight itself takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Including airport transfers, security checks, and boarding, travelers should plan for a total travel time of approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes from Bogota city center to Cartagena city center. Colombia uses a single time zone, so there’s no jet lag or clock adjustment to consider.
Ticket prices vary by season, demand, and booking time. Promotional fares can sometimes be found for $30–$40 USD on low-cost airlines if booked early, while peak periods and holidays can drive prices higher.
Getting to El Dorado Airport from Bogota’s city center usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic, with rush hour potentially adding delays. In Cartagena, airport transfers to the historic center, Bocagrande, or Getsemaní typically take 15 to 45 minutes by taxi, ride-hailing service, or airport shuttle.
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How to Get from Bogota to Cartagena: Bus (Overland Option)
Traveling from Bogota to Cartagena by bus is possible but demanding. The journeys typically take 18 to 24 hours, and sometimes longer depending on traffic, road conditions, weather, and stops along the route. Colombia’s long-distance buses are generally comfortable and reliable, but the duration makes the trip physically tiring for most travelers.
Buses depart from Terminal Salitre in Bogota and arrive at Cartagena’s bus terminal on the city outskirts. Reputable operators include Expreso Brasilia, Copetran, Berlinas del Fonce, Flota La Macarena, and Coflonorte. They offer services from standard reclining seats to premium options with extra legroom.
Surprisingly, bus tickets can be similar in cost to discounted flights, making flying more economical in terms of time. Buses are usually chosen by travelers who prefer overland travel, carry items unsuitable for air travel, or want to explore Colombia along the way.
Safety is generally good with major bus companies, though overnight travel can be uncomfortable. Upon arrival, expect an additional 30 to 60 minutes to reach central Cartagena by taxi, ride-hailing service, or public transport.
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How to Get from Bogota to Cartagena: Car (Road Trip Option)
Driving from Bogota to Cartagena offers maximum flexibility, but requires careful planning and realistic expectations. The journey typically takes 18 to 24 hours of continuous driving under good conditions, though most drivers take longer due to fatigue, stops, and night driving considerations. The most common route follows sections of the Ruta del Sol, Colombia’s main highway connecting the capital with the Caribbean coast.
Road conditions vary throughout the journey. Major highways are paved and maintained, but drivers should expect toll booths, occasional construction, traffic congestion near cities, and weather-related delays, especially during the rainy season.
Long-distance driving in Colombia demands patience, confidence, and comfort with varying road conditions. For those prepared, however, a road trip can be rewarding, offering opportunities to explore lesser-known towns and scenic regions along the route.
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Is There a Train to Get from Bogota to Cartagena?
No, there is no passenger train service between Bogota and Cartagena. Colombia does not have an intercity rail network for long-distance travel, so trains are not a viable option for this route. Travelers looking to go from Bogota to Cartagena should plan on flying, taking a long-distance bus, or driving. Flying remains the fastest and most convenient option, while buses and car trips offer alternatives for those with more time or a desire to explore Colombia overland.
How to Get from Cartagena to Bogota (Return Trip Overview)
Traveling from Cartagena to Bogota mirrors the journey in the opposite direction in terms of distance, travel time, and transportation options. The straight-line distance remains approximately 981 kilometers (610 miles), while driving routes cover 1,050 to 1,100 kilometers, depending on the chosen route.
Flights from Rafael Núñez International Airport to El Dorado International Airport take about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with most services nonstop. Bus and car travel times are similar to the Bogota-to-Cartagena route, typically 18 to 24 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and weather.
There is no train option from Cartagena to Bogota, so travelers must choose between flying, buses, or driving. The main difference on the return trip is the climate: you will move from Cartagena’s hot, humid Caribbean coast to Bogota’s cooler, high-altitude temperatures.
What Should I Know About Climate and Comfort When Traveling from Bogota to Cartagena?
Traveling from Bogota to Cartagena means a dramatic shift in climate, from Bogota’s cool, high-altitude temperatures to Cartagena’s hot and humid Caribbean weather (check out our Best Time to Visit Cartagena for Good Weather recommendations to make the most of your trip from Bogota). To stay comfortable, pack light, breathable clothing for Cartagena, while keeping layers for Bogota’s cooler evenings.
Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and give yourself time to adjust to the humidity. Planning your wardrobe and daily routine with these climate differences in mind ensures a smoother, more enjoyable journey between Colombia’s Andean capital and its coastal paradise.
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Best Time to Get from Bogota to Cartagena
The ideal time to travel from Bogota to Cartagena depends less on distance and largely on seasonal weather and crowd levels. Cartagena is hot and humid year-round, while Bogota stays cool due to its high altitude. Peak travel periods include December to January and major Colombian holidays, when flights and accommodations are in high demand.
Traveling during shoulder seasons can mean lower prices and fewer crowds, making it easier to enjoy the journey. Regardless of timing, booking flights or bus tickets in advance helps ensure availability and predictable costs.
Now that you’ve seen all our tips on how to get from Bogota to Cartagena, be sure to check out the best areas to stay in Cartagena de Indias to make the most of your trip.
The Smart Way to Travel from Bogota to Cartagena
Understanding how far from Bogota to Cartagena and the best ways to travel makes planning a smooth, stress-free trip much easier. Although the cities are nearly 1,000 kilometers apart, frequent flights make the journey fast, affordable, and convenient for most travelers.
Long-distance buses and driving remain options for those with extra time or a desire to explore Colombia overland. Now that you know the distance, travel times, and best transportation options, start planning your trip with confidence and book the option that best fits your schedule, budget, and travel style.
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