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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 165 kilometre distance from Bogota to Villa de Leyva. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 3 ways to get from Bogota to Villa de Leyva. You can choose between the bus, bus (the way back), private transport. The most affordable option is by bus, starting from $9. The fastest route is by bus (2h 30m).
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2h 30m
$9
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2h 55m
$10
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2h 55m
$162
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The bus is an affordable way to get from Bogota to Villa de Leyva.
There are four bus companies operating on this route: Omega, Flota Valle de Tenza, Expreso Gaviota and Coflonorte. You can buy tickets directly at the bus station or book in advance for $9.
Buses depart from Terminal Salitre or Terminal del Norte in Bogota.
Buses from Terminal del Norte are great for getting to Villa de Leyva. They’re already on the way out of the city, so you avoid cross-city traffic. Still, it’s usually best to leave from the terminal closest to your hotel. That way, you skip long taxi rides and unnecessary detours just to reach the station.
Taxis are usually cheaper than Uber, with fares starting at 15,000 COP to Terminal Salitre or 23,000 COP to Terminal del Norte. But prepare to haggle. Many drivers try to overcharge, especially tourists who don’t speak Spanish.
On a strict budget? You can also reach the bus stations using Bogotá’s TransMilenio bus system. When heading to Terminal del Norte from the city centre, start at Universidades Station. Take Line 6 until Calle 45-American School, then transfer to Line 8 or B18 and get off at the last stop Terminal. The fare costs 3,200 COP.
If you decide to go from Terminal Salitre, you can also use TransMilenio. At the station Universidades take Line 1 towards Portal El Dorado and get off at the station El Tiempo - Cámara de Comercio.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Koh Tao is a premier diving destination in the Gulf of Thailand, widely known as one of the most affordable places in the world to obtain your PADI certification. Beyond diving, the island offers beautiful bays, pristine beaches, stunning viewpoints, coral gardens, and abundant marine life.
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When travelling back from Villa de Leyva to Bogota, you’ll need to go to Villa de Leyva Bus Terminal, which is within walking distance of most parts of town.
You can buy tickets at the bus station or pre-book via BookAway for $10.
A private transfer from Bogota to Villa de Leyva is the easiest and most convenient option when travelling in a group from Bogota to Villa de Leyva. The journey takes 2h 55m - 4h, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Prices for private transfer start at $162 for a -seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about each. Travel time is 2h 55m - 4h.
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Carbon Footprint
This 165 km journey produces approximately 15 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Luggage Safety
Some stops on this route involve luggage storage or transfers. Keep valuables in your carry-on and use a lock on checked bags.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Popular budget resort with pool, located on Sairee Beach. Walking distance to dive shops and restaurants.
800 THB/night ($24)
Beachfront bungalows with balconies overlooking Sairee Beach. On-site restaurant and dive center.
2,200 THB/night ($66)
Luxury resort with private beach, infinity pool, and spa. Perfect for couples wanting extra comfort.
6,500 THB/night ($195)
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