How to Get From Cartagena Airport to Cartagena City Centre

The bus is the cheapest way to get from Cartagena Airport, also known as Rafael Núñez International Airport, to the city centre. You can either hop on a public bus or pre-book your ride online.

The journey takes around 15 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and your destination in the port city.

Public bus

Transcaribe is the main bus company operating from Cartagena Airport. Take line T102, the orange and white buses that pass by the Walled City. It runs from 06:00 to 23:00 on weekdays, and until 21:00 on weekends.

The bus stop is just a short walk from the airport, at Calle 70 and Carrera 4, only a block away. The only Transcaribe line stopping there is the T102, so you won’t get lost.

Bus fare is $1 (3,000 COP), but keep in mind that cash isn’t accepted. You’ll need a rechargeable Transcaribe card, which you can buy at Transcaribe stations for $1.70 (6,000 COP).

There are two stops equally close to the city centre, one is called Parque Apolo and the other one Boquete San Diego. If you're confused, you can just ask for ‘Centro’ or ‘San Diego’ and the driver or other passengers will help you get off at the right stop.

Bus via BookAway

You also have the option to pre-book a bus that will take you from the airport straight to your hotel — no need to find your way to and from the bus stops. Plan Tours offers several trips daily with rates from $10 (35,000 COP). You can book your ride beforehand through BookAway.

A taxi is the most convenient way to get to and from Rafael Núñez International Airport. Taxis are easy to spot; they’re usually parked just outside the arrivals hall.

It's a bit tricky to take taxis in Colombia, though. Most vehicles are small, and it’s not uncommon for drivers to overcharge tourists or come across as unfriendly.

For better cars that come with professional drivers, the best option is to hire a private transfer. We like booking through BookAway for its good customer service. You can pick the type of car you want and book with the taxi company you prefer.

Here's a quick look at your options:

Airport taxi

The airport taxi service at Cartagena Airport runs 24 hours a day and is available from outside the arrivals gate.

Right at the exit, you’ll see a yellow digital kiosk. Select your destination or neighbourhood, and it’ll print a ticket with the official fare. Give that ticket to the first taxi in line.

Taxi prices are fixed depending on the area of your destination. A ride to the Centro usually starts at $21 (73,000 COP), but it can be higher if you're going further out. Rates tend to increase annually, usually between February and April.

Uber

You can book an Uber ride after landing at the airport. Uber rates from Cartagena Airport to the Walled City start at $9.20 (32,000 COP), but the price can vary depending on the time of day and traffic.

Private Cars via BookAway

Booking a private transfer with BookAway is a bit expensive. Prices start from $17 (60,000 COP) for 2 persons. What we like about this option is that the driver will be waiting for you at the airport. You won't have anything to think about as you set foot in Cartagena.

Shared minivans are a cheap and easy way to get to your hotel from Cartagena Airport. You’ll be dropped off right at the door, no extra transport needed.

The ride usually takes around 15-30m, depending on traffic and how many stops are on the way. If your hotel’s one of the last, it could take a bit longer.

Minivan fares between Cartagena Airport and the Walled City start at $7.70 (27,000 COP).