How to Book Flights to Colombia

Book flights to Colombia through major hubs like Bogotá (BOG) or Medellín (MDE), comparing prices on Google Flights, Kayak, or airline websites. Book 6-8 weeks ahead for best prices, expect to pay $400-800 from the US, and consider flying Tuesday-Thursday for cheaper fares.

  1. Choose your destination airport. Bogotá (BOG) has the most international connections and cheapest flights. Medellín (MDE) is convenient for northern Colombia. Cartagena (CTG) has limited international flights but saves domestic connections. Cali (CLO) works for southwestern Colombia but fewer options.
  2. Search multiple booking sites. Start with Google Flights for overview, then check Kayak, Momondo, and airline websites directly. Colombian airlines like Avianca often have better deals on their own sites. Set up price alerts if you're flexible on dates.
  3. Time your booking right. Book international flights 6-8 weeks ahead. Avoid Colombian holiday periods (December 15-January 15, Easter week, June-July school holidays) when prices spike. Tuesday-Thursday departures are typically $50-100 cheaper than weekends.
  4. Consider routing options. Direct flights exist from Miami, New York, Madrid, and Amsterdam. One-stop flights through Panama City (Copa Airlines), Miami (American), or Houston (United) often cost less. Factor in layover time vs. savings.
  5. Book and prepare documents. Most airlines allow free cancellation within 24 hours. Print boarding passes at home - some Colombian airports charge for printing. Arrive at Colombian airports 3 hours early for international flights due to thorough security.
Should I book a round-trip or one-way ticket?
Round-trip is almost always cheaper to Colombia. One-way tickets cost 80-90% of round-trip prices, so unless you're genuinely unsure about return dates, book round-trip.
Which airlines fly to Colombia?
Avianca (Colombian flag carrier), American, United, Delta, Copa, Iberia, Air France, and KLM serve Colombia. Avianca often has the best schedules and prices from their hubs.
Is it cheaper to fly into one city and out of another?
Open-jaw tickets (different arrival/departure cities) cost about the same as round-trip to Colombia. Good option if you're traveling north to south or want to skip backtracking.
Do I need to pay airport exit taxes?
Most airlines now include Colombia's exit tax in ticket prices. If not included, it's about $47 USD, payable in pesos or dollars at the airport before departure.