Is it safe to travel by bus at night?

Stick to daytime travel for long distances if possible. If you must travel at night, use reputable companies like Bolivariano or Expreso Brasilia and book from established bus terminals, not street-side stops.

Do I need to carry cash for transport?

Yes. While Ubers are charged to your card, many smaller buses and some taxis only take cash. Keep a stash of 2,000 and 5,000 COP bills.

Getting Around Colombia: Buses, Flights, and City Transport

Use budget airlines like Avianca or Wingo for long distances to save time, and rely on Uber or official taxi apps for city transit. For regional travel, luxury intercity buses are the standard, safe, and comfortable choice for routes under 8 hours.

Use Apps for City Taxis. Do not hail taxis on the street. Use Uber, Didi, or Cabify. These apps provide a fixed price upfront and track your route, which is safer and prevents fare disputes.
Choose the Right Bus Class. When booking intercity bus tickets, always select the 'VIP' or 'Preferencial' class. For about $5-10 extra, you get wider seats that recline nearly flat, onboard Wi-Fi, and a dedicated bathroom.
Fly Short-Haul to Save Days. Colombia's geography is mountainous; a 150-mile trip can take 8 hours by road. Book flights between hubs like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena using LATAM or Avianca at least 2 weeks in advance.
Navigate Medellín via Metro and Cable. Medellín has the only metro system in the country. Buy a 'Cívica' card at any station and load it with credits. It connects seamlessly to the Metrocable lines, which are public transit, not just tourist attractions.

Is it safe to travel by bus at night?: Stick to daytime travel for long distances if possible. If you must travel at night, use reputable companies like Bolivariano or Expreso Brasilia and book from established bus terminals, not street-side stops.
Do I need to carry cash for transport?: Yes. While Ubers are charged to your card, many smaller buses and some taxis only take cash. Keep a stash of 2,000 and 5,000 COP bills.