Available Options
Traveling from Bogotá to the Caribbean Coast by bus is an adventure that allows you to discover diverse landscapes and charming towns. The main routes are:
- Bogotá - Santa Marta: The most direct route to the Caribbean beaches, passing through Bucaramanga and Fundación. Companies like Brasilia and Copetran offer this journey.
- Bogotá - Cartagena: Passes through Barrancabermeja and Sincelejo. Berlinas del Fonce and Expreso Brasilia are popular choices.
- Bogotá - Barranquilla: Similar to the route to Cartagena, with a stop in Barrancabermeja. Unitransco has frequent services.
A little-known fact: some companies offer buses with scheduled stops in picturesque towns like Villa de Leyva or Barichara, ideal for breaking up the journey.
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Updated Costs
Reference prices as of April 2026 vary depending on the company and type of service:
- Bogotá - Santa Marta: $120,000 - $180,000 COP (standard service) / $200,000 - $250,000 COP (sleeper bus)
- Bogotá - Cartagena: $130,000 - $190,000 COP / $220,000 - $280,000 COP (sleeper bus)
- Bogotá - Barranquilla: $110,000 - $170,000 COP / $190,000 - $240,000 COP (sleeper bus)
Premium companies like Expreso Brasilia Gold may cost up to 30% more but include Wi-Fi, food, and more spacious seats.
Estimated Times
Travel times are approximate and depend on traffic and stops:
- Bogotá - Santa Marta: 18-20 hours
- Bogotá - Cartagena: 20-22 hours
- Bogotá - Barranquilla: 18-19 hours
If you decide to make intermediate stops, consider these additional times:
- Villa de Leyva: 3-4 hours from Bogotá (ideal for an overnight stay)
- Barichara: 6-7 hours from Bogotá (detour from San Gil)
- San Gil: 7-8 hours from Bogotá (for adventurers)
Practical Tips
Ticket Purchase
Book at least 3 days in advance during high season (December-January, Holy Week, June-July). You can buy tickets directly at terminals like Terminal Salitre or through apps like RedBus.
What to Pack
- Light jacket (air conditioning is usually strong)
- Snacks and water (although some buses stop at restaurants along the way)
- Small towel and basic toiletries kit
- Portable charger (not all buses have functional power outlets)
Safety
Always keep your valuables with you. During long stops, take your luggage to the restroom or ask a fellow traveler to watch it. Avoid buses that make unscheduled stops in dark areas.
Recommended Stops
- Villa de Leyva: Colonial town with well-preserved architecture and a cobblestone main square.
- San Gil: Capital of adventure tourism, ideal for rafting or paragliding.
- Barichara: One of the most beautiful towns in Colombia, perfect for photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel at night by bus on these routes?
Yes, the main companies have good safety protocols. However, if you are traveling alone, consider taking daytime buses to better enjoy the scenery and feel more comfortable.
Can I buy tickets directly at the terminal on the day of travel?
Yes, during the low season, but you risk buses being full or only uncomfortable seats being available. During high season (especially long weekends), it is almost impossible to get a ticket without a prior reservation.
What happens if I want to get off at an unscheduled intermediate town?
You must notify the driver in advance. Some companies allow this at no extra cost, while others charge a fee for route changes. Check the policies when purchasing your ticket.