Have you danced the night away in Cali? Did you experience the caribbean culture mixed with the fiery dance scene that left you exhausted? Are you ready to see Colombia’s innovative pride and joy? Then head to Medellin, once a city of violence, it has blossomed into one of the world’s most impressive, innovative, and cultural centers. But, how do you get from Cali to Medellin?
How Do I Get From Cali to Medellin?
Cali to Medellin are about 420 km apart and driving time is about 8 hours.
There are a couple ways to get from Cali to Medellin, while there is no train, you have the option of taking one of the local bus companies, flying, or using a private car service. For travelers on a budget, the cheapest way to travel from Cali to Medellin is by bus. Flying from Cali to Medellin requires the inconvenience and expense of also traveling to the airport. But a private car is both the fastest way to travel from Cali to Medellin and the best way to travel from Cali to Medellin because it’s so convenient.
Cali to Medellin by Bus
When taking one of the local bus companies, it is important to note that you will most likely buy your ticket at the station, as only a few companies take reservations. There are many buses that depart Cali throughout the day, with the first departure time being at 8:00 AM and the last time being at 11:00 PM. As the trip takes 8 hours, the night buses are a popular choice. You will need to go to the Cali bus terminal and go to the ticket office. The companies you will be looking for are Expreso Bolivariano, Empresa Arauca, Flota Magdalena, and Expresso Trejos, with the first bus leaving at about 8:00 AM and the last bus leaving at about 11:00 PM and the tickets cost about 20 EUR.
| Time Intervals | Intervals throughout the day |
| First/Last Departure | ~8:00 AM/11:00 PM |
| Average Price | ~€20 |
| Distance | ~420 km |
| Duration | ~8 hr |
| Operating Companies | Expreso Bolivariano, Empresa Arauca, Flota Magdalena, and Expresso Trejos |
Cali to Medellin by Flight
You have the option to fly from Cali to Medellin, as well. You will need to purchase your tickets in advance, as with most flights. You will go to the Cali airport (CLO), the tickets can cost between 40-300 EUR (depending on the company/baggage/ etc.). There are various flights that run throughout the day, the first departure is usually around 7:30 AM, and the last departure is around 9:00 PM.
| Time Intervals | Various intervals throughout the day |
| First/Last Departure | ~7:30 AM / 9:00 PM |
| Average Price | €40-300 |
| Distance | 420 km |
| Duration | ~1 hr |
| Operating Companies | Avianca, Easyfly, Viva Air |
Cali to Medellin by Taxi
Taking a private car is recommended if you prefer a convenient and comfortable option for traveling from place to place. You will be picked up at your accommodation in Cali and be driven to your destination in Medellin, no bus stops, no crowding, no confusion. Daytrip is a great option because they even let you choose to stop and see some sites along the way! A trip from Cali to Medellin can include stops at…
- Palmira
- Hacienda El Paraiso
- Pereira
- Manizales
- Jardin
- Rionegro
With comfort, convenience, and adventure, it is clear that a private transfer is the best option! To book a private transfer from Cali to Medellin, click here!
Going the other direction? Check our guide on: Medellin to Cali