Did you discover Medellin’s newfound charm? Have you explored everything this Colombian city has to offer from the hillside barrios, to the surrounding parks, and even the cultural museums? Are you ready for a change of pace, and learn some salsa and practice your Spanish? Make your way to Cali, where you can experience the vibrant, diverse cultures, and see for yourself why Cali is considered the salsa capital of the world! But what is the best way to get from Medellin to Cali?
How Do I Get From Medellin to Cali?
Medellin to Cali are about 420 km apart and driving time is about 8 hours.
There are a couple ways to get from Medellin to Cali, 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 Medellin to Cali is by bus. Flying from Medellin to Cali requires the inconvenience and expense of also traveling to the airport. But a private car is both the fastest way to travel from Medellin to Cali and the best way to travel from Medellin to Cali because it’s so convenient.
Medellin to Cali 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 Medellin throughout the day, with the first departure time being at 5:00 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 Medellin Terminal de Sur and go to the ticket office. The companies you will be looking for are Expreso Bolivariano, Empresa Arauca, and Expresso Palmira, with the first bus leaving at about 5:00 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 | ~5:00 AM/11:00 PM |
| Average Price | €20 |
| Distance | ~420 km |
| Duration | ~8 hr |
| Operating Companies | Expreso Bolivariano, Empresa Arauca, and Expresso Palmira |
Cali to Medellin by Flight
You have the option to fly from Medellin to Cali, as well. You will need to purchase your tickets in advance, as with most flights. You will go to the Medellin International Airport (MDE), 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 8:30 PM.
| Time Intervals | Various intervals throughout the day |
| First/Last Departure | ~7:30 AM / 8:30 PM |
| Average Price | €40-300 |
| Distance | 420 km |
| Duration | ~1 hr |
| Operating Companies | Avianca, Easyfly, Viva Air |
Medellin to Cali by Taxi
Going from Medellin to Cali by taxi is recommended if you prefer a convenient and comfortable option for traveling place to place. You will be picked up at your accommodation in Medellin and be driven to your destination in Cali, no bus stops, no crowding, no confusion. Daytrip is a great option since they let you choose to stop and see some sites along the way! A trip from Medellin to Cali can include stops at…
- Rionegro
- Jardin
- Manizales
- Pereira
- Hacienda El Paraiso
- Palmira
With comfort, convenience, and adventure, it is clear that a private transfer is the best option! To book a private transfer from Medellin to Cali, click here!
Going the other direction? Check our guide on: Cali to Medellin