What to expect when visiting Medellin
Medellin is a vibrant city that overcame its dark and violent past to become a symbol of innovation and growth. Its colourful history alone attracts millions of tourists every year. And with a wide array of attractions and things to do, Medellin is bustling with activity from day ’til night.
A huge plus: the city enjoys temperate weather all year round, no wonder it’s called the ‘city of eternal spring’. Surrounded on all sides by the Andes, you’ll get a stunning view no matter where you are in Medellin!
2 ways to get from Salento to Medellin
There are 2 ways to travel the distance of 250 kilometers (155 miles) from Salento to Medellin by bus (7 hours 45 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes) and flight (2 to 3 hours). The journey duration ranges between 2 hours to 8 hours 15 minutes and the quickest way is by flight. The lowest priced tickets start from 93,000 COP ($22) for the bus.Where to stay in Medellin?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Medellin.
Salento to Medellin by Bus
The bus is an affordable way to get from Salento to Medellin. Bus fares start from 93,000 COP ($22) and the journey takes around 7 hours 45 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes.
Step 1: Salento to Medellin
Conveniently, there is a direct bus going from Salento to Medellin.
There are four departures a day which are all operated by the same company, Flota Occidental. The journey lasts around 7h 30m - 8h.
Most buses are medium size with reclining seats and AC, but they usually don’t have a toilet. Don’t worry though, the bus will stop a couple of times for short breaks.
You can also save some money on accommodation by taking the last bus at 21:30, which arrives in Medellin around 05:30. However, the buses are not very big nor comfortable to sleep on, so you may not get a lot of rest.
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Step 2: Medellin Bus Terminal to the city centre
Buses will arrive at Medellin Terminal del Sur. From there the best option is to take a taxi for around 10,000 COP ($2.40) to the city centre. Uber also works well, if you have data or are able to access Wifi, and rates start at 8,000 COP ($1.90).
In case you are travelling on a budget, you can also walk 15 minutes to the closest Metro Station called Poblado and connect from there. The metro ticket costs 3,000 COP ($0.60).
Salento to Medellin by Flight
To take a flight from Salento to Medellin, you need to head to Pereira Airport.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Salento to Pereira Airport
There are two ways to get to Pereira: by taxi or by bus. The choice depends on your budget and preference for travel time.
Option 1: Salento to Pereira Airport by Taxi
The easiest and fastest way is to take a taxi that will drop you directly at Matecaña International Airport (PEI). However, it can be a little expensive, with prices starting at around 100,000 COP ($24). You can arrange it at the tourist information point in Salento or directly at your hotel/hostel.
Option 2: Salento to Pereira Airport by Bus
Buses to Pereira depart every 30 minutes from Salento Bus Terminal, which is within walking distance from most places in town. This service operates from 06:30 to 20:30.
The company covering this route is called Expreso Alcalá and you pay the 8,000 COP ($1.80) for the tickets directly to the bus driver.
From Pereira bus terminal to the airport the best option is to take a taxi for around 10,000 COP ($2.40). The ride is about 15-20 minutes.
It is also possible to go by bus using the local metrobus system, Megabus. However, you need to change buses twice and it takes around 45 minutes.
First take the yellow bus #27 in the direction of ‘Cuba’. Get off at the station ‘Cuba’ and transfer to lines 1, 2 or 3 of the bigger green bus. Then get off at station ‘Viajero’ and transfer to a yellow bus #25 that will take you to the Matecaña International Airport (PEI).
Megabus tickets cost 2,000 COP ($0.50).
Step 2: Pereira to Medellin by Flight
There is only one airline that offers a direct flight between Pereira and Medellin. It is called Easy Fly and offers a basic but good service for such a short distance. Prices start at 160,000 COP ($38).
There are four departures a day from 05:35 to 15:55. They all arrive at Medellin Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH) located within the city.
Step 3: Medellin Airport to City Centre
When you arrive in Medellin, the best option to get to the city centre is to take a taxi for around 10,000 COP ($2.40) or Uber starting at 8,000 COP ($1.90).
In case you want to take the metro, the closest station is called Poblado and it’s a 20-minute walk from the airport. However, the area may not be the safest to walk and therefore it’s recommended to take a taxi.
Frequently Asked Questions about Salento to Medellin
What is the distance from Salento to Medellin?
The distance from Salento to Medellin is 250 kilometers (155 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Salento to Medellin?
The fastest way to get from Salento to Medellin is by flight and takes 2 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Salento to Medellin?
The cheapest way to get from Salento to Medellin is by bus with ticket costs starting from 93,000 COP ($22).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Salento to Medellin. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
