How to Get to Valledupar. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Valledupar's Airport & Routes

Alfonso López Pumarejo Airport (VUP) is the main airport serving Valledupar. It is a regional airport, well-connected domestically.

Airlines & Destinations

Airlines: Avianca and Latam are main carriers. Clic also operates some regional routes.
Routes: Mainly domestic flights to/from Bogotá (BOG) and Barranquilla (BAQ).
Valledupar (VUP) does not offer direct international flights.

International Connections & Booking

International travelers typically fly into one of Colombia's major international airports and then take a domestic connecting flight.

Connecting to Valledupar

Major international airports: Bogotá (BOG), Medellín (MDE), Cartagena (CTG), Barranquilla (BAQ).
Bogotá offers the most frequent connections to Valledupar.
Booking flights: Skyscanner or Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Seasonal Availability

Flight frequency and prices increase significantly during peak travel seasons like the Vallenato Festival (the End of april-early May) and December-January holidays. Book well in advance.

Airport Facilities

Alfonso López Pumarejo Airport (VUP) is a small regional airport with basic facilities: snack bars, restrooms, car rental agencies, and a taxi stand. Do not expect extensive lounges or duty-free shops.

Airport Transfers

Taxis are the most common transfer option, readily available outside the terminal. Fares to the city center are typically fixed (COP 15,000-25,000). Ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi, InDriver) may also be available.

Long-Distance Bus Travel

Bus Companies & Terminal

Bus travel provides a common plus budget-friendly technique for intercity journeys.
Valledupar's main bus the depot is Terminal de Transportes de Valledupar, south of downtown.
Major companies: Expreso Brasilia, Copetran, Unitransco, Rapi Ocho.
Book tickets right at the terminal or online. Advance booking is recommended.

Typical Routes & Times

Bogotá: Approximately 16-18 hours (often overnight).
Barranquilla: Approximately 3-4 hours.
The Pearl of america: Approximately 3-4 hours.
Cartagena: Approximately 5-6 hours.

Self-Driving Considerations

Requirements

A valid national driving license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are necessary to rent a car and drive in Colombia. Rent a car via DiscoverCars.com.

Road Conditions

Highways connecting Valledupar to other cities are generally paved. Smaller rural roads might be unpaved or are potholed.

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory. Cell phone use while driving is illegal. Observe posted speed limits.

Road Safety & Border Crossings

Driving Safety Tips

System of roads around Valledupar provides good connections. However, safety on roads requires careful attention.

Vigilance on the Road

Driving at night outside major cities is generally not recommended.
Be watchful for speed bumps (resaltos) and livestock on roads.
Aggressive road behavior habits are common; defensive driving is necessary.

Border Crossing Information

Valledupar is a city not on the coast and does not sit directly on an international border.

Venezuela Border

The nearest international border is with Venezuela in an easterly direction.
Crossing borders by land with Venezuela often involve complex political and security situations.
Research current conditions and consult official government travel advisories before attempting.

Sea & River Arrivals

Valledupar's inland location means sea and river transportation options for arrival are not traditional means.

No Ferry or Cruise Access

Valledupar does not have sea access or cruise ports.
Ferry services or cruise ship arrivals are not a a method of reaching this destination.
No established commercial river transportation for arrival or departure to other cities.

Train Services

Valledupar does not have passenger train services for intercity travel.

Cargo Only

Rail lines in Colombia are mainly for cargo transport.
Train travel is not an option for reaching or departing from Valledupar.
Passenger services are not available.

Departure Information

Departure tax for international flights is typically included in the airfare.
For domestic flights from VUP, arrive at the airport 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
For bus departure times, arrive at the terminal 30-45 minutes before departure.

Web check-in-in is recommended to save time for flights.
VUP and the bus terminal have basic facilities: waiting areas, restrooms, snacks.
If you need to review luggage, make your way to the airline counter.

Departure Overview

Airport Departure Procedures

Prepare for a smooth departure from Alfonso López Pumarejo Airport (VUP) with these guidelines.

Checklist for Flights

Arrive at VUP 1.5 to 2 hours before your domestic flight.
Online check-in to save time; use airline counter for luggage.
Pass through standard security screening.

Bus Departure Procedures

Departing by bus from Valledupar's Terminal de Transportes is easy with proper planning.

Bus Terminal Guidelines

Arrive at the Terminal de Transportes 30-FORTY-FIVE minutes before departure.
Locate your gate and board your public bus.
The terminal provides waiting areas, restrooms, small shops, and eateries.

Departure Taxes

Departure tax for international flights is usually included in the airfare. Domestic flights don't have separate exit fees.

Currency Exchange

Ensure you have sufficient Colombian Pesos for any final-minute purchases or local transport to the airport/terminal.

Communication

Verify any final arrangements with your lodging or transport providers using local communication methods like WhatsApp.

Arrival and Departure Tips

Air Travel Tips

Pre-Flight Checklist

Book flights well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Check flight status and airline requirements before heading to the airport.
Download your boarding pass to your mobile phone.

Bus Travel Tips

Keep these spots in mind for comfort and safety.

Onboard Comfort

Bring a light blanket or jacket for air-conditioned buses.
Pack entertainment like books or fully charged devices.
Carry snacks and water for longer travels.

General Transit Advice

Security at Terminals

Always keep an eye on your luggage within airports and bus terminals.

Local Currency

Have small denominations of COP ready for taxis or bus fares.

Stay Hydrated

The heat means drinking water is important while traveling.

Final Departure Reminder

Ensure all travel documents are easily accessible. Confirm your flight or bus schedule one last time.

How to Get to Valledupar