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How to Get to Monteria

How to Get to Monteria

Monteria Cordoba, Colombia Travel Guide

Air Travel to Monteria

Airports & Airlines

Air travel offers the fastest way to reach Monteria, especially from other major Colombian cities.

Air Information

  • Los Garzones Airport (MTR): Serves Monteria, 10-15 km (6-9 miles) from city center.
  • Airlines: Avianca, LATAM, Satena, Wingo offer domestic flights.
  • Common Routes: Monteria (MTR) to Bogotá (BOG), Medellín (MDE/EOH), Cali (CLO), Barranquilla (BAQ), Cartagena (CTG). For deals on flights, consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

International Connections & Pricing

No direct international flights operate to MTR. International travelers connect domestically.

Traveler Tips

  • International Transit: Fly into Bogotá (BOG) or Medellín (MDE), then connect to MTR.
  • Peak Seasons: December-January, Easter Week, mid-year holidays see higher prices.
  • Booking Advice: Book flights in advance for better prices. Flexibility with dates can also help.

Airport Taxis

Readily available outside the terminal. Look for official taxi stands with fixed rates.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber, Didi, and InDriver may operate. Verify local availability upon arrival.

Hotel Shuttles

Some hotels offer pre-arranged shuttle services. Inquire with your accommodation.

Los Garzones Airport MTR Facilities

General Amenities

  • A few food vendors or cafeterias for refreshments.
  • Basic, functional restrooms.
  • Small shops for last-minute needs.
  • Facilities are basic but functional for domestic travel.

Transport Services

  • Car rental desks are directly outside the terminal.
  • Taxi stands are readily available.
  • Some hotels offer pre-arranged shuttle transport.
  • Fixed taxi rates to the city center are often posted. Expect COP 20,000 - 30,000.

Airport Facilities & Services

Food & Beverage

Minimal alternatives with a couple food vendors and cafeterias.

Ground Transportation

Car rental desks and official taxi stands are outside.

Accessibility

Basic facilities, generally suitable for domestic travel.

Land Transportation Options

Long-Distance Buses

Colombia boasts an extensive bus network. Monteria connects well with other Colombian cities via long-distance buses.

Bus Terminal & Companies

  • Main Terminal: Terminal de Transportes de Montería, located on the city outskirts.
  • Major Companies: Expreso Brasilia, Rápido Ochoa, Unitransco.
  • Comfort Levels: Vary from basic to executive class with A/C and reclining seats.

Bus Routes & Times

Bus travel offers a more scenic and often more budget-friendly option within Colombia.

Approximate Travel Durations

  • Monteria to Cartagena: ~5-6 hours.
  • Monteria to Barranquilla: ~6-7 hours.
  • Monteria to Medellín: ~8-10 hours.
  • Monteria to Bogotá: ~16-18 hours.

Self-Driving in Monteria

Self-driving offers flexibility but comes with considerations.

Requirements & Companies

  • Requirements: Valid national driver's license. International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended. Passport, credit card. Minimum age 21-25.
  • Companies: Avis, Hertz, Localiza, Europcar operate in Monteria.
  • Cost: COP 150,000 - 300,000 per day, plus required insurance.

Road Conditions & Safety

Highways connecting major cities are generally paved but vary in quality.

Driving Precautions

  • Routes to rural certain places might be unpaved or less maintained.
  • Night Driving: Generally not recommended due to poor lighting and hazards.
  • Traffic: Congestion, aggressive motorcyclists are prevalent. Be a defensive driver.

Caution for Motorbikes & Moto-Taxis

  • Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals: Less common for tourists, require valid license.
  • Traffic conditions make these higher-risk options.
  • Moto-Taxis: Common and inexpensive, but generally unsafe for tourists. Avoid them.
  • Traffic hazards and lack of regulation pose risks.
  • Prioritize safety over cost-saving with these options.
  • Stick to licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.

River Travel & Departure Info

River Transportation

Monteria’s location on the Sinú River offers unique water transportation choices for local transport.

Local River Options

  • Planchones: Small, flat-bottomed ferries for crossing the river.
  • Canoas: Canoes for local transport and short scenic excursions along the Ronda del Sinú.
  • These possibilities have an unique perspective of the city from the water.

International & Train Travel

Monteria does not have international ferry services or passenger train service.

Not Applicable for Monteria

  • No international ferry services or cruise ports exist.
  • Monteria does not have passenger train service. Rail travel isn't an option.
  • All foreign arrivals require a domestic flight connection.

Airport Departure

Arrive at MTR 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights. Allow 3+ hours for international connections.

Bus Departure

Arrive at Terminal de Transportes 30-45 minutes before departure.

Exit Fees

International departure taxes are typically included in airline ticket prices from Colombia.

Airport & Bus Terminal Facilities

Los Garzones Airport MTR

MTR is a small to medium-sized airport with essential services.

Amenities

  • A few food vendors and cafeterias.
  • Simple waiting areas and restrooms.
  • Small shops for snacks or drinks.

Monteria Bus Terminal

The main hub for bus travel to and from Monteria.

Amenities

  • Waiting areas.
  • Ticket counters for various bus lines.
  • Small shops and food vendors.

Online Check-in & Connections

Online Check-in

Check in online if your airline offers this option to save time at the airport.

Connecting Flights

Allow at least 3 hours for international connections via Bogotá or Medellín, especially for luggage recheck.

Luggage

Confirm luggage allowances and recheck procedures for all segments of your journey.

Plan Ahead for Smooth Travel

Plan your arrival and departure routes in advance. For international travel, factor within a domestic connection. Book flights and long-distance buses ahead, particularly in high season, to ensure availability and better pricing.

How to Get to Monteria. Flights, Transportation, Airlines