Colombia
No direct international flights to La Nubia Airport (MZL). International travelers typically fly into Bogotá (BOG) or Medellín (MDE), then take a domestic connecting flight to Manizales.
Domestic airlines like Avianca, LATAM, and EasyFly operate flights to and from La Nubia Airport. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal at La Nubia Airport.
Flight frequency and prices increase during peak seasons (Dec-Jan, Jun-Jul). Booking flights in advance is recommended during busy times to secure better prices and availability. Prices generally lower during rainy seasons (Apr-May, Oct-Nov).
A small regional airport. It maintains basic facilities, including a few small shops, cafes, and waiting areas. Do not expect extensive shopping or dining options here.
Modern international airports. They present extensive facilities, including numerous shops, a wide range of restaurants, comfortable lounges, and duty-free shopping options. Currency exchange services and car rental desks available.
Colombia boasts an extensive and efficient long-distance bus network. Manizales has a modern bus terminal (Terminal de Transportes de Manizales) with frequent connections across the country.
Bogotá to Manizales: Approx. 8-9 hours. Medellín to Manizales: Approx. 4-5 hours. Pereira to Manizales: Approx. 1 hour. Cali to Manizales: Approx. 5-6 hours.
Buses range from standard services to "preferencial" or "VIP" options. These upgraded services present wider, reclining seats, air conditioning, and sometimes onboard entertainment or Wi-Fi. Reputable companies include Expreso Palmira, Flota Occidental, Bolivariano.
Self-driving in Colombia is generally not recommended for first-time visitors. Roads in the mountainous regions can be challenging, with winding curves and steep inclines.
Major highways, like those connecting Bogotá, Medellín, and the Coffee Axis cities, are generally well-maintained. However, mountain roads can be winding, narrow, and prone to landslides during heavy rains.
Renting a car needs a valid national driver's license, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and a major credit card for the security deposit. Booking in advance, especially from a larger city like Bogotá or Medellín, is recommended.
At La Nubia Airport (MZL) and the Manizales Bus Terminal, taxis are readily available at designated stands. Fares from MZL to the city center are often fixed, rendering price predictability.
Manizales is an inland city located in the mountains and has no sea or river ports for passenger arrivals. Therefore, sea or river travel is not a viable option for passenger arrivals or departures.
La Nubia Airport (MZL) offers limited facilities for departing travelers. El Dorado (Bogotá) and José María Córdova (Medellín) airports present a full range of services for departing travelers.
Arrive at La Nubia Airport (MZL) at least 1 to 1.5 hours before your scheduled departure time.
Arrive at El Dorado (Bogotá) or José María Córdova (Medellín) airports at least 2.5 to 3 hours before your scheduled international departure time.
Arrive at the Manizales Bus Terminal at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Allow ample time for check-in and security, especially during peak travel periods or if VAT refund procedures apply.
