Getting To & From: Pereira

Air Travel: Matecañan International Airport MZO

Airport & Airlines

Matecañan International Airport (MZO) is the main airport. It recently completed a modern terminal, enhancing the travel experience.

Domestic & International Carriers

Domestic: Avianca, LATAM Airlines, Wingo, Clic Air.
Connects to Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Barranquilla.
International: Avianca (Miami, JFK), Copa Airlines (Panama City).

Direct Flight Options

MZO offers direct connections to international cities, serving as an access point for many travelers.

From Major Hubs

United States: Avianca operates direct flights from Miami (MIA) and New York (JFK).
Panama: Copa Airlines has direct flights from Panama City (PTY), serving as a central connection.
Other International: Typically a layover in Bogotá (BOG) or Medellín (MDE).

Airport Facilities

Modern terminal with ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, restaurants, VIP lounges, and free Wi-Fi.

Seasonal Pricing

Prices increase during Colombian holidays and local festivals. Book flights in advance for better rates.

Airport Transfers

Taxis, ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi), Megabús, and hotel shuttles for city access.

Transfer Options from MZO

Taxi Services

Official taxis wait outside terminal.
Fixed rates to city areas or meter use.
15-25 minutes to city center, COL$15,000-COL$25,000.
Confirm fare or meter start upon entry.

Ride-sharing & Public Transport

Uber, Didi, InDriver are available and often cheaper.
May need short walk from terminal to meet driver.
Megabús connects airport to city, most economical option.
Some hotels offer complimentary airport pick-up services.

Land Travel Essentials

Bus Terminal

Terminal de Transportes de Pereira acts as a major hub for intercity travel. Many reputable bus companies operate routes.

Popular Bus Routes

Bogotá (7-9 hrs), Medellín (5-7 hrs), Cali (3.5-4.5 hrs), Manizales (1.5-2 hrs), Armenia (1-1.5 hrs), Salento (1.5 hrs).

Bus Comfort

Buses range from standard to executive class with more spacious seats, AC, sometimes Wi-Fi or entertainment.

Land Journeys: Buses & Cars

Long-Distance Bus Travel

Bus travel is a widely used and reliable option for intercity connections across Colombia.

Bus Companies & Routes

Many reputable companies: Expreso Palmira, Flota Occidental, Bolivariano.
Routes to major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Coffee Axis towns.
Varying comfort levels from standard to executive class.

Self-Driving Considerations

A valid driver's license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are needed.

Requirements & Rentals

Home driver's license, IDP, passport, credit card.
Minimum age usually 21-25.
Major agencies (Hertz, Avis, Budget) and local companies at MZO and in Pereira. DiscoverCars.com for rentals.

Road Conditions & Hazards

Major highways are generally well-maintained. Secondary roads in mountainous areas can be winding and narrow.

Driving Challenges

Avoid driving at night; poor lighting, unmarked obstacles.
Mountain roads: sharp curves, steep inclines, heavy truck traffic.
Rain reduces visibility and creates slippery conditions.

Driving Laws & Navigation

Adhere to local driving regulations. Navigational tools simplify your journey.

Rules & Guidance

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants.
Use GPS apps like Google Maps or Waze; road signage can be limited.

Important Safety Considerations for Driving

Practice defensive driving.
Traffic can be dense; motorcycles weave between lanes.
Carry small Colombian peso bills for tolls (peajes).

Avoid driving under the influence; strict laws.
Avoid using mobile phone while driving.
Pre-plan routes, especially for rural areas.

Departure & Other Transport

Departure Procedures & Timing

Be aware of any fees and recommended timings for a smooth exit from Pereira.

Check-in Times

International Flights: Arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure.
Allows time for check-in, security, immigration.
Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.

Airport/Station Facilities

Matecañan International Airport (MZO) and Terminal de Transportes de Pereira offer various services for departing travelers.

Available Services

MZO: Restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, lounges.
MZO: Free Wi-Fi, charging stations.
Bus Terminal: Food stalls, convenience stores, waiting areas.

Bus Terminal Access

Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure for bus travel. More time during holidays.

Ride-Sharing Pickups

Uber, Didi, InDriver operate. Confirm driver and vehicle. Pickups may be slightly outside official taxi stands.

Taxi Availability

Official taxis readily available at MZO and the bus terminal. Agree on fare or ensure meter is used.

Navigating Pereira: Local Transit

Walking Routes & Safety

Pereira offers pedestrian-friendly areas. City center attractions are close for walking tours. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Pedestrian Zones

Plaza de Bolívar and Calle Real are walkable.
Circunvalar area provides wide sidewalks for strolls.
Avoid walking alone in deserted areas, especially after dark.

Bicycle & Scooter Rentals

Pereira has limited dedicated city bicycle lanes. Cycling is more recreational outside the city.

Rental & Safety

Some hotels/tour operators offer bike rentals for rural routes.
City cycling can be challenging due to dense traffic.
Avoid major highways due to traffic and lack of dedicated lanes.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Local tour operators provide organized day trips to Salento, coffee farms, and hot springs using private buses or vans.

Willys Jeeps Yipaos

Iconic vehicles in towns like Salento, operate as shared taxis or for coffee farm tours.

Accessibility Services

Megabús system is generally accessible. Older parts of city remain challenging. Newer hotels offer better accessibility.

Traveler Transport Tip

For city travel, use the Megabús system for efficiency and cost-savings. For door-to-door convenience, reputable ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi) are options.

Getting To & From Pereira