Buenaventura Valle Del Cauca Department, Colombia Travel Guide
While Buenaventura has a local airport, most travelers from abroad arrive via a larger city.
No direct international flights operate to Buenaventura (BNA). All international travel requires at least one connection.
Gerardo Tovar López Airport (BNA) offers very rudimentary facilities, typical of a small regional terminal.
Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) in Cali is a modern international airport with currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free, restaurants, and car rental.
Book international flights to CLO in advance, especially for peak seasons, for better fares. Regional flights to BNA tend to be consistent.
Numerous companies (e.g., Expreso Palmira, Transipiales) run daily from Cali's Terminal de Transportes to Buenaventura (3-4 hours). Generally comfortable.
Not generally recommended for tourists. The winding, mountainous road from Cali can be challenging, prone to landslides, and has security concerns. Renting a car through DiscoverCars.com from Cali is an option if familiar with local conditions for driving.
The Buga-Buenaventura highway can be winding, often wet, and experiences heavy truck traffic. Local roads in Buenaventura can have potholes and heavy traffic.
Buenaventura is a port city, and sea travel is mainly for local excursions to nearby destinations.
For domestic boat travel, standard identification is usually checked. International maritime arrivals are uncommon for tourists.
Buenaventura is Colombia's largest Pacific port, mainly handling cargo. It is not a major cruise port for international passenger lines.
Buenaventura does not feature cable cars, funiculars, tuk-tuks, or jeepneys as tourist transportation.
No general exit fee applies to tourists departing Colombia via air, as these fees are typically included in the airfare.
Departure points offer various facilities for travelers. Plan accordingly to ensure a smooth departure.
Arrive 15-30 minutes before scheduled boat departure from Buenaventura pier for destinations like Juanchaco. This allows time to purchase tickets and board.
Always have your passport and any necessary travel documents readily accessible for all departure checks, whether by air, land, or sea.
Tourists generally do not pay separate exit fees for Colombia, as these are typically included in airfare. Confirm with your airline.
Be aware of items restricted or prohibited for export from Colombia. Consult official sources for up-to-date customs regulations.
Standard international security procedures apply at major airports like Cali (CLO). Be prepared for luggage screening and personal checks.
Ensure luggage meets airline weight and size restrictions. Lock your bags for security.
Keep essential documents, medications, and valuables with you. Pack a change of clothes in case of checked luggage delays.
Familiarize yourself with items banned in both checked and carry-on luggage (e.g., aerosols, sharp objects).
Reconfirm flight times and transport arrangements well in advance. Allow extra time for travel to airports, notably from Buenaventura to Cali, because of possible road conditions.
