Rafael Núñez International Airport serves Cartagena, Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Opened in 1943, it handles over five million passengers yearly. The terminal features modern check-in counters and security lines that move efficiently during peak hours. Flights connect to major cities like Bogotá and Medellín daily. Nearby hotels provide easy access for travelers arriving by air. The airport’s layout includes clear signage in Spanish and English, helping visitors navigate customs quickly. Daily operations rely on trained staff managing baggage and flight schedules smoothly.
| Power Grid: |
110 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
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| Currency: |
Colombian Peso (COP) £1 ≈ COP 4,204.52 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common, especially in cities. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in many rural areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not obligatory, but a tip of 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants. Taxis generally do not expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is common. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not allowed in some areas, especially in cities. It is best to consume alcohol in licensed venues like bars or restaurants. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and public transport. |
| Independence Day (20 July) |
National holiday celebrating Colombia's independence with parades and festivities |
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| Christmas (25 December) |
Celebrated with family gatherings and festive meals |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 123 |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Cabify |
| Other: | Colombia is known for its coffee, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes, including the Andes mountains and Caribbean beaches. |
Rafael Núñez International Airport serves as a key gateway to Cartagena Colombia. Located just 10 kilometers from the city center it connects travelers to domestic and international flights. The airport handles both business and leisure passengers with facilities designed for efficiency. Modern terminals include check-in areas security screening and waiting zones that prioritize clear navigation.
The terminal layout emphasizes practicality over extravagance. Passengers find shops offering snacks drinks and basic supplies alongside currency exchange services. Baggage claim sections are positioned near exits making it easy to exit once flights conclude. Public transport links like buses or taxis operate nearby allowing quick transfers to downtown areas without long waits.
Cartagena’s coastal location means the airport sits close to beaches and historic sites. Travelers can reach the walled city in under 20 minutes via road routes that pass through vibrant neighborhoods. Nearby markets sell fresh produce textiles and handmade goods providing glimpses into local culture beyond travel needs.
For those arriving during peak seasons planning ahead helps avoid delays. The airport maintains regular operations with staff trained to assist with common questions about customs or transportation options. While not large it balances functionality with comfort ensuring travelers move through spaces without unnecessary stress. Its role as a regional hub continues growing reflecting Colombia’s expanding travel connections.
The VIP Lounge at Rafael Núñez International Airport is a comfortable, 24‑hour facility offering plush seating, high‑speed Wi‑Fi, complimentary snacks and beverages, a dedicated business desk, and shower facilities. It’s free for first‑ or business‑class passengers of any airline with a valid boarding pass, or elite frequent flyers; otherwise a one‑time fee of COP 120,000 (£28.52) applies.
Club VIP Air Colombia is an exclusive lounge for Air Colombia passengers travelling in business or first class, as well as the airline’s elite members. The space features premium hors d’oeuvres, a full bar, high‑speed Wi‑Fi, shower rooms, and a quiet meeting area. Access is granted with a valid ticket or club membership; otherwise a COP 100,000 (£23.77) fee applies.
The Avianca Lounge at CTG serves Gold and Platinum frequent‑flyer members, as well as first‑and business‑class passengers. Guests enjoy gourmet snacks, an extensive beverage selection, complimentary Wi‑Fi, a dedicated desk, and shower facilities. The lounge operates from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; access is free for eligible travellers, otherwise a COP 140,000 (£33.27) charge applies.
To Cartagena City Center (Centro Histórico):
From CTG, take shuttle bus 100 or 200 downtown; journey lasts about 30–45 min and costs roughly COP 12,000 (£2.85). Taxis are available for ~COP 60,000 – 80,000 (£14.26 – 19.01), while car‑rental desks sit in arrivals. Buses run hourly until late night.
To Barranquilla:
From CTG, board the intercity bus (route 300) heading east; travel time is about 2 hrs and fare around COP 40,000 (£9.51). Taxis cost ~COP 280,000 (£66.55) but are less frequent. Car‑rental services operate from arrivals, offering a flexible option for this 120 km trip.
To Santa Marta:
Take the long‑haul bus (route 400) from CTG; journey lasts roughly 3–4 hrs, costing about COP 60,000 (£14.26). Taxis are pricey (~COP 480,000 (£114.09)) and scarce. Car‑rental desks at arrivals provide a convenient alternative for this 200 km trip to the Caribbean coast.
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