Rafael Nunez International Airport (CTG) – Transfer & Transport Guide

Rafael Nunez Airport is only about 3 km from Cartagena's Old Town (Walled City) and roughly 5–10 km from Bocagrande. This is one of the most conveniently located airports in South America.

A taxi to the Walled City costs COP 15,000–25,000 (about EUR 3–5). To Bocagrande, expect COP 15,000–20,000 (EUR 3–4). A private transfer with a driver waiting at arrivals runs COP 40,000–80,000 (EUR 8–16) depending on vehicle type. Uber and InDriver also work here and cost roughly the same as a taxi or less.

The ride to most hotels takes 10–20 minutes, though Old Town streets can be congested.

After passing through immigration (for international flights) and collecting your bags, you exit into a moderately busy arrivals hall. There are ATMs (Bancolombia, Davivienda) and a few currency exchange counters — ATM rates are typically better.

Outside the terminal, you will immediately encounter taxi dispatchers and unofficial drivers offering rides. The official taxi stand is organized, but the atmosphere can feel chaotic if this is your first time in Colombia. Stay calm — it is busy but not unsafe.

There is a dedicated area for ride-hailing pickups (Uber, InDriver) slightly away from the main taxi stand. Look for signs or ask airport staff.

| Option | Destination | Duration | Cost (COP) | Cost (EUR) | Notes | |--------|-------------|----------|------------|------------|-------| | Official taxi | Walled City | 10–20 min | 15,000–25,000 | 3–5 | Fixed rate from airport counter | | Official taxi | Bocagrande | 10–15 min | 15,000–20,000 | 3–4 | Fixed rate from airport counter | | Official taxi | Getsemani | 10–15 min | 12,000–20,000 | 2.50–4 | Close to Old Town | | Uber/InDriver | Any area | 10–20 min | 10,000–20,000 | 2–4 | App-based, sometimes cheaper | | Pre-booked transfer | Any hotel | 10–20 min | 40,000–80,000 | 8–16 | Driver with name board, AC vehicle | | Hotel shuttle | Hotel only | 15–25 min | Free–50,000 | 0–10 | Some luxury hotels offer this | | Public bus | Various stops | 30–45 min | 2,800–3,500 | 0.50–0.70 | Not practical with luggage |

The official taxi with a fixed rate from the airport dispatch counter is the standard option. You pay at the counter, receive a voucher, and get assigned a taxi. This eliminates any negotiation or meter disputes.

Uber and InDriver work well in Cartagena. However, airport pickup can be awkward — drivers sometimes ask you to walk to a nearby location to avoid issues with the taxi union. It works, but it is less smooth than in many other cities.

Cartagena airport transfers are remarkably affordable by international standards.

| Destination | Official taxi (COP) | EUR | Private transfer (COP) | EUR | |-------------|-------------------|-----|----------------------|-----| | Walled City (Centro) | 15,000–25,000 | 3–5 | 40,000–70,000 | 8–14 | | Bocagrande | 15,000–20,000 | 3–4 | 40,000–60,000 | 8–12 | | Getsemani | 12,000–20,000 | 2.50–4 | 40,000–60,000 | 8–12 | | Castillogrande | 15,000–25,000 | 3–5 | 50,000–70,000 | 10–14 | | Playa Blanca (Baru) | N/A by taxi | — | 150,000–250,000 | 30–50 | | Islas del Rosario | N/A (boat needed) | — | — | — |

Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory in Colombia but rounding up is appreciated. For a COP 18,000 fare, paying COP 20,000 is a nice gesture.

For Playa Blanca or Baru Island, you need either a private transfer or a combination of taxi plus boat. These are further afield and require specific planning.

Cartagena Airport handles international flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Panama City, and other hubs that sometimes arrive late. After 10 PM, the terminal is quieter but taxis remain available at the official stand.

Uber and InDriver still work at night, though with fewer drivers. For late arrivals, the official taxi stand is your most reliable option — or a pre-booked transfer if you want someone definitely waiting.

Cartagena's streets around the Old Town are generally safe at night, especially the main tourist corridors, but avoid walking alone with luggage in poorly lit areas.

The short distance to most Cartagena hotels means even a taxi works fine for families. The challenge is more about the Old Town streets — many are narrow, cobblestoned, and not accessible by car. Your taxi or transfer may drop you at the nearest accessible point, and you walk the last 50–200 meters to your hotel.

If you are staying deep inside the Walled City, confirm with your hotel exactly where cars can reach and whether they offer porter assistance. Dragging large suitcases over cobblestones in tropical heat is not fun.

Car seats are not standard in Colombian taxis. Bring your own if needed, or request one from a private transfer provider.

For official taxis, go to the taxi dispatch counter inside the arrivals area. Pay the fixed fare, get your voucher, and you will be directed to your assigned vehicle outside.

For a pre-booked transfer, your driver waits in the arrivals hall with a name board. The terminal is small enough that you will find them easily.

For Uber or InDriver, you may need to walk a short distance outside the terminal to the ride-hailing pickup zone. The driver will contact you through the app with their location.

Family with luggage? The official taxi handles a family of four with luggage. A private transfer adds comfort and a waiting driver for a modest premium.

Staying in the Walled City? Confirm car access with your hotel. You may need to walk the last stretch regardless of transport type.

Going to Baru or Playa Blanca? You need a private transfer — regular taxis do not serve these areas.

Arriving late at night? The official taxi stand operates for all arriving flights. Pre-booking is optional but adds certainty.

First time in Colombia? A pre-booked transfer at COP 40,000–80,000 (EUR 8–16) gives you a smooth, no-negotiation experience. The peace of mind is worth the small extra cost.