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.

Taxi fares in Cartagena are set each year by the city. For 2026 the District fixed them by Decree 0051: the minimum fare is COP 12,250, with a COP 1,100 night surcharge between 7 PM and 5 AM. The same decree fixes the fares from Rafael Nunez Airport to each zone of the city — the rate is posted at the airport dispatch counter, and that posted figure is the one to go by. Tariffs are revised annually, so check the current one before you travel. A private transfer is priced when you book. Uber and InDriver also work here.

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.

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 cheap by international standards, and the taxi side is regulated rather than negotiated.

The city sets taxi fares annually. For 2026, Decree 0051 fixes the minimum fare at COP 12,250 and a night surcharge of COP 1,100 between 7 PM and 5 AM, and sets the airport-to-zone fares themselves. Those zone rates are posted at the dispatch counter inside arrivals — read the board, pay that, and there is nothing to negotiate.

Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory in Colombia, but rounding up is appreciated.

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.

Solo traveler or couple on a budget? Take the official taxi or use Uber. With the 2026 minimum fare set at COP 12,250 and the airport only 3 km out, this is one of the cheapest airport-to-city rides anywhere.

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 gives you a smooth, no-negotiation experience at a price fixed before you land. The peace of mind is worth the extra over the regulated taxi fare.