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Manizales, Caldas to Cartagena, Bolivar from $36: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Manizales, Colombia
to
Cartagena, Colombia

How to Get from Manizales to Cartagena: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$36 by busBest price
596 kmDistance
2h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Manizales to Cartagena with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  25m
Estimated price
$49-122
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
17h  30m
Estimated price
$36-70
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 596 km
Duration: 2h 25m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
22h 
Estimated price
$40-100
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
23h  27m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
12h  40m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
various
Taxi
Bus
Average Duration
15h  56m
Estimated price
$58-103

Traveling From Manizales to Cartagena

The journey from Manizales, nestled in the lush coffee region, to Cartagena, famous for its vibrant Caribbean atmosphere and colonial architecture, offers a striking contrast between the tranquil mountains and the lively coastal city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cartagena

Cartagena features vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Getsemani
• Known for its colorful street art.
• Bustling nightlife with local bars and music.
Old City (Ciudad Amurallada)
• Home to stunning colonial architecture.
• Rich history with numerous museums.
Bocagrande
• Popular beachfront area with luxury hotels.
• Great dining and shopping options.

Best Times To Visit Cartagena's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cartagena's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Early morning or late afternoon visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)
Weekdays in the morning provide a quieter stroll through this historic area.
Rosario Islands
Opt for a weekday trip to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy tranquility.

Cartagena Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cartagena enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round, making the dry months from December to April the ideal time to explore the city. Understanding the weather patterns can help you prepare for sun-soaked days on the beach or vibrant evenings in the historic center.

Dining Recommendation in Cartagena

Try the ceviche at La Cevicheria, a local favorite known for its fresh seafood and vibrant flavors that contrast with the hearty, coffee-infused dishes typical of Manizales. The lively atmosphere and emphasis on coastal ingredients provide a refreshing culinary experience that transports you right to the heart of Cartagena's cultural scene.

Manizales - Cartagena operators

Explore transport companies operating between Manizales and Cartagena, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
avianca.com

Plane from Pereira to Cartagena

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$495-100
Website
latam.com

Plane from Pereira to Cartagena

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$494-497
Website
jetsmart.com

Plane from Pereira to Cartagena

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$498-499
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
018000 42 37 87
Website
empresaarauca.com.co

Bus from Manizales to Terminal Norte

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
1222-1221

Bus from Pereira to Terminal Norte

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
1227-0
Contact phone
01 800 051 8001
Website
expresobrasilia.com

Bus from Terminal Norte to Cartagena

Average Duration
11h 39m
Estimated price
40-1223

Bus from Honda to Cartagena

Average Duration
18h 57m
Estimated price
492-495
Contact phone
+57 604 44448888
Website
rapidoochoa.com.co

Bus from Terminal Norte to Cartagena

Average Duration
15h 40m
Estimated price
1224-1225

Bus from Rionegro to Tolú

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
65-0
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+57 6882 8912
Website
taxlaferia.com

Other from Manizales to Terminal Norte

Average Duration
16h
Estimated price
1228-0
Taxi
Contact phone
+57 6890 0114

Taxi from Manizales to Pácora

Average Duration
1h 47m
Estimated price
40-495

Manizales to Cartagena: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Manizales and Cartagena offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from Manizales to Cartagena, covering a scenic driving distance of 525 miles. Enjoy stunning landscapes and diverse terrain along the way. 💸 Explore budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $40 to $65 for the journey by car from Manizales to Cartagena. Plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your travel budget. ⏱️ Set aside approximately 12 hours and 40 minutes for the drive from Manizales to Cartagena, allowing for breaks and sightseeing opportunities to enhance your travel experience. Get ready for a memorable adventure through Colombia's picturesque countryside.
Average price
$40 - $65
🛫 Get ready for a quick flight from Manizales to Cartagena! The journey takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes via the diverse airlines like JetSMART, Avianca, and LATAM Chile. 🌴 The most convenient option is the direct flight from Pereira Airport to Cartagena Airport, which only lasts 1 hour and 20 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Cartagena and Manizales range from $49 to $122, making it an affordable and efficient way to travel between these two vibrant Colombian cities.
Departure Point
Pereira Airport
Arrival Point
Cartagena Airport
🚌 Starting from Manizales to reach Cartagena by bus, travelers must anticipate a journey duration of approximately 17 hours and 30 minutes. 💰 Prices for the bus ticket from Manizales to Cartagena can range from $36 to $70, offering an affordable travel option for those looking to explore the diverse landscapes of Colombia.
Departure Point
Pereira station
Arrival Point
Cartagena station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Manizales to Cartagena.

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The distance between Manizales and Cartagena is 370 miles by air and 525 miles by road. If you prefer to travel by plane, it takes approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes. However, if you choose to take a bus from Manizales to Cartagena, it can take about 19 hours and 26 minutes. Alternatively, driving by car could take around 12 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Manizales to Cartagena is by bus, with prices ranging from $30 to $45. However, this mode of transportation is also the most time-consuming, taking approximately 19 hours and 26 minutes. On the other hand, flying is the most time-efficient option, taking only 3 hours and 47 minutes, but it is also more expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $130 to $700. Therefore, if time is a priority, flying would be the recommended choice, but for budget-conscious travelers, taking the bus may be a more viable option.
The prices for a bus ticket between Cartagena and Manizales range from $32 to $43. The exact price may depend on factors such as the type of bus, time of travel, and any additional services offered. It is advisable to check with different bus companies for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To travel from Manizales to Cartagena without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 525 miles, and it typically takes around 12 hours and 40 minutes to drive from Manizales to Cartagena. The cost of the journey by car can vary but is generally estimated to range from $40 to $65.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Manizales to Cartagena is by taking a taxi and then a bus. This option takes around 15 hours and 56 minutes and costs between $50 and $100. Alternatively, you can also take a flight from Manizales to Pereira and then transfer to a flight to Cartagena, which will be faster but likely more expensive. Overall, traveling by taxi and bus is a more affordable option for this journey.
No, there is no direct link between Manizales and Cartagena. The only available option is to take a bus from Manizales to Cartagena, which usually includes a transfer in Honda. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 19 hours and 26 minutes. The bus services are operated by Rio Tax and Berlinas.
The flight between Manizales and Cartagena typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $137 and $660, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deals for this route.
There are numerous accommodation options near Cartagena. With over 1194 hotels available, travelers have a wide selection to choose from. Prices for hotels in Cartagena start at $90, catering to different budgets and preferences. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or boutique accommodations, there are plenty of choices near Cartagena to suit your needs.