4 Best Ways to get from Medellin to Manizales, Colombia

You can get from Medellin to Manizales by bus, private transfer, flight, or rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Medellin to Manizales is by bus, which costs USD 29. The journey takes about 5 hours.

The most popular option is also the bus, being the most affordable and convenient alternative.

The fastest way to travel to Manizales from Medellin is by flight, which takes about 40 minutes!

In my travels across Colombia, I’ve found that the journey is as important as the destination. In this guide, I’ll tell you all about the best ways to get from Medellin to Manizales, mixing practical advice with insights, for an easy and unforgettable trip!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Medellin to Manizales.

Transportation Options from Medellin to Manizales

The following table outlines all transportation options from Medellin to Manizales:

Method	Time	Price
Bus from Medellin to Manizales	~5 hrs	$29
Medellin to Manizales Private Transfer	~4.5 hrs	–
Flight from Medellin to Manizales	40 min	–
Rental Car	~4.5 hrs	–

How far is Manizales from Medellin?

The distance from Medellin to Manizales is 121.6 miles or 195.7 kilometers. It takes about 4 hours and 40 minutes to travel from Medellin to Manizales by car.

Getting to Manizales from Medellin

1. Coach Bus from Medellin to Manizales

Journey Duration: 4 hours 50 minutes

A coach bus is a popular and affordable way to travel from Medellín to Manizales. 

Buses operate regularly from the Terminal del Norte in Medellín, with companies like Empresa Arauca offering fares priced at USD 29 for the journey, which takes approximately five hours.

The buses are typically comfortable, with air conditioning and reclining seats, and it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during holidays or peak seasons!

Upon arrival in Manizales, you’ll be dropped off at the Terminal de Transportes de Manizales, from where you can easily grab a taxi or local bus to your final destination.

Check out the coach bus schedule and book your seats online in advance!

Medellin to Manizales Coach Bus Schedule

The table below displays the coach bus timetable for trips from Medellin to Manizales, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
04:31am	09:20am	4h 49m	$29
06:46am	11:35am	4h 49m	$29
11:01am	03:50pm	4h 49m	$29
02:01pm	06:50pm	4h 49m	$29
04:31pm	09:20pm	4h 49m	$29

2. Private Transfer from Medellin to Manizales

Journey Duration: Custom Time

For travelers seeking convenience and a more personalized experience, booking a private transfer from Medellín to Manizales is an excellent option! 

With services offered by local travel agencies or private drivers, you can arrange a door-to-door pick-up and drop-off service tailored to your schedule.

The cost for a private transfer varies, depending on the vehicle type and number of passengers, and the journey usually takes around 5 hours. 

This option allows for flexibility and comfort, with most vehicles being modern and equipped with air conditioning, making it ideal for groups, families, or those with luggage.

Additionally, private transfers often allow for impromptu stops along the scenic route, allowing travelers to capture photographs or grab a bite at local eateries. 

It is advisable to book the transfer a few days in advance and confirm the details with the service provider to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey!

3. Flight from Medellin to Manizales

Journey Duration: 40 minutes

If time is of the essence, catching a flight from Medellín to Manizales is the quickest way to make the journey! 

Flights operate from both Medellín’s José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) and Medellín Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport to La Nubia Airport (MZL) in Manizales.

Airlines such as EasyFly and Avianca typically offer this route, with a flight time of around 40 minutes. 

Fares vary significantly throughout the year, depending on the time of booking and the season. It’s advisable to arrive at the airport at least an hour before departure for domestic flights. 

La Nubia Airport is about 20 minutes from the city center of Manizales, and upon arrival, you can take a taxi to your final destination. 

It’s worth noting that La Nubia Airport is subject to frequent closures due to weather conditions, so it’s wise to check the status of your flight in advance. 

Additionally, since the flight is short, it’s mostly an economy-class service, but the views of the mountains from the air add an extra dimension to the experience!

To get the best deals, booking your flight a few weeks in advance is recommended, and also consider subscribing to the airlines’ newsletters for any promotions or discounts!

4. Driving with Rental Car from Medellin to Manizales

Journey Duration: 4 hours 40 minutes

For travelers who value independence and flexibility, renting a car for the journey from Medellín to Manizales is an enticing option. 

Major rental companies have offices at Medellín’s José María Córdova International Airport and in the city center. Daily rental rates range from USD 40 to USD 80, depending on the vehicle type, and it’s crucial to check if insurance is included. 

The drive takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes, covering approximately 200 kilometers, mainly through scenic mountain roads. Before embarking on the journey, make sure to have a reliable GPS, as the roads can be winding and sometimes poorly marked. 

Also, keep in mind that Colombian roads can be busy, particularly on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly to avoid heavy traffic. 

When returning the rental car in Manizales, check for any additional drop-off fees if you’re not returning it to Medellín.

Best day tours in Manizales, Colombia

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Manizales, Colombia.

Frequently Asked Questions