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Medellín and Cartagena, Colombia: Nonstop Flights from the U.S., Budget, and Safety Tips

Updated: 2026-09-26 · 7 min read

Balcones coloniales con buganvillas en Cartagena, Colombia
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Quick answer

Nonstop flights to Medellín (MDE) and Cartagena (CTG) depart from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, New York, and other cities, taking 3 to 5 hours. A 7-night trip combining both cities costs $1,000 to $2,000 USD per person, including flights. U.S. citizens do not need a tourist visa but must complete the Check-MIG immigration form before traveling.

Quick facts

Best time to visitDecember to March and July–August (drier weather)
Cheapest seasonApril–May and September–November
Estimated budget$1,000 – $2,000 USD per person, 7 nights with flights
Flight time≈ 3 h from Miami to Medellín or Cartagena
DocumentsValid passport + Check-MIG form
CurrencyColombian peso (COP)

Flights and How to Combine Both Cities

Several daily flights depart from Florida. A practical itinerary is to fly to Medellín, spend 3 or 4 nights there, and take a 1-hour domestic flight to Cartagena to finish with beaches and the walled city.

The most convenient areas to stay in Medellín are El Poblado and Laureles; in Cartagena, choose the Walled City, Getsemaní, or Bocagrande.

Safety Tips

Use app-based or authorized taxis, avoid displaying valuables on the street, and stay away from quiet areas at night. Never accept drinks from strangers, and be cautious when meeting people through dating apps.

Check U.S. Department of State travel advisories before departure and register your trip with the STEP program.

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Frequently asked questions

Prices and requirements are estimates and may change. Always confirm with the airline and official authorities before traveling.