Bogotá International Airport, is located in Fontibón, 15 kilometers from the center of Bogotá. El Dorado is the largest airport in Colombia and has been named the best airport in South America several times for its extensive facilities and services.
In this guide you will find practical information about arrival and departure at the airport. Also click on these links for hotel tips close to the airport and check these 10 tips if you have time to spare at El Dorado airport.
TERMINALS
There are 2 terminals, which are 1km apart. A free shuttle goes between the two terminals every 20 minutes between 5am to 11pm.
Terminal 1 (Aeropuerto El Dorado)
National and international flights, including flights from KLM, Avianca, Wingo and Latam
Terminal 2 (TPA/ Puente Aéreo)
Domestic flights from Easyfly and Satena
Since most flights arrive at Terminal 1, most facilities are located there. Below you will find information about Terminal 1 only.
arrival international/national flights
First floor Terminal 1
- Baggage claim
- ATM pin devices
- Money exchange office
- Stores, food and drink
- Luggage storage (COP15,000)
- Airport shuttle bus
- Cabs and car rental
- Parking
IMMIGRATION
- It can be quite confusing which line to wait in. In fact, there are lines for Colombians and lines for tourists. When in doubt, ask one of the wandering staff if you’re in the right line; this can save you a lot of time.
- This travel documents you must be able to show at immigration
MONEY PINS
- Cash withdrawals are more economical than exchanges. Once you get your luggage off the belt, you will almost immediately see two ATM machines, where you can safely withdraw your first pesos. The ATM machines are next to the money exchange office.
- The maximum amount you can withdraw varies by bank. At Colpatria, you can withdraw COP 900,000 at a time (approx. €225).
TRANSPORT FROM AIRPORT
Grabbing a cab is easy and safe. You’ll find cabs on the first floor at exits 2, 3, 5 and 6. Under the yellow cab signs is a line for the official cabs. The line is usually long but shrinks quickly. There is a “controller” in an orange vest who assigns cabs and can explain to you how it works.
Price Indication
- Sometimes cab drivers want to drive on the meter, but better to agree on a fixed price in advance, especially if you don’t know your way around Bogotá
- A ride from the airport will cost around COP20,000-COP40,000 (€5-€10), depending on your final destination. A ride to the hotels in Fontibón, will cost you around COP20,000
The cab can also be reserved and paid for in the arrivals hall, at one of the counters, but grabbing a cab outside generally works fine and fast.
Pre-paid private cab
Have you already purchased online a pre-paid private cab booked online, the driver is often already waiting for you in the arrival hall. Especially if you arrive late, we think such a pre-paid cab is a fine option. The driver already knows where to go and you don’t lose any time.
Shuttle service hotels
- A shuttle service can be included at some hotels when making a reservation. To be sure, reconfirm the pickup location and pickup time a day before arriving in Bogotá
- Hotel shuttle buses can be found on the first floor at exit 5
- If you arrive in the evening, it may be faster to take a cab, as the shuttles often run irregularly then
Bus Transportation
- Transmilenio, buses and minibuses can be found at exit 9. There is a free shuttle bus to Estacion de El Dorado, (outside the airport) where you can catch the Transmilenio. If you have a lot of luggage or are traveling late at night, the cab is a more convenient option.
DEPARTURE FROM El Dorado Airport
Airport tax
USD $46 or COP $214,100/€42. (Rate 2023) Often included in airfare.
Departure hall national/international flights
Second floor
- Check-in counters
- Security
- International and national departure hall
- Immigration
- Gates
- ATM pin devices
- Stores
- Large food court
- Hospital (free yellow fever vaccination)
- Police Station
Tweed floor
food court with a number of restaurants, mostly fast food options.
Look here for the best hotels nearby El Dorado aiport in Bogotá.
Look here for 10 tips to make your time fun and enjoyable at El Dorado airport
