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Is There Uber in Colombia? A Complete Guide

ViaHero
Updated June 26, 2020

Is there Uber in Colombia? Uber left Colombia on January 31, 2020only to return less than a month later with some new rules. Given all the back-and-forth, it's good to know about other transportation options in Colombia. Fortunately, our locals tell us you'll have plenty of choices. 

For everything from transportation tips to restaurant recommendations, work with a local to plan your trip. They'll introduce you to a side of Colombia that most tourists miss. Learn more.

What's the deal with Uber in Colombia?

For the last several years, you could use Uber in Colombia—even though the service was technically illegal. Despite the ambiguity, locals say it remained a popular choice for many people. 

On January 31, 2020, Uber officially left Colombia. However, Uber returned less than a month later with a new set of rules. Basically, you can now rent a car through Uber, which includes a driver. Customers have different options, like hourly rentals, or choice of car. 

Whether or not you decide to go this route, our locals in Colombia note that you'll have several alternative transportation options as well. 

You can take taxis. But keep these things in mind.

If you're hoping to get from A to B in a flash, then here's some good news. Colombia is full of taxis! However, there are a couple of things you should know about taking taxis in Colombia. Locals advise that cabs in Colombia:

  • Can be expensive 
  • Your driver might not speak English
  • As a non-local, you may get overcharged (so ask for an estimate before getting in)

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In big cities, you can use public transit

Cities like Medellin are world-renowned for their public transit. The Medellin metro is clean, safe, and efficient—and a good option for budget travelers who are looking to skip the taxi fare.

If you're looking for specific instructions on how to use the immense network of buses in Bogota or how to get around Cartagena, benefit from local advice

Local Tip:

Public buses are a good and generally safe way to get around in Colombia. But keep an eye on your belongings and make sure you account for the extra time it may take to travel between places via bus.

Colombia offers other forms of transportation 

If you plan to get off the beaten path in Colombia, we applaud you! And locals tell us you'll still have plenty of transportation options no matter which places you're visiting in Colombia

  • Colectivos: A small, shared bus for up to 15 people. Cheap, slow-moving, and not as consistent as a bus
  • Motor taxis: Like a taxi, but on a motorbike. Locals say this isn't advisable if you have a lot of luggage or a big group of people.
  • Willys: A sort of jeep option that you may find outside of bigger cities
What kind of traveler are you?
Let’s face it. People want different things when they travel. Rather than spending hours sifting through blogs and top 10 lists written by people who may have totally different interests than you, why not start by sharing a little about what’s important to you when exploring a new destination?
Select your travel preferences below and let a local travel planner with ViaHero take it from there. Your personalized Colombia recommendations, itinerary, and maps are just a few clicks away.

When in doubt, ask a local

Even without Uber, you'll find plenty of ways to get around in Colombia. This is great news because there are so many amazing places to visit!

But we get that it can be overwhelming. So why not ask the people who know best? Locals know the best way to get around their hometown. And when you work with one to plan your trip, they'll be sure to provide detailed instructions on how to get from A to B. Before long, you'll be navigating Colombia like a local—not a tourist. Why see it any other way?

"How did I ever not travel like this?! Ana’s local insight & planning was a game changer. It’s like having a digital concierge, travel agent, and local fixer all rolled into one!"
Sierra, recent ViaHero traveler to Portugal
Sierra, recent ViaHero traveler to Portugal
Still have questions about travel to Colombia?
Why not ask someone who lives there? ViaHero connects you with a local to help plan your trip. They’ll create a guidebook based on your personal travel style.
You’ll see a unique side of a destination and travel independently—all while saving time and money in the planning process. Find a local today.

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