In recent years, Medellín has emerged as a prominent destination for travelers from around the globe. For many, this journey starts at José María Córdova International Airport (MDE Airport Medellin), a modern hub connecting Medellín with a wide range of domestic and international locations. As the primary airport serving Medellín and its surrounding areas, MDE is Colombia’s second busiest airport, welcoming over 5 million international passengers in 2023 alone.
MDE AIRPORT MEDELLIN
Location and Accessibility
Located in the town of Rionegro, approximately 25 kilometers (16 miles) southeast of Medellín, José María Córdova International Airport is surrounded by lush, green mountains at an altitude of around 2,100 meters (6,900 feet). Unlike many airports near city centers, MDE requires a short drive to reach Medellín’s downtown. This strategic location takes advantage of the high-altitude geography, offering ideal conditions for air travel and enabling MDE’s growth into one of Colombia’s leading airports.
Opened in 1985, José María Córdova International Airport replaced the smaller Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH) as Medellín’s main airport. Named in honor of José María Córdova, a distinguished Colombian military leader, the facility was built to meet Medellín’s increasing demand for a larger international airport. Over the years, MDE has seen extensive upgrades, continuously evolving to accommodate rising passenger traffic and the needs of international airlines.
Getting To and From José María Córdova Airport
Travelers heading from MDE to Medellín have several options for transportation.
Taxis
The iconic yellow taxis in Medellín offer a convenient way to travel to and from José María Córdova International Airport. Medellín alone has around 30 registered taxi companies, with additional companies operating in nearby municipalities such as Envigado and Bello. In 2024, the standard fare for a yellow taxi from Medellín to the airport is 110,000 pesos. However, fares from other areas in the valley may be higher; for instance, a yellow cab from Sabaneta costs approximately 125,000 pesos.
For return trips from José María Córdova Airport, white taxis have an exclusive contract, offering a fixed fare to Medellín with no additional charge for late-night trips. The toll is included in the fare, making it a straightforward option. However, some drivers may attempt to charge tourists an inflated “gringo” fare, so it’s advisable to confirm the official rate before starting your journey.
Additionally, be cautious upon arrival, as private drivers may approach you offering their services. I haven’t used them, as the offers always seemed questionable to me.
Ride Share apps
Using ride-hailing apps like Uber, Beat, or DiDi provides convenient options for travel to and from Medellín’s José María Córdova International Airport. Uber initially left the Colombian market on February 1, 2020, but returned weeks later on February 20, 2020. Beat is another popular alternative, initially acquired by MyTaxi in 2017 and now part of the FREE NOW group, a joint venture between BMW and Daimler. Additionally, DiDi, a Beijing-based ride-hailing service, offers rides in Medellín.
Fares to the airport vary based on your pickup location but typically range between 110,000 and 123,000 pesos.
Shared Taxis
The Colectivo, or shared white taxi service, is a convenient alternative to reaching or departing José María Córdova Airport. At the airport, you’ll find these shared taxis heading to Medellín, each accommodating three to four passengers and splitting the fare. Starting in 2024, the new rate using the tunnel route is set at 30,000 pesos per person to Medellín and 25,000 pesos per person for trips to the airport.
The shared taxis only travel between the airport and San Diego Mall in Medellín, so you must catch another cab to reach your destination. Yellow taxis are typically lined up at San Diego Mall, making it easy to continue your journey.
Head to San Diego Mall, about four blocks from the Exposiciones metro station, to get to the airport via a shared taxi. Look for the white airport taxis in the Texaco gas station parking lot beside the mall. If you arrive first, consider claiming the front passenger seat, as the back seat can get crowded with three passengers. Colectivo taxis usually wait until they have four passengers before departing.
Busses
The official airport bus offers the most affordable way to travel between José María Córdova Airport and Medellín, with a fare of just 20,000 pesos. The airport buses from José María Córdova have two possible destinations, so be sure to confirm which one you’re boarding, as they are unmarked.
One destination is San Diego Mall, where the bus stops across the street. This location provides easy access to taxis for onward travel and is near the Exposiciones metro station. Most buses traveling to/from San Diego Mall use the new tunnel route, cutting travel time to around 20 minutes. Look for a lighted sign reading “Túnel” on the front of these buses to ensure you’re on a tunnel route.
The other destination is behind the Nutibara Hotel in El Centro. This stop is within walking distance of the Parque Berrio metro station. However, buses to/from Nutibara Hotel do not use the new tunnel route so that the journey can take 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic.
To catch the airport bus from Medellín, go to the stop across from San Diego Mall or behind the Nutibara Hotel in El Centro. Buses departing Nutibara Hotel may also stop at the Northern Bus Terminal if passengers are present. The airport bus service from José María Córdova operates from 6:30 a.m. until the last flight of the day, while buses from Medellín to the airport run every 40 minutes from 4:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Private driver
Hiring a private driver is generally the most expensive way to travel to or from Medellín’s José María Córdova International Airport. When arriving, a private driver will wait outside customs or baggage claim with a sign bearing your name, ready to take you directly to your destination. For departures, they’ll pick you up from your accommodation and drive you to the airport. Private drivers often use higher-quality vehicles than standard taxis; some also speak English.
At Medellin Guru, we recommend Medellin Airport to City, a company with extensive experience transporting foreign visitors. Their staff includes English-speaking drivers, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience. Rates for airport transfers start at 110,000 pesos, and they also offer a variety of city tours.
Airlines and Destinations
Medellin Airport, officially José María Córdova International Airport, receives direct flights from 32 airports in 13 countries and 31 cities, including 12 domestic flights.
The airlines flying to Medellin are Air Europa, American Airlines, Arajet, Avianca, Copa Airlines, Euroairlines, FlexFlight, Jetair Caribbean, JetSmart, Latam, Spirit Airlines, and Wingo.
Airports with direct connection to Medellin: Aruba, Armenia, Panama City, Barranquilla, Bogota, Bucaramanga, Cali, Cancun, Caracas, Cartagena, Cucuta, Fort Lauderdale, Lima, Madrid, Miami, Mexico City, Monteria, New York City, Orlando, Pereira, Punta Cana, Quito, Riohacha, San Andres, San Jose, San Juan, Santa Marta, Santiago de Chile, Santiago de los Caballeros, Santo Domingo, Willemstad.
Through key regional hubs like Bogotá and Panama City, Medellín is connected to a broader network of airports and countries worldwide. These hubs provide frequent flights and streamlined connections, expanding Medellín’s reach to numerous international destinations across the globe.
Airport Facilities and Services
Passenger Terminals and Layout
The single-passenger terminal at José María Córdova Airport is designed to be efficient and easy to navigate. It is organized into two main sections, serving both domestic and international flights, and clear signage guides passengers through check-in, security, and boarding.
In the domestic area, travelers can access streamlined check-in counters for major Colombian airlines, followed by security checks and gates for local destinations. The international section includes check-in for international flights, customs facilities, and duty-free shopping. Though compact, MDE’s layout ensures essential services are readily available, with minimal walking distances between check-in, security, and boarding areas, making for a convenient and straightforward travel experience.
Shopping and Dining
At José María Córdova Airport, you’ll find a wide range of dining and shopping options in the domestic and international terminals and near the check-in counters. The airport offers currency exchange services, bookstores, Colombian souvenir shops, electronics, perfume, clothing stores, and a Duty-Free shop in the international terminal.
For those looking to relax, the airport’s second level features small open-air terraces where you can enjoy a drink before your flight. Popular food chains like Burger King, Burger Joint, and Dunkin’ Donuts are conveniently located throughout the airport. Being in a coffee capital like Medellín, you’ll also find excellent cafés specializing in Colombian coffee, such as Juan Valdez and Grano de Café. Don’t miss the chance to buy some extra coffee beans as souvenirs for friends and family!
Lounges and VIP Services
VIP lounges at José María Córdova Airport offer an ideal environment for those with long layovers or extended waits. Whether you need a snack, a quiet place to relax, or a chance to nap, these lounges provide a comfortable, well-equipped setting. Frequent travelers with premium airline accounts, VIP memberships, or specific airline loyalty programs, like Avianca’s LifeMiles or Star Alliance, often enjoy access to these lounges. Still, day passes are also available for a fee.
Amenities typically include beds, showers, Wi-Fi, computers, snacks, and more. Lounges are equipped with air conditioning, flight information monitors, and accessible facilities, making them suitable for all travelers. Some lounges, like Lounge Medellin International, even have dedicated children’s rooms with toys and activities to keep young travelers entertained.
The main VIP lounges at Medellín Airport include:
- Avianca VIP Lounge
- Copa Club
- The Lounge Medellin by Global Lounge Network
- The Lounge Medellin International
Other Amenities
In addition to lounges, MDE offers practical amenities that enhance the travel experience:
– Currency Exchange and ATMs: Currency exchange kiosks are located within the terminal for travelers needing Colombian pesos. ATMs are also available for quick and easy cash withdrawals.
Free Wi-Fi: Like most modern airports, Medellín’s José María Córdova Airport offers free Wi-Fi through the Airplane network. This allows travelers to connect their devices and stay online while waiting for their flights. This service is incredibly convenient for those needing to catch up on work or stay in touch.
While the connection is generally reliable, occasional interruptions may occur. For a more robust, faster connection, consider visiting one of the VIP lounges or trying any of the airport’s restaurants, which often provide improved internet access.
– Medical and Family Services: Medical services are available for needy travelers, with pharmacies stocked with essential items and baby-changing stations for families. Play areas are also provided to keep young children entertained.
Car Rental Agencies at José María Córdova Airport
Exploring Medellín on your own can be rewarding. You’ll have the freedom to navigate the city’s streets and venture out to nearby coffee towns and scenic areas. Renting a car allows you to travel at your own pace, making stops wherever you like. However, budgeting additional expenses such as gas and tolls is essential.
This option is best suited for experienced drivers, as Medellín’s roads (and those throughout Colombia) can be narrow, challenging, and somewhat easy to navigate incorrectly.
Car rental companies can be found in the international arrivals hall, including:
Avis
Drive & Go
Localiza
Mina Servicios
Vaya Car Rental
Slightly more budget-friendly options, like Auto Oriente, are also available near the airport. Remember to bring a valid driver’s license and ensure the rental car’s paperwork is up-to-date for a smooth journey.
Parking Options at José María Córdova Airport
If you’re planning a weekend getaway from Medellín to another Colombian destination and have rented a car, you can conveniently leave it at the airport’s parking facilities. The main airport parking lot accommodates up to 520 vehicles, with payment options ranging from hourly rates to full-day parking.
Around the airport, various parking options are offering different services and rates, including:
- Las Palmas Parking Lot
- La Hortensia Parking Lot
- Localiza Parking Lot
- Ecopark Parking Lot
- El Rompoy Parking Lot
Monthly parking fees are also available for longer-term stays, such as a few months.
Accessibility Information for Passengers with Reduced Mobility
José María Córdova Airport is fully accessible, featuring ramps, escalators, elevators, and dedicated telephones to assist passengers with reduced mobility. The VIP lounges are also equipped to accommodate individuals with special needs.
Service animals and emotional support pets are welcome at the airport, though they must meet specific regulations and may require additional travel fees.
