How to get to San Rafael, Antioquia, from Medellín
Everything leaves from the North Terminal and everything passes through Guatapé. From there the road winds down through forest and reservoirs to town.
By bus
| Company | Ticket booth | Departures | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sotrasanvicente | 14 | 9 a day, 5:00 to 17:30 | 33,000 |
| Sotrapeñol | 9 | Hourly, 5:00 to 18:10 | 28,000 |
Fares in Colombian pesos. Sotrasanvicente from its own site; Terminales Medellín lists its fare at 30,000 and Sotrapeñol at 28,000. Checked October 2026.
The bus ride takes about three hours. If you are going to a pool or lodging on the road, such as those at El Bizcocho or La Oscura, ask the driver to drop you there; it is common practice on this route.
By car
It is about 100 km (the local network says 102) and roughly two and a half hours: the Medellín to Bogotá highway to the Marinilla and El Peñol turnoff, then Guatapé, and from there the road to San Rafael. The last stretch has tight bends; take it slowly and by daylight if you do not know it.
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From the airport
José María Córdova airport, in Rionegro, is about 75 km away. There is no direct bus: a private transfer or a rental car from the airport is the practical option.
Getting around town
The town is walkable. For the El Arenal swimming spots and rural areas, local transport means motorbike taxis. Before you go, check the San Rafael weather, and if you will stay without a car, pick one of the in-town hotels in San Rafael. Pools for your first day are in San Rafael river pools.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the bus fare from Medellín to San Rafael?
Which terminal do the buses leave from?
Sources
Checked on October 18, 2026. Prices and opening hours change: always confirm with the official source before you travel.