Cali’s Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport (also known as Palmira Airport) sits about 15 kilometres west of downtown Cali, right in the heart of the Valle del Cauca. Whether you’re landing here to catch the city’s famous salsa scene, head out to the coffee region, or push further toward the Pacific coast, having your own wheels makes a huge difference. Public transport from the airport into Cali is doable but slow, and taxis can add up fast if you’re planning to move around the region.

The airport handles both domestic and international flights, with terminals that are fairly straightforward to navigate. Most rental car companies have desks in the arrivals hall or just outside, so you won’t be hunting around for long. Prices start from around €15-20 per day for a basic sedan, though they’ll go up depending on the car and season.

Picking Up Your Rental Car at Cali Airport

When you clear customs and grab your bags, you’ll find the rental car counters right in the arrivals area of the main terminal. The big international agencies like Avis, Hertz, and Localiza all have offices there, along with some local companies. It’s worth booking ahead, especially during peak holiday periods – the desks can get busy, and last-minute rates are rarely cheap.

Most companies will offer you the choice of picking up at the terminal or at an off-site location with a free shuttle. If you’re landing late or want to get on the road quickly, the terminal pickup is the way to go. Just follow the signs for “Rent a Car” after you exit the baggage claim area. You’ll need your driver’s licence (an International Driving Permit is officially required, though many agencies will accept a licence in English alongside your passport), a credit card in the main driver’s name, and your booking confirmation.

One thing to check before you sign: what’s the fuel policy? Most agencies work on a “full-to-full” basis – you get the car with a full tank and return it the same way. There are petrol stations (both gasoline and diesel) right near the airport, so it’s easy to top up before you head back.

Where to Go from Cali

Once you’ve got the keys, the open road is calling. Here are some realistic driving times from Cali Airport:

• Bogotá – Around 450 km via the Pan-American Highway (Avenida Panamericana). It’s a solid 8-9 hour drive, so most people split this into two days. The road is mostly in good condition but winding in places, especially around the mountains.
• Popayán – About 220 km southeast, around 3-3.5 hours. This colonial city makes for a great overnight stop if you’re heading toward the south.
• Buenaventura – Roughly 150 km west, 2.5-3 hours. This is Colombia’s main Pacific port town. The road is scenic but can be rough in spots – leave early and give yourself extra time.
• Salento and the Coffee Region – Around 180 km north, about 4 hours. The drive takes you through some beautiful countryside, and Salento itself is a charming little town with easy access to the Cocora Valley where the wax palms grow.
• Ecuador Border (Ipiales) – About 250, 4-5 hours. You’ll pass through some stunning mountain scenery, but km south be prepared for several toll booths (peajes) along the way.

Tips for Driving in Colombia

Driving in Colombia isn’t complicated, but there are a few things that will make your life easier. Speed limits are 60 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on main roads, and 100 km/h on highways – keep an eye out for signs, as they’re not always obvious. The police do set up checkpoints, so don’t be surprised if you’re asked to pull over for a quick document check.

Toll roads are common, especially on the highways heading out of Cali. You’ll need cash (Colombian pesos) for the peajes – they don’t typically take cards, and the tolls aren’t expensive (usually between 5,000 and 15,000 pesos each). There are plenty of toll booths, so don’t plan on a completely uninterrupted drive.

A couple of local driving customs to know: at red lights, you’re allowed to turn right after stopping, unless there’s a sign saying otherwise. It’s not something you’d do in Europe, but it’s standard here. Also, keep an eye out for moto taxis and cyclists – they weave through traffic and aren’t always predictable.

Fuel stations are easy to find near Cali and along the main highways. Most are full-service (an attendant will fill the tank for you), and fuel is reasonably priced. Try to keep your tank topped up, especially if you’re heading into more rural areas where stations are spaced further apart.

Parking in central Cali can be tight, so look for official parking lots rather than leaving your car on the street. It’s safer and you’ll avoid any issues.

Ready to hit the road? Book your rental car at Cali Airport today and start planning your Colombian adventure.