How to get to Barrancabermeja

When planning a journey to Colombia, many tourists and business travellers wonder how to reach Barrancabermeja — an important river port and industrial hub on the banks of the Magdalena River. This dynamic city, often referred to as the country's "oil capital", is accessible via various means: you can arrive by plane, take an intercity bus, or drive a car. Regardless of the route you choose to travel to Barrancabermeja, the journey will allow you to appreciate the local character and landscapes of the Santander region.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Barrancabermeja is by air transport. The city is served by Yariguíes Airport (IATA code: EJA), which receives regular flights from the Colombian capital and other major hubs.

Travellers most often arrive here via transit through Bogotá. The flight time from the capital is less than an hour, making this route very popular. The airport is located just 10–15 kilometres from the city centre, so a journey by taxi or transfer to your hotel will take very little time, allowing you to begin exploring the region almost immediately.

Reaching Barrancabermeja by train is currently not possible, as there is no active passenger railway station in the city. The railway network in Colombia is used primarily for freight transport, and regular passenger connections between regions are virtually non-existent.

Even major transport hubs closest to the city do not have railway connections accessible to tourists. Travellers are advised to choose intercity buses or air travel to reach their destination comfortably and quickly.

Bus services connect Barrancabermeja with key settlements in the region, allowing tourists to enjoy the changing scenery. The most in-demand and convenient route runs from the city of Bucaramanga: covering the 115-kilometre journey usually takes about three hours. Adventure lovers also frequently arrive here from the popular tourist centre of San Gil, a journey that lasts approximately 4–5 hours covering a distance of 180 kilometres.

There are also services from more remote locations, such as El Bagre, although travel time is significantly longer and depends on road conditions. In general, intercity transport in Colombia is notable for its comfort: modern buses with air conditioning and reclining seats operate on long distances. Upon arrival at the main terminal, you will easily find a taxi to reach your hotel or the Magdalena River promenade.

Travelling by car to Barrancabermeja will give you the opportunity to enjoy picturesque mountain landscapes and tropical greenery. The most popular route leads from Bucaramanga: the road, spanning about 115 kilometres, usually takes around three hours, winding through the hills of the Santander department. If you are departing from the tourist town of San Gil, be prepared to spend approximately 4–5 hours behind the wheel, covering a distance of 180 kilometres along winding highways.

For travellers departing from El Bagre, the trip will be a longer adventure, taking about 6–7 hours depending on weather conditions. Roads in Colombia can be unpredictable, so many tourists prefer to hire a taxi or a private transfer, the cost of which remains quite affordable by international standards. Renting a car ensures freedom of movement, however, it is worth considering the heavy truck traffic and local driving habits.

A trip to Barrancabermeja, a dynamic city on the banks of the Magdalena River, requires a little preparation due to its specific climate and industrial character. To ensure your visit to this region of Colombia leaves only pleasant impressions, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations for you.

• Clothing and sun protection: It is hot and humid in the city all year round. Prefer garments made from light natural fabrics, such as cotton and linen. Be sure to wear a head covering and use sunscreen with a high protection factor, even if the sky is overcast.
• Transport: The most reliable method of movement for tourists remains official yellow taxis. It is recommended to use cars ordered via a dispatcher or special apps. Motorcycle taxis, popular with locals, may be less safe for travellers unfamiliar with the city.
• Money and payment: The main currency is the Colombian Peso. Although you can pay by card in large hotels and shopping centres, small restaurants and shops accept only cash. Try to keep small denominations with you for convenience.
• Safety measures: Observe the famous Colombian rule "no dar papaya" (don't give papaya), which means not to provoke wrongdoers. Do not openly wear expensive jewellery or gadgets, keep an eye on your bags in crowded places, and avoid walking in remote areas after dark.
• Health and hygiene: Due to the proximity of the river, there are many mosquitoes in the city, so a high-quality repellent is simply essential, especially on evening walks. You should drink exclusively bottled water to eliminate the risk of stomach upset.
• Food and drinks: The gastronomic pride of the region is river fish. Do not miss the opportunity to try "bocachico" fried or as part of a traditional soup. This will allow you to better understand the culture and tastes of the locals.
• Language barrier: The main language of communication is Spanish. English is not understood everywhere, so knowing a few basic phrases or having an offline translator on your phone will significantly facilitate communication.

Observing these simple rules will help you feel confident and safe. Barrancabermeja is a city with a strong character and friendly people, and the right mindset will make your acquaintance with it comfortable and interesting.