One-Way Car Rental from Cartagena to Medellin | Compare Prices & Fees

Home One-way Car Rentals Cartagena to Medellin

Can I rent a car from Cartagena to Medellin?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Cartagena to Medellin. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for CO residents

Documents required for international visitors

Form of ID: A valid physical Colombia national photo ID
Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. For the minimum time you are required to hold your driving licence, please refer to Full Rental Terms & Conditions - driving licence part for details or contact customer service for help.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 80. For drivers aged 21-24, a young driver fee of US$ 23.80 per day applies.

Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
Form of ID: A valid passport
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 80. For drivers aged 21-24, a young driver fee of US$ 23.80 per day applies.

How much does renting a car from Cartagena to Medellin cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 146/day

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 162/day

Vehicle Types

Vehicle Types	Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included)	One-way Fee	Total(3-day Trip)	Best For
Small	US$ 323-US$ 378	US$ 0-US$ 286	US$ 436-US$ 531	Solo travelers, couples
SUV	US$ 342-US$ 521	US$ 0-US$ 286	US$ 486-US$ 930	Large groups, long drivers

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration：

Understand the one-way rental fee: Most car rental companies charge an extra one-way fee for drop-offs at a different location. Confirm this fee during booking.
Check for route restrictions: Some rental agreements may restrict routes or not allow travel across certain regions. Clarify these restrictions beforehand.
Ensure drop-off at an authorized location: Ensure that the drop-off location is clearly mentioned in the rental agreement to avoid additional fees.
Verify insurance policies along the route: Check if insurance coverage is active throughout the intended travel route and its conditions.
Account for flexible return times: Plan for timing flexibility in case of unexpected travel delays to avoid penalties for late returns.

Smart Planning Tips:

Book in advance: Secure your vehicle early to ensure availability and potentially lower costs for your desired travel dates.
Choose the right vehicle: Select a car suitable for the route conditions and your group size, considering comfort and fuel efficiency.
Document vehicle condition: Thoroughly inspect and photograph the car at pickup and drop-off to prevent disputes about damages.
Prepare for local driving norms: Understand driving laws and road customs in Colombia to navigate safely and confidently.
Familiarize with fuel stations: Plan fuel stops along your route, especially in remote sections, to avoid running low on gas.
Save emergency contacts: Keep helpline numbers for your rental company and local authorities for quickly resolving issues during the trip.

Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

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Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

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Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling

Parking

Tolls

Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the vehicle before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Ensure to refill the tank with the correct fuel type as specified by the rental agreement.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost along the route is approximately $4.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Reduce the use of air conditioning when possible.

Check tire pressure regularly to ensure proper inflation.

Cartagena Parking

Parking in Cartagena city center can be limited during peak hours.

Hourly parking rates range from $2 to $5 depending on the location.

Consider using public parking facilities for better security.

Medellin Parking

Medellin offers multiple public parking spaces near major landmarks.

Parking costs range from $1 to $4 per hour.

Utilize parking apps to locate available spots in advance.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMe

SpotHero

Parkopedia

Tolls and FasTrak

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Toll Payment Options

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Driving Routes in the Area:

Route through Magdalena Valley

Scenic Highway 14 hours

This route explores the picturesque valleys of the Magdalena River, passing through lush landscapes and vibrant towns.

Sincelejo , Caucasia , La Pintada

Route via Montería

Cultural Path 15 hours

Offering a glimpse into Colombia’s rich culture, this journey includes a stop at Montería, known for its musical heritage.

Monteria , Caucasia , Santa Fe de Antioquia

Prestigious Path

Historical Route 12.5 hours

Shorter option taking you through key historical zones.

Toluviejo , Zipaquira , Medellin

Noteworthy Excursions in the Vicinities:

Cartagena to Barranquilla

2.5 hours

Enjoy Colombia's Caribbean coast and stop by Barranquilla’s cultural richness.

Cartagena to Santa Marta

4 hours

A perfect drive to experience Caribbean beaches and the historic center of Santa Marta.

Cartagena to Medellin via Short Route

12 hours

Direct route providing the fastest option to reach Medellin from Cartagena.

Medellin to Coffee Region

6 hours

Explore lush coffee plantations and panoramic views on this iconic Colombian road.

Best Practices for Planning Your Trip

Study the Route First: Familiarize yourself with alternate routes and major stops to avoid surprises.

Plan Refueling Points: Know the locations of gas stations to prevent running out of fuel.

Choose a Comfortable Vehicle: Ensure the car is fit for long distances and appropriate for variable terrains.

Check Weather Conditions: Be aware of road quality and weather changes in the region.

Agreement Clarity: Review rental terms to avoid unexpected charges.

Safety Comes First: Document emergency procedures and ensure proper safety equipment.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When traveling between Cartagena and Medellin, selecting the right car rental company is essential for an enjoyable and convenient journey. Here are some options that offer one-way car rental services with varying features:

Company	One-Way Fee	Fleet Variety	Location Coverage	Key Advantage
Hertz	$$$	Extensive	High	Reliable customer service , Discount programs , Wide selection of GPS-equipped vehicles
Avis	$$	Diverse	High	Flexible return locations , Affordable rates for one-way rentals , Wide presence in Colombia
Budget	$	Moderate	Medium	Economical pricing , Affordable add-ons , Good coverage
Enterprise	$$	Broad	High	Excellent loyalty program , Flexible cancellation policy , Good roadside assistance

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Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:

Pricing Considerations

Base rental rate per day
One-way drop-off fees
Additional driver charges
Insurance costs
Fuel policy and potential charges

Vehicle Selection

Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
Fuel efficiency for long drives
Comfort features for highway driving
Navigation and entertainment systems
Vehicle condition and mileage

Company Reliability

Customer service reputation
Transparency in fees and policies
Roadside assistance coverage
Cancellation and modification policies
Reviews from other one-way renters

Rental Center Information for Your Journey

Operating Hours:

Most rental centers in Cartagena are open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with some offering extended hours.

Rental Center Locations:

Rental centers are conveniently located near Cartagena airport and major transport hubs.

Shuttle Service:

Many rental companies provide free shuttle services from the airport to their locations.

Fuel Policy:

The rental cars are usually provided with a full tank and should be returned in the same condition.

Pro Tips for Rafael Nuñez International Airport(CTG) Car Rentals

Ensure you confirm your reservation to include one-way fees and check the fuel policy thoroughly before starting your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical costs for a one-way car rental between Cartagena and Medellin?

The costs for a one-way car rental on this route can vary based on the car size, rental duration, seasonality, and rental company policies. You may also incur additional fees such as one-way drop-off charges.

Is it possible to rent a car in Cartagena and drop it off in Medellin?

Yes, most major car rental companies offer one-way rental services between cities, including Cartagena and Medellin. It is advised to confirm this option during booking as certain restrictions may apply.

How long does the journey from Cartagena to Medellin take by car?

The driving distance between Cartagena and Medellin is approximately 635 kilometers, which usually takes around 12 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions.

Are there any requirements for driving a rental car from Cartagena to Medellin?

To drive legally in Colombia, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country. Make sure to carry your passport and confirm other requirements with your car rental provider.

Are there roadside services available along the route?

Yes, there are service stations, gas stations, and rest stops scattered along the route. It's recommended to plan your stops in advance and maintain contact with your rental company's assistance hotline in case of emergencies.

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Your Ultimate Guide to One-Way Car Rental from Cartagena to Medellin