Bus Terminal

Below is an overview of Terminal de Transporte de Bucaramanga, the city’s main hub for long-distance and intercity buses. Whether you’re heading elsewhere in Santander or traveling to other regions in Colombia, this terminal is your primary gateway.  

If you want to save on hotel cost for a night, there are night buses to some of the destinations.

If you’re taking an overnight bus, bring a light jacket or blanket; the air conditioning can be quite chilly.

1. General Information

• Official Name: Terminal de Transporte de Bucaramanga
• Location: Situated on the southwestern side of the city, near the intersection of the Autopista Girón-Bucaramanga (the road connecting Bucaramanga to nearby municipalities such as Girón, as well as routes heading further afield).
• Address: Often listed as Carrera 17 # 105-135, Bucaramanga, Santander. You can confirm it on Google Maps by searching “Terminal de Transporte de Bucaramanga.”

Getting There

1. Taxi / App-Based Rides
   • Easiest and most direct method. Taxis are metered; app-based options (InDriver, DiDi, Beat, Uber) also operate in Bucaramanga.
2. Public Bus
   • Several local bus routes (including some Metrolinea feeder lines) stop near or at the terminal. Check route indicators on the front of the bus or ask a local driver/conductor.

2. Destinations & Bus Companies

1. National Routes

   • Major Colombian cities such as Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Barranquilla are served from Bucaramanga’s terminal.
   • You’ll also find routes to mid-sized cities and towns across Colombia (e.g., Tunja, Cúcuta, Barrancabermeja, San Gil).

2. Regional Routes

   • Frequent departures to municipalities within Santander: Girón, Piedecuesta, Floridablanca (though these are more common via local buses or colectivos), plus trips to tourist destinations like Barichara, Socorro, or Curití.
   • Buses to smaller towns in the surrounding area often operate from specific platforms within the terminal.

3. Bus Operators

   • Well-known companies include Copetran, Berlinas, Omega, Expreso Brasilia, Libertadores, among others. Each company typically has its own ticket counters and schedules.
   • My favourite is Copetran, especially the double deck night buses to Bogotá.

3. Purchasing Tickets

1. In Person
   • Ticket Counters: Each bus operator has a booth where you can buy tickets and ask for departure times.
   • Payment Methods: Most counters accept cash (COP); some may also accept debit/credit cards.
2. Online
   • Many bus companies offer online booking through their websites or third-party travel sites (e.g., Pinbus, Busbud).
   • Online purchase often lets you select your seat in advance; you can show the digital ticket (or printed version) at check-in.
   • If you are having problems paying with a card online, you can pay using the Efecty option. You'll need to book your journey, then pay at an Efecty counter within a certain time (it will tell how long, normally 2 hours)
3. Reservation Recommendations
   • For popular destinations (e.g., Bogotá, coastal cities) or during holidays, it’s best to book at least a day in advance to ensure seat availability.

4. Facilities & Services

1. Waiting Areas
   • Indoor seating areas with fans or air conditioning, depending on the section.
   • Some seating close to the platforms for easy boarding announcements.
2. Restrooms
   • Public bathrooms (usually small fee required for entry—around COP 1,000).
3. Food & Shopping
   • Small eateries and cafeterias selling snacks, beverages, or simple meals.
   • Kiosks or mini-marts for last-minute travel items.
4. Security & Information
   • Security Personnel: Guards stationed throughout the terminal.
   • Information Desk: Typically located near the main entrance; useful for queries about schedules, platforms, or lost-and-found.
5. Luggage Storage
   • Some bus operators offer short-term luggage storage if you arrive early or need to explore before your departure. Ask at the company’s counter.
   • There are people who offer to carry your luggage from the taxi area to the departure lounge. They usually are not allowed to enter the lounge themselves. If you have time, you can find a free trolley, which you can bring into the departure zone.

5. Tips for a Smooth Trip

1. Arrive Early
   • Especially for long-distance or overnight routes, aim to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before departure to handle tickets, luggage check-in, and find your boarding platform. It's not unusual for buses arriving from elsewhere to be late. However, those departing from Bucaramanga tend to leave on time.
2. Keep Cash Handy
   • Small bills/coins are useful for restrooms, snacks, and miscellaneous fees.
3. Stay Aware of Belongings
   • Keep passports, wallets, and electronics close at hand—especially in crowded waiting areas.
4. Check Multiple Operators
   • For the same destination, compare departure times and prices (fares can vary slightly among different bus companies).
5. Overnight Travel
   • If you’re taking an overnight bus, bring a light jacket or blanket; the air conditioning can be quite chilly.