Bogotá International Airport Guide – El Dorado (BOG) Travel Tips

Plan transfers in advance with an agency at eldorado to secure a fixed pickup and avoid delays. The transfers desk in the arrivals hall coordinates drivers who meet you with a sign and a name; most operators provide pre-booked options and fixed rates. Expect 10–20 minutes from baggage claim to the curb when traffic is light, and up to 40–60 minutes at peak times.

What to know about options is straightforward: private cars, shared shuttles, and third-party transfers are available. Major providers offer private drivers through your hotel desk or the agency; fixed-shared vans may be cheaper for groups. If your plans include staying in joaquin-laureles or casa neighborhoods, mention the exact address to avoid detours.

Moving between terminals and nearby areas is straightforward: signs lead to the puente toward the arrivals and transfers area. Just provide your flight number when you book, and third-party providers will adjust pickup if your arrival changes. For mexico travelers, show a passport or ID and confirm accepted forms of payment.

dunkin is a quick coffee stop before you head to the gate, located near the domestic arrivals. If you arrive late or have a tight connection, use the desk to rebook a transfer or adjust plans; operators respond quickly. Holidays can be exceptions to normal hours, so check with the agency beforehand.

Year-round guidance At BOG, transfers run most days; plan to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international ones. Year-round flow is steady, except on major holidays. If you are moving around Bogotá, a fixed plan helps; transfers provide predictable costs and avoid street hails after a long flight.

BOG Terminal Layout and Key Locations for Arrivals, Immigration, and Baggage Claim

Go straight to Immigration after landing international flights, then retrieve baggage at Baggage Claim, and exit to the Arrivals area to begin your Bogotá visit.

Below are the core zones, practical tips, and precise steps to navigate with confidence. Signs are bilingual (English and Spanish) and the flow stays consistent across the three terminals that compose the El Dorado campus. Perhaps, with a long layover, you can step outside for a quick city tour to Fontibón or downtown, but always account for security checks and taxi times.

• Immigration Hall – After you pass through the jet bridge, follow the arrows to Passport Control. Have your passport, visa (if required), and your completed arrival form ready. Expect lines during busiest times; arriving early (before 07:00) can yield shorter queues. Staff at the desks are frequent in assisting with questions, and Skytrax-rated signage helps you know the correct line.
• Baggage Claim – Proceed to the area indicated by your flight on the monitors. The belt number will appear on the board, and the luggage carousel will be near the exit to the arrivals hall. If a bag is missing, visit the Lost & Found or baggage desk near the exits to resolve it quickly. For those with a problem, a quick check-in or assistance at the desk can speed things up.
• Customs and Exit – Green channel if you have nothing to declare; red channel if you must declare. After clearance, you’ll pass into the main arrivals corridor where you can grab a coffee, chocolate, or arepitas at nearby kiosks. That area also hosts the information desk for directions to your next stop or connection.
• Information Desk – Look for the clear map boards and the staff at the desk; they can advise on connections, the best route to your terminal, and the fastest way to Fontibón or the city center. Also ask about current transfer times and any changes to the three terminals today.
• Ground Transportation and Uber/Taxi Area – Outside the arrivals curb you’ll find ride-hailing options such as Uber and licensed taxis. If you need to reach Fontibón or downtown quickly, this is often faster than the shuttle, with times varying from 15 to 25 minutes in light traffic and longer during peak hours. Please verify the pickup location on the signs to avoid confusion.
• Food and Shops – If you want a quick bite, explore kiosks offering arepitas (savory corn fritters) and chocolate bars, good for a small pick-me-up during a layover. There are also cafés and convenience stores along the arrivals and departures corridors.
• Layovers and Connections – If you have a connection, follow the signs to the Transfer area or Connection desk and check the board for your next gate. Allow extra time for security checks and walking between terminals; in some cases you may walk a short distance or take a shuttle. For frequent travelers, plan a buffer of 45–60 minutes to be safe.
• Know the Layout – The El Dorado complex uses three terminals that are linked by walkways and transit options; current maps show Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. If you’re unsure, ask the desk or use the Fontibón city map for orientation; you can stop by them for a quick orientation and avoid getting lost below the main concourse.

Fast-Track Immigration: Lanes, Documents, and Form Preparation at El Dorado

Book fast-track before you arrive to secure a dedicated international immigration lane at El Dorado. For international arrivals, these lanes are exclusively available to booked travelers with tickets and a confirmed booking reference. On arrival, follow arrivals signage to the upstairs immigration area, then proceed to the fast-track lane near the gate. The process is shorter than the standard line and you’ll find quite a smooth flow and quality facilities for processing. Plus, the information desk is clearly signposted, and staff offer quick guidance.

What to have ready before you fly

Prepare a compact checklist: This checklist includes passport, visa (if required), the migration form or online check-in receipt, and your tickets. Keep a printed or digital copy of your booking in an easy-to-reach spot. If you fly from montreal, the international leg often requires extra precautions, so have any medical documents handy if needed. Bring cash in local currency for incidental fees, even though many desks accept cards. Arrive with enough time; days of travel go easier when you can walk between counters without rushing. Motorcycles should stay outside the terminal; use a taxi or transmilenio to reach the arrivals area.

On arrival: quick path through immigration

From the arrivals hall, move upstairs following signs to the fast-track line. Show your passport, visa, and booking reference or QR code. Have your form pre-filled or ready to complete at the counter. The agent may ask about the purpose of your visit and length of stay; answer clearly to improve chances of a smooth pass. After clearance, collect your luggage and exit toward the bogota city routes; the route seems straightforward for the next leg via transmilenio or other options. If you miss the fast-track window, back up to the regular line; the longer queue seems daunting, yet it still moves efficiently.

Security Screening, Duty-Free Procedures, and Prohibited Items at El Dorado

Recommendation: arrive at least 2 hours before international departure to clear security, complete duty-free purchases, and reach your gate without rush. The system at El Dorado is straightforward, and many expats living in bogotas know it; for directions, ask Pablo at the customs office or Marta at the information desk. You can check the internet for updates; some lines may be longer during peak times, but the service remains well organized for anyone needing to move quickly through the airport.

Reader tip: three main checkpoints are clearly signposted, and the locations are well known. If you guess a line and it looks crowded, the officers can direct you; staff often call a faster option to keep the flow moving. This article aims to give you practical, tested steps you can use in town or while traveling with foreign partners, including expats and foreigners who travel through bogotas with luggage in tow.

Security screening: quick tips

• Follow the 3-step process: remove laptops and tablets, place liquids (in containers 100 ml or less) in a transparent bag, and place all electronics in the designated tray for the reader to scan.
• Know the three main lines and choose the one labeled Security; longer waits may occur during peak hours, but staff and signage help keep you moving.
• Keep your passport, boarding pass, and any medical documents handy; if you have special needs, visit the service desk for extra guidance.
• If you have fragile luggage, ask a staff member before you reach the belt; some items require additional screening, and the team will assist you quickly to minimize delays.
• Showers and lounges nearby can be a welcome refresh after the screening if you have a long layover; plan a quick stop if possible and stay aware of your boarding time.
• Proactively review the customs and security offices in the terminal–Pablo and Marta are known to provide precise directions for this step.

Duty-free procedures

• Shop in the international zone and select items such as perfumes, spirits, chocolate, and gifts; keep the receipt handy for verification at the point of exit or during final boarding.
• Carry duty-free purchases through the next security check only if allowed by the airline; in some cases, you may need to present your boarding pass and the purchase receipt to a customs officer.
• Prices may be shown in USD or pesos; if paying in pesos, confirm the exact amount with the cashier to avoid surprises during checkout.
• For connections with airlines like Lufthansa, ensure that your carry-on and duty-free items comply with transfer rules; the staff can confirm whether items stay with you or are re-checked at a transfer point.
• If you plan to ship purchases to your home country, check the service options at the duty-free office and confirm any possible tax exemptions or limits before you leave the store.
• Note the local context: some expats prefer to buy larger items in Bogota’s town centers or online; if you need help choosing, staff at the duty-free office can explain the best options for your itinerary.

Prohibited items and quick checks: firearms, ammunition, explosives, and large quantities of powders or liquids beyond allowed limits are not permitted in carry-on; always declare any item that might fall under customs control. If you carry prescription medicines, keep the original packaging and a copy of your doctor’s note; the customs office can advise on any required documentation. Any item that looks suspicious will be diverted for additional screening, so stay calm and follow the directions of security personnel.

Ground Transportation from BOG: Taxis, Rideshare, Shuttles, and Travel Times to Downtown

Take an official airport taxi from the arrivals curb to downtown; it’s the fastest and most predictable option after land. Your taxi arrives curbside, and the ride heads straight toward La Candelaria, typically landing you in 25–40 minutes depending on traffic. March days can be busier, so plan for longer during peak hours. If your check-in is early, consider booking ahead to lock in a fixed pickup that aligns with your departure and avoids delays at the post-arrival desk.

Taxis from El Dorado

Use only the official taxi stands outside Terminal 1. Taxis run on meters, and typical rates to downtown range around 60,000–80,000 COP in daylight and can reach 90,000 COP or more at night or during heavy traffic. A curbside arrival means you’ll enter the route immediately, with the north side curb often used for departures and pick-ups. Cash is common, but some drivers may accept cards–confirm before starting. If you withdraw cash at an ATM in the terminal, you’ll have local currency ready for tips or occasional surcharges. The route is known to be straightforward, and drivers usually speak brief English; you’ll want to have your destination name (for example, the hotel or a central landmark) written down or entered in the app for clarity. Official taxis are the easiest option for post-arrival comfort and reliability, and they typically arrive within minutes after you exit baggage claim.

Rideshare and Shuttles to Downtown

Rideshare options such as Beat and Didi operate from the arrivals area, with pickup points shown in-app and at the curb. Booked rides typically offer a predictable price and a relaxed checkout, which helps if you’re heading to a specific check-in time or a long route toward the north side or a named hotel district. Expect travel times similar to taxis–roughly 25–45 minutes, longer during heavy traffic or on busy departure days when arrival halls are crowded. For early departures or post-arrival plans, booking in advance reduces wait times and keeps you on schedule. If your itinerary includes a connection to quito or santiago, coordinate the ground leg carefully and allow extra time for potential delays; always verify departure windows in-app and with your hotel shuttle provider. Hotel shuttles offer a convenient option for guests with pre-arranged pickup; these shuttles have routes that commonly cover popular downtown hotels and some outlying districts, but you’ll typically need to book ahead and review the posted schedules for the exact route and departures. Skytrax reviews are often consulted by travelers for airport service context, but real-time app updates provide the latest pickup locations and rates. When you land, enter your destination and land-time details in the app to get an updated estimate, and head to the dedicated ground-transport area to meet your driver. If you arrive post a long-haul flight and have lounge access, you can wait in lounges while waiting for your transfer, which can make the transition easier. For those who require flexibility, frequent shuttle options and ride-share pickups allow you to adjust plans on the fly, and they’re typically easier to book than coordinating a private transfer. For departures, verify the exact curb and pickup window in the app to avoid delays, and keep your booking reference handy so you can enter the queue quickly.

Money, Connectivity, and Communication: ATMs, Currency Exchange, SIM Cards, and Wi‑Fi

Begin your arrival by securing pesos at official ATMs in the eldorado complex and heading to a licensed currency desk to handle needed cash. At eldorado, you’ll find ATMs in both terminal zones, often from Bancolombia, Davivienda, or Banco de Bogotá. They provide COP cash with prompts in a couple of languages; compare the posted withdrawal limits and fees before taking money. Notes: avoid street exchangers outside the airport and check-in desks lines that might cause delays. Your trip began with a quick ATM withdrawal and a calm start at the airport can set the tone for the day.

Purchase a local SIM to stay online from the moment you land. Kiosks for Claro, Tigo, and Movistar are scattered in the arrivals area and near the check-in zones. Bring your passport for activation; a basic plan with 3–5 GB usually costs COP 15,000–35,000, and larger bundles up to 10–20 GB are common for COP 40,000–70,000. If your device supports eSIM, you might save time by activating digitally; some carriers provide immediate provisioning at the counter. Verify data volume and expiration date to avoid being charged for unused days. This is especially helpful for colombias travelers who want a quick tour and directions.

Wi‑Fi is free throughout the terminals, but speeds slow during peak hours. Wi‑Fi is free in all public zones; sign in with your phone number or email as requested. The connection supports maps, messaging, and quick searches for transit options while you plan your next move. While you wait for your first coffee, you’ll appreciate being online for a fast planning session.

When dealing with currency, use the desks near Arrivals and check-in; the printed notes show the official rate and fees; some desks sold multi-currency packs to simplify exchange. The provided information can change, so always read the notes on the rate board before committing. If you find a desk with unfriendly staff or unusual rates, move on to another option. This approach helps you avoid surprises and keep your budget on track.

Avoid dealing with scammers outside official desks. Stick to licensed counters; ask for a written receipt; when you see a high-pressure pitch in the corridor, pause and walk away. The airport staff can point you to the right place, and keeping your cash and cards safe makes the wait in line more comfortable.

Transmilenio and taxis are practical for budget travelers. Inside the airport, you can access a Transmilenio feeder or book a taxi to downtown; during higher volume hours, the bus lines can extend your travel time. If you’re heading to a hotel or starting a city tour, allow extra time to reach your pickup point and avoid rushing between connections.

Travelers arriving from madrid a lauderdale will find a familiar setup: ATMs, currency desks, SIM kiosks, and free Wi‑Fi. If you’re continuing to medellíns neighborhoods, your data plan and peso cash travel with you; a good SIM keeps you connected for maps and transit. For those taking a prohlídka of the city, plan extra time at check-in and a buffer for queues while you set up transit options.

FD-258 Fingerprinting for International Adoptions: Obtaining, Completing, and Submitting to the FBI

Get an official FD-258 fingerprint card from an approved vendor and schedule your ink or live-scan fingerprinting now; this step will determine the timeliness of your FBI background check for international adoption. If you’re in toronto or york-area cycles, choose a certified site that specifically supports international adoption cases to avoid delays. Plan for a modest price range, and verify that the service is public, reputable, and not a scam; this helps you skip potential scammers and unnecessary queues.

Obtain the card, then verify you have the correct identifying details before you arrive. Bring a valid photo ID, your agency’s reference number, and any required agency forms so you can complete the card on site. In addition to the FD-258, carry any supporting documents your adoption case requires; the information you provide will be used to match records later, so accuracy matters. If you own an estate or hold property, ensure the name on the card matches your legal documents to prevent a problem with the record linkage. Some centers offer donuts or light snacks in the public waiting areas, which can ease the wait during long queues.

During fingerprinting, the technician will guide you through filing the prints on the floor or table, ensure proper ink coverage or digital capture with the wingo device, and remind you not to sign the card until prints are verified. If you are exchanging information with multiple agencies or if your case involves multiple family members, request separate FD-258 cards for each person to avoid subsequent mix-ups. From a logistical standpoint, aim to complete this step well before your flight, since departures and travel schedules can complicate later steps; some families coordinate with airlines to align travel with appointment times to prevent missed opportunities.

What to bring to your fingerprint appointment

Bring your government-issued photo ID, the FD-258 card, your adoption agency’s case number, and any required local forms; arrive early to reduce public-venue delays. If you are in mexico or salvador arrangements, confirm the exact submission method with your agency before you go, since some locations use different vendors or processing timelines. Have a backup plan in case the appointment runs late or you need to reschedule; this reduces stress when coordinating with your agency and the FBI submission window.

Submitting and tracking your FBI submission

Submit fingerprints via the FBI Identity History Summary system, using the approved channel recommended by your agency; you will be told whether you should mail the results or submit them electronically through a vendor like IdentoGO. Once submitted, expect a processing window that varies by method; online submissions typically move faster than mailed copies, and international cases often require additional verification steps. The FBI notification will indicate when the record is ready, which lets you plan subsequent steps in your adoption timeline. Depending on the backlog, processing goes smoothly if you keep agencies informed and maintain clear, legal documentation; this is especially important for families exchanging information with partners across borders, including those in signs like public records or legal documents. If you need help at any point, contact the agency that asked for the background check and keep a record of prices paid for services, as some providers surface added charges or fees. Thanks to careful preparation, you can proceed with confidence while your next steps–departures for interviews, home studies, and finalizations–remain on track. You will know when your record is ready to be submitted to the FBI, and your next steps will be clearly defined, whether you are coordinating from new york, toronto, or other international locations. Some families also request a copy for their records, which helps if you need to exchange information with a legal representative or an immigration authority in mexico, el salvador, or other countries involved in the adoption process.