Popular airlines

How much is the cheapest flight to Santa Elena?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $37 for one-way flights and $74 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Jetsmart SPA
LATAM Airlines Group
avianca
Arajet
Copa

Alternative airports near Santa Elena

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight to Santa Elena

Flights to Santa Elena at a glance

Traveling to Santa Elena is easy—simply select from a variety of full-service or budget airlines, compare travel times, and choose the option that best fits your budget and schedule to explore the city's iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near Santa Elena: José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH)
  • Closest airport to Santa Elena: José María Córdova International Airport, MDE (around 6 miles)
  • Flights per week: 1,350+ flights arriving across Santa Elena airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Santa Elena: around 20+ carriers

Popular airports near Santa Elena

Santa Elena is a charming village ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking eco-friendly getaways. Visitors flock to Santa Elena for its family-friendly atmosphere, outdoor activities, urban experiences, business opportunities, and sustainable tourism. The village is conveniently accessible via two major airports.

  • José María Córdova International Airport (MDE): Situated in Antioquia, roughly 6 miles from Santa Elena, this airport facilitates both domestic and international travel, linking over 15 domestic cities and 125+ international locations. Travelers can opt for premium economy or business class seats for enhanced comfort on various airlines, including Avianca, Copa, and American Airlines.
  • Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH): Found in Antioquia, approximately 6 miles from Santa Elena, this airport caters exclusively to domestic flights. The primary airline operating here is APG Airlines, providing essential connections for regional travel.

Top routes to Santa Elena

  • Miami (MIA) to Santa Elena (MDE), with one-way fares starting at around $130
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Santa Elena (MDE), with one-way fares starting at around $160
  • San Juan (SJU) to Santa Elena (MDE), with one-way flights starting at around $95
  • Bogota (BOG) to Santa Elena (MDE), with one-way airfare from around $45
  • Cartagena (CTG) to Santa Elena (MDE), with one-way fares starting at around $50

Cheapest routes to Santa Elena

  • Monteria (MTR) to Santa Elena (MDE), with cheap one-way fares from around $40
  • Cali (CLO) to Santa Elena (MDE), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
  • Bogota (BOG) to Santa Elena (MDE), with low one-way fares from around $45
  • Cucuta (CUC) to Santa Elena (MDE), with low one-way fares from around $45
  • Barranquilla (BAQ) to Santa Elena (MDE), with low one-way fares from around $45

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Santa Elena

  • Avianca: Operates flights to José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), responsible for about 27% of the arrivals to Santa Elena. The typical one-way fare hovers around $300, and premium cabin options may feature business class, depending on the specific route.
  • Copa: Connects to José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), contributing roughly 21% of arrivals to Santa Elena. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of about $280, with premium cabins possibly including business class based on the route.
  • American Airlines: Flies into José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) and accounts for approximately 16% of arrivals to Santa Elena. The average one-way fare is around $380, and travelers may find business class available as a premium service on select routes.
  • JetSmart: Services José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), making up about 8% of arrivals to Santa Elena. This airline typically offers low fares, with average one-way tickets priced at around $110.
  • JetBlue Airways: Flies to José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), contributing roughly 7% of arrivals to Santa Elena. The average one-way fare is approximately $270, and premium cabin options may include premium economy, depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Santa Elena

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Santa Elena are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Santa Elena can reach up to 64.8°F in February. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 64.4°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $212), roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? March, October, and February offer average one-way fares of around $228, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$245
February64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$230
March64.6°F (18.1°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately High$226
April64.6°F (18.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$240
May64.4°F (18.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately Low$233
June64.2°F (17.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverage$234
July64.4°F (18.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverage$249
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverage$233
September64.4°F (18.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately Low$212
October63.1°F (17.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately Low$228
November63.0°F (17.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$234
December63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$323

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Santa Elena

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Santa Elena is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Santa Elena hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Santa Elena flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Santa Elena

Santa Elena welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Santa Elena efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From José María Córdova International Airport, Rionegro Bus Station, a bus station, is located about 7.7 miles away by car, providing convenient access for travelers heading into the city.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Santa Elena, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Santa Elena is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Santa Elena on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Santa Elena

  • El Poblado: El Poblado is located 8 miles drive away from Santa Elena and is a vibrant neighborhood known for its family-friendly atmosphere and bustling city life. Visitors flock to this area for its array of shopping centers, spas, and urban parks. Key highlights include Lleras Park, which offers a relaxing outdoor space, the upscale Golden Mile featuring chic boutiques and eateries, and EAFIT University, a modern educational institution that adds to the neighborhood's lively ambiance.
  • Los Nomos: Los Nomos is located 2 miles drive away from Santa Elena and is a charming village that attracts travelers seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Popular activities include golf at the local courses and rejuvenating body treatments. Notable landmarks in Los Nomos include the historic Silletero Monument, which showcases the region's rich cultural heritage, as well as scenic parks and soothing hot springs, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
  • El Rosario: El Rosario is located 3 miles drive away from Santa Elena and offers a delightful mix of art and nature for visitors. The neighborhood features Botero Plaza, a captivating sculpture garden ideal for family outings, alongside Arvi Park, a beautiful nature reserve perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Additionally, Parque el Mirador is a welcoming dog park, making it a great spot for pet owners to unwind and socialize.

Tips for short-haul flights to Santa Elena

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more cost-effective. Maximize space by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your largest clothing items, and coordinating outfits. This strategy also allows you to bypass waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Santa Elena

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for long flights, choosing your seat in advance is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may allow seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security procedures, and immigration.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at your gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival location to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Santa Elena?
The cheapest month to fly to Santa Elena is August when demand is low. Off-peak months are typically when you'll find cheap fares. To save money, steer clear of flying during school breaks and public holidays.
Which US cities fly direct to Santa Elena?
Direct flights are a great way to take the hassle out of travel. When you browse on Expedia, check "Direct flights only" and we'll show you the direct options to fly to Santa Elena.
How to find a cheap flight to Santa Elena?
Making travel plans in the low season and booking ahead of time are two of the best ways to secure cheap flights to Santa Elena. Or, consider flying on a Thursday, which is on average 16% cheaper than leaving on a Sunday.* Want to be the first to know as soon as fares drop? Just set up price tracking on the Expedia app for real-time updates.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Santa Elena?
Although booking in advance is generally the easiest way to save cash, don't panic if your Santa Elena vacation is last minute. It's still possible to find cheap flights to Santa Elena, especially if your plans have some flexibility. Try switching up your travel dates, exploring different ticket types or departing from another hub.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Santa Elena?
To pick up some of the biggest savings on domestic journeys, book your flight to Santa Elena 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, it's between two and four months in advance. This increases your chances of getting your preferred departure times and seats.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Santa Elena?
You'll save an average of 8% if you buy plane tickets on a Sunday instead of Fridays, which tend to be the priciest day to book.* When it comes to snapping up a cheap flight to Santa Elena, it's all about having good timing.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Santa Elena?
Santa Elena has connections to 32 airports globally through 12 carriers, with Jose Maria Cordova Intl. Airport (MDE) as its chief gateway. Select from these leading airlines to Santa Elena when planning your trip:

  • AVIANCA
  • LATAM Airlines
  • Copa Airlines
  • Wingo

Where do you fly into Santa Elena?
Jose Maria Cordova Intl. Airport (MDE) is the main hub for travelers flying to Santa Elena. Or you could jet into Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH). Compare fares between the two airports to find the easiest or cheapest way to fly to Santa Elena.
How far is the airport from central Santa Elena?
You'll be around 6 mi southeast of the center of Santa Elena after touching down at Jose Maria Cordova Intl. Airport (MDE).
Can I save money by booking a Santa Elena trip package?
Bundle your flights and accommodations and you could save hundreds of dollars. What's more, you can add extras like activities and car rentals to your Santa Elena flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's easy to manage all your Santa Elena travel arrangements in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Santa Elena?
It's usually possible to change or cancel your flight to Santa Elena. Many airlines let you cancel your flights for free within 24 hours of making your booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may issue you credit for future flights rather than a direct refund. To get affordable flights to Santa Elena with flexible change policies, select the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters during your search. Looking for more information? Check out our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
José María Córdova Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
MDE
Destination city name
Medellín
Roundtrip price
$196

Trending flights to Santa Elena

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $37 for one-way flights and $74 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Arajet

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