Colonia Express

Colonia Express is a high-speed ferry service operating between Buenos Aires' La Boca district and Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay. The crossing takes about one hour across the Rio de la Plata, offering views of the river's muddy waters and occasional wildlife. The terminal in Buenos Aires is conveniently located near the historic La Boca neighborhood, known for its colorful houses and tango street performances. The service is popular for day trips to Colonia, a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, Portuguese and Spanish colonial architecture, and a lighthouse. Onboard, passengers enjoy comfortable seating, air conditioning, and a small café. The ferry runs multiple times daily, making it easy to plan a visit.

Don't miss

• Scenic one-hour ferry ride across the Rio de la Plata
• Convenient terminal in La Boca, close to Caminito street and Boca Juniors stadium
• Day trips to Colonia del Sacramento's historic quarter (UNESCO site)
• Onboard café with snacks and drinks
• Frequent departures for flexible scheduling

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Colonia Express

Cheapest way inRecoleta Cemetery Walking Tour4.9★ · 752 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →Most bookedLocal Foodie Adventure in Buenos Aires with Sherpa Food Tours5★ · 8,034 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$93 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleDiscover the Best of Buenos Aires on a Full-Day Private Tour5★ · 167 travelers7–8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$160 per personSee dates →

Good for

How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Bring a valid passport. Argentine and Uruguayan citizens may use national ID. Non-Mercosur visitors need a passport.
• Carry Uruguayan pesos or US dollars for Colonia. Credit cards are accepted in most places.
• Baggage limit is 25 kg per person. Excess baggage fees apply.
• Seasickness is rare but possible. Take motion sickness medication if prone.

A bit of history

Colonia Express began operations in 2003, providing a faster alternative to the older Buquebus ferries. The company has since become a key link between Argentina and Uruguay, serving over a million passengers annually. Its terminal in La Boca was renovated in 2010 to improve passenger flow and security.