If you’re flying internationally from Colombia, you might be wondering whether the Medellin lounge options are worth your time.
As someone who’s visited countless airport lounges around the world — from British Airways Premium Economy check-in perks to Quito Salas VIP lounge– their gold standard — I had modest expectations for the Salas VIP Medellin Lounge at Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (MDE).
The truth? The Medellin lounge scene may not be as flashy as some major airports, but this one offers just enough comfort, amenities, and solid Wi-Fi to make your travel day better.
If you’re holding a Priority Pass (especially through something like the Aeroplan AMEX credit card), you’ll want to know what this Salas vip lounge has to offer — and what it lacks.
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Medellin Airport Lounge Location at MDE
The Salas VIP Medellín Lounge is located airside in the international terminal of MDE, near gates 9 and 10. I was checking it out early in the morning after a surprisingly great stay at Reserva Sajonia Soy Local, a nearby airport boutique hotel that completely exceeded expectations.
With a private soaker hot tub and a BBQ terrace overlooking lush greenery, it hardly felt like an airport stay at all. I’ve shared a full breakdown of the experience in my detailed review of Reserva Sajonia Soy Local, but in short — it’s one of the most relaxing pre-flight stays I’ve had in Latin America.
Rolling from a quiet, comfortable sleep straight into lounge mode set the tone for a smooth departure day.
Medellín’s airport is relatively small, which makes navigation refreshingly simple. Clear signage leads you directly to the VIP Medellín space. From clearing customs to lounge check-in, I was seated and connected to Wi-Fi in under 15 minutes — an impressive stat that mirrors my experience at the Quito Salas VIP lounge.
Who Can Access the Salas VIP Medellin Lounge?
Access to this Medellin lounge is open to travelers with Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or DragonPass memberships. Walk-in entry is also available for around $30-35 USD, but this varies by time and availability.
My entrance was complimentary thanks to my 6 annual lounge passes through Visa Companion, included with the TD Aeroplan Infinite Privilege card. Interestingly, flying Copa Business Class didn’t grant me access — a reminder that airline class doesn’t always unlock lounge doors.
With Copa’s lounge now permanently closed at MDE and no Star Alliance presence in the international terminal aside from Avianca business class in the domestic area, third-party lounge access is your best bet.
First Impressions of the Medellin Lounge at MDE
After heading up the elevator and walking through the sleek sliding glass doors, I found a space that pleasantly surprised me. While not as luxe as Quito’s, this Medellin airport lounge is miles better than the cramped, outdated facilities I experienced in Mexico City.
The décor is modern with clean lines, and it feels open without being noisy. It has just enough ambiance to relax, work, or refuel without being overwhelming.
Seating and Workspaces
There’s a wide range of seating: modern loungers, leather recliners, high-top tables, and a long bench with office chairs and power outlets. Additional outlets are built into walls throughout the space. There’s also a small business center with desk-style seating for more privacy.
If you’re used to Air Canada Cafes or more fittingly, the Copa Lounges, this lounge has a similar vibe — quiet, functional, and fairly upscale for the size of the airport.
Reliable Wi-Fi and Other Lounge Amenities
One major win for this Salas VIP Medellin spot is the Wi-Fi. Unlike many lounges, the internet here actually worked — a relief, especially since my GigSky eSIM expired just hours before departure. I was able to upload photos, browse, and finalize my itinerary for 7 days in Medellin without issue.
There’s also a kids’ play area, which is a thoughtful addition. However, don’t expect runway views — the windows overlook the customs area and face the parking lot, not the tarmac. A missed opportunity, but not a dealbreaker.
Salas VIP Medellin Lounge Food and Drinks
I visited during breakfast, and the offerings were modest but in line with expectations for a Medellin airport lounge.
A cereal bar, cakes, and a fresh fruit platter gave me one last bite of Colombia — although it was nothing compared to my Medellín food tour experience with La Mesa, where every stop delivered bold local flavors and generous portions.
The QR-code menu offered hot breakfast options like scrambled eggs and huevos pericos. I skipped ordering, but others around me seemed satisfied with their simple plated meals — perfectly adequate for a pre-flight bite, even if not exactly a culinary send-off worthy of the city.
A Surprise Treat and Missed Coffee Potential
The surprise highlight? A plate of ham and pineapple quesadillas — a warm, cheesy nod that had me thinking of home. Few people realize that “Hawaiian pizza” was actually invented in Canada by Greek immigrant Sam Panopoulos in Chatham, Ontario in 1962 — something I’ve proudly referenced before when defending the controversial combo abroad. That unexpected cross-cultural mashup made for a nostalgic — and slightly ironic — farewell bite in Colombia.
Disappointingly, the coffee setup didn’t live up to the country’s reputation. There was no freshly brewed Colombian drip coffee — just a generic self-serve espresso machine.
It felt like a missed opportunity, especially after experiencing the depth and complexity of local beans during my Medellín coffee farm tour experience, where I walked through the growing, harvesting, and roasting process firsthand. Compared to sipping fresh, farm-sourced coffee in the hills outside the city, the lounge version felt like an afterthought.
Drinks and Alcohol Options
The self-serve bar had the essentials: vodka, gin, rum, mixers, and a wine selection. Bottled Colombian beer was available in the mini fridge. It was comparable to what you’d find in other Priority Pass lounges I’ve experienced, such as the Aspire Cafe at Billy Bishop Airport and the SkyTeam Lounge at YVR.
Beyond the Lounge: Make the Most of Medellin
If you’re staying the night before or after your flight, check out my guide on where to stay in Medellin near the airport. There are quiet, affordable hotels just a short ride from MDE.
Got more time? Don’t miss out on a tour through Comuna 13 or a day trip to Guatape — two incredible ways to explore the region. Even if you’ve only got 2 days in Quito or Medellin, there’s more than enough to keep you enchanted.
👉 Click here to book your day trip to Guatape
Final Thoughts: Is the Salas VIP Medellin Lounge Worth It?
For a Priority Pass lounge, this Medellin lounge checks all the essential boxes: comfortable seating, strong Wi-Fi, some food options, and a calm atmosphere. It doesn’t rival Quito’s standard, but it’s leaps ahead of the chaos I experienced in the Mexico City Salas VIP lounge.
With the added benefit of reliable internet, Priority Pass access via Aeroplan AMEX credit card, and the surprise quesadilla treat, the Salas VIP Medellin Lounge at MDE is a worthy stop before your flight. It’s not perfect, but for travelers with access, it’s a great place to reset.
Salas Medellin Lounge FAQs
Where is the Salas VIP Lounge in Medellin Airport?
It’s located in the international terminal near gates 9 and 10, just a short walk from customs.
Who can access the Salas VIP Medellin Lounge?
Access is granted through Priority Pass, LoungeKey, DragonPass, or by paying at the door. Some premium credit cards, like the Aeroplan AMEX, include access.
Does Copa Business Class include lounge access at MDE?
No. Copa’s lounge in Medellin is permanently closed, and there are no Star Alliance lounges in the international terminal.
Is food included at the Salas VIP Lounge?
Yes, there are light bites and a breakfast menu available, plus self-serve drinks.
Is it worth visiting the Salas VIP Medellin Lounge?
If you have Priority Pass, absolutely. It’s a quiet, comfortable space with good Wi-Fi and decent amenities.
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