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San Andres and Beyond
Some of Colombia’s best beaches lie 400 miles northwest of the mainland—closer to Nicaragua than Cartagena. The Colombian Caribbean islands of San Andres and Providencia are the primary islands in an archipelago that includes dozens of islets and eight atolls. Here you’ll find pristine white-sand beaches, a priceless marine habitat, and a world-class dive destination.
Much of the surrounding water, reef, and mangroves are part of the UNESCO Seaflower Biosphere Reserve—an enormous marine protected area encompassing approximately 10% of the Caribbean Sea.
San Andres
San Andres, the larger and more developed of the two islands, is less than eight miles long and two miles wide. Despite its compact size, the white sand and turquoise waters of San Andres Island seem to stretch forever.
Diving in San Andres means miles of coral reef, walls, caves, and channels, with exceptional visibility and warm water. Divers can encounter sea turtles, manta rays, eagle rays, and nurse sharks.
Providencia
Providencia is much quieter and quainter than San Andres. This tranquil Caribbean island is also differentiated by its culture. Unlike Español-dominant San Andres, Providencia’s residents are primarily Creole-speaking Raizales, tracing their heritage to Africans, Arawak-Caribs, and European settlers.
Provindencia’s friendly, laid-back atmosphere appeals to those seeking tranquility and solitude. This Caribbean Colombian island’s beautiful beaches, hidden coves, and neighboring cays offer excellent diving and snorkeling.
What to do in Colombia's Caribbean Islands
The Colombian Caribbean Islands offer world-class diving and snorkeling in warm, crystal-clear waters. Around San Andrés, divers can explore miles of coral reef, submerged walls, caves, and channels teeming with sea turtles, nurse sharks, eagle rays, and manta rays. On land, visitors can relax on white-sand beaches, surf along the island’s quieter southern shores, or escape the bustle of downtown to enjoy the tranquility of the coast. Providencia offers a more secluded atmosphere, with hidden coves and colorful coral gardens ideal for underwater exploration. With its laid-back charm and welcoming Raizal culture, Providencia is a favorite for travelers seeking solitude, natural beauty, and vibrant marine life.
What is the Weather Like?
Temperatures in the archipelago are consistent year-round, with highs near 85ºF and lows near 75ºF. Hurricane season extends from early June to the end of November, with average monthly rainfall of six to nine inches. The remainder of the year is relatively dry, with average monthly rainfall of fewer than three inches.
These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.
Getting There
San Andres is served by Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (ADZ), with direct flights from Bogotá (just over two hours), Cartagena (90 minutes), Medellín (two hours), Cali (2.5 hours), and Panama City (1.5 hours). LANDED can also arrange private charter flights.
Inter-island flights between San Andres and Providencia average 30 minutes. The catamaran ferry voyage between the islands takes about 2.5 hours.
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Colombia’s Caribbean Islands.
How to combine Colombia's Caribbean Islands
Have some extra time? Here are some options for you to combine with.
