San Andrés & Providencia
Seven colours of sea and island vibes 🌊🐠
San Andrés offers a distinct cultural experience from mainland Colombia, blending Caribbean English/Creole heritage with Latino vibes. This small island is famous for its "Sea of Seven Colors," where the water shifts through mesmerising shades of blue and green. The most popular way for families to explore is by renting a golf cart or a "mule" (a larger utility buggy). You can drive the ring road around the entire island in a few hours, stopping wherever you please. The east coast has the best beaches, while the west coast offers rugged coral cliffs and natural swimming pools like La Piscinita, where bread-fed fish swarm around swimmers in calm, deep water.
A boat trip to Johnny Cay or El Acuario is essential. The Acuario is a natural sandbank surrounded by shallow, transparent water that feels like a swimming pool. You can walk from the boat into the water and see colourful fish swimming around your feet without even needing a mask, making it perfect for young children who might be nervous about snorkelling. However, water shoes are recommended to protect against coral fragments.
For a quieter, more pristine experience, a short flight or catamaran ride connects to Providencia. This smaller island is far less developed, with no large resorts and a very laid-back atmosphere. It is ideal for families who want to disconnect and enjoy nature. The beaches here, such as Manzanillo, are often empty and backed by palm trees. Note that San Andrés is a duty-free port, so the town centre can be bustling with shoppers, but the outlying areas remain relaxed and focused on sun and sea.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Home to the world's third-largest barrier reef and the 'Sea of Seven Colors,' offering world-class diving and pristine snorkeling for sophisticated families. Peak dry months provide optimal underwater visibility and calm seas, while rainfall exceeding 150mm from May to December significantly degrades water clarity.
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
The UNESCO Seaflower Biosphere Reserve provides authentic mangrove exploration and volcanic hiking trails, especially on the secluded island of Providencia. The dry season ensures accessible trails and optimal wildlife spotting, whereas the heavy tropical downpours from June to November make the interior terrain difficult to navigate.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Exceptional conditions for world-class scuba diving and kitesurfing due to consistent trade winds and a massive, healthy reef system. Optimal safety and visibility occur during the driest months (Feb-Apr), with the intense rainy season posing logistical challenges for boat-based sports.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
A unique blend of Raizal, English, and Spanish heritage provides an authentic Afro-Caribbean cultural experience distinct from mainland Colombia. The dry season is best for exploring historical architecture and local heritage sites, as heavy tropical storms during the late year can disrupt outdoor cultural immersion.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Provides high educational value through marine conservation programs and the unique history of the Raizal people's creole language and British-influenced traditions. Ideal weather facilitates visits to research sites and national parks, while extreme precipitation in the latter half of the year limits access to these educational resources.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Offers a tranquil, slow-paced Caribbean escape with high-end boutique eco-retreats, perfect for families seeking a peaceful getaway from mass tourism. The low-humidity, sunny months of early year are ideal for outdoor wellness, whereas the high humidity and heavy rains of the monsoon season detract from the relaxing atmosphere.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
While the islands have a distinct English-Creole culture that likely includes local celebrations, there is no indication of internationally significant festivals that would draw discerning travelers specifically for this purpose. The dry season (Jan-Apr) would be the most comfortable period for experiencing any local events; May and December are shoulder months, with June-November being off-months due to less favorable weather for outdoor gatherings.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
No change needed in suitability, but this classification adds minimal value. Golf-cart circuits of a tiny island do not constitute a meaningful road trip. Consider removal entirely in future cleanup.
Attractions (38 total)
Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Avenida Circunvalar (San Andrés Ring Road)
Circular
30km paved loop road (1.5-3 hours) circling the entire island. This is the primary tourist route, offering views of the 'Sea of Seven Colors.' Key stops include the Hoyo Soplador (blowhole), West View snorkeling area, the historic San Luis neighborhood, and Rocky Cay.
Visit website →Providencia Island Ring Road
Circular
17km paved loop road (1 hour) around the mountainous island of Providencia. The route offers a quieter, more rustic experience compared to San Andrés. Major highlights include Freshwater Bay (Aguadulce), the secluded Manzanillo Bay, Southwest Bay, and views of the Old Providence McBean Lagoon National Park.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Cayo Cangrejo
Providencia
An iconic volcanic islet within a marine park, offering some of the most stunning panoramic ocean views in the Caribbean.
El Acuario and Haynes Cay
San Andrés
A natural sandbar and reef system where visitors can walk through shallow, crystal-clear waters to observe tropical fish.
The Peak
Providencia
The highest point in the archipelago, offering a family-friendly hike through tropical dry forest to a 360-degree lookout.
Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Crab Cay
Providencia
An iconic volcanic islet within a national park offering some of the best snorkeling and panoramic views of the Sea of Seven Colors.
Visit website →El Acuario
San Andrés
A natural shallow sandbar where families can walk through knee-deep crystal clear water to observe tropical fish and rays in their natural habitat.
Johnny Cay
San Andrés
A vibrant coral islet known for its white sand beaches, palm groves, and fresh seafood, accessible via a short boat ride from the main island.
Visit website →Spratt Bight
San Andrés
The main urban beach of San Andrés, offering a wide sandy shore and calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing right next to the town's promenade.
South West Bay
Providencia
The largest beach on Providencia island, offering calm waters and a peaceful environment ideal for families to swim and relax.
Manzanillo Beach
Providencia
The most famous beach on Providencia island, known for its relaxed atmosphere, golden sand, and traditional beach bars nestled under palm trees.
Rocky Cay
San Andrés
A unique beach destination where visitors can wade through shallow water to reach a small rocky island and view a nearby shipwreck.
Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
Ecoparque West View
San Andrés
A lively seaside activity center featuring a diving board, water slides, and excellent snorkeling in crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Ecofiwi
Old Providence
An eco-friendly activity center specialized in transparent kayak tours through the serene and biodiverse mangrove forests of Providencia.
Aquarium / Sea Life Centre
El Acuario (Rose Cay)
San Andrés
A natural sandbar and coral reef where visitors can walk through knee-deep turquoise water and snorkel with schools of tropical fish and stingrays.
La Piscinita
San Andrés
A natural ocean pool enclosed by coral rock formations, providing a safe environment for families to swim and feed large schools of colorful tropical fish.
West View
San Andrés
A popular ecological park and natural marine area featuring a diving board and slide that lead directly into clear waters teeming with inquisitive fish.
Old Providence McBean Lagoon National Natural Park
Providencia
A protected marine sanctuary featuring the Caribbean's third-largest barrier reef, vibrant mangroves, and exceptional sea life for guided snorkeling adventures.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
First Baptist Church
La Loma
The oldest church on the island and a symbol of Raizal culture, offering families a peaceful visit with the best panoramic views of the archipelago.
Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Johnny Cay Regional Park
San Andrés
A world-famous coral islet known for its white sand, coconut palms, and vibrant Caribbean atmosphere, representing the quintessential island landmark.
Island House Museum
San Andrés
A beautifully preserved traditional wooden house that serves as a monument to the archipelago's unique cultural heritage and colonial architecture.
Hoyo Soplador
San Andrés
An iconic natural geyser-like feature where sea waves force air and water through a coral rock vent, creating a dramatic spout.
Lovers Bridge
Providencia
This iconic, brightly colored wooden pedestrian bridge spans the turquoise waters to connect the islands of Providencia and Santa Catalina.
National Park / Nature Reserve
Rose Cay (El Acuario)
San Andrés
A natural marine area acting as a giant outdoor aquarium where visitors can walk through waist-deep transparent water to observe tropical fish and stingrays.
El Pico Natural Reserve
Providencia
The highest point on Providencia island, offering a rewarding hiking trail through tropical dry forest with panoramic views of the entire barrier reef.
Hiking & Cycling Routes
The Peak Trail (El Pico)
Bottom House, Providencia
3.5km moderate out-and-back hike reaching the highest point of the island at 360m. Typical duration is 2-3 hours. Features lush tropical vegetation and panoramic views of the Sea of Seven Colors. Guided tours are recommended and can be arranged locally in Bottom House.
Visit website →Vuelta a la Isla San Andrés (Island Loop)
San Andrés Town
30km easy cycling route circumnavigating the main island. Mostly flat with a duration of 2.5-4 hours depending on stops. The route follows the coastal road passing Hoyo Soplador and West View. Bike rental: San Andres Rent a Bike (facebook.com/SanAndresRentABike).
Visit website →Old Providence Island Loop
Santa Isabel, Providencia
17km easy cycling or walking route around the perimeter of Providencia. Features gentle hills and takes approximately 1.5-2 hours by bike. The route connects the main harbor to the beaches of Manzanillo and South West Bay. Rentals are available at most guesthouses in Santa Isabel.
Visit website →Farm Park / Petting Zoo / Rural Experience
Big Pond
San Andrés
A semi-wild rural experience where visitors can see caimans and various bird species in a tranquil freshwater lagoon setting.
Jardín Botánico de San Andrés
San Andrés
An educational botanical garden featuring native tropical flora, a sensory garden, and an observation tower offering views of the island's rural interior.
Visit website →Art Gallery / Fine Art Museum
Centro Cultural del Banco de la República
San Andrés
The island's premier cultural institution featuring rotating art exhibitions, a Raizal heritage library, and interactive spaces for children.
Visit website →Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Fort Warwick
Santa Catalina
The ruins of a 17th-century fortification on a hill featuring old iron cannons and panoramic views of the turquoise Caribbean waters.
Casa Museo Isleña
San Andrés
A well-preserved historic wooden house that showcases the traditional architecture, lifestyle, and history of the native Raizal people.
First Baptist Church of La Loma
San Andrés
The oldest church on the island, this historic wooden structure sits at the highest point of San Andrés and offers cultural insight and hilltop views.
Morgan's Cave
San Andrés
A pirate-themed historic site featuring a coral cave where legend says Henry Morgan hid treasure, accompanied by a small museum and a replica ship.
Science Museum / Natural History Museum / Discovery Centre
Botanical Garden of San Andrés
San Andrés
An 8-hectare scientific and educational park featuring diverse tropical flora, nature trails, and a 12-meter observation tower with panoramic island views.
Visit website →Zoo / Wildlife Park / Safari Park
Old Point Regional Mangrove Park
San Andrés
An ecological sanctuary with wooden boardwalks through mangrove forests, ideal for spotting iguanas, crabs, and tropical birds.
Visit website →Botanical Garden / Formal Gardens
San Andrés Botanical Garden
San Andrés
An eight-hectare ecological park managed by the National University of Colombia, featuring native flora and a 12-meter observation tower with island views.
Visit website →