San Andrés - Discovering Colombia

Travelling to San Andrés

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in San Andrés, a pretty good destination in Colombia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to San Andrés and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around San Andrés, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Colombia, here's everything to know about San Andrés for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to San Andrés

San Andrés is a Colombian island located in the Caribbean Sea, about 700 km north of the mainland. It is part of a group of islands known as the San Andrés archipelago, which also includes Providencia and Santa Catalina. San Andrés has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. Its main industries are tourism and fishing, and the island is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters. The population is predominantly of Afro-Caribbean descent, with a mix of English, Spanish, and Creole spoken on the island. San Andrés is a popular destination for those looking to snorkel, scuba dive, or relax on the beach.

What to visit in San Andrés

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in San Andrés, Colombia and a brief description for each: 1. Playa de San Luis - This is a beautiful beach with crystal clear waters and golden sands. It's a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
2. El Acuario - This is a small island located just off the coast of San Andrés. It's home to a large number of marine animals and is a popular spot for snorkeling.
3. La Loma - This is a small hill located in the center of San Andrés. It offers beautiful views of the island and is a popular spot for hiking.
4. Morgan's Cave - This cave is named after the infamous pirate, Henry Morgan, who supposedly used it as a hideout. It's a popular tourist spot and is filled with interesting history and legends.
5. Hoyo Soplador - This is a natural blowhole that shoots water up to 20 meters into the air. It's a popular spot for tourists to watch and take photos.
6. Johnny Cay - This small island is located just off the coast of San Andrés and is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. It's also known for its beautiful coral reefs.
7. West View - This is a natural swimming pool located on the western side of San Andrés. It's a popular spot for tourists to swim and snorkel.
8. Sound Bay - This is a beautiful bay located on the northern side of San Andrés. It's a popular spot for kayaking and fishing.
Overall, San Andrés offers a variety of activities and attractions for tourists of all ages and interests. From beautiful beaches and islands to historic landmarks and natural wonders, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Colombia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in San Andrés.

When to go on holiday to San Andrés

The best time to visit San Andrés, Colombia is generally from December to April, during the dry season. The weather is typically warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities like snorkeling and swimming. However, keep in mind that this is also the high tourist season, so prices may be higher and the island may be crowded. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and have a more budget-friendly trip, consider visiting during the low season from May to November. Though this is the rainy season, the weather is still warm and hotels may offer lower rates.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to San Andrés

There are several ways to get to San Andrés, Colombia.
1. By Air: San Andrés has its own international airport, Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport, which receives flights from major cities in Colombia and other countries such as Panama, Costa Rica, and Mexico. You can check with airlines such as Avianca, Viva Air Colombia, and LATAM for flights to San Andrés.
2. By Sea: You can also travel to San Andrés by sea. Ferry services operate between San Andrés and Providencia islands in Colombia as well as Bocagrande in Cartagena.
3. By land, air and sea: From other cities in Colombia, you can reach San Andrés by taking a flight to Bogotá, Medellin or Cali then a connecting flight to San Andrés, or by taking a bus to Cartagena then taking the ferry to San Andres. Make sure to check the latest travel and health advisories before planning your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit San Andrés, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in San Andrés

Sure, here's a list of typical foods you can find in San Andrés, Colombia along with a brief description of each: 1. Rondón: A popular dish made with fish, yams, plantains, and coconut milk. It's similar to a stew and has a spicy kick to it.
2. Crab Stew: Made with crab meat, coconut milk, vegetables, and spices. This dish is creamy, flavorful, and has a slightly sweet taste.
3. Conch Fritters: Made with conch meat, flour, eggs, and seasoning. These fritters are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and a popular appetizer.
4. Patacones: Fried green plantains that are served as a side dish or snack. They're crunchy, savory, and are often topped with cheese or a dipping sauce.
5. Coconut Bread: A sweet bread made with coconut milk, sugar, and flour. This soft and fluffy bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
6. Seafood Arepas: A variation of the popular Colombian arepas made with corn flour and filled with seafood, such as shrimp or crab meat.
7. Pan de Coco: A sweet bread made with coconut milk and grated coconut. It's often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
8. Rice and Beans: A side dish made with red beans, rice, and spices. This dish is often served with seafood or meat.
9. Fried Fish: A popular dish in San Andrés made with fresh fish, deep-fried until crispy and served with either rice, plantains, or salad.
10. Suero: A drink made with fermented milk, sugar, and cinnamon. This refreshing drink is perfect to accompany any dish.
You can find general info about typical foods in Colombia here.

Is San Andrés an expensive destination for tourists?

San Andrés is known to be slightly more expensive than other destinations in Colombia due to its location and the fact that most products and supplies need to be imported from the mainland. However, prices can vary depending on the season and the type of activities you plan to do. Accommodations and food can be found in a wide range of prices, from budget to luxury options. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before booking anything to ensure you get the best deal possible.

Where to find accomodation in San Andrés

San Andrés, Colombia offers a variety of accommodation options to choose from for your trip. The best areas to look for accommodations would be: 1. El Centro: This is the downtown area of San Andrés, and it is close to many attractions, beaches, and restaurants.
2. Punta Hansa: This area is also known for its beaches and restaurants, has a lively nightlife scene, and is home to many shops and boutiques.
3. San Luis: This is a quieter area of the island and is where you can find many villas, guesthouses, and apartments. San Luis is known for its gorgeous beaches and peaceful atmosphere.
4. La Loma: This is an excellent area if you're looking for a more authentic experience. It's situated in the middle of the island and offers a unique insight into the local culture. La Loma is home to many small guesthouses, hotels, and bed & breakfasts.
You can check hotel prices at San Andrés here:
Booking.com

Is San Andrés a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, San Andrés is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, it is important to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, not leaving your valuables unattended, and avoiding walking alone at night in unlit areas. It is also important to be aware of any local laws and customs, as well as any potential scams targeted towards tourists. It is always a good idea to keep your travel documents and emergency contact information on hand in case of an unexpected event.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Colombia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting San Andrés.

What type of travelers will enjoy San Andrés the most?

San Andrés, Colombia can be enjoyed by all types of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun, and families. - Couples will enjoy the beautiful beaches and romantic sunsets, as well as the opportunity to go on a private island-hopping tour, scuba dive or snorkel together, or take a sunset sailboat ride.
- Young people looking for fun will find plenty of lively bars and nightclubs, as well as many water sports activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing.
- Families will appreciate the island's many family-friendly attractions, such as the Aquarium, the Splash Park, and the San Luis Beach, as well as the natural beauty of the island, which offers opportunities for beachcombing, nature hikes, and family-friendly boat rides. Overall, San Andrés provides a variety of options that can cater to the diverse interests of different types of travelers.

How to get around San Andrés

The most common transportation options to move around San Andrés are taxis, minibusses, scooters, and golf carts. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the street or booked through an app. Minibusses operate on fixed routes and are usually crowded, but they are an affordable option to consider. Scooters and golf carts can be rented from various agencies around the island, and they are a fun way to explore the island at your own pace. Additionally, bicycles can also be rented in some places.

What to see around San Andrés

There are many beautiful places that you can visit in a day trip from San Andrés. Here are some of the popular ones: 1. Johnny Cay: This small island located just off the coast of San Andrés is known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear water.
2. Acuario and Haynes Cay: These two small coral atolls are equally popular with tourists who come to enjoy the amazing snorkeling opportunities and breathtaking scenery.
3. San Luis Beach: This beautiful beach is located on the east coast of San Andrés and is one of the most picturesque beaches on the island. The shallow water is ideal for swimming and the white sand is perfect for lounging under the sun.
4. Rocky Cay: This small island is located off the coast of the San Luis area and is known for its beautiful coral formations, snorkeling opportunities, and pristine beaches.
5. Morgan’s Cave: This underground cave is located on the western side of the island and is filled with stalactites and stalagmites, as well as fascinating history about the famous English pirate, Henry Morgan.
6. La Piscinita: This natural pool is located on the eastern side of the island and offers a great opportunity to swim with colorful fish and other marine life.
7. La Loma: This small village located in the center of San Andrés Island offers a glimpse of the local way of life, traditional houses, and beautiful views of the surrounding area.
8. Big Pond: This freshwater lake located on the island offers visitors a peaceful and scenic place to relax, swim, or kayak.
For every travel information about Colombia you can click here.

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