catamaran san andres to providencia

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Travel Tips

How To Get From San Andres To Providencia – Flights + Ferry Options

Published: September 15, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Gretna Daly

Central & South America
Hotel Reviews
Travel Destinations
Travel Guide

Introduction:

Planning a trip to the beautiful Colombian islands of San Andres and Providencia? One of the key considerations when traveling between these two paradisiacal destinations is figuring out the best mode of transportation. With options that include flights and ferries, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision.

San Andres and Providencia are both stunning Caribbean islands located off the coast of Nicaragua. San Andres is the larger and more developed of the two, known for its pristine white sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lively nightlife. On the other hand, Providencia offers a quieter and more secluded experience, with its untouched natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Now, let’s explore the various options available to travel from San Andres to Providencia. Whether you prefer the convenience and speed of a flight or the adventure of a ferry ride, we’ll discuss everything you need to know to make the right choice for your journey.

San Andres and Providencia Overview:

San Andres and Providencia are two enchanting islands in the Caribbean Sea, each offering a unique experience for travelers seeking a tropical getaway.

San Andres, the larger of the two islands, is a vibrant destination with a bustling atmosphere. It boasts a mix of Colombian and Jamaican culture, resulting in a distinct blend of food, music, and traditions. The island is famous for its stunning beaches, such as Playa Spratt Bight and San Luis Beach, where visitors can bask in the sun and take in the breathtaking views of turquoise waters.

Aside from its natural beauty, San Andres offers a plethora of activities to keep visitors entertained. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can explore the colorful coral reefs surrounding the island, teeming with marine life. Water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing are also popular among thrill-seekers. For those interested in history and culture, a visit to La Loma, the island’s oldest settlement, is a must.

On the other hand, Providencia is a quieter and more laid-back island, perfect for those seeking tranquility and seclusion. This hidden gem is known for its untouched natural landscapes, including the UNESCO-protected Old Providence McBean Lagoon National Natural Park. The park offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and getting up close to the island’s unique flora and fauna.

Providencia is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, such as Manzanillo and Southwest Bay Beach. Relaxing in a hammock in the shade of palm trees and enjoying the gentle ocean breeze is the ideal way to unwind on this charming island.

Both San Andres and Providencia provide a range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to cozy guesthouses. Each island has its own local cuisine, influenced by African, European, and Caribbean flavors. Whether you have a taste for fresh seafood, tropical fruits, or traditional Colombian dishes, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings on both islands.

Now that you have a glimpse of what San Andres and Providencia have to offer, let’s move on to exploring the transportation options available to travel between these two paradisiacal destinations.

Flight Options from San Andres to Providencia:

When it comes to traveling from San Andres to Providencia, flying is the most convenient and time-efficient option. There are several airlines that operate direct flights between the two islands, making it a hassle-free journey for travelers.

One of the main airlines that offers flights between San Andres and Providencia is Satena. They operate daily flights with a short duration of approximately 20 minutes, making it a quick and efficient way to reach your destination. The flights are typically small, accommodating around 20 passengers, which adds to the unique experience of flying in a small aircraft.

Another airline that provides flights between the two islands is Searca. They also offer daily flights, ensuring that travelers have flexibility in choosing the most convenient departure time.

It’s worth mentioning that flight schedules may vary depending on the season and demand, so it’s advisable to check the availability and book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred travel dates.

When booking your flight, it’s important to consider luggage restrictions, as some airlines have limitations on the weight and size of baggage. It’s recommended to inquire about these details beforehand to avoid any surprises on the day of your departure.

Overall, flying from San Andres to Providencia is a comfortable and efficient option for travelers who value convenience and want to maximize their time on the islands. The short flight duration allows you to reach your destination quickly, giving you more time to explore the natural wonders and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Providencia.

Ferry Options from San Andres to Providencia:

If you’re in the mood for a more adventurous and scenic journey, taking a ferry from San Andres to Providencia is an alternative option to consider. While it may take longer than flying, the ferry ride offers a unique experience and allows travelers to take in the beauty of the Caribbean Sea.

There are a few ferry companies that operate between San Andres and Providencia, and they offer different schedules and services. The most popular and well-known ferry service is called “Catamaran Miss Elizabeth”. This catamaran ferry operates several times a week, and the journey from San Andres to Providencia takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on weather conditions and sea currents. Be sure to check the ferry schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly.

The ferry ride is a great option for travelers who enjoy being on the water and want to soak up the coastal views during their journey. The catamaran provides comfortable seating and amenities onboard, including refreshments and restrooms, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable trip for passengers.

It’s important to note that the ferry schedule may vary, especially during the off-peak season, so it’s advisable to confirm the departure and arrival times closer to your travel dates. Additionally, as the ferry can be affected by weather conditions, it’s recommended to check the weather forecast before embarking on your trip.

While the ferry ride may take longer compared to flying, it offers a more relaxed and scenic way to reach Providencia. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want to take their time and appreciate the beauty of the Caribbean Sea, as well as those who may have a fear of flying.

Whether you choose to fly or take the ferry, both options provide an opportunity to explore and discover the wonders of Providencia, making it an unforgettable experience.

Comparison of Flights and Ferry:

When deciding on the best mode of transportation from San Andres to Providencia, it’s important to consider the factors that are most important to you: convenience, speed, comfort, and the overall travel experience. Here’s a comparison of flights and ferry to help you make the right choice:

Duration: Flights from San Andres to Providencia have a short duration of approximately 20 minutes, ensuring a quick and efficient journey. On the other hand, the ferry ride takes around 3 to 4 hours, providing a more leisurely and scenic experience.
Convenience: Flying is generally considered more convenient, as it allows for a faster and direct route between the islands. The flights operate daily, offering flexibility in choosing departure times that suit your schedule. The ferry, while slower, offers a unique and adventurous experience for those who enjoy being on the water.
Comfort: Flights on small aircraft between San Andres and Providencia may be a bit cramped, accommodating around 20 passengers. However, the short duration makes it bearable. The ferry, on the other hand, provides comfortable seating and onboard amenities, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the journey.
Schedule and Availability: Flights have a more reliable and frequent schedule, making it easier to plan your trip in advance. On the other hand, ferry schedules may vary, especially during the off-peak season, so it’s important to check the availability and adjust your travel plans accordingly.
Scenic Views: If you appreciate the beauty of the ocean and prefer a slower pace, the ferry offers picturesque views of the Caribbean Sea and the opportunity to take in the coastal scenery. The flight, while quick, may not provide as much opportunity to enjoy the scenic views.

Ultimately, the choice between flying and taking the ferry depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you value convenience and want to reach Providencia quickly, flying is the ideal option. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more relaxed journey and want to enjoy the coastal views, the ferry provides a unique travel experience.

Consider the factors that are most important to you, such as time, comfort, and the overall travel experience, and make the decision that best suits your needs. Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, both flights and ferry rides offer their own charms and will lead you to the tropical paradise of Providencia.

Conclusion:

Choosing the best mode of transportation from San Andres to Providencia depends on your preferences, priorities, and the experience you desire for your journey. Whether you opt for a quick flight or a leisurely ferry ride, both options have their advantages.

If convenience and speed are your top priorities, flying is the way to go. Flights from San Andres to Providencia are quick and efficient, taking just around 20 minutes. This allows you to maximize your time on both islands and explore the breathtaking beaches and vibrant culture as soon as possible.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed and scenic journey, the ferry provides a unique and adventurous experience. While it takes longer, the ferry ride allows you to soak in the stunning coastal views of the Caribbean Sea and enjoy the leisurely pace of the journey.

Ultimately, consider factors such as duration, convenience, comfort, schedule, and the desire to appreciate the scenic beauty when making your decision. Regardless of whether you choose to fly or take the ferry, both options will lead you to the enchanting paradise of Providencia.

No matter which option you choose, make sure to plan ahead, check schedules, and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. San Andres and Providencia are both incredible destinations in their own right, offering unique experiences that will leave you with lifelong memories.

So, pack your bags, prepare for adventure, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of San Andres and Providencia. Whether you take to the skies or embrace the waves, an unforgettable Caribbean escape awaits you.

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How to Get to Providencia Island in Colombia

Due to connectivity issues, getting to Providencia Island in Colombia used to be even harder than to getting to San Andres.

Nowadays you can get there pretty easily by using one of the two airlines that cover that route daily or the catamaran that sails every other day.

This is one of the top places to visit in Colombia .

How to Visit Providencia Island, Colombia

Getting to providencia island by plane from san andres.

Two airlines fly to Providencia from San Andres with daily flights usually in the early morning and in the afternoon (3PM). These tickets can be bought in most of the travel agencies located in San Andres or directly at the airline.

You can search for available flights on Expedia .

Flying with Satena Airlines

Out of the two airlines, Satena is the only one that’s bookable online, the website is all in Spanish, but if you have booked a flight with any other airline in the world, I’m sure you can figure it out as it follows standard usability practices up until the payment where the credit card’s expiration date is backwards.

Satena Airlines Schedule

This information it taken directly from the Satena’s intranet, this is subject to change, I recommend you check the schedules directly with the airline first before making any plans. In low season Satena offers two frequencies between the islands, in high season they increase these 2 frequencies by one or 2 more without any kind of previous notice. The plane takes 15 minutes to get there.

Flying with Searca Airlines

Searca Airlines is a charter company that has been hired by Decameron to transport people staying at the Decameron managed hotels, you can not book this airline online, you can however book it in any of the recognized travel agencies in San Andres.

Searca Airlines Schedule

This information it taken from the Searca intranet, this is subject to change, I recommend you check the schedules directly first before making any plans.

This airline still uses paper tickets, so if you are buying it over the phone/internet from another country or Colombian city, you’ll need to arrange a pick up of the actual ticket or ask the travel agency to mail it (not recommended). The horrible thing about paper tickets is that if you lose them, you are screwed, because Searca will not issue you a new one.

Getting to Providencia Island By Catamaran

The catamaran Sensation leaves every other day (MON, WED, FRI, SUN) from “la casa de la cultura” dock and comes back on the same day. On high season (easter and xmas) and on Carnival week (JUN) they sail daily and sometimes 2 times a day.

Departure time (San Andres-Providencia) is at 7 AM and the return is at 2 PM. At the time of this writing the round trip ticket costs $240.000 and takes 4 hours from San Andres to Providencia and 3 hours on the way back. They are not very efficient when it comes to making a booking with them. You can try to contact them directly via these emails: [email protected] or [email protected] .

I recommend you are brief in your email, as I have gathered that briefs emails get the fastest replies.

I advise you follow this format:

Subject: New Reservation Paris Hilton x 02

Hi. We would like to make a reservation for:

Paris Hilton, American Passport number 516A273252
Posh Spice, English Passport number 05REA84681
San Andres – Providencia: Viernes 13 de JUN
Providencia San Andres: Miercoles 18 de JUN

We will pay on the day of departure in CASH/CREDIT CARD.

It generally takes them 3 to 4 days to answer emails, but sometimes they just don’t seem to answer at all.

What to Know About the Catamaran Trip to Providencia Island

The reviews are mixed on this trip, some people have a wonderful time, while some other curse the day they were born; If you are prone on getting sick I advice you take a Mareol pill about 1 hour before getting into the boat, this pill will save your from getting dizzy and probably puking, but it will make you very sleepy.

8 out of 10 people agree that getting from San Andres to Providencia is way harder than the way back!

The same people from the Catamaran have acquired a bigger, faster boat. I have done the trip on both boats and although the newer one is comfier and has better AC, I think the old one doesn’t swing as much. I advice you seat down in the middle back, that way you don’t feel the jumping up and down of the boat, no matter how much you want to visit Providencia, as a personal experience do not take this trip with a hangover, it will make you rethink if its worth living if you do.

If you are easily disgusted by the thought, sound or smell of puke, be prepared as for sure someone will barf on the trip, crew members will hand out plastic bags to everyone and tissues damped with alcohol in case the smell gets pretty bad. This is what I call the Vomito Effect where people just puke because they are disgusted at the puking scenes around them.

Why You Shouldn’t Consider a Day Trip to Providencia Island by Catamaran

The catamaran offers day trip return tickets from San Andres to Providencia this is an extremely pointless trip, as you’ll spend at least 4 hours on the boat, 1 hour vomiting and only get a few hours on the island if you are lucky before a 3 hour trip back, you’ll hardly see it anything properly.

DO NOT bother with this option, if you want to experience the real Providencia, keep your sanity intact and avoid suicidal thoughts, I highly advise you to stay at least a night while visiting the island.

Getting to Providencia Island By Cargo Boat

Cargo boats don’t have a fixed schedule and we don’t really know who to contact, but if you are staying in San Andres for a while and have the time to ask around, this might be worth a shot. The people who have done it told me they paid $40.000 COP per route.

From what I’ve heard is up to the captain of the boat to allow you to go with them, as it is technically illegal to transport people that are not crew members in these types of boats.

Your best bet is to go to the dock (5 minutes away from our hostel) and ask captains directly. Please be aware that to enter the dock for safety reasons you must be wearing pants and fully covered shoes, otherwise they won’t let you in and pass the main gate.

I'm sure you've had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You're in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.

Ruta San Andrés – Providencia

Lunes, Miércoles y Viernes

Tarifas turistas, one way – valor por trayecto –, adultos o infantes (mayores de 2 años), $ 220.000 cop, tarifas residentes, $ 150.000 cop.

Infantes menores de 2 años no pagan | Tarifas sujetas a cambios sin previo aviso

Salida San Andrés : Muelle Toninos

Hora de Salida: 8:00 AM. Favor presentarse en el muelle a las 6:30 AM.

Si usted no se ha presentado daremos por entendido que usted no viaja y dispondremos de su cupo. El trayecto es de 3 horas y 30 minutos aprox, sujeto a las condiciones climáticas.

Salida Providencia : Muelle Departamental

Hora de Salida: 2:00PM (Favor presentarse en el muelle a la una 1:00 PM.

Si usted no se ha presentado daremos por entendido que usted no viaja y dispondremos de su cupo. El trayecto es de 2 horas y 45 minutos aprox, sujeto a las condiciones climáticas.

Hawaii Islands
Philippines

How To Get From San Andres to Providencia | All You Need To Know

How to get from San Andres to Providencia? On our journey through Latin America we have spent 3 weeks in Colombia and were of course also in the Caribbean paradise of Providencia. But the journey to San Andres or to Providencia is not so easy. Especially to get to Providencia you have to consider some things. How to get to Providencia? How expensive is it to get to Providencia? The best tips to get from San Andres to Providencia you can read now in this travel report.

How To Get To San Andres?

Getting from mainland Colombia to San Andres is not very difficult. From almost all major airports (Medellin, Bogota, Cartagena, etc.) many airlines (including budget airlines) fly to San Andres. So you can get to the island from 25 € p.p.. So you can look for a connection (2-3 hours should be enough between the flights) if you don’t want to spend time on San Andres.

If you need to kill some more time, you can also walk from San Andres airport to the nearby beach. You don’t need a cab! You can also do a tour with the best things to do on San Andres *.The tricky part is getting from San Andres to Providencia. But we will explain that to you right now.

Getting from San Andres to Providencia

You have roughly 2 options to get from San Andres to Providencia. By ferry or by plane.

By Ferry from San Andres to Providencia

This is the cheaper of the two options, but also the roughest. We have heard from many travelers that the sea between San Andres and Providencia is often very rough which can lead to very bumpy crossings. You probably get pills against seasickness by default and there should even be an employee on these ferries solely responsible for collecting full vomit bags .

Since this reminded us too much of our Norway trip with the vomit ferry , this option was out of the question for us. However, we would like to explain to you how you can cross to Providencia by ferry.

How To Get From San Andres to Providencia | All You Need To Know

The ferry takes 3.5 hours to get from San Andres to Providencia and costs 380,000 COP for the round trip. Five times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday) you can start your journey at 8 am. The return trip from San Andres takes place on the same days at 2 pm. But beware: Due to the unpredictable sea, the crossings are sometimes canceled at short notice .

Keep this in mind when making your travel plans. You should book the ferry (or the flight) first and then your hotel on Providencia! Due to these facts and the relatively low savings compared to a flight, we decided against the ferry to Providencia. You can book your ferry on the website of the operator: Conocemos Navegando

San Andres to Providencia by Plane

Here you can still get enough tickets a few days in advance. The website of San German Express looks like it was programmed in the 90s, but booking the tickets is no problem. Tickets cost about 500,000 COP (130€) per person round trip. The flight takes about 17 minutes and gives you a fantastic view of the sea and the two islands in the Caribbean Sea.

Baggage Restriction for Flights to Providencia

No matter with which company you fly, you are allowed to take a maximum of 10 kg of checked luggage and 3 kg of hand luggage. With hand luggage this is not taken so exactly, but it is important to know this limitation. However, there is theoretically also the possibility to pay extra for excess baggage.

The smartest solution is to leave your big backpack in San Andres. There is a luggage storage at the airport San Andres . This is located directly behind the stairs leading to the 1st floor. You pay 5000 COP (1.50€) per piece of luggage and day.

Info for the Entry to San Andres and Providencia

Tourist card.

For the entry to San Andres and Providencia you have to buy a so called tourist card. You need this card to enter the country, so you have to buy it at the check-in at the airport. It costs 12500 COP (approx. 30 €) per person. You will also need this card for your onward journey to Providencia and for your return flight. So please do not lose it. Otherwise you will have to pay for this card again.

Return Ticket

At our check-in at the airport we were also asked for our return flight. Without a valid return ticket you will not be allowed on the island. If you don’t want to book a fixed return flight, we can recommend the site bestonwardticket.com . There you can buy a return ticket for a small fee, which is automatically canceled after 48 hours. This way you won’t have problems anywhere in the world when you have to prove that you are leaving the country.

Hotel Recommendation on Providencia

Miss Portia on Providencia

Guía para viajar a Providencia desde San Andrés

La Isla de Providencia es un destino paradisíaco y menos visitado por los turistas que llegan al Archipiélago de San Andrés.

Las formas en las que puedes viajar hasta este hermoso lugar, actualmente son dos, con un catamarán, o en avión, pero no te preocupes, acá te contamos más.

Una vez que hayas planificado tus vacaciones no puedes dejar de leer esta guía para viajar a Providencia desde San Andrés . Sobre todo, porque no es un destino tan conocido.

Requisitos para ir a Providencia

Pasaporte para extranjeros. Cédula de ciudadanía para colombianos.
La tarjeta turística que pagas al llegar a San Andrés también cubre tu visita a Providencia. Ese pago lo haces en el aeropuerto.

Cómo llegar a Providencia desde San Andrés

Providencia se encuentra ubicada a 90 kilómetros de San Andrés. Y, uno de los aspectos que ha ayudado a que toda su fauna y paisajes se conserven, son las formas limitadas que existen para llegar.

Estas son las opciones:

1. De San Andrés a Providencia en Avión

Es la forma más utilizada debido a que el tiempo de viaje es muy corto, tiene una duración aproximada de 20 a 30 minutos.

Es importante tener en cuenta que, hasta el momento no existe ningún vuelo que sea directo a Providencia desde el territorio continental colombiano, por esto, debes salir desde la Isla de San Andrés.

Para este viaje se utilizan avionetas que tienen una capacidad de 17 pasajeros. Y, para reservar tu vuelo puedes ingresar directamente a la página oficial de Satena .

Los precios pueden variar dependiendo de la fecha en la que escojas para viajar . Por esta razón, es importante que la planificación del viaje se lleve a cabo con antelación.

Como se trata de una avioneta muy pequeña, el equipaje que se acepta es de 10 kilogramos, y uno de mano de 5 kg.

2. De San Andrés a Providencia en Catamarán

El catamarán es la otra opción que existe si quieres llegar hasta Providencia, la duración del viaje es un poco más que lo anterior. Por lo general, suele tardar tres horas , sin embargo, dependiendo de ciertos aspectos puede ser un poco menos, o más.

Para muchos usuarios esta es la peor forma de llegar hasta Providencia; y es que, de acuerdo a los expertos, el mar durante todo el trayecto no se encuentra para nada tranquilo. Si sufres de mareo, esta opción no te va a gustar.

Los catamaranes viajan prácticamente todos los días, pero con más frecuencia los lunes, miércoles y viernes, con una de las compañías más reconocidas »Conocemos Navegando». Y, el horario es desde las 8 de la mañana, en adelante.

La salida se lleva a cabo desde el muelle de »Providencia» . Las salidas extras se realizan en la temporada alta de vacaciones para cubrir todos los viajes solicitados por los turistas.

Qué hacer en Providencia

Providencia es uno de los lugares más hermosos que puedes visitar, y es que, sus playas, la cultura y todo el ambiente que te ofrece para tus vacaciones es increíble.

A pesar de que no es muy grande, cada uno de sus rincones te va a sorprender, y a continuación, te mencionamos algunas de las mejores cosas para hacer:

Parque Nacional Natural Old Providence McBean Lagoon

Este es un parque natural que se encuentra ubicado al noreste de la isla, y se dio a a conocer en el año 1995. Desde ese mismo año es considerado también como reserva natural.

A pesar de que no puedes conocer toda la zona, visitas algunos manglares, y la región costera donde se ubica Cayo Cangrejo y Cayo Tres Hermanos.

Cayo Cangrejo

Es un cayo que mide 2 hectáreas, por lo tanto, es considerado como pequeño; y, a pesar de que no tiene ninguna playa es amado por muchos turistas porque pueden hacer snorkel y practicar buceo en el momento que lo deseen.

La forma de llegar a este cayo es a través de algunas de las barcas ubicadas justo al frente del hotel Deep Blue.

Es una de las ubicaciones más pequeñas, y que no tiene muchos aspectos para visitar. Sin embargo, encuentras la gasolinera del pueblo, y también algunos lugares en los que puedes alojarte hasta que terminen tus vacaciones en la isla.

Es una localidad pequeña ubicada dentro de la isla de Providencia, y, es quizás una de las más turísticas, porque incluye los mejores hoteles para alojarte en tus vacaciones.

Además, tienes una playa, supermercado, y restaurantes importantes para toda la isla.

Pero no solo eso, también existe una tienda en la que puedes alquilar una moto, o mula para trasladarte.

Viajar a este lugar no solo significa disfrutar de la playa, si te atreves un poco más también puedes aprovechar del hermoso paisaje que te ofrece la montaña con su vegetación y algunos de los animales.

Anteriormente una distracción era subir la montaña atravesando el Parque Regional Natural El Pico sin problemas. Sin embargo, ahora debes hacer esta caminata con ayuda de un guía.

Recorrer la carretera

Es una de las cosas que puedes hacer mientras estés en Providencia, y lo más importante es que esta es la única carretera que, dentro de la isla, te permite ir hasta las playas.

Si tienes una mula o moto, puedes recorrer la carretera de forma más rápida para disfrutar de todo el ambiente tradicional que encuentras en la isla.

Bahía Manzanillo

Es considerada como una de las mejores playas de todo el lugar, y a pesar de que no tiene ningún restaurante cerca, el paisaje es realmente increíble.

Southwest Bay

De acuerdo a los turistas, esta es otra de las mejores playas que puedes visitar, sin embargo, muchas veces su vegetación puede no llamarte mucho la atención.

En la zona puedes encontrar el famoso restaurante »El Divino Niño» , en donde sin duda alguna vas a disfrutar de un momento de relajación.

Esta es una playa que es alargada, y por lo tanto, te permite estacionar tu mula o moto en la entrada. Así puedes recorrer la carretera y hacer todo lo que desees.

Esta es una pequeña bahía en la que puedes disfrutar de un hermoso paisaje, y en la entrada puedes dejar el vehículo que en el que te trasladas. Sin embargo, para ir hasta la playa debes hacerlo caminando.

Santa Catalina

Es una pequeña isla en la que puedes también disfrutar de un hermoso paisaje.

Aunque no tiene muchas playas, la estructura de sus casas tradicionales, los restaurantes y la conocida Cabeza Morgan (un acantilado con rocas) te harán vivir una experiencia de otro mundo.

Además, también puedes ver el mar desde diferentes ángulos y desconectarte de todos los problemas de la ciudad, por algunos minutos.

La marea en esta zona afecta mucho la costa, y por esta razón, muchas de las playas han ido desapareciendo. Teniendo en cuenta esto, es recomendable realizar las visitas cuando la marea esté baja.

En caso de que te traslades en una mula, o una moto, la puedes dejar en la isla de Providencia; y desde ahí debes cruzar el puente de los enamorados, hasta llegar a Santa Catalina.

Una vez que llegues, comienza caminando por el sendero del lado derecho para que puedas ver el cañón que se encuentra en la punta de la isla. Mientras que, del lado izquierdo disfrutar de la playa Fort Bay.

Santa Isabel

A pesar de que no es un lugar en el cual los turistas deseen tomarse fotos, o visitar, es una de las localidades que debes atravesar para ir a Santa Catalina. Es la entrada a la isla Santa Catalina. Y, es el sitio perfecto si deseas ir a una farmacia, supermercado, o incluso hasta el muelle.

Dónde Hospedarse en Providencia (Mejores Zonas

Desde el momento de la planificación del viaje, también debes pensar en el lugar donde te vas a hospedar para disfrutar de unas vacaciones increíbles.

Existen muchos hoteles , casas o cabañas, que, seguramente se adaptan a lo que estás buscando.

Para escoger el lugar correcto en donde te vas a hospedar es importante que, tengas en cuenta algunos criterios, como los siguientes:

Si vas a alquilar un carro de golf , mula, o una moto, te puedes hospedar en el lugar donde desees sin problemas. Porque, con este vehículo te puedes trasladar a todos lados.
Una de las mejores zonas para hospedarte es Aguadulce, y esto debido a que tiene diferentes opciones que puedes disfrutar durante tu estadía.
Establece el objetivo de tu viaje, si se trata de visitar las playas, es recomendable que te hospedes en la zona de la playa de Manzanillo. Uno de los lugares más bonitos y que te facilita el traslado con tu vehículo, o también ofrecen servicio de taxi.

Consejos para viajar a Providencia

Ahora que conoces toda la información para ir a Providencia, también es importante tener en cuenta algunos consejos que te ayudarán a planear un viaje increíble.

La isla de Providencia no es tan grande, y por lo tanto, si deseas conocer los sitios más populares en 1 o 2 días puedes hacerlo. Sin embargo, lo más recomendable es quedarte como mínimo 4 días para que disfrutes de todas las actividades y playas.
Para moverse dentro de la isla es importante que sepas, que, a pesar de que es pequeña no se puede recorrer caminando, y por lo tanto necesitas alquilar una mula o una moto. De esta forma, puedes visitar todos los lugares que desees en la comodidad de un vehículo.
Enero-Junio: Es considerada como la mejor época, debido a que son los meses que menos lluvia existe en la isla. Pero, ten en cuenta que, en diciembre y enero la marea crece, por lo que la forma más recomendada para viajar es en avioneta.
Diciembre-Agosto: Estos dos meses es en donde la isla recibe más turistas, y por lo tanto, el hospedaje y pasajes son mucho más caros.
Ten en cuenta también que, en muchos de los hospedajes o alquileres de mulas las tarjetas de débito y crédito no son aceptadas. Y, sólo puedes pagar con efectivo .
Además, recuerda que, para llenar el tanque de gasolina de mula, solo puedes hacerlo en Old Town.
El aeropuerto El Embrujo, es pequeño, y los trámites se realizan rápidamente. Es un aspecto importante porque, así puedes determinar la hora exacta en la que debes ir.

Descubre más con nuestra guía de viajes a San Andrés

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How to get to San Andres and Providencia travel guide

This is a preamble to our future discovery of the islands of San Andres and Providencia. And in this post we start at the beginning: all the information you need to know about how to get to San Andres and Providencia .

As we’re planning to go there on our next trip and are in the process of gathering information , we thought it would be a good idea to share it with you!

The islands of San Andres and Providencia are a small paradise in the Colombian Caribbean , attracting thousands of tourists from all over the world for their colors, beaches and magnificent sunsets.

Visiting the Caribbean region
Colombia’s most beautiful beaches

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Disclaimer : we apologize in advance for any grammatical or syntactic errors, as our native language is not English (we're a Colombian-French couple), so we hope you'll forgive us and still enjoy the information we share with you! Please note that all the information on our blog is based on our own experience, and is checked and updated regularly.

San Andres entry requirements

How to get to san andres and providencia.

Although more than 800 km from the Colombian coast, the archipelago of San Andres and Providencia is part of Colombia, so you’ll need a valid passport to enter San Andres (or your current visa for travel within Colombia).

But in addition to your passport, you will also be asked to pay a “tourist tax” which will give you access to a “tourist card” allowing you to visit San Andres and Providencia. This system is used in many of Colombia’s hard-to-reach destinations, such as Nuqui and Bahia Solano.

How much does the tourist tax cost to enter San Andres?

The current cost of the tourist card to enter San Andres is $124.000 COP .

When to pay the tax

This is a simple procedure to be carried out at the departure airport where you will take your flight to San Andres. The airline must be able to allow you to pay the tax and give you a “tourist card” .

Each airline is expected to check that passengers are in possession of the “tourist card” before boarding.

What is the Tourist Card for in San Andres?

The tourist card entitles the holder to enter the San Andres and Providencia archipelagos as a tourist. In addition to serving as a migration control, the card aims to generate resources to ensure the sustainability and development of the island. The money collected is earmarked for social projects in the resident community, as well as investments in the destination’s tourism development.

Keep your “tourist card” in a safe place and make sure you don’t lose it, otherwise you’ll have to buy another card when you want to leave the island, as it will be compulsory to present it when you leave .

How to get to San Andres

Visit san andres island.

San Andres Island is one of Colombia’s most popular tourist destinations. Despite its remoteness from the mainland, it’s a favorite vacation destination for Colombians, especially during Semana Santa (April).

The island is therefore particularly well served by Colombian airlines .

Which airlines fly to San Andres Island?

A number of airlines operate regular, direct flights to San Andres:

Avianca : direct flights from Bogota, Medellin, Pereira, Bucaramanga, Cucuta and Barranquilla
Vivaair : direct flights from Cartagena, Pereira, Medellin and Cali
Latam : direct flights from Bogotá, Cartagena, Medellin and Cali
Ultraair : direct flights from Bogotá, Medellin and Cali
Wingo : direct flights from Cartagena and Barranquilla (two flights per week only)

It is, of course, possible to depart from other Colombian cities with connecting flights.

Which cities offer direct flights to San Andres?

Many Colombian cities offer direct flights to San Andres:

Bucaramanga
Barranquilla

The island can also be reached from Panama City.

How much does it cost to fly to San Andres?

The price of a flight to San Andres depends on the time of year you fly, the city you fly from and the airline you choose.

Prices range from $150.000 to 300.000 COP for a single flight , depending on the departure city. Here are some examples of prices for a direct one-way flight :

Direct flight from Bogota: from $300.000 COP*
Direct flight from Medellin: from $275.000 COP*
Direct flight from Cali: from $230.000 COP*
Direct flight prices from Pereira: from $175.000 COP*
Direct flight prices from Cartagena: from $145.000 COP*
Fares for direct flights from Barranquilla: from $165.000 COP*

*one-way direct flight without hold baggage

Please note: prices rise during Colombia’s high season , especially Christmas and Holy Week.

How long does it take to fly to San Andres?

Again, this will depend on the departure city of your flight to San Andres, but on average the flight time to San Andres is around 2 hours :

Flight time from Bogotá: 2h10
Flight time from Cali: 2h
Flight time from Cartagena: 1h25
Flight time from Pereira: 1h50
Flight time from Medellin: 1h50
Flight time from Barranquilla: 1h50

Now you know how to get to San Andres ! Now we’ll give you all the information you need to get to Providencia. The distance between the two islands is long enough (100 km) to require some real organization .

Providencia can’t be reached by lancha, as would be the case, for example, between Isla Mucura and Tintipan . It’s also worth noting that the cost of transport to Providencia is not cheap.

Where to stay in San Andres

Visiting isla san andres.

While we’re waiting to recommend our favorites, you can find hotels to stay in San Andres on Booking .

How to get to Providencia by boat

Visit providencia island.

Providencia can be reached from San Andres by boat, or rather by motor catamaran. This relatively fast mode of transport was introduced a few years ago in an attempt to shorten the journey time between the two islands.

Beware of seasickness

Beware if you get seasick: everyone advises against taking this option. The type of boat (relatively small) and the state of the sea can make the crossing difficult!

The company gives anti-seasickness pills to all passengers.

Conocemos Nevagando is the only main shipping company operating between San Andres and Providencia.

Sailing conditions and type of boat

Boats to Providencia are safe motor catamarans with enclosed cabins, comfortable seats, toilets and air conditioning.

Capacity for 70 people
No luggage restrictions

How much does the catamaran to Providencia cost?

Conocemos Nevagando’s catamaran fares from San Andres to Providencia are fixed:

One-way trip: $244.000 COP
Round trip: $434.000 COP

The boat departs from the Santa Isabel marina.

How long does the boat trip between San Andres and Providencia take?

The average duration of the boat trip between the islands of San Andres and Providencia is 3 to 4 hours, depending on the weather and the direction of travel:

Boat trip between San Andres and Providencia: approx. 3h30
Boat trip between Providencia and San Andres: approx. 2 hours 45 minutes

You should also be aware that sea conditions (especially wind) may prevent connections between the two islands.

In answering the question of how to get to Providencia by boat, we realize that this is an option with certain disadvantages … notably the length of the journey, the cost of the ticket and the sea conditions, which can sometimes be difficult and make the trip uncomfortable for those who are seasick.

What days and times does the boat leave for Providencia?

The Conocemos Navedando shipping company offers connections between the two islands every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Departures Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
Boat departs from San Andres to Providencia: 7:30 a.m

The catamaran departs at 8 a.m., and you are requested to be at the “Muelle Toninos” pier an hour and a half beforehand, i.e. at 6.30 a.m.

Catamaran departure from Providencia to San Andres: 2:00 p.m

The catamaran departs around 2:00 pm, and you are asked to arrive at the “Muelle de Providencia” pier one hour beforehand, i.e. at 1:00 pm.

How to get to Providencia by plane

Visiting providencia island.

The other option for getting to Providencia from San Andres is by plane. This is the preferred option for those who are seasick, but also for those who want to make the most of the journey time between the two islands.

Are there direct flights to Providencia from the mainland?

No, there are no direct flights from Colombia (mainland) to Providencia . You must first fly to San Andres before you can fly to Providencia.

Which airlines fly between San Andres and Providencia?

Only one airline operate regular flights between the two islands: Satena

But in Colombia, connections between smaller destinations are sometimes subject to change. From one day to the next, airlines decide to operate or stop flights for budgetary reasons.

Flight conditions and aircraft type

The type of aircraft operating between San Andres and Providencia are very small propeller-driven planes. They are known as “avionetas”. These are very small aircraft that can seat between 10 and 20 people.

Satena conditions

Authorized in cabin: Handbag max. 10x15x20 cm and suitcase max. 43×34 cm and max. 5 kg
Authorized in hold: Suitcase up to 15 kg

How much does it cost to fly to Providencia?

The cost of the flight from San Andres to Providencia depends on the airline you fly with:

With Satena, prices depend on comfort:

Single flight from $170.000 COP (up to $250.000 COP)
Return flight: from $340.000 COP (up to $500.000 COP)

How long is the flight between the islands of San Andres and Providencia?

The flight from San Andres to Providencia takes about 20 minutes.

What are the departure times and days for flights to Providencia?

Flights between San Andres and Providencia are daily.

Satena operates three routes a day:

Flight departures from San Andres to Providencia: 7.05am, 11.40am and 3.10pm
Flight departures from Providencia to San Andres: 8.20am, 12.40pm and 4.20pm

So, answering the question of how to get to Providencia , we realize that, unfortunately, flying is the cheapest option at the moment…. not very eco-friendly… But be warned, flying between the islands doesn’t have all the advantages, especially when it comes to luggage.

Where to stay in Providencia

Visiting isla providencia.

While we’re waiting to give you our picks, you can find hotels to stay in Providencia on Booking .

Agency for a stay in San Andres

Guide to visiting san andres.

To request a quote for a stay in San Andres you can contact our partner Felipe using the form below . You won’t pay more, but it will let them know you’re coming from us.

IMPORTANT : If you don’t hear from our partner within 72 hours, please check your SPAMS first before contacting us.

We hope this post will help you understand how to get to the island of San Andres and its little sister Providencia .

We’ve seen how easy it is to get to San Andres from any major city on the Colombian mainland. On the other hand, it was not possible to reach Providencia directly without first passing through San Andres.

We also realized that this was already a hefty transport budget . Of course, we’re still 800 km from the mainland, and if we want to go to Providencia, that’s twice the price of transport.

Finally, we’ve seen that flying to Providencia from San Andres is the simplest and cheapest solution (for the moment)

The Wayúu, Indigenous Peoples of Colombia

How to get around cartagena and how to get to/from the airport, visit minca travel guide: things to do in the sierra nevada, scuba diving in santa marta (taganga), visit punta de los remedios travel guide: farniente en la guajira, how to get to cartagena de indias travel guide, angélica & samuel.

We are Angélica and Samuel, a French-Colombian couple, professional photographers and web editors specializing in travel to Colombia. We created this blog to change the image of the country, help you prepare your trip and inspire you to discover Colombia in a different way!

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