Looking for the best islands Colombia has to offer? This guide covers the top destinations, detailing the unique attractions of each island. From San Andrés’s beaches to Rosario’s reefs, discover where you should visit.
Key Takeaways
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San Andrés and Providencia Islands offer a blend of stunning beaches, rich marine biodiversity, and Afro-Caribbean culture, making them ideal for relaxation and cultural exploration.
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The Rosario Islands, near Cartagena, provide luxury accommodations and exceptional snorkeling experiences, with Isla Grande and Isla Múcura standing out for their natural beauty and activities.
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Gorgona Island, once a prison, is now an ecotourism destination that offers diverse wildlife experiences, including whale watching and diving, set in a lush rainforest environment.
San Andrés and Providencia
Nestled in the Caribbean Sea, the islands of San Andrés and Providencia are renowned for their stunning beaches, rich marine biodiversity, and vibrant cultural heritage. These islands are part of the San Andrés Archipelago and are perfect destinations for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The unique Afro-Caribbean Raizal culture adds a colorful and historical touch to the islands, making them ideal for both relaxation and cultural exploration.
Visitors can immerse themselves in a laid-back atmosphere, exploring local villages, tasting delicious seafood, and enjoying Caribbean music. The charm of San Andrés Island and the tranquility of Providencia Island will captivate you.
San Andrés Island
San Andrés Island is a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and a vibrant cultural scene. As a top Sun and Beach destination, San Andrés offers activities like relaxing on stunning beaches, exploring the bustling Malecón, or scuba diving and snorkeling to discover the colorful underwater world.
Johnny Cay, a small island off the coast of San Andrés, is a highlight. Visitors can unwind on sandy beaches, sample local cuisine like the famous fried fish, and enjoy reggae music. The waters around San Andrés display seven different colors, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.
San Andrés boasts a rich cultural scene influenced by Creole, English, and Latin American music. From salsa and reggaeton to vallenato and calypso, the island’s vibrant music scene will keep you entertained.
Providencia Island
Providencia Island, 92 kilometers north of San Andrés, offers a tranquil escape with charming villages and a serene environment. Home to around 5000 residents, Providencia has a mixed heritage of African, French, and Spanish influences. The island is a diver’s paradise, with the Old Providence McBean Lagoon National Park as a major attraction. Divers can explore the El Planchón shipwreck, a sunken German vessel that adds historical intrigue to the underwater adventure.
Those who prefer to stay on land can enjoy several hiking trails leading to stunning viewpoints and mountainous landscapes. Local cuisine, featuring seafood stews and cassava cakes, can be enjoyed on scenic beaches like Manzanillo Bay and Bottom House, making Providencia a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Rosario Islands
Just a short boat ride from Cartagena, the Colombian islands, specifically the Rosario Islands, are a stunning archipelago known for beautiful coral reefs and luxurious accommodations. Part of the Colombian National Park system since 1988, these islands blend natural beauty and comfort. The Rosario archipelago comprises over 30 islands, each with unique charm and clear, turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Visitors can stay in resort hotels or luxurious Caribbean chic cabanas. For an exclusive experience, renting a private island is also an option, often with added perks like personal chefs, making your stay unforgettable.
Isla Grande
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Isla Grande, the largest of the Rosario Islands, is a favorite for its clear waters and variety of activities. Accessible by boat from Cartagena in under an hour, Isla Grande offers snorkeling, exploring the Oceanário, canoe trips, and swimming in the unique bioluminescent lagoon. Boats to Isla Grande typically depart from Cartagena at 9:00 am, with private boat rentals for those not staying at well-known hotels.
After:
Isla Grande, the largest of the Rosario Islands, is a favorite for its clear waters and variety of activities. It is accessible by boat from Cartagena in under an hour. Isla Grande offers:
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Snorkeling
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Exploring the Oceanário
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Canoe trips
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Swimming in the unique bioluminescent lagoon
Boats to Isla Grande typically depart from Cartagena at 9:00 am, with private boat rentals available for those not staying at well-known hotels.
Isla Grande offers several lodging options catering to different preferences and budgets, ensuring every visitor finds the perfect place to stay.
Isla Múcura
Isla Múcura, also known as San Onofre, is a gem within the Rosario Islands, recognized for its eco-resorts and water activities like snorkeling and diving. Reach Isla Múcura by boat from Tolu, Rincón del Mar, or Cartagena’s tourist harbor, making it an accessible yet exclusive destination.
The island’s natural beauty and serene environment make it a perfect getaway for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature, especially among beautiful islands.
Gorgona Island
Gorgona Island, once a maximum-security prison, has transformed into an ecotourism haven since 1984. Part of a national park including Gorgonilla and spanning over 600 square kilometers, it features a lush rainforest and a barrier reef, making it ideal for ecological studies and wildlife enthusiasts.
On Gorgona Island, visitors can enjoy bird watching, whale watching, hiking, and scuba diving. The island’s unique ecosystem hosts marine turtles, humpback whales, and diverse coral reefs. From June to August, humpback whales can be observed, offering a spectacular sight for nature lovers.
Traveling to Gorgona Island requires a boat ride from locations like Guapi and Buenaventura, taking about 2 to 5 hours. Though overnight stays are generally not allowed, day trips provide a rich and immersive experience.
Malpelo Island
Malpelo Island, 506 km from Colombia’s Pacific coast, is a diver’s paradise accessible only by boat. Its underwater ecosystem hosts significant populations of marine species, including Hammerhead and Smalltooth sand tiger sharks, making it a prime destination for diving enthusiasts.
The island is not suitable for traditional beach vacations but offers rugged underwater terrain with steep walls and caves, providing an unparalleled diving experience. Liveaboard diving companies facilitate access to the island, and fishing is strictly prohibited within the 857,150-hectare marine sanctuary to protect its biodiversity.
Barú Island
Barú Island, south of Cartagena, is famous for Playa Blanca, a stunning beach with white sand and clear waters. The island features lush vegetation and palm trees, adding to its natural allure.
Visitors to Barú can enjoy various activities, from beach strolls to snorkeling. The best time to visit Playa Blanca is after 4 pm when the crowds have diminished, allowing for a more peaceful experience. Barú Island also features numerous beach clubs and resorts, making it an ideal destination for relaxation.
Tierra Bomba Island
Tierra Bomba Island, just off the coast of Cartagena, is easily accessible and offers a mix of historical sites and modern amenities. Visitors can explore the Castle of San Fernando de Bocachica, which provides insight into the island’s colonial past.
Covering nearly 20 square kilometers, the island features beautiful beaches, beach clubs, and restaurants, making it one of the sought-after paradise islands. Activities include dancing at beach clubs, exploring on mountain bikes, and enjoying local specialties at various eateries.
Santa Cruz del Islote
Santa Cruz del Islote, the most densely populated island in the world, offers a vibrant and unique experience. Home to approximately 1200 residents, the island boasts a strong sense of community and modern amenities like solar panels, a school, and several streets.
Many visitors stay on neighboring islands and take a speedboat to Santa Cruz del Islote for a day trip, enjoying the island’s lively atmosphere and basic accommodations. The island’s history is fascinating, developed using corals, coconut shells, and tree trunks.
Isla de los Micos
Isla de los Micos, or Monkey Island, in the Amazonas Department, is home to around 5,000 playful squirrel monkeys. This unique wildlife destination offers activities like rubber tapping, promoting eco-friendly tourism.
While the island does not have hotels, it features a simple wooden structure where visitors can purchase local goods. Isla de los Micos is an ideal day trip destination for experiencing Colombia’s diverse wildlife.
Isla de la Corota
Isla de la Corota, in Laguana De La Cocha in southern Colombia, is the smallest protected area in Colombia’s National Natural Park System, covering nearly 16 hectares. The colombian island is a Flora Sanctuary, home to unique orchids and various endemic subtropical Andean cloud forest plant species.
Visitors can hike on the island’s trails, such as El Quiche and La Totora, and participate in the Virgin of Lourdes Festival at the chapel. The island holds significance for the indigenous community as a source of energy.
Summary
Colombia’s islands offer a diverse range of experiences, from the vibrant cultural scenes of San Andrés and Providencia to the serene beauty of Isla de la Corota. Each island has its unique charm, providing visitors with opportunities to explore stunning beaches, rich marine life, and fascinating local cultures.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Colombia’s islands have something to offer. Plan your next trip to these beautiful islands and discover the magic of Colombia’s coastlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best activities to do on San Andrés Island?
The best activities to enjoy on San Andrés Island include snorkeling, scuba diving, relaxing on the picturesque beaches, exploring the Malecón, and visiting Johnny Cay. These experiences are sure to enhance your visit and create lasting memories.
How can I reach Isla Múcura?
You can reach Isla Múcura by taking a boat from Tolu, Rincón del Mar, or the tourist harbor in Cartagena. Ensure you check the schedule for departures to plan your trip effectively.
What makes Gorgona Island unique?
Gorgona Island stands out for its remarkable transition from a maximum-security prison to an ecotourism destination, showcasing a rich array of wildlife, including marine turtles and humpback whales. This blend of history and natural beauty makes it a distinctive locale.
What is special about Santa Cruz del Islote?
Santa Cruz del Islote stands out as the most densely populated island in the world, featuring a vibrant community supported by modern amenities such as solar panels and a school. This unique blend of high population density and contemporary infrastructure makes it a fascinating destination.
Are there accommodations on Isla de los Micos?
Isla de los Micos does not offer accommodations like hotels; instead, it features a simple wooden structure for local goods. Therefore, it’s most suitable for a day trip to enjoy the lively squirrel monkeys.