Island in San Andrés and Providencia, Colombia
San Andrés
Caribbean island known for its seven-color sea, snorkeling and relaxed Raizal culture. Costs more than the mainland, beaches are crowded and the island is small; flights are the only way in.
At a glance
- Safety4/5Safe with normal careDetails
- Monthly budget$1,660–2,570Comfortable, one person · $5.5M–8.5MDetails
- Value for money42/100Better value than 41% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goJan–AprWarmest: Sep, 29°CDetails
- Internet231 MbpsFixed broadband, Colombia medianDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledIsland water supply is limited; use bottled or filtered water for drinking.Details
- LGBTQ+3/5Tolerant, but be discreetDetails
- Solo travel4/5English: common in tourist areasDetails
- Doctor's visit$30–60Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundLocal busWalkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardMixed: cards and cashCards work in hotels, restaurants and shops in Centro, but cash is needed for small beach shacks, taxis and tours.Details
Where to stay in San Andrés
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Centro (North End) | Shops, restaurants, ferries and the busiest beaches |
| San Luis | Quieter beaches, local feel, more affordable stays |
| West View and Cove | Snorkeling spots, calm water and sunsets |
Apps that work in San Andrés
No ride-hailing apps work here; see the taxi note below.
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- redBus: Compare and buy intercity bus tickets
- Picap: Motorbike taxis in big cities
- Taxis: Taxis have fixed-zone fares, so ask the rate before riding. Ride apps are not reliable; use official taxis or hotel transfers.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Colombia.
- Mixed: cards and cash Cards work in hotels, restaurants and shops in Centro, but cash is needed for small beach shacks, taxis and tours.
- Currency: Peso (COP). US$1 ≈ $3,311.93 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: Use ATMs inside banks or malls; most charge foreign cards a flat fee and limit each withdrawal.
- Tipping: Restaurants suggest a voluntary 10% service charge and ask before adding it. Taxis and ride apps aren't tipped.
- Paying by phone: Contactless cards and Apple/Google Pay work in cities; Nequi and Daviplata need a Colombian account.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Complete the free Check-MIG form online between 72 hours and 1 hour before arriving, and again before leaving.
- Airlines and immigration may ask for proof of onward or return travel.
- San Andrés and Providencia charge a tourist card fee, usually paid at your departure airport in mainland Colombia.
Emergency numbers
Police 123 · Ambulance 123 · Fire 119 · All emergencies 123
Plugs
Type A, B · 120 V, 60 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Prepaid chips from Claro, Movistar or Tigo sell in carrier stores and supermarkets; register with your passport. Claro has the widest coverage. eSIMs work for visitors.
More places in Colombia
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Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.