Providencia Island, Colombia: A Travel Guide

The crystal clear waters surrounding Providencia Island, Colombia are as gorgeous as any you’ll find on our beautiful blue planet.

Looking at the photo above, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was taken in the South Pacific or the Gulf of Thailand.

Alas, pretty Providencia Island is found in the Caribbean, closer to Nicaragua’s coast than Colombia.

Providencia is the smaller, less developed sister island to nearby San Andres.

For readers who’ve been to Mexico’s Maya Riviera, San Andres is to Cancun as Providencia is to Tulum.

Most travelers, whether Colombian or foreign, stop when they get to San Andres. This has some advantages, especially if you’re on a tight budget.

It saves you time and money on transportation. You’re more likely to meet other travelers, whether Colombian or foreign.

The beaches of San Andres are larger, and there are more bars and restaurants. If partying is your preference, this is the better island for it.