Providencia is a small Colombian island located in the Caribbean Sea. While the island is officially apart of Colombia it is geographically closer to Nicaragua. The island is small enough to explore on a motor bike in 45 minutes but it is filled with thriving ecological environments. Providencia, Colombia is a wonderful place to visit if you are looking for an island getaway.
HISTORY OF PROVIDENCIA
English Puritans officially founded Providencia in 1629. The island has a sister island, Santa Catalina, that is connected to Providencia by a footbridge. Together the two islands make up roughly 22 sq. k and form the municipality of Santa Isobel. In 1641 the Spanish took control of the island. But what is most noteworthy is that the pirate Henry Morgan used the island as his base to raid the Spanish empire.
The people of Providencia speak creole and some English. Some people also speak Spanish but it is more common to hear creole or English around the island. For the most part, however, the people of Providencia feel more connected to the Caribbean identity rather than the Colombian one.
HOW TO GET TO THE ISLAND
There are only two ways you can get to Providencia and both require you to be on the island of San Andres first. The first way to get to the island is by boat. The catamaran journey takes roughly 3-4 hours and costs around 350,000 Colombian pesos. The catamaran is the cheapest way to get on the island but it is very uncomfortable. The ride is extremely choppy and complementary throw up bags are given out at the start of the journey as a precaution.
The other option is to fly. There are two companies that fly to Providencia but both require you to start on San Andres.
Satena Airlines
The first airline company is Satena. Tickets run around 500,000 Colombian pesos, which is roughly 165 USD. You can book your flight tickets online. Satena has 2 flights per day.
Flight Times:
San Andres – Providencia: 7:20am or 4:00pm
Providencia – San Andres: 8:15am or 4:55pm
The flight is roughly 20 minutes and has amazing views. You are only allowed 10k for luggage and will be charged extra if you are over weight.
You can book your tickets here: Satena.com
San German Express Airlines
The other airline company you can fly with is San German. This is the company that I recommend flying. The flights cost around 460.000 Colombian pesos, which is roughly 130 USD. You can book your tickets online or directly at the San Andres airport.
Flight Times:
San Andes – Providencia: 10:00 am or 3:30 pm
Providencia – San Andres: 8:40 am or 4:15 pm
San German only accepts cash if you want to purchase your tickets at the airport. You are also only allowed 10k for luggage and need to pay if you go over the limit. The flight time is approximately 20 minutes. The prices of the flights are always the same so you don’t have to worry about booking far in advance. That being said there are some days that flights don’t run so keep that in mind when making your travel plans.
You can book your tickets here: GrupoSanGerman.com
WHERE TO STAY ON PROVIDENCIA,COLOMBIA
Since the island is hard to get to and fairly small there isn’t a resort and hotel culture on the island. Instead the island offers Posadas and airbnb/homestay accommodation. Staying in a Posada is the best way to experience the island. Generally ran and owned by locals, Posadas give a personal touch to your island getaway.
A Posada that I recommend staying at is called: Posada Reef View. The Posada is located 10 minutes from the airport and the owner will pick you up from the airport. It is warm, welcoming, clean and affordable. Breakfast is included and different everyday.
If you want to rent a bike or book a tour they will help organize it for you. Prices for a private room is $30 USD/night.
You can book the Posada Here: BOOK HERE
WHAT TO DO ON PROVIDENCIA
Explore Isla Santa Catalina
Santa Catalina is the sister island to Providencia. It is most famous for Captain Henry Morgan rock that looks like the famous pirate. To get to the island from Providencia you need to start in downtown Providencia. Then you cross the footbridge and you are on Santa Catalina. It is free to enter and explore the island.
Boat Trip to Isla Cayo Congrejo
Depending on where you stay you can book the Cayo Congrejo tour from your accommodation. The tour includes the boat ride to Cayo Congrejo, snorkeling gear and another snorkel spot. As a tourist you have to pay an entrance fee when you reach the island.
The tour costs: 70,000 Colombian pesos
The entrance fee costs: 18,000 Colombian Pesos
Scuba Diving
Providencia is famous for amazing diving. The reefs that surround the island are a part of the 3rd largest coral reef in the world. You can see amazing coral reefs and sea life all around Providencia. Animals that you might see include: Reef Sharks, Green Turtles, Sting Rays, Octopus, thousands of different fish and more.
If you want to get scuba certified Providencia is a great place to complete your PADI certifications as well. The island is known for having very affordable prices on all courses.
A dive shop that I recommend diving with and has certification courses is called Sirius Dive Center. The Dive Center is located on South West Bay Beach and great. Prices are two dives for 200,000 Colombian pesos. They also do night dives upon request.
Beach Day
There are many beaches on Providencia that you can spend the day relaxing on. Some of the best include: South West Bay, Freshwater Bay and Santa Catalina beach.
Beaches are free but bring bug spray because there are always a lot of mosquitos.
Climb the Peak
There is a Natural Reserve on the island and high peak that you can climb. It takes about 90 minutes to ascend and then around 45 minutes to an hour to descend. The top includes incredible views of the coral reefs surrounding the island. Be sure to go with a group and back appropriate hiking shoes and lots of water.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is incredibly easy and satisfying all around Providencia. You can rent snorkeling gear or bring your own and snorkel practically anywhere around the island.
Bird Watching
There are many beautiful and rare birds that you can see while visiting Providencia. If you are bird watching fanatic going on a bird tour is a great option for a couple of hours.
Waterfall Hike
While hiking El Pico you can pass beautiful waterfalls and take some amazing photos.
Kayaking
Kayaks are available around the island to rent and then you can paddle around the ocean. One common way of getting to Cayo Congrejo is by kayak. The best place to kayak is in McBean Lagoon National Park.
Explore the Caribbean Cuisine
Providencia has delicious Caribbean cuisine. When visiting the island be sure to try the traditional coconut rice and the black crab.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Beautiful, relaxing and warm, Providencia Colombia is by far one of my favorite places in Colombia. The water is clear and warm, the eco systems are thriving and the people are wonderful. Be sure to make it at the top of you travel list especially when visiting Colombia.
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