Traveling to San Andrés Island and the Colombian Archipelago

San Andrés is part of the Colombian archipelago, located more than 700 km from the mainland coast of Colombia.

With its own international airport, San Andrés is within easy reach for travelers visiting the region.

In this guide, you’ll find key information to help you plan your trip, including how to get to San Andrés, Colombia, and the essential documents you need to travel.

Where is San Andrés Island?

San Andrés is an island in the Caribbean Sea. It forms part of the nation of Colombia, and is the largest of the country’s 74 islands. Locals speak a mix of Spanish, English, and San Andrés Providencia Creole.

Though a part of Colombia, San Andrés is only around 200 km from the Nicaraguan coast. Its attractive beaches and natural landscape make it a popular destination for visitors.

San Andrés is located in an archipelago, made up of 7 atolls and 3 major islands.

As the largest island, San Andrés gives its name to the archipelago. The other islands, Santa Catalina, and Providencia, are also popular with tourists and Colombian visitors.

Some ferry services operate locally between the 3 major islands in the archipelago.

How Can I Travel to San Andrés?

Given its remote location, the easiest way to reach San Andrés Island is by air. There are no public ferry services that run to the island. To travel by boat, you will need to charter a private crossing.

Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (ADZ) is located close to the island’s largest town, known locally as El Centro.

Are there direct flights to San Andrés?

You can catch direct flights to San Andrés from major Colombian cities, and Panama.

Here are the key routes from Colombia:

You can also catch direct flights to San Andrés from Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City.

To travel to San Andrés from Nicaragua, Costa Rica, or the U.S., you’ll need to catch a connecting flight, usually in Bogotá, or Medellín.

What Documents Do I Need to Travel to San Andrés?

To visit San Andrés, ensure you have all the required documents for entry:

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months when you travel.

Do I need the Check Mig to travel to San Andrés Island?

All travelers arriving in Colombia need to complete a Check-Mig — a type of entry card used by Colombia’s immigration system. It’s valid for a single-entry to the country.

You do not need a Check-Mig for internal flights within Colombia. If you’re travelling to San Andrés from outside of Colombia, make sure to apply online before you travel.

San Andrés Tourist Card

The Tourist Card is mandatory for all visitors to the island of San Andrés, excluding Columbian nationals. It costs $130,000 Columbian Peso (COP), which is around $33 USD.

Pay for the Tourist Card at your departure airport before flying to San Andrés. Some airports allow you to pay by card, but it’s advisable to carry cash as facilities vary.

Local authorities will ask to see your Tourist Card when you arrive and leave the island. It’s valid for 3 months.

Advice for Travelers Visiting San Andrés

There are no required vaccinations for San Andrés Island. However, you’re advised to follow guidance on recommended vaccines for your trip to Colombia.

Accessing healthcare in San Andrés

If you need medical assistance during your stay in San Andrés, you’ll find a mix of private and public healthcare facilities in the island’s larger towns.

The island’s largest hospital, Hospital Departamental Amor de Patria, is open 24/7, 365 days of the year.

Non-Colombian nationals are not eligible for free medical care in San Andrés, and you may need to pay upfront for some healthcare services. You’re recommended to get comprehensive health insurance for your trip to cover any expenses.