Isla De Providencia, Colombia:
The Ultimate backpackers Travel Guide
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An Introduction To Backpacking Isla De Providencia
Top Things To Do On Isla De Providencia
Top Places To Stay On Isla De Providencia
Top Places To Eat On Isla De Providencia
A Quick Note On Transport In Isla De Providencia
When Is The Best Time To Visit Isla De Providencia?
Our Map Of Providencia
Where Next?
An Introduction To Backpacking Isla De providencia, Colombia
Isla de Providencia is an off-the-beaten-path oddity in Colombia. Geographically, this island paradise is closer to Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Honduras than to the coast of Colombia. Providencia is a tiny island, and its population of 5,000 speak Creole rather than Spanish, an old English dialect common in the Caribbean.
The island is a pain in the ass to reach. But, when you arrive, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, glimpsing an authentic Caribbean island as it was before the arrival of mass tourism and luxury resorts. This is a scarce commodity, as typified by the neighboring island of San Andres.
Per square kilometer, San Andres is Colombia's second-most densely populated place. As a result, it's a little touristy, and some of its authenticity has been lost to over-tourism. Over-tourism brings the onset of devastating ecological and environmental change. For that reason, we'll sidestep information on San Andres and divert our total and deserving attention to Providencia.
You'll need to catch a flight from the Colombian mainland to San Andres to reach Providencia. Cartagena is the ideal jumping-off point to do just that.
Return flights to San Andres from Cartagena cost around 220,000 COP each way in the high season. Be sure to check Skyscanner for the best deals. Before you even depart for the island, there is a tourist charge to be paid for everyone visiting San Andres or Providencia. For gringos, like yourself, this charge is 110,000 COP.
Once your flight reaches San Andres, two options exist to reach Providencia. The first is a short but pricier 20-minute flight. The other is a 3-hour sea-sickness-inducing catamaran.
Return flights to Providencia from San Andres cost around 330,000 COP, offering stunning views of the Sea of Seven Colours, not to mention more time on the island. Meanwhile, a return ticket on the catamaran costs 300,000 COP but will almost certainly make you ill.
We know which we'd prefer for the sake of 30,000 COP.
Due to the size of available transport, you'll have a limited luggage allowance. The plane from San Andre's to Providencia can only carry 20 people. Only take what you need and drop off the rest of your belongings at whatever hostel you're staying at before departing for the island.
As a side note, in November 2020, Providencia and the surrounding archipelago were devastated by Hurricane Iota – a category five storm. After 2 long years, the effects of the hurricane are fading into memory. 90% of the island's infrastructure damaged by the storm had been rebuilt, and the island opened its doors to tourism once more in June 2022.
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission should you use them, for which we are incredibly grateful. However, the recommendations are still our own and intended to advise on the very best experiences Isla de Providencia has to offer.
Backpacking Isla de Providencia, Colombia: Top Things To Do
Life’s A Beach
Southwest Bay
Southwest Bay is the largest and most popular beach in Providencia. It's not difficult to see why. The beach is beautiful, with pristine white shores, calm waters, and modestly priced bars and restaurants. Southwest Bay is also the best place on the island to watch the sunset. Southwest Bay is a must-do if you're in Providencia on a Saturday when the whole island turns up to watch a horse race along the shoreline.
Freshwater Bay
Freshwater Bay is a beloved yet never crowded beach in Providencia. It's close to one of the island's main towns, making it easily accessible. The beach is picture-perfect, comprised of silk sands, clear aquamarine waters, and palm trees offering a welcome respite from the sun's blazing heat.
Playa Manzanillo
Probably the most rustic of Providencia's beaches, Playa Manzanillo is located on the island's southern side. A winding, dusty road is the only way to reach the beach. The sea is rougher here than on the rest of the island, but the beach is no less charming. There's a welcome breeze, plenty of shade, and a sense of disconnect from the rest of the world that you don't quite get elsewhere in Providencia. There are also a handful of bars scattered along the shoreline. Drop in at the island's famous Roland Roots Reggae Bar.
Almond Bay
One of Providencia's lesser-known beaches, Almond Bay, is the definition of seclusion. It is notable for its crystal-clear waters and is perfect for swimming. There is a single bar where you can treat yourself to a cocktail (or several) or some cold beers. While small, you'll have no issues finding a quiet spot to settle down on Almond Bay. The beach is located slightly north of Southwest Bay and requires a short walk along a path to reach it.
Scuba Diving And Snorkelling
Providencia is a haven for divers. The reef surrounding the island is the third-largest coral reef in the world, spanning 20+ square miles. It is also the only reef of those three centered around an island of volcanic origins. Unsurprisingly, it is a highly protected UNESCO biosphere reserve.
If you're keen on diving in Providencia, dive centers are scattered across the island. It's also considered a cheap place to dive, whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned diver.
If you already possess your PADI certificate, you can expect two dives to cost less than 250,000 COP. You can take your PADI open water diving course for 1,000,000 COP if you're just starting out and get four open water dives as part of the course. Completing the open water course will take five days, so it's more suitable for those planning an extended stay in Providencia.
When picking a diving agency, we'd recommend the Felipe Diving Centre. Felipe has organized dives around Providencia for over 15 years and knows these waters like the back of his hand. He also offers dives to 28 different sites, some to depths of 50 meters. One site involves exploring a shipwreck. Night-time dives are also available.
If you're not quite brave enough to dive into Providencia's waters, or if diving is out of your budget, that's fine. You can still enjoy snorkeling in Providencia. If snorkeling does tickle your fancy as a cheaper alternative to scuba diving, then you have two options.
The first, and more expensive option, is to take a boat tour to various snorkeling hotspots. These trips last 5-6 hours, though they can be pricier than scuba diving.
The second option, which we recommend, involves hiring a kayak and snorkeling gear next to the pricey 'Deep Blue' hotel and restaurant. Hiring a kayak and snorkel will cost 80,000 COP. It's a small price for the freedom to explore Providencia's waters without restriction.
Cayo Cangrejo
A visit to Cayo Cangrejo, also called Crab Cay, is one of the best ways to spend some of your time in Providencia. Located about a kilometer east of the main island, Crab Cay is tiny. The islet is part of the Old Providence McBean Lagoon National Natural Park, one of the three national parks in the Colombian Caribbean.
Crab Cay is the snorkeling spot in Providencia. Don't be surprised to spot sea turtles, stingrays, and even nurse and reef sharks – all of which call the reef home.
The best way to reach Crab Cay is venturing out on a kayak hired for the day. There is a small 17,000 COP fee to visit, though it's used well and goes towards conservation efforts across the reef. Crab Cay can get a little crowded from 11 AM onwards. As the islet gets busier, the sea life disperses. To get the most out of your snorkeling adventure, head down as early as possible.
Beyond snorkeling, you can take to the island summit. The 'hike' will last 3-minutes max, taking you through the palm trees that line the island towards 360 views of The Sea Of Seven Colours.
Be conscious of what sunscreen you use at Crab Cay. Many feature chemicals that damage the reef and the incredible array of life it supports
Pack your GoPro. Crab Cay is stunning. Whether swimming alongside sea turtles or admiring the view from the peak, you will want something to remember it by.
Finally, bring some snacks. There are no restaurants on Crab Cay except a small shack serving chips and beer.
Isla De Santa Catalina
Sitting just beyond the north of Providencia and only accessible via the picturesque Lovers Lane Bridge lies Santa Catalina Island. Santa Catalina is the third and final 'major' island in the San Andres and Providencia archipelago.
Santa Catalina has a couple of bars and restaurants, a single shop, and a few permanent residents. However, legends of the real pirates of the Caribbean, fantastic snorkeling, untouched beaches, and centuries-old landmarks make Santa Catalina a must-do during your time in Providencia.
Those drawn to the allure of history should visit the 300-year-old remains of Fort Warwick. Fort Warwick was created to protect the colony of pirates that once called Providencia home. The pirates were led by the infamous Captain Henry Morgan. Providencia served as Morgan's base of operations for attacking Spanish ports on the mainland. To this day, rumors abound that Captain Morgan buried his looted treasures deep in Santa Catalina's jungle interior, where it remains lost today.
We recommend hiring a kayak for the day when visiting Santa Catalina for its snorkeling and reclusive beaches. The on-foot journey to Morgans Head, Santa Catalina's snorkeling hotspot, is no easy task. Meanwhile, many beaches lining the shores of Santa Catalina aren't accessible by land.
After hiring your kayak, you need to make your way around Providencia, past the Lovers Lane Bridge, and onwards to the shores of Santa Catalina.
For snorkelers, Morgan's Head will prove to be a delight, equal to snorkeling at Crab Cay. You'll drift alongside corals, swim through what feels like an overstuffed aquarium, and explore some hidden caves.
McBean Lagoon
Located on the North-Eastern side of Providencia, at the heart of a small but dense jungle, lies Mcbean Lagoon. The lagoon is part of the Parque Nacional Natural McBean Lagoon, encompassing Crab Cay and the uninhabited Tres Hermanos islands.
Once again, hiring a kayak is a requisite for any adventure to McBean Lagoon. We recommend tying any trip around McBean Lagoon with an early morning visit to Crab Cay. After hiring your kayak, follow the island's shoreline heading south towards the Tres Hermanos, or Three Brothers, islands.
The largest of these three islands spans 200 meters, while the smallest is 50 meters. Rarely visited, the islands make for a great pit stop if you have some spare time.
With the Tres Hermanos in view, double back on yourself for about 500 meters, hugging the shoreline as you do. Sooner or later, you'll come across a white buoy representing the entrance to the lagoon. From this point, you'll be paddling through the interior of Providencia, accompanied by a backdrop of picturesque mangroves and lush forest.
A visit to McBean lagoon is about the journey and taking in the sights around you as you do so. However, the lagoon is yet another of Providencia's great snorkeling spots. If you have time, walk up to Iron Wood hill, a great exercise with equally great sea views.
El Pico (The Peak)
Providencia's locals will encourage you to embrace island life. Relax and 'make lazy,' they'll tell you. However, some just don't know how to switch off. For you select few, the idea of spending your days sprawled out on the beach sipping on Aguila after Aguila is abhorrent. Oddballs. Luckily, Providencia does cater to you, with an unmissable activity to get you up and about. A hike to 'El Pico,' otherwise known as The Peak.
The hike to El Pico is a 3-hour round trip, taking you 360 meters above sea level. Registering at the start of the trail, you'll be offered a guide for 50,000 COP. This is the only cost associated with the hike, and it's not mandatory. The trail is well-marked, though the ascent is quite steep at points.
This hike is best done early in the morning to avoid the sun beating down on you later in the day. Plenty of water and sunscreen are also essentials.
The view at the summit is breathtaking. 360 views of the forests below and the sparkling turquoise of the Caribbean Sea beyond. Be sure to bring your camera.
Lighthouse Cinema
If you are interested in learning about Providencia's culture and past, visiting the Lighthouse Cinema is well worth your time. The Lighthouse has been a community-run project since the early 2000s, serving Providencia as an art space, educational center, gallery, cafe, and general social spot.
Every evening, the Lighthouse is used as a cinema, showing short productions on topics including the island's history, development in Providencia and the wider archipelago, and the annual Providencia crab migration. Don't expect Hollywood levels of production value, but the films are fascinating.
Films are displayed every evening, with tickets costing 10,000 COP. It's a perfect evening activity accompanied by a cold beer.
Backpacking Isla De Providencia, Colombia: Top Places To Stay
A Quick Note On Accommodation On Isla De Providencia
Even before Hurricane Iota, Providencia was a tiny island with infrastructure to support just 400 visitors at any time.
Because of the scale of the damage caused by Iota, which crippled 98% of structures on the island, we won't be making recommendations for accommodation at this time. Isla de Providencia has only just opened its doors back up to tourism. It'll take time for accommodations to get back on their feet and offer bookings again.
We'll update this section when we see that Providencia's B&Bs, hotels, and hostels are back on their feet.
For the time being, browsing Airbnb is the best way to know what accommodations in Providencia are still taking bookings.
Backpacking Isla de Providencia, Colombia: Top Places To Eat
Roland Roots Reggae Bar
Roland Roots Reggae Bar is exactly what you'd expect it to be. A bamboo beach shack with thatched roofing and a sea of palm trees overhead. Here the reggaeton pumps loudly, and the drinks flow freely.
Located 5 meters from the sea on the far side of Manchineel Bay, Roland Roots is the island's party spot. Roland, the bar's owner, had become somewhat famous after an appearance on Colombian national television back in 2011.
The bar is complemented by free-swinging hammocks, a palm-tree swing that deposits you in the shallows, and freshly caught seafood. Be sure to try the island's favorite cocktail, Cocoloco served in a coconut shell.
Lunch and dinner are also available at Roland's and come highly recommended despite costing less than elsewhere on the island. Mains cost between 25,000 and 30,000 COP. Roland ensures that all ingredients are fresh. Any fish on the menu will have been caught the very same day.
Divino Nino Jesus
Found on Providencia's longest beach, Divino Niño Jesús has delighted locals and travelers for more than 20 years. Located on the island's southwest side, the restaurant is the best place to catch a glorious Providencia sunset. There is also an incredible atmosphere on Saturdays after the hugely popular horse race along the seafront.
The restaurant's owner, Hernán Caro, is responsible for Southwest Bay's pristine condition. Over a decade ago, Hernán led a conservation effort to combat climate change-driven erosion, which saw over 60% of the beach's sands lost.
The food here is delicious, making the most of local seafood with a daily haul of fresh produce. Be sure to try the mixed seafood platter consisting of grilled lobster, marinated black crab, two fried fish, shrimp, coconut rice, salad, and patacones. It's enough to leave you feeling full for the day and costs a meager 50,000 COP.
Donde Martin
Donde Martin is another much-loved establishment. Like most restaurants on the island, Donde Martin is famous for its fresh Caribbean seafood dishes, particularly the black crab, coconut shrimp, and lobster. The restaurant also caters to vegetarian and vegan dietary requirements, making the most of local produce to make delicious and affordable dishes.
The more expensive meals at Donde Martin cost somewhere in the region of 65,000 COP. Several fish, chicken, and spaghetti dishes are available for 30,000 COP or less.
Those who enjoy a tipple will be delighted with the availability of bush rum, a locally made spirit 100% worth a try.
If heading down to Donde Martin for dinner, booking a table is recommended. The restaurant is very popular with locals.
Backpacking Isla De Providencia, Colombia: How To Get Around
Despite being 7km long and 4km wide, getting around Providencia can be a pain. Public transport doesn't exist here. You'll be left to your own devices getting from A to B. To do that, you have a couple of options.
Walking
Don't do this. Walking through Providencia is only reasonable if you're heading somewhere that's actually in walking distance. It isn't worth it, even if you're on a shoestring budget. You'll lose so much precious time on the island just getting around.
Moped
Not for everyone. But, a moped is a cheap and rapid way of getting around Providencia. Rentals cost 70,000 COP per day. If staying for a while, a moped is an appealing option. Be sure to haggle over the price. A word of warning, Providencia will run out of seafood before you find a helmet. Also, a little terrifyingly, you won't be asked for proof that you know how to drive it.
Mototaxi
For those not enthralled with the prospect of driving a moped, a mototaxi may be the perfect alternative. There is no mototaxi company in Providencia. Instead, your driver will be a local looking to make some extra cash. Trips anywhere on the island shouldn't cost more than 10,000 COP, making it the cheapest way to get about Providencia.
Buggy
We're not sure what these are, nor what to call them. However, describing it as the lovechild of a small city car and a golf buggy seems accurate. These buggies are the island's most expensive means of transport, costing 160,000 COP per day. They're also significantly slower than a moped. It's a pricey way to go, especially once their novelty has worn off.
Bicycle
Renting a bike is the cheapest way to secure personal transport in Providencia, costing 40,000 COP per day. But, it's a bicycle, and Providencia is quite hilly, not to mention hot. With a bike, you'll also have to face locals barrelling past you on mopeds, all while you produce buckets of sweat when met with an incline. This can be offset by the promise of a dip in the sea, but we wouldn't recommend it.
Backpacking Isla de Providencia, Colombia: When Is The Best Time To Visit?
As is the case for much of mainland Colombia's Caribbean Coast, temperatures are warm and pleasant year-round in Providencia. The lowest year-round average is 27ºC.
There is both a dry season and a rainy season in Providencia. The rainy season starts to pick up in August before dropping off almost entirely by December.
As a general rule of thumb, the best months to visit Providencia for pleasant weather and little rainfall are December to May. Remember, January marks the high season for tourists, so the island may be a little busier than other times of the year.
Our Map Of Isla De Providencia
Where Next?
Casa en el Agua
The Caribbean Coast
Minca & Ciudad Perdida
The Caribbean Coast
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