San Andrés, Colombia

Colombia's seven-color-sea island

San Andrés is a Colombian island in the western Caribbean served by Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (ADZ) and a cargo and passenger port. It is a duty-free island roughly 750 km from the Colombian mainland.

Long inhabited by English-speaking Raizal people descended from English Puritan settlers and enslaved Africans, the island passed to Colombian control in the 19th century. It was declared a free port in 1953, spurring tourism.

Frequently asked — San Andrés

When is the best time to visit San Andrés?

Best Dec–Mar & Jul–Aug (dry seasons) — this reflects Colombia's seasonal weather and crowds.

Do I need a visa to visit Colombia?

Visa-free (90 days, most passports). Entry rules depend on your nationality and change often — always confirm with the official Colombia government or embassy before you travel.

What currency is used in San Andrés?

Colombian Peso (COP). You can convert USD to the live local rate right on this page.

What language do people speak in San Andrés?

Spanish is the primary language in Colombia.

What is the emergency number in Colombia?

Dial 123 for emergencies in Colombia.

Can you drink the tap water in San Andrés?

Tap water here is generally rated "Boil first". When unsure, choose sealed bottled or filtered water.

What power plug type does Colombia use?

Type A/B. Bring a compatible adapter — you can build a full packing list for San Andrés on this page.

Is San Andrés safe for travellers?

Safety varies by neighbourhood and changes over time, so there's no one-word answer. The local emergency number is 123. Check SkyOSK's safety notes for San Andrés and your government's current travel advisory before you go.