Colombian Islands to Visit – Our Top 5
Top 5 Colombian islands to visit
Colombia has a good number of islands. It is the only country in Latin America that has a coastline on the Caribbean and the Pacific. Making sure the country boast a great deal of amazing and different type of beaches and islands.
In this article we want to tell you about the top 5 Colombian Islands, so that you have plenty of information to help you choose where to go when you visit this incredible country.
Here are the top 5 Colombian Islands:
1. San Andrés and Providencia
These are the most visited Colombian islands by Colombians, located in the Caribbean region of the country, and famous for their beaches and the sea of seven colors. They are also rich in coral landscapes and therefore popular for diving.
San Andrés has some of the best hotels in Colombia. Here you can do a variety of activities like visiting the Blow Hole or Morgan’s Cave, or taking a tour around the island. You can also enjoy the Reggae music on the island.
Providencia is a Colombian island very near to San Andrés. Here you will find incredible cultural diversity, biodiversity and some of the best beaches in the country. This is one of the best opportunities for you to appreciate the most beautiful marine animals in Colombia. The seafood here is incredible too.
2. Gorgona Island
This Colombian island got its name from Medusa of Greek mythology, during the conquest.
In the past it was the maximum security prison in the country, but it was abandoned many years ago. Now it is home to some of the most incredible diving spots in the country.
You can appreciate mind-blowing views of the migrating humpback whales that visit the region between June and the beginning of October each year. On this island you´ll find one of the most biodiverse areas in Colombia. (Check a list of other special and unique animals to spot in Colombia here.)
You will sleep in the houses that belonged to the police officers when the prison was still running active. Have a look at the island here. The accomadation, near the prison, makes the trip kind of unique as well. We listed the hotel in our top 3 of special and different hotels in Colombia.
3. Múcura Island
You can get from Cartagena to Múcura Island by boat. The island is made up of beaches, coral reefs and mangroves.
There is also the beautiful Punta Faro luxury hotel, where you can treat yourself to a massage in a cabin near the sea, a first-class meal and a beautiful beach.
There are boats that can take you to Tintipán Island at night, so that you get the chance to swim with bioluminescent plankton and get mind blown by its beauty.
4. Corota Island
This is a small Colombian island covered by huge trees. It is located in the Nariño Department — a couple of hours from Pasto, its capital.
Although the island is very small — only 12 hectares — it is a fauna and flora sanctuary, with an abundance of tropical plants, birds and insects.
This place was sacred to the Quillacinga indigenous community, so it’s the perfect place to have an spiritual experience.
5. Barú Island
Located 45 minutes, by boat, from Cartagena one of Colombia´s most emblematic cities, this island is famous among tourists who travel to the Colombian Caribbean for its white beaches and turquoise waters.
Its most visited beach is Playa Blanca, although there are also private luxury beaches and hotels.
In addition to the beauty of the landscape, Barú has historical significance. It was here where the famous Battle of Barú (Wagner’s Action) was fought in 1708, during which the San José galleon sank.
Top 5 Colombian islands to visit: Conclusion
Colombia is home to some of the most incredibly diverse islands, which are surrounded by palm trees and also island in the middle of the forest. This kind of diversity is rare and difficult to find, so don’t hesitate and visit them all if possible or maybe a few.
Here are our top 5 Colombian islands for you to visit when you travel to this unforgettably magic country.
If you need help or guidance with the planning process of your trip to Colombia, don´t hesitate to contact us. We have a team of travel experts looking forward to help you have the best holiday of your life.