Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina
Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina
The Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina is a department of Colombia located in the Caribbean Sea. It includes two main island groups—San Andrés and Providencia–Santa Catalina—plus eight smaller banks and reefs. The largest island is San Andrés, whose main town is also called San Andrés. Providencia and Santa Catalina lie to the northeast, with their main town Santa Isabel on Providencia.
Location and size: The archipelago sits about 775 kilometers northwest of mainland Colombia. It is a small, sunny area made up of white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and clear waters, popular with visitors.
People and culture: The original inhabitants are the Raizal people, an Afro-Caribbean community who speak a Creole language and are largely Protestant. Since the mid-20th century, many mainland Colombians have moved here, so today Raizales are a minority in the islands. Most residents today speak Spanish, Creole, and English.
Economy and travel: Tourism is the main economic activity, with the islands marketed as a “Tourist Paradise.” The Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (ADZ) serves San Andrés and nearby islands, with flights from Colombia and connections to Panama and the United States. In 2021, American Airlines began nonstop service from Miami, and Copa Airlines flies to Panama City.
History and status: Over the centuries, control of the islands changed among Spain, Britain, pirates, and eventually Colombia. The islands joined Gran Colombia in 1822 and are now a department of Colombia. The International Court of Justice confirmed Colombian sovereignty over the islands in past rulings, while maritime border issues are still being discussed.
Geography highlights: In addition to San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina, the region includes several small banks and reefs. The westernmost point of Colombia is near the Cayos de Albuquerque, and the area is known for its rich marine life and diving opportunities.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 18:17 (CET).