How to Get to San Andres. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (ADZ) is the only airport on San Andres Island. It mainly serves as a hub for flights connecting from mainland Colombian cities. The airport is conveniently close to El Centro, the main commercial center.

Airlines & Routes

From Mainland Colombia: Avianca, LATAM Colombia, Wingo offer frequent flights from Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Cartagena.
International Flights: Direct international flights to San Andres are rare, mainly serving a few select Latin American cities.
Standard Travel: International travelers fly into major Colombian gateway cities (Bogotá - BOG, Medellín - MDE, Cartagena - CTG) then take a domestic connecting flight.

Flight Planning & Facilities

Flight prices to San Andres vary significantly with season and time of booking. Prices are highest during high season (Dec-May), especially around Colombian national holidays. Flights are generally more affordable during the wet season (Jun-Nov).

Airport Services & Transfers

Airport Facilities: ADZ has ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, cafes, and car rental desks.
Transfers: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal; confirm the price beforehand.
Hotel Shuttles: Some larger hotels and resorts offer complimentary or paid shuttle services.

Booking Advice

Booking flights at least 1-2 months ahead is recommended. Flexibility with travel dates often leads to savings, with weekdays typically cheaper.

Price Trends

High season sees the highest prices. Wet season flights are generally more affordable due to lower demand.

Major Hubs

Connect through Bogotá (BOG), Medellín (MDE), or Cartagena (CTG) for international arrivals.

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Land Transportation

Not Applicable

San Andres is an island. Land transportation to or from the island is not applicable.

No Mainland Link

You cannot drive or take a train or bus from mainland Colombia to San Andres.

Air or Sea Only

All arrivals and departures from the mainland are by air or sea.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry & Cruise Services

San Andres serves as a port of call for some Caribbean cruise lines. Cruise passengers typically arrive for day visits. There are no regular public ferry services connecting San Andres to mainland Colombia.

Inter-Island Connections

Inter-island boat services connect San Andres with Providencia and Santa Catalina.
Catamaran journeys to Providencia take around 3 hours and can be rough depending on sea conditions.
Smaller planes also service routes between San Andres and Providencia.

Immigration & Transfers

For cruise passengers, immigration and customs procedures are typically handled by the cruise line. For arrivals from Providencia, a domestic check may occur, but it is generally streamlined.

Onward Travel from Port

From the cruise port or local marinas, taxis are readily available for onward travel.
Local busetas are also available from port areas to your accommodation or desired locations.
The main port is conveniently close to the central commercial area.

River Transportation

River transportation is not applicable. San Andres is a marine island, not connected to a river system for transportation.

No River Access

The island is purely marine, with no river networks for navigation.
All water-based transport is ocean-centric.
Focus on sea-based tours and inter-island boat services.

Cruise Passenger Info

San Andres is a port of call for some Caribbean cruise lines. Cruise passengers typically disembark for a few hours to explore the island's attractions before returning to their ship. The island welcomes day visitors from cruises.

Cruise Specifics

Immigration and customs are generally handled by the cruise line.
Minimal direct interaction with local authorities beyond a quick passport check.
Local transport (taxis, busetas) are available from the port.

Departure Information

Tarjeta de Turismo: This card, purchased upon arrival, serves as your exit fee. Keep it safe throughout your stay.
Lost Card: If you lose it, you may experience delays and a fine or need to purchase a new one.
Other Exit Taxes: No separate exit tax for international flights is typically charged directly at the airport. Any departure taxes are usually included in your airline ticket price.

Airport Arrival: Arrive at Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (ADZ) with ample time.
Timing: For domestic flights, arrive at least 2-3 hours before departure. For international connections, allow at least 3 hours, especially during peak seasons.
Documents: Have your passport, boarding pass, and the Tarjeta de Turismo ready for inspection.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

Amenities at ADZ

The airport's departure area provides basic amenities similar to the arrival side. While compact, ADZ is efficient for departures, allowing for a relatively smooth process if you arrive with sufficient time.

Facilities

Duty-Free Shops: Opportunities for last-minute duty-free purchases.
Food Options: Small cafes and snack bars for refreshments.
Seating: Ample seating in the waiting areas.

Security & Procedures

Standard airport security procedures are in place. Be prepared to remove electronics and liquids from your carry-on luggage. Cooperation with security staff makes the process smoother for everyone.

Security Checklist

Electronics: Remove laptops and other large electronic devices from bags.
Liquids: Adhere to liquid restrictions (usually 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons).
Efficiency: Follow instructions from security personnel for a quick passage.

Travel Advice

Planning your international arrival into one of Colombia's major cities, followed by a separate domestic booking to San Andres, is the standard travel approach.

How to Get to San Andres