Pre-Trip Checklist: San Andres

Essential Preparations

A timeline for seamless travel arrangements.

Planning Timeline

actions to take at different stages before your trip.

3-6

Months Ahead

Passport Status

Check passport validity (6+ months).

Flight Booking

Secure international and domestic flights.

Main Lodging

Research and book your main accommodation.

1-2

Months Before

Visa Needs

Confirm visa requirements for Colombia.

Health Check

Consult doctor for recommended vaccinations.

Itinerary Outline

Detail your travel plans and activities.

1-2

Weeks Before

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flight and accommodation bookings.

Packing Essentials

Pack light clothes and travel necessities.

Electronics Prep

Gather adapters, portable chargers, waterproof pouches.

Booking Ahead

What to secure in advance for your trip.

Advance Reservations

Flights to and from San Andres.
Main accommodation (hotel, hostel, rental).
Popular tours, especially diving excursions.
Multi-day trips to Providencia during peak times.

Pre-Trip Research

Knowledge to gain before you arrive.

Learning About Your Destination

Familiarize yourself with Raizal culture and history.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases.
Read reviews of restaurants and attractions.
Understand local customs and etiquette.

Home Preparation

Things to do at home before your journey.

Security & Payments

Secure your home, lock doors and windows.
Arrange for mail to be held or picked up.
Ensure bills are paid or automated.
Notify bank of travel plans.

Digital & Document Prep

Download offline maps & translation apps.
Make print & digital copies of important documents.
Store copies separately from originals.
Assemble a basic Travel first aid kit.

Last-Minute Details

Arrange for pet care if needed.
Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.
Consider getting a small amount of local currency.
Pack a Light rain jacket if traveling during wet season.

Packing Tip

Pack Insect repellent with DEET and water shoes for rocky beaches.

Arrival Checklist

Your initial steps for a smooth arrival.

Airport Procedures

1
Tourist Card
Buy your Tarjeta de Turismo upon arrival if not pre-purchased.
2
Immigration
Present passport and tourist card to officials.
3
Baggage & Customs
Collect luggage and clear customs.

Initial Steps

Orientation
Grab a local map from the airport or hotel.
Currency & Purchases
Withdraw Colombian Pesos from an ATM.
Hydration
Purchase bottled water immediately.

Transportation to Lodging

Taxi Service

Take a licensed taxi from the airport.

Confirm the fare before starting your ride.

Hotel Shuttle

Use a pre-arranged hotel shuttle.

A convenient option if your lodging offers one.

Walking Option

Possible if staying in El Centro and traveling light.

Many areas are walkable from the airport.

First Impressions

Navigating your arrival sets a positive tone for your San Andres adventure.

Departure Preparation

Final steps before leaving the island.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Keep receipts for duty-free purchases.
Inquire about shipping costs for large items.
Check airline luggage weight limits.
Consider bringing reusable Shopping bags.

Tax & Timing

VAT refunds are generally not practical for tourists.
Arrive 2-3 hours before domestic flights.
Allow 3 hours for international connections.
Allow time for last-minute duty-free shopping.

Departure Documents

Important items for your exit.

Essential Checks

Tarjeta de TurismoMust be surrendered.
Flight Reconfirmation24-48 hours before departure.
PassportKeep readily available.
Boarding PassHave it ready.

Final Accommodation Check

Double-check your room for forgotten items.
Ensure everything is packed before checkout.
Confirm passport and tourist card are secured.
Leave your accommodation tidy.

Smooth Exit

Careful planning for your departure ensures a stress-free journey home.

Confirm all details and enjoy your final moments on the island.

Pre-Trip Checklist