Providence and Saint Kethleena islands
Discover the Islands
Have you heard about Providencia (Old Providence) and Santa Catalina (Kethleena)? These two enchanting volcanic islands are nestled in the Colombian Caribbean Sea and cover a combined area of 18 km². Due to their exceptional natural, cultural, and historical significance, they are an integral part of the San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina Archipelago, which forms part of the UNESCO-declared Seaflower Biosphere Reserve. Situated 95 km north of San Andrés Island, a mere 150 m channel separates these islands.
Providencia boasts the world's third-largest barrier reef and the second-largest in the Caribbean. With water temperatures ranging from 28°C to 32°C and underwater visibility of up to 100 feet (30 meters), it's a diver's paradise suitable for all skill levels. Renowned for its sea of 7 colors, diverse underwater landscapes, and verdant mangroves, Providencia and Santa Catalina are teeming with colorful fish, sharks, rays, and a multitude of marine species.
Explore Different Areas
- These islands offer diverse areas to explore, including captivating bays such as Catalina, Aguamansa, Manzanillo, Southwest, and Aguadulce.
- Extreme points of the island like San Juan, Rocosa, and El Faro.
- Charming keys include Crab Cay, Three Brothers Cay, Southwest Cay, and Bottom House Cay.
Spanish and English are spoken in this unique Archipelago, while the native population communicates in Creole English.
Embark on Your Journey to Providencia
To begin your adventure to Providencia, you must first arrive at San Andrés. You have three airlines to choose from: Avianca, Latam (offering flights from various cities in Colombia), and Copa Airlines (offering flights from Panama). Once in San Andrés, a quick 20-minute plane ride operated by Satena will transport you to the captivating Providencia.
It's time to set out on your unforgettable journey!
Here are some activities to enjoy on Providencia Island:
- Tour the Circunvalar highway on a motorbike or "mulita" to appreciate the island's architecture and the sea.
- Walk the Lovers' Bridge, which is about 150 meters long and crosses from Providencia to Santa Catalina.
- Visit the beaches: Manzanillo, Bahía Suroeste, Almond Bay, and Agua Dulce.
- Trekking in the Peak, the highest point on the island at 360 meters above sea level.
- Take a boat ride and snorkel in Cayo Cangrejo and areas around the island.
- Visit Santa Catalina, cross the Lovers' Bridge, and walk along the mountain to Fort Bay Beach and Morgan's Head.
- Watch the horse and sailboat races that take place sporadically in Southwest Bay.
- Take a fishing tour with a hand line or fishing rods.
- Enjoy bird and reptile watching.
- Try kayaking at different points on the island.
- Witness the migration of the black crab, which covers a third of the island.
