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Isla De Providencia, which was earlier known as Old Providence, is a Caribbean mountain island, lying between Costa Rica and Jamaica. There are many things to do in Isla de Providencia to explore the rich marine life, beautiful landscapes and historic buildings. This place is known for its rich variety of marine life and lush green surroundings. The marine areas are protected by UNESCO, which has some of the world’s best and largest barrier reefs. It is an amazing place to explore the pristine beaches, relax at the beaches and participate in watersports.
Top 14 Things To Do In Isla De Providencia
Wondering what to do in Isla de Providencia? Here are some of the best things to do in Isla de Providencia that offer an amazing experience of exploring nature with many adventurous activities:
1. Explore The MacBean Lagoon Park
Photo: Felviper / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best things to see in Isla de Providencia, MacBean Lagoon Park, located on the northeastern side of the Isle de Providencia, is one of the best places to explore. This national park is one of the three in the Colombian Caribbean that has coral reefs in its territories. This park was opened in 1995 and is located in an area of 9.95 square kilometres. This national park is famous for its variety of ecosystems, like mangrove forests, coral formations, marine grass beds, tropical dry forests, and more. There are different types of mangrove trees along with nearly 74 species of birds and many more that are rich in flora and fauna.
Location: Isla de, San Andrés y Providencia, Colombia
2. Try Diving
Photo: Richard Segal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Diving in Isla De Providencia is one of the best and most adventurous things to do. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There are various local locations that provide diving options with safety and security along with training for both beginners and experts. It allows you to dive into the water to explore the colourful coral reefs, different species of fish, sea turtles, crabs and many more. The barrier reef at this place in Isla De Providencia is the third largest in the entire world. This offers a stunning view of the rich marine life at the island.
Location: Multiple including Crab Cay, Morgan’s Head, The Wall, Lighthouse Reef, Basalt Columns
3. Enjoy Snorkelling At Crab Cay
Photo: Michelle_Pitzel / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Crab Cay is a small island that is a part of a few others located in MacBean Lagoon Park. This island is known to have turquoise and crystal-clear waters that are rich in marine life. It is one of the best things to do in Isla de providencia Colombia. The waters around this island are surrounded by various coral formations, colourful species of fish, and sea turtles. It has one of the best places to explore the beauty of the underwater world. It is recommended by many tourists at Crab Crayo. There are several tour operations for the training of snorkelling that are cost-effective and with safety and security.
Location: Crab Cay, Colombia
4. Relax On The Southwest Bay Beach
Photo: Rodrigo.Argenton / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Southwest Bay Beach is one of the best places to visit in Isla de Providencia. It is known to have a calm atmosphere that is ideal to slow down life for some time. You can just sink into the sand, cheer to the reggae tunes and enjoy some amazing food at the seashore. This place is covered with wooden houses colored in yellow and red and surrounded by palm trees. This place has clear waters with small fishing boats going around. This beach offers stunning views, especially during sunset, with a soothing feeling. There are also many dining options with seaside views providing delicious local cuisine.
Location: South West Bay, Providencia and Santa Catalina Islands, San Andres and Providencia, Colombia
5. Visit The Santa Catalina Island
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Santa Catalina Island is one of the small Colombian islands that is a part of the Caribbean Sea. This place is the northernmost island of South America and also has two bays that are John Bay and Eliza Bay. This island is known to have a diverse variety of ecosystems along with coastal scrub, oak woodlands, grassland and a rich coastal marine environment. This place is also home to various local spices. It is the best place to visit for a large family gathering or with friends to enjoy many entertainment options in exploring the stunning views of the beautiful ocean.
Location: Santa Catalina Island, San Andres and Providencia, Colombia
6. Watch The Sunset At Manzanillo Beach
Photo: JuanJavierTG / Wikimedia Commons
Manzanillo Beach, which is a part of the Caribbean Coastal Road, is located in a small fishing town that is known for its amazing views of the beachside. This is the best place for sunbathing, swimming and also sitting and relaxing, making it one of the best things to do in Isla de providencia with kids. This beach is known to have calm and crystal clear waters with white sand that is located at a stretch of 4 kilometres. There are also turtle nesting tours during the nesting season that can be explored with guidance. There are also a few restaurants nearby to enjoy a delicious dinner with a view of the beachside.
Location: Manchaneel Beach, Providencia, San Andrés y Providencia, Colombia
7. Hike The El Pico Mountain
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the popular Things to do in Isla de Providencia, hike to El Pico Mountain, which is also known as The Peak, is the highest point of Isla De Providencia Island. This mountain peak is situated in the Caribbean over a height of 360 meters above sea level. This peak is also a part of the El Pico National Region Park that offers a beautiful view of landscapes of the entire island and also the surrounding areas of the Caribbean Sea. There is a moderately difficult trail to hike to reach this place, which requires certified training. This place is also rich in its flora and fauna, with many species in the forest that you can come across while hiking.
Location: Alto El Pico, Providencia and Santa Catalina Islands, San Andres and Providencia, Colombia
8. Walk Across The Lovers Lane Bridge
Photo: Taxiarchos228 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Lovers Lane Bridge is one of the most famous places to take a walk on, located in Isla De Providencia. This bridge joins the islands of Providencia and Santa Catalina. It is a picture-perfect and colourful floating bridge that helps inhabitants of the island of Santa Catalina to cross the sea and get access to the City Centre School and hospital. This bridge is located on the artificial canal that was developed by the pirates in the 17th century. Small wooden benches that are decorated with crabs and lanterns that are lit in the evening and you can enjoy nightlife in Isla de Providencia.
Location: Puente de los Enamorados, San Andrés, Providencia, San Andrés y Providencia, Colombia
9. Visit The Morgan Head
Photo: Felviper / Wikimedia Commons
Morgan Head is a famous rock formation that is located on one of the small islands in Isla De Providencia. This rock is named after a 17th-century pirate named Henry Morgan. This rock also resembles a human head, where there are many local legends that are talked about. There are also legends that there is hidden treasure by Morgan on the island. It is a famous destination for both locals and tourists that offers amazing views of the entire sea and the surrounding landscapes. It is one of the most iconic symbols representing the pirate history of the island.
Location: Providencia, Providencia and Santa Catalina Islands, San Andres and Providencia, Colombia
10. Experience Shark Diving
Photo: Sharkcrew / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Shark diving is one of the most adventurous activities in Isla De Providencia. It is an unforgettable experience that is available at a remote Caribbean island, which is a part of the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve. This place has crystal clear waters with rich marine life. The healthy coral reef life at this place provides access for the environment with many sharks, rays and fish species. Experienced dive operators come along with the participants to ensure safety and responsibility to spot and encounter the sharks. This diving experience is available for both beginners and experts.
Location: Bajo Tranquilo, Blue Hole, Crab Cay
11. Kayak Through The Mangroves
Photo: Spencer Gurley Films / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
One of the best things to do in Isla de Providencia is kayaking through mangrove forests for a peaceful and scenic experience. It’s a great way to connect with nature while spotting colourful birds, fish, and even small crabs along the way. The mangroves are part of a protected ecosystem, and kayaking lets you explore them up close without harming the environment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, this gentle adventure offers a relaxing break from the beach crowds.
Location: Best around McBean Lagoon National Park and around Crab Cay (Cayo Cangrejo)
12. Enjoy Fresh Seafood At Local Eateries
Photo: Julia Filirovska / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Providencia is a fantastic place to enjoy fresh and tasty seafood, caught daily by local fishermen. You’ll find small, family-run eateries and beachside stalls serving island favourites like grilled fish, lobster, a rich coconut seafood stew. The food is flavourful, comforting, and often comes with rice, plantains, and a warm smile from the cook. Eating here isn’t just about the food; it’s a chance to enjoy the island’s laid-back vibe and friendly culture in a cosy, relaxed setting.
13. Take A Boat Tour Around The Island
Photo: juan mendez / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
A boat tour is one of the best ways to see the natural beauty of Providencia from the water. Local guides take you around the island’s coast, stopping at beautiful snorkelling spots, hidden beaches, and scenic viewpoints. It’s a fun and easy way to explore more in just a few hours. You might see colourful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles along the way. Most tours include time to swim, relax, and take in the stunning Caribbean scenery.
Cost: 440,000 COP / ₹9348.91 (Round trip)
14. Visit The Old Providence McBean Lagoon Visitor Centre
Photo: Fabian Wiktor / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
This small visitor centre is a great place to learn more about the island’s unique wildlife and marine life. Located near the McBean Lagoon National Park, the centre has displays and information about the coral reefs, mangroves, and birds found in the area. It’s worth a short stop, especially before or after a trip to the park. The setting is peaceful, and the friendly staff are happy to share interesting facts. It’s a simple but educational experience for all ages.
Major Attractions: Marine life, mangrove ecosystems, and local biodiversity near McBean Lagoon National Natural Park
There are many things to do in Isla De Providencia that offer stunning views of the natural beauty. There are also various adventure activities to do at many small islands that are a part of this place. These are once-in-a-lifetime experiences for the tourists. This destination is one of the top places in the world to explore the underwater world.Plan with TripXL to have this enriching experience.
Cover Photo: Felviper / Wikimedia Commons
