Off the coast of Nicaragua, the Colombian island of San Andres is the gateway to a little-known and completely preserved paradise: Providencia. This 17 km² island offers the tranquility of an isolated land in a Caribbean atmosphere.Underwater, a colorful and preserved paradiseCrystal-clear water surrounds Providencia, with visibility that can reach 30 meters. Nicknamed the sea of seven colors, it is adorned with sublime shades of blue and green. It is not uncommon to encounter groups of rays in the lagoon waters. Divers can also observe turtles and reef sharks amidst hundreds of Caribbean fish species, some of which are endemic. Snorkeling can be done just about anywhere, particularly near the small island of Santa Catalina. Admire, at less than 10 meters deep, multicolored corals and reefs full of crevices teeming with small fish. Drop-offs, caves, reef plateaus or coral heads… it’s impossible to get bored underwater! At the Table Rock site, northwest of the island, a maze of tunnels sometimes houses sharks. Providencia is located on the third longest coral reef in the world, which is full of corals (brain, feather, blue…) as well as immense gorgonians and sponges.Teaching sharks to eat lionfishFor some years now, lionfish (Pterois volitans) have appeared in the waters of Providencia. They proliferate and feed on endemic fish in the lagoon. Do not be shocked if you see instructors armed with spears during dives. An experiment is underway to injure lionfish and attract sharks to feed on them. The aim is to accustom the sharks so that they naturally make the lionfish their favorite prey in order to limit its presence.An amazing show on the surfaceIt is impossible to reach Providencia without passing through San Andres, a very lively but also very (too?) touristy island. Just 15 minutes by plane or 4 hours by boat, choose Providencia, where peace and relaxation prevail. A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, the two islands offer landscapes of mangroves and lush forests delightful for hikers. The white sandy beaches and coconut trees remind you that you are in the Caribbean. These islands, which belong to Colombia, are reputed to have been the hideout of a pirate: Captain Morgan. It is said that on the island of Santa Catalina, connected to Providencia by a floating bridge, the pirate hid his treasure… A rock shaped like a head even bears his name. Experience the Caribbean atmosphere with its beachside bars playing reggae and its colorful villages, and enjoy the very warm welcome of the locals. Between April and June, the island is the scene of a strange ballet: thousands of black crabs move to the sea to lay their eggs. A month later, the juveniles make the reverse journey to return to land. To secure this amazing migration, traffic may be stopped on some roads.In practice
Time zone difference : – 6 hours in winter, – 7 hours in summer.Currency : the Colombian peso (1 € = 3500 COP).Water temperature : 28°C on average throughout the year.Best season for diving : December to May.Equipment : 3 mm wetsuit.Diving level : beginner to advanced.www.colombia.travel/en
opening image © alain souan