A trip around San Andrés Island with a colorful Chiva bus is one of the most enjoyable ways to see this Caribbean jewel. For $25 per person, you’ll spend roughly 3 hours exploring the island’s most notable sights, with lively music, fun stops, and plenty of opportunities to snap photos. The tour is guided in Spanish, which adds a local touch, and it’s perfect for travelers eager to combine sightseeing, history, and a taste of island life in a relaxed, social setting.

What we love most about this tour is how informal and flexible it feels—you’re not just ticking off sights but experiencing the island’s vibe through its natural landmarks and stories. Highlighted stops like Hoyo Soplador with its spectacular water jets and the pirate-hued Morgan’s Cave really stand out. Another favorite is the West View or swimming pool stop, where you can take a quick dip among fish—an unexpected treat.

A potential consideration is that some stops involve extra entrance fees that aren’t included in the initial price, so budgeting a bit more for those will enhance your experience. Also, because it’s a group tour, it might not be ideal if you prefer very private or tailored excursions. This tour suits travelers who enjoy lively group activities and want a broad overview of San Andrés with a bit of everything—history, nature, and fun.

Key Points

Affordable and fun way to explore the island in a lively group setting.
Highlights include Hoyo Soplador, Morgan’s Cave, and San Luis beaches.
Includes cultural stops like the Island House Museum for a glimpse into local life.
Extra costs apply for some attractions like Morgan’s Cave and West View.
Tour is guided in Spanish, making it ideal for Spanish speakers or those looking for local insights.
Limited mobility options, so consider this if you or your travel companions have mobility restrictions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the San Andrés Chiva Tour

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What is the Chiva Tour, and why choose it?

The Chiva Tour in San Andrés is a vibrant, open-sided bus ride that takes you around the island’s most notable sights. It’s more than just transportation; it’s an experience infused with music, lively commentary, and a sense of camaraderie. For just $25, you get a three-hour journey that covers everything from natural wonders to historical sites.

While the price is modest, it offers excellent value because it combines multiple stops in one organized tour, saving you the hassle of arranging transport and tickets on your own. Plus, the informal atmosphere fosters chatting with fellow travelers and enjoying the local scene.

What stops make this tour special?

Starting Point: Muelle de la Policía

The tour kicks off at the Muelle de la Policía, a convenient central spot where you’ll meet your guide. From here, the bus wiggles through San Andrés’s lively streets, setting the tone for a fun, scenic ride.

Island House Museum

Your first cultural stop is the Island House Museum, where you can learn about the island’s past through historic objects and traditional dances. Though the entrance costs COP12,000, the guided tour offers insights into island life over 300 years ago, giving context to the places you’ll see later.

Morgan’s Cave

Next, you’ll visit Morgan’s Cave, famous for pirate legends—most notably Henry Morgan hiding treasures there. Entrance is COP20,000, so consider whether you want to explore inside or just marvel from outside. It’s a site rich in stories, making it a fun stop for history buffs or pirate enthusiasts.

West View or Piscinita

This stop offers crystal-clear waters perfect for a quick swim or snorkel. You can feed the fish or just relax on the ladders, slides, or trampolines available. The entrance fee is COP8,000, so plan accordingly. Many visitors find this highlight a refreshing break amid the tour’s sightseeing.

Hoyo Soplador

One of the most dramatic natural sights is the Hoyo Soplador, a blowhole where water jets into the air with each wave. The tour only stops if the conditions are right—specifically, if the ocean is agitated enough to produce a good water spout. It’s a spectacle of nature’s power and a favorite for photos, but timing depends on the ocean’s mood.

San Luis Beach

Finally, the tour takes you to San Luis, a tranquil beach area where you can relax, walk along the sands, or enjoy the Caribbean scenery. It’s a peaceful contrast to the more active stops.

Photographic Stop: Letras de San Andres

A quick stop at the “Letras de San Andres” allows you to capture a classic travel photo, a souvenir of your island adventure.

What’s included and what costs extra?

The tour price includes all the stops listed above, but some attractions have additional entrance fees—such as the Island Museum House (COP12,000), Morgan’s Cave (COP20,000), and West View (COP8,000). These are optional but recommended if you want a complete experience.

The tour does not include meals or any activities outside the planned stops. If you want to snorkel or explore further, you’ll need to pay separately.

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The experience: what it feels like

Many travelers, including João, have praised the fun atmosphere and knowledgeable guides that make the tour engaging. João notes it was “Super divertido, unas horas muy buenas con la Rumba,” which translates to a very enjoyable, lively time with music and good energy.

The group dynamic keeps things light and social, perfect for solo travelers or groups wanting to meet others. The guides’ local insights enrich the experience, making each stop more meaningful than just sightseeing.

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Practical tips for your tour

Wear comfortable clothing, and don’t forget sunscreen and a hat—the Caribbean sun is intense.
Bring your passport or ID for any museum entrances.
If you plan to snorkel or swim, pack your gear in advance.
Budget a little extra for the additional entrance fees if you want to visit all attractions.
Be ready for a lively, noisy atmosphere; this isn’t a quiet, contemplative tour but a fun, energetic ride.

Who will love this tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy group activities with a local flavor. It’s especially good if you want a broad overview of San Andrés, mixing natural sights, history, and culture in a short time. If you’re looking for a fun way to meet people and experience the island’s highlights without fuss, this is a solid choice.

However, if you prefer private, tailored experiences or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options. The tour’s group setting and walking to some stops may not suit everyone.

Final thoughts

The San Andrés Chiva Tour offers a cost-effective, lively introduction to the island’s most iconic sights. With lively guides, scenic stops like Hoyo Soplador, and opportunities to learn about pirates and island life, it’s a well-rounded option for those eager to maximize their time and enjoy a bit of local flavor.

What makes this tour special is how it captures the spirit of San Andrés—fun-loving, scenic, and full of stories. It’s perfect for travelers who want a social, engaging experience without breaking the bank. If you’re after authentic sights, natural phenomena, and a taste of Caribbean culture, this tour will serve you well.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is lively and family-friendly, check with the provider about age restrictions, especially for stops with extra fees or activities like swimming or exploring caves.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially during peak season, as the tour has limited availability and can fill up quickly.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is guided in Spanish, so some familiarity or a translation app might be helpful if you don’t speak the language.

How long does each stop last?
Stops are usually brief but enough for photos and quick visits—expect around 20-30 minutes per site, depending on traffic and conditions.

Are the stops flexible?
Certain stops, like the blowhole, depend on ocean conditions and may be skipped if it’s not blowing. Other stops are scheduled but allow some free time.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, sunscreen, hat, swimsuit if swimming, and extra cash for entrance fees and snacks.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Spanish?
It’s primarily in Spanish, so knowing some basic phrases or traveling with a translator will enhance your experience.

Is it possible to customize the tour?
This is a group tour with a set itinerary, so customization isn’t typically offered. However, you can ask the guide about additional stops or activities beforehand.

In all, the Chiva Tour around San Andrés is a fun, affordable way to see the highlights, learn some local stories, and experience the island’s natural beauty—all with a lively soundtrack and in good company. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who want both adventure and authenticity in their day on this Caribbean paradise.