Pico de Gordo | San Andres

Information

Landmark: Pico de Gordo
City: San Andres
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America

Pico de Gordo, San Andres, Colombia, South America

Pico de Gordo is a prominent rock formation located off the coast of San Andres, Colombia.

This geological feature is situated approximately 2 kilometers east of the main island.

Visual Characteristics

Pico de Gordo is a singular, weathered limestone outcrop rising vertically from the sea. Its surface is rough, exhibiting erosion patterns from wind and wave action. The rock color ranges from light grey to off-white, with patches of green algae near the waterline. The formation's height above sea level is approximately 15 meters.

Location & Access Logistics

Access to Pico de Gordo is exclusively by boat. From the main port in San Andres town, charter a small boat or join a guided tour. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There is no direct road access or parking at the formation itself. Boat tours typically depart from the Muelle Principal (Main Pier).

Historical & Ecological Origin

Pico de Gordo is a remnant of the ancient coral reef system that formed the island of San Andres. Over millennia, geological uplift and erosion have shaped this isolated pinnacle from the surrounding reef structure. It represents a specific point of geological resilience within the broader Caribbean reef ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity associated with Pico de Gordo is observation from a boat. It serves as a focal point for boat tours and diving excursions. Snorkeling is possible in the waters surrounding the base of the formation, with visibility dependent on sea conditions. The rock face itself is not accessible for climbing due to its sheer and eroded nature.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no facilities or amenities directly on Pico de Gordo. Restrooms and food vendors are available at the main port in San Andres town before departing on boat tours. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available on the boat during transit and when closer to the main island, but may be intermittent near the formation.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for viewing Pico de Gordo is during the morning hours, between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, when the sun illuminates the rock face from the east. The dry season, from December to April, offers calmer seas and better visibility for boat travel and potential snorkeling. High tide is preferable for closer boat approaches.

Facts & Legends

Local lore suggests that Pico de Gordo was once a larger island that sank due to a curse placed upon a pirate captain who buried his treasure there. While unverified, the formation's isolated nature and the surrounding deep waters contribute to such tales.