San Andres Island: White Train Tour & Hoyo Soplador Stop

Summary

San Andres island train ride with music, local guides and swim stops

You’ll circle San Andres island by white train with a local guide sharing stories and music as you go. Expect stops for dancing demos, swimming with fish (bring snorkel gear!), scenic photos, and maybe catching the Hoyo Soplador if it’s active. There’s time for laughter over Coco Loco drinks and plenty of breezy Caribbean moments along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I hopped onto the white train in San Andres not really knowing what to expect — it’s just this open-sided bus thing, painted bright and a little worn around the edges (in a good way). The driver waved us on with a big grin, and our guide started chatting right away in this warm mix of Spanish and Creole. We rolled out slowly, reggae drifting from the speakers, wind whipping my hair and that salty smell everywhere. I remember thinking, “Okay, this is definitely not your usual city tour.”

First stop was a dance demo by some local kids — honestly, I felt awkward at first but then everyone was clapping along. Our guide explained the steps and even tried pulling me up (I declined; my two left feet are legendary). Next was this viewpoint where everyone scrambled for photos. The light was weirdly perfect — kind of hazy but golden? I still think about that view sometimes. And then there was the spot where you can swim with fish — you have to go down these slippery stairs (hold tight!) but once you’re in, it’s all cool water and flashes of color under the surface.

If the Hoyo Soplador is blowing (it wasn’t for us), they’ll stop so you can see this wild blast of sea spray shoot up from a hole in the rocks. Instead we got another photo stop — which was fine by me because honestly, every corner here looks like something out of an old postcard. Somewhere along the way our guide handed out Coco Locos — sweet and cold with a kick; Li laughed when I tried to say it in Creole (“Mi want wan Coco Loco!”) but hey, I tried.

The last beach stop was just easy — families splashing around, vendors calling out soft drinks in Spanish, sand sticking to everything. We lingered longer than planned because nobody wanted to leave yet. The whole day felt like being gently pulled along by island time. Not perfect or polished but real — that’s what stuck with me after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tour around San Andres island

• Guided tour with typical dance
• Visit popular photographic point
• Swim at natural site with fish
• Stop at Blowhole if active
• Visit alternative photographic point
• Enjoy last station beach

Top questions

How long does the San Andres white train tour take?

The tour circles the entire island at a relaxed pace with several stops; plan for about half a day.

Is swimming included during the San Andres island tour?

Yes, there is a stop where you can swim among fish—access is via stairs or slide; bring your snorkel if you have one.

What is Hoyo Soplador on San Andres?

Hoyo Soplador is a natural blowhole where sea water shoots up through rock tunnels when waves hit just right.

Are drinks or food included on the tour?

A typical drink like Coco Loco may be included at certain stops; food is not specified in the inclusions.

Is this San Andres train tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, assistance is provided for wheelchair users getting on/off; seating is in regular passenger seats.

Do children need special seats during the tour?

Infants should sit on an adult’s lap; children needing car seats must be held on laps as well.

What’s included

Your day includes riding around San Andres island on an open-sided white train with both driver and local guide, visits to up to six key spots including swimming areas and photo viewpoints (like Hoyo Soplador if active), plus chances to enjoy local music, dancing demonstrations, and even try a Coco Loco drink before ending at one of the island’s family-friendly beaches.