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Exploring Cartagena’s 5 Islands of the Rosario: Beaches, Snorkeling, and a Little Adventure

If you’re heading to Cartagena and craving a taste of island life, the “5 Islands of the Rosario” tour offers a full day of sun, sand, and sea, all for around $96 per person. This 8-hour experience whisks you away from the bustling city to five different islands, where you can relax on pristine beaches, snorkel over coral reefs, and enjoy a hearty lunch. The tour departs from central points like Bocagrande or Marbella, with hotel pickups around 7:50 am to 8:30 am, making it a convenient escape for most travelers.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to see Cartagena’s coast from the water, especially the stunning vistas of San Fernando and San José forts. The chance to spot Pablo Escobar’s submerged airplane adds a quirky touch, blending history and adventure. Plus, the inclusion of a lunch on a private island, featuring local favorites like fried fish, chicken breast, or vegetarian options, makes the day both delicious and satisfying.

A possible consideration is the group size—sport boats hold between 18 to 30 people—so it might feel a bit crowded if you’re seeking solitude or a very intimate setting. Also, since towels aren’t included, you’ll want to bring your own if you plan to lounge on the beaches.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy active days outdoors, appreciate authentic local flavors, and want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure. If your idea of a perfect vacation includes soaking up sunshine, exploring reefs, and trying fresh seafood, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas of Cartagena’s forts and islands.
• Multiple islands: Visit five varied locations, each offering unique scenery and activities.
• Snorkeling and Reef: Opportunities to see colorful coral reefs and marine life.
• Authentic local food: Seafood tasting on Cholon Island and a hearty lunch included.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and return, with optional meeting points.
• Group size: Sport boats with 18-30 travelers, adding a lively atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Rosario Islands Tour Experience

When we first read about this tour, the first thing that caught our eye was the promise of visiting five different islands. That alone hints at variety—each stop delivers something special, whether it’s the quiet beaches, vibrant reefs, or local seafood. The tour is designed to maximize your time in the water and on the sand without feeling rushed.

How the Day Unfolds

The day begins early, with pickup from your accommodation or a designated meeting point. We appreciate the flexibility here—whether you’re staying in Bocagrande, Marbella, Crespo, Boquilla, or nearby, the arrangement is straightforward. The guides tend to call ahead, so punctuality is key. Expect a sport boat (capacity from 18 to 30 people), which offers a lively, communal vibe without being overly crowded.

First, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Cartagena’s historic forts—San Fernando and San José—while cruising towards the islands. This sets a great tone, combining glimpses of the city’s fortress walls with the blue waters ahead. Once at the Rosario Islands, the real fun begins.

The Islands: Highlights and Variations

Cholon Island is the first stop, where seafood tasting is included. Here, you can sample fresh seafood as you enter, setting the tone for the culinary part of your day. The island itself is a peaceful spot for a quick stroll or to snap pictures of the lively entrance.

Next, you’ll visit the private island where lunch is served. The menu offers fried fish, chicken breast, or vegetarian options, all accompanied by salad, patacón (fried plantain), and coconut rice, plus refreshing lemonade. We loved how this meal allows you to sample local flavors in a relaxed setting, with plenty of time to bask in the sun afterward.

Later, you’ll get to snorkel over coral reefs—a highlight for many. The guided snorkeling activity is a chance to see colorful marine life and vibrant reefs. It’s accessible enough for beginners but enjoyable for seasoned snorkelers too. We heard from other travelers that the reefs are “not as crowded as some Caribbean spots”, making for a more authentic and quiet experience.

Pablo Escobar’s submerged plane is another unique feature. It’s a quirky historical sight—an airplane sunk just offshore, which adds a bit of Colombia’s infamous history to the tour. This sighting is brief but memorable, especially for those interested in the country’s past.

Finally, the tour includes visiting a quiet beach—a perfect spot to unwind, swim, or just lay back and watch the clouds. The return trip in the late afternoon wraps up the day around 3:30 pm, giving you ample time to relax and reflect on your day.

The Value of This Tour

The price of $96 covers not only transportation and activities but also the opportunity to explore multiple islands in a single day—an impressive value considering the cost of private boat rentals or individual excursions. The included lunch and seafood tasting enhance the experience further, especially when compared to eating out separately.

The tour’s small to medium group size fosters a friendly, lively atmosphere without feeling overcrowded. Guides conduct the trip in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for international travelers and locals alike.

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What Travelers Say

Many reviews praise the stunning scenery and the well-organized itinerary, emphasizing the balance of guided activities and free time. One traveler mentioned, “We loved the way we could snorkel over reefs and then relax on the quiet beaches. It was a perfect mix.” Others appreciated the friendly guides, noting they were informative and attentive.

Some reviewers did mention that towels are not provided, so packing your own towel or beach mat is advisable. A few found the group size slightly lively, but most enjoyed the social vibe.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring cash for souvenirs or additional snacks.
• Pack beachwear, flip-flops, and your camera for capturing the scenery.
• Remember, towels aren’t included, so bring one if you want to dry off or lie on the beach.
• The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year or travelers over 70—check your comfort with boat rides and outdoor activity.
• The activity is generally accessible but check with the provider if you have mobility concerns.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers and beach lovers who want to see the best of Cartagena’s offshore scenery without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you’re keen on snorkeling, sampling local seafood, or just spending a day soaking up sun in a lively group, this experience offers excellent value.

It’s also great for those who appreciate a balanced schedule—a mix of sightseeing, leisure, and cultural quirks like the Escobar plane. Families, couples, or friends can all enjoy this day out, provided they’re comfortable on boats and outdoor activities.

The Sum Up

Choosing the 5 Islands of the Rosario tour means giving yourself a taste of Caribbean paradise with a local twist. For around $96, you get the chance to explore five distinct islands, snorkel over reefs, see Cartagena from the water, and enjoy a delicious seafood meal—all packed into an 8-hour adventure. The experience balances guided sightseeing with plenty of free time to swim, relax, and soak in the scenery.

While it’s not the most secluded or private escape, the lively atmosphere and variety of stops make it a fantastic choice for those wanting a comprehensive, fun-filled day. If you’re looking for a way to combine culture, nature, and good food in one affordable package, this tour hits all those marks.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a quick getaway, this trip offers a memorable taste of Cartagena’s offshore beauty—a day you’ll likely cherish long after the boat has returned to the dock.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting with hotel pickup around 7:50 am to 8:30 am and returning around 3:30 pm.

What islands will we visit?
You’ll visit five islands, including Cholon Island with seafood tasting, a private island for lunch, and quiet beaches for relaxing or swimming.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, the tour features a snorkeling activity over coral reefs, giving you a chance to see marine life up close.

What is the lunch like?
Lunch is served on a private island and includes fried fish, chicken breast, or vegetarian options, with salad, patacón, coconut rice, and lemonade.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Towels aren’t included, so bring your own if you plan to dry off or lie on the beach. Cash is recommended for souvenirs or extra snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for most people comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activities, but not recommended for babies under 1 year or those over 70. Check with the provider if you have specific health concerns.

In the end, this tour offers a blend of spectacular views, local culture, and beachside fun, making it a worthwhile addition to any Cartagena itinerary. Whether you’re a beach bum or a reef explorer, this trip promises a full day of memorable moments on Colombia’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby