Cartagena: 5 Islands Premium Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling

Cartagena: 5 Islands Premium Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling offers a solid way to explore the stunning archipelago of the Rosario and Barú Islands. For $96 per person, you get an 8-hour day packed with visiting several islands, enjoying a mix of beach relaxation, scenic views, snorkeling, and local food. The tour is run by La Perla Viajes Y Turismo, and guides speak both Spanish and English, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

What we like most about this experience is how it balances comfort and fun. First, the organized itinerary includes a variety of stops—from the lively Cholón with its party vibe to the peaceful Playa Blanca—giving you a broad taste of island life around Cartagena. Second, the lunch included at Playa Blanca offers a chance to sample Colombian cuisine with a view, adding real value compared to other tours that might just focus on sightseeing.

However, a potential drawback is the mixed reviews about the logistics and authenticity of the snorkeling experience. Some travelers found the snorkeling only with goggles a bit underwhelming, and others felt the islands were overly commercialized. If you’re looking for a peaceful, less crowded escape or top-tier snorkeling, this may not be exactly what you want. But if you’re after a lively day with a variety of sights and social atmosphere, this tour could suit you well.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a full, active day with multiple stops, including some social and scenic highlights, and aren’t overly concerned about pristine, untouched nature. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a taste of everything—beach, snorkel, local food, and lively scenery—without long, strenuous excursions.

Key Points

• Diverse Islands: Visit Rosario Islands, Cholón, Playa Blanca, and Barú, experiencing a mix of lively and peaceful spots.
• Included Lunch: Colombian-style meal at Playa Blanca enhances the value and cultural experience.
• Snorkeling: Provided with goggles, offering a simple sea experience but not full equipment for breathing underwater.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pick-up from most hotel areas and a well-planned itinerary make for a smooth day.
• Tour Duration: About 8 hours, with flexible options for plankton viewing and return times.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers found the islands too commercial and snorkeling limited, so manage expectations accordingly.

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In-Depth Review of the Cartagena: 5 Islands Premium Tour

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

Starting early with pick-up from various hotel locations in Cartagena, the tour appears thoughtfully organized. You’ll leave the pier with a bilingual guide, setting the tone for an informative and friendly experience. The initial stop near Isla Tierra Bomba offers a quick panoramic view of the historic forts of San Fernando and San José—great for history buffs or those who simply want a photo opportunity with a splash of colonial history.

Next, the journey takes you to the Rosario Islands, a cluster of small islands known for their crystalline waters. The highlight here is a brief visit to Pablo Escobar’s plane—an intriguing if somewhat kitschy photo op. From there, you’ll make a stop at Isla Grande for snorkeling, though the activity is limited to goggles, which might disappoint those expecting full snorkeling gear or abundant marine life. Several reviews pointed out that this was more about a quick swim than a true snorkeling adventure.

A notable part of the tour is Cholón, the “party island.” It’s what you might expect—loud music, luxury boats, and a vibrant atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy a shrimp cocktail, which is a popular local snack. The subsequent visit to Agua Azul offers a quieter, beautiful beach setting, perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery.

The afternoon is dedicated to Playa Tranquila in Barú. This spot serves as the tour’s lunch stop, where you’ll enjoy a meal around 1:30 pm. Expect typical Colombian beach fare—nothing gourmet but satisfying after a morning of sightseeing. After lunch, some travelers opt for more beach time or to stay for the sunset, especially if they’re interested in the plankton activity later in the evening.

The final activity involves a rare chance to see bioluminescent plankton at Portonaito lagoon, scheduled for around 7 pm. Those who prefer not to stay can head back on the speedboat around 3 pm, which ends the tour early.

Transport, Group Size, and Timing

This tour involves a mix of transport modes—pickup vans, speedboats, and a bus/coach. The boat rides are relatively short, varying from 5 to 45 minutes, designed to maximize island time. The tour duration is approximately 8 hours, which is quite packed but manageable if you’re eager to see many islands in one day.

Group size isn’t specified, but given the multiple pickup points and the nature of the tour, expect a fairly sizable group. The early start (around 7:30-8 am) means you’ll need to be prepared for an active, full day.

The Experience and Authenticity

While the tour offers a well-rounded day out, some reviews reveal mixed feelings about authenticity. One reviewer noted that the islands felt overly commercialized and that the snorkeling was “not real snorkeling,” only goggles without the ability to breathe underwater. Others felt Cholón was “downright disgusting,” highlighting the importance of managing expectations if you prefer pristine nature.

On the upside, guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, adding context and making the long day more enjoyable. The included lunch at Playa Blanca is a definite plus, providing a taste of local cuisine amid the scenic setting.

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Cost and Value

At $96 per person, this tour is priced reasonably considering the transportation, multiple island visits, and included lunch. It’s a convenient option for those who want a hassle-free way to see a variety of sights without worrying about logistics. However, if your priority is snorkeling or unspoiled beaches, you might find it less satisfying compared to specialized or private tours.

What Travelers Say

Authentic reviews remind us that this tour isn’t a nature retreat but more of a lively, social experience. One traveler from GetYourGuide mentioned that it was “well, they should clearly specify to the tourist that it is a recreational tour and not a party and liquor tour,” underscoring the importance of understanding what kind of experience you’re booking. Another pointed out the inconvenience of unclear meeting points and the commercial feel of the islands.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a day filled with variety—beach time, lively islands, quick snorkeling, and local food—this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy social settings and don’t mind busy, touristy spots. It’s less suited for those seeking untouched nature or serious snorkeling adventures.

The Sum Up

The Cartagena: 5 Islands Premium Tour offers a lively, well-organized day out that covers a lot of ground. You’ll visit a mix of scenic, social, and culinary spots—perfect for those who want to get a broad taste of the archipelago without spending too much time on logistics. The inclusion of lunch and the ease of hotel pickup add to its appeal, especially for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights.

However, be aware that some travelers found the islands somewhat crowded and the snorkeling limited. If you prioritize pristine beaches or advanced snorkeling, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re after a fun, social day with diverse sights and experiences, this tour offers good value for the price.

In the end, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a packed, enjoyable day in the Caribbean waters surrounding Cartagena, especially if they’re comfortable with a lively, sometimes commercial atmosphere. Just remember to manage your expectations about snorkeling and the commercial vibe of some islands—and you’ll have a memorable day on Colombia’s beautiful coast.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from most hotels in tourist areas like Bocagrande, El Laguito, and the historic center, depending on your location.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is generally between 7:30 am and 8:00 am. Exact times depend on your hotel’s location.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 8 hours, ending around 4 pm at the Bodeguita dock.

What is included in the price?
You get pickup, snorkeling glasses, a Colombian lunch, and sun deck chairs.

Are snorkeling activities suitable for everyone?
Snorkeling is limited to goggles, so it’s more of a swimming experience than full snorkeling with breathing tubes. Expect quick dips, not long underwater explorations.

Can I stay longer at the islands?
Yes, you can choose to remain at Playa Blanca until sunset for the plankton activity, or return early on the speedboat around 3 pm.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sunscreen, beachwear, sandals, and a towel are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the activities are generally family-friendly, but keep in mind the limited snorkeling gear.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Colombian style lunch is provided at Playa Blanca.

What if I don’t want to do the plankton activity?
You can opt to return early by speedboat, ending the tour around 3 pm.

This review should help you decide if the Cartagena: 5 Islands Premium Tour aligns with your travel style—whether you’re after lively social spots, scenic beaches, or just a fun day in the Caribbean sun.

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