Discover the magical Paue Island in the Rosario Islands from Cartagena.

Planning a day trip from Cartagena that combines natural beauty, fun activities, and a touch of exclusivity? For $150 per person, you can explore Paue Island, a private slice of paradise in the Rosario Islands. The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting early in the morning, and promises a blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island charm.

What we love about this experience is how it offers both a laid-back environment and plenty of options to stay active—whether by snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, paddling a kayak, or simply lounging in a hammock with a good view. Plus, the inclusion of four lunch options and a welcome drink means you’re well fed without the extra hassle of planning.

A quick consideration: if you’re sensitive to early mornings or prefer more structured schedules, the 7:40 AM meet-up might be a bit early for some. Still, the journey to the island is smooth, and the overall value makes it worthwhile.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxing day out in a beautiful, unspoiled setting—perfect for couples, families, or anyone wanting a break from the busy city life while enjoying some water-based fun.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Island Experience: Paue Island offers a quiet, uncrowded environment with plenty of space to relax.
• Multiple Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding keep the day lively and engaging.
• Inclusive Lunch Options: Four diverse choices cater to different tastes, with drinks included.
• Easy Transportation: Round-trip speedboat rides make travel quick and scenic.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Friendly locals and a tranquil setting provide a genuine island vibe.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins at Muelle de la Bodeguita

Your adventure starts early, with check-in at Muelle de la Bodeguita in Cartagena’s historic center. Arriving by 7:40 AM, you’ll meet your guides, who are easily recognizable by their uniforms. The initial moment sets a tone of anticipation—you’re about to escape the city for a private island experience. The port fee (COP 29,000) is not included, so plan accordingly if you’re bringing cash.

The boat ride lasts about 45 minutes, offering a panoramic view of the Rosario archipelago. We loved the way the boat glides over the water, with the wind in your hair and Cartagena fading into the background. It’s a smooth start that doesn’t feel rushed, allowing you to settle in and take in the scenery.

Approaching Paue Island: A Slice of Solitude

Upon arrival, the atmosphere instantly shifts. You’re greeted with a welcome glass of champagne or lemonade—a nice touch that helps you unwind immediately. The island itself is a picture-perfect escape with soft white sand beaches, lush vegetation, and a few welcoming locals.

What makes Paue special is its private island status, meaning fewer crowds and more space to spread out. It’s a place where you can truly relax or indulge in the activities on offer.

Activities That Make the Day Shine

Snorkeling and Coral Reef Exploration

One of the standout features is the chance to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. The tour’s description emphasizes the opportunity to “explore the vibrant coral reefs,” which we found to be a highlight. The waters are clear, and the equipment is usually provided for snorkeling, so you can get up close with colorful fish and perhaps even spot a curious crab or two.

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Kayaking and Paddleboarding

For those who prefer to stay dry but still want to be active, kayaking and paddleboarding are included. We loved the way these activities allowed us to glide quietly around the island’s shoreline, enjoying the tranquility and watching for birds and marine creatures. The calm waters make both activities suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

Relaxation and Flora Exploration

If lounging is more your style, the beach beds and hammocks are perfect for soaking up the sun and listening to the gentle waves. For nature lovers, walking along the island’s trails offers a chance to spot local flora and fauna, adding an educational touch to your relaxing day.

Food and Refreshments

The tour offers four lunch options, which is quite generous for a day trip. Choices include typical islander dishes, chicken breast, pasta with vegetables, and creamy shrimp rice. Each meal is served with a non-alcoholic beverage, and a welcome drink is included at the start.

Multiple reviews praised the food quality, with one noting, “The lunch was surprisingly good, especially the shrimp rice, which was full of flavor.” This emphasis on quality makes the meal a highlight rather than an afterthought.

The Return Journey and Wrap-up

After a full six hours of enjoying the island—whether lounging, exploring, or participating in water sports—the boat departs back to Cartagena. The return trip again takes around 45 minutes, offering a chance to reflect on the day with photos and stories. The experience concludes back at Muelle de la Bodeguita, where you can continue exploring Cartagena or head straight to your accommodation.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Transportation and Timing

The round-trip speedboat journey is a quick, scenic ride that doesn’t tire you out. The tour’s timing is well-paced, with enough time to engage in activities without feeling rushed. However, the early start at 7:40 AM might be a consideration for those who prefer sleeping in or traveling with young children.

Group Size and Guides

While specific group sizes aren’t specified, the mention of a live tour guide in both Spanish and English suggests a personal touch. Guides are there to answer questions, explain the environment, and help you make the most of your time on the island.

Cost-Value Analysis

At $150 per person, the tour provides a lot in terms of diversity—transport, activities, meals, and access to a private island. The inclusion of kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and lunch makes it quite competitive, especially considering the exclusivity of Paue Island.

What’s Not Included

The main extra to budget for is the pier tax (COP 29,000), payable at the dock. Outside food and drinks are not permitted, so you won’t be able to bring your own snacks or beverages. This keeps everything simple and hassle-free, but it’s good to be aware of.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people over 95 years old due to the physical aspects of boat travel and possible activity participation.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

One reviewer remarked, “The island was stunning, and the snorkeling was fantastic. The guide was very friendly and made the whole experience easy.” Another appreciated the relaxed atmosphere, stating, “It’s perfect if you want to escape and just enjoy nature away from crowded tourist spots.”

A common theme is how the friendly locals and peaceful environment make for an authentic and memorable visit, far from more commercialized tourist traps.

This experience is a good fit for those looking for a combination of water-based adventure and peaceful relaxation. It’s ideal if you want a private setting with activities suited for all ages, especially families or couples. If you value authentic natural environments and a less commercialized experience, Paue Island offers a welcome escape.

However, if you prefer a more structured, all-inclusive resort day or are traveling with very young children, you might want to consider how early the start time is and whether activities like snorkeling or kayaking align with your comfort level.

The Paue Island tour from Cartagena delivers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation in an exclusive setting. You’ll enjoy crystal-clear waters, lush scenery, and friendly local hosts, all for a reasonable price that includes meals and water activities. The boat rides and access to a private island make this experience stand out, particularly if you’re craving a quiet retreat from city life.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who prioritize authenticity and natural beauty, but it also offers enough activities to keep everyone entertained. The inclusive lunch options and scenic surroundings make it a worthwhile choice for those looking to get the most out of a day trip in the Rosario Islands.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at Muelle de la Bodeguita, specifically at door No. 4 in the historic center of Cartagena. You need to arrive by 7:40 AM for check-in and to pay the port fee.

How long is the boat ride to Paue Island?
The boat ride takes approximately 45 minutes each way, offering scenic views of the Rosario Islands and a relaxed start and end to your day.

Are water activities included?
Yes, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are all included in the tour, giving you plenty of options to enjoy the waters around the island.

What is included in the lunch?
You can choose from four options: a typical islander dish, chicken breast, pasta with vegetables, or creamy shrimp rice. All include a non-alcoholic beverage.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and lemonade is provided for them. However, the early start and boat ride may be less suitable for very young children or those sensitive to early mornings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

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