TOUR 5 ISLANDS Cartagena

Tour 5 Islands Cartagena: A Complete Guide to a Day of Caribbean Beauty

Imagine waking up in vibrant Cartagena, eager for a day spent exploring pristine islands, swimming in turquoise waters, and enjoying local flavors. For just $99 per person, this 8-hour tour takes you across five different islands, each offering its own slice of paradise. Led by guides who communicate fluently in both English and Spanish, you’ll experience a mix of scenic boat rides, beach lounging, snorkeling, and delicious food.

Two things we love about this tour are the diverse stops — from the lively Cholón beaches to the tranquil Playa Blanca — and the chance to swim with luminous plankton, an experience that feels almost otherworldly. The tour’s included snorkeling activity and shrimp cocktail tasting add authentic touches that make this more than just a boat trip.

That said, a potential drawback is the additional port tax of $23,000 that isn’t included in the ticket price, which can catch some travelers off guard. Also, the itinerary can be quite packed, so if you prefer more leisure and less rushing, this might feel a bit hurried.

This tour suits travelers looking for a full day of varied island experiences — perfect for those who want a taste of the Caribbean’s best without breaking the bank. If you’re planning a trip to Cartagena and love being active, sampling local foods, and discovering underwater life, this is an excellent choice.

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Key Points

• Diverse Islands: Visit Rosario Islands, Cholón, Playa Blanca, Agua Azul, and more, each offering unique scenery and activities.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Snorkeling, shrimp tasting, lunch, and plankton swimming are included, making it a great value.
• Scenic Boat Rides: Speedboat rides offer stunning views of Cartagena’s coast and San Fernando de Boca Chica.
• Authentic Flavors: Enjoy local cuisine like shrimp cocktails and a hearty lunch on Playa Blanca.
• Family-Friendly: The tour’s mix of activities makes it suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends.
• Limited Group Size: The tour is operated with small groups, ensuring a more personalized experience.

The Real Experience: A Day of Caribbean Highlights

When we stepped aboard the speedboat at 8:00 am, the anticipation was already building. Our guide, who kept the mood light and informative, pointed out the impressive San Fernando de Boca Chica castle from the water, offering a panoramic glimpse of Cartagena’s historic coast. The boat ride itself was smooth, with plenty of space and the breeze cooling our excitement.

Rosario Islands: Snorkeling and the Aquarium

Our first major stop was Islas del Rosario, famed for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the Aquarium, a highlight that costs about 40,000 COP per person. You have the option to visit the aquarium or just enjoy snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs. The included snorkeling activity isn’t just a side note — it’s a real highlight, giving you a chance to touch and see diverse fish and colorful underwater habitats. Several reviews mentioned that the snorkeling was surprisingly good, with some travelers noting they saw “more fish than expected.”

A favorite moment was the panoramic stop on Pablo Escobar’s plane, where you get a brief but fascinating peek into Cartagena’s notorious history. It’s a quick photo op but adds a touch of local lore to your island day.

Cholón: A Beach Party Paradise

Next stop: Cholón, often called the “party island.” Here, you’ll see why it’s popular. The beaches are lively, with boats and people enjoying themselves. We appreciated the shrimp cocktail tasting — simple but authentic — a perfect way to sample local flavors. Many visitors praise Cholón for its relaxed vibe and lively atmosphere, making it ideal for those who like a bit of fun in the sun before heading to more tranquil spots.

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Agua Azul and Playa Blanca: Relax and Feast

Our afternoon included a visit to Agua Azul, where you could stretch out on chairs on the shore and unwind, soaking up the sun and listening to the gentle surf. It’s a peaceful break after the morning’s activity-packed morning.

Later, we moved on to Playa Blanca in Barú, known for its soft white sand and clear waters. The included lunch was a highlight — a delicious meal served right on the beach. You’ll get time to swim, relax, and enjoy the scenery, which many reviews describe as “the ultimate Caribbean beach experience.”

Swimming with Luminous Plankton

As evening approached, the tour’s pièce de résistance was the chance to see, touch, and swim with luminous plankton. This natural phenomenon, where tiny organisms glow in the water when disturbed, is both mesmerizing and surreal. We loved the way the guide explained this miracle of nature, and yes, it truly feels like swimming in stars. Several travelers commented that this was “one of the most magical moments of the trip.”

Return and Drop-offs

By night, we returned to Cartagena, with the tour ending near the hotel, clock tower, or northern zone, depending on where you’re staying. The day felt well-paced with enough breaks to soak up the beauty without feeling rushed.

Analyzing the Value

For $99, this tour offers a lot. The price includes boat transportation, stops at five different islands, several activities, and a hearty lunch. The additional port tax of $23,000 COP is not included, so prepare for that extra expense. Still, the overall value is compelling considering the variety of experiences packed into one day — from snorkeling and beach lounging to local tasting and wildlife encounters.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and flexibility. We appreciated the bilingual guides who made everything accessible whether you speak Spanish or English.

The tour is particularly appealing for those who want a full, active day exploring different facets of Caribbean life in Colombia. It’s suited for couples, groups of friends, or families who enjoy outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, and cultural flavor in a single day.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This 5 Islands tour is perfect if you’re after a comprehensive, fun-filled day that combines stunning island scenery, underwater adventure, and local cuisine. It’s a great way to see multiple islands without the hassle of planning individual trips, and the included activities ensure a memorable experience.

Travelers who value authentic moments — like tasting fresh shrimp or swimming with plankton — will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s well-suited for those who don’t mind a busy schedule and want to maximize their time in Cartagena’s surrounding waters.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, unhurried days or are sensitive to additional costs, you might want to consider other options or plan for some extra budget. But overall, this tour offers a solid balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation, all in one vibrant Caribbean package.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families who enjoy outdoor activities and beaches will likely find this tour enjoyable. Just keep in mind that the schedule can be busy, so young children should be comfortable with boat rides and multiple stops.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, and waterproof gear for snorkeling. Some travelers also recommend a waterproof phone case for photos of the plankton swim.

How long is each stop?
While the exact timing varies, the tour is designed to balance sightseeing and relaxation. Expect a few hours at Rosario Islands, Cholón, and Playa Blanca, with some time allocated for lunch and the plankton experience.

Are there opportunities for snorkeling?
Yes, snorkeling is included and highly recommended by previous participants. The waters are clear with vibrant marine life, making it worth the effort.

What is not included in the price?
You’ll need to pay a port tax of $23,000 COP, and any activities not specified or extra drinks and souvenirs.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible for most travelers.

To sum it up, the Tour 5 Islands in Cartagena offers a well-rounded, lively taste of Caribbean island life. It balances scenic boat rides, active snorkeling, beautiful beaches, delicious food, and a touch of local history — all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, it’s a day packed with memorable moments. Just be ready for a full schedule and extra costs at the port. For those craving authentic, vibrant experiences on Colombia’s coast, this tour hits the mark.

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