Rosario Islands Magical Getaway

Planning a trip to Cartagena and craving a break from city life? The Rosario Islands Magical Getaway offers a superb way to spend a relaxing day on a private island within the Rosario Islands National Park. For $70 per person, you’ll enjoy a 7.5-hour adventure packed with crystal-clear waters, delicious local food, and VIP-style amenities. The experience begins with a panoramic boat tour showcasing the stunning views of the islands and includes a visit to an exclusive private island that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle.

What we love about this tour are two key aspects: first, the personalized service in an intimate group of no more than 16 travelers, ensuring you’re well taken care of; second, the combination of relaxation and light adventure — whether lounging in the sun or exploring beneath the waves with snorkeling.

A minor consideration might be that the price does not include snorkeling equipment or tips, so if you want to explore underwater, remember to bring your gear or rent it on-site.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, and friends who want a hassle-free day in an unspoiled setting, enjoying worry-free access to all the island’s facilities and natural beauty.

• Private Island Experience: Full access without the need to hop between multiple islands.
• Stunning Views & Marine Life: Panoramic boat ride offers a scenic introduction, with options for snorkeling.
• All-Inclusive Lunch: Typical island lunch featuring fish, chicken, or vegetarian options.
• VIP Service & Comfort: Personal crew ensuring a relaxed, private atmosphere.
• Flexible Add-Ons: Snorkeling and massages available for a small extra fee.
• Optimal for Relaxation: Ideal for those wanting a calm, scenic escape with light adventure.

When imagining a day in Colombia’s Caribbean waters, picture yourself aboard a comfortable boat gliding through turquoise seas, surrounded by lush islands and a warm breeze. That’s exactly what this tour delivers. Starting from Cartagena’s Getsemaní neighborhood, the journey begins early at 9:00 am, with a group of no more than 16 travelers, making for an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.

The boat ride itself is a highlight. It offers more than just transportation; it’s a chance to appreciate the stunning vistas of the Rosario Islands and learn about the area’s history from your guide. We loved the way the guide (and the reviews agree) attentively answered questions while pointing out natural features and marine highlights. Expect to see marine life from the boat, a perk for nature lovers.

The Private Island: Isla Marina

Upon arrival at Isla Marina, the setting shifts from scenic to sublime. This exclusive private island provides a sense of escape few tourist spots offer. All facilities are available for your use, and you’ll find plenty of comfortable spots to relax or enjoy a delicious typical lunch — options include fried snapper, grilled chicken, or vegetarian rice, served with sides like coconut rice, patacones, and salad. The natural lemonade is a refreshing touch.

One of the big selling points here is the all-day access to the island’s amenities. Unlike typical tours where you might hop between different places, here you stay put, soaking in the natural beauty at your own pace.

Snorkeling & Massage Add-Ons

If you’re eager to explore beneath the surface, snorkel gear can be rented, allowing you to see the vibrant underwater world. Alternatively, indulge in a massage — a peaceful, tranquil experience that many travelers find adds a luxurious touch to their day.

Authenticity and Practicality

What stands out in reviews is the executive-level service delivered by guides like Edward, who is praised for being attentive and accommodating. The value for $70 becomes clear when considering the included lunch, drinks, private transportation, and exclusive island access.

Travelers particularly appreciate that this tour is well-organized, with easy meeting points and clear instructions. The timing suits those looking for a full, relaxed day — breakfast in the morning, then a gentle cruise, followed by hours of leisure on the island.

Real Experiences from Travelers

One reviewer called it “A Must Do”, emphasizing how much they loved getting away from the city to relax on the beach. The delicious food, especially the local fish dishes, was a highlight. Many describe the views from the boat as stunning, and the personalized VIP service as a major plus.

While most praise the experience, some note that the snorkeling equipment is extra, so if underwater exploration is your priority, plan accordingly. Also, as the tour is weather-dependent, a rainy day could lead to cancellation or rescheduling, but the tour provider offers full refunds if the weather turns bad.

Start at 9:00 am from the meeting point in Getsemaní, where a friendly crew welcomes you aboard. The boat ride takes roughly an hour, giving you time to relax and enjoy panoramic views of the islands and learn about Cartagena’s maritime history. The guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the natural surroundings, and you might spot marine life from the boat itself.

Upon arriving at Isla Marina, you’ll find a beautiful, private oasis with facilities for dining, lounging, and exploring. The lunch served is a traditional island meal, a highlight for many travelers. For those wanting a bit more activity, snorkeling gear is available, letting you explore coral reefs and schools of colorful fish in the crystal-clear waters.

A massage is offered for an extra fee, providing a chance to unwind further amid the peaceful surroundings. The island’s amenities allow you to relax at your own pace, whether sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the natural beauty.

The return trip departs in the afternoon, giving you plenty of time to savor your last views of the islands before heading back to Cartagena. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, leaving you with memories of a day well spent in Caribbean paradise.

At $70, this experience packs a lot of value. You get private transportation, a typical island lunch, drinks, and a full day of relaxation in an exclusive setting. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making your day more comfortable and memorable.

The VIP-style service in such a naturally stunning environment means you don’t have to worry about crowds or logistical hassles. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a low-stress, high-reward escape, with the added perk of adaptability — snorkel or indulge in a massage if you wish.

This tour is perfect for families with children, couples seeking romance, or groups of friends eager to enjoy a shared experience. If you appreciate good food, scenic views, and natural beauty, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer to stay in one peaceful location rather than hopping between multiple spots.

If you’re a relaxer, the calm ambiance and exclusive island access will appeal. However, if underwater exploration is your top priority, remember that snorkel gear is extra, and weather could influence your plans.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7.5 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point in Cartagena.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, lunch, alcoholic beverages (including a Cuba libre for adults and a special drink for kids), and access to the private island facilities.

Are snorkeling and massages included?
No, these are available as add-ons for an additional fee. Snorkeling gear is not included in the base price and must be rented separately if desired.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Magifoto, Getsemaní, located at Cl. 32 #8A-44, Cartagena. The tour ends at the same meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate, and the tour is designed to be family-friendly, especially with the relaxed pace and beautiful surroundings.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, promoting a more personalized experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 11 days in advance, so it’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear if you plan to snorkel, and some cash if you want to rent snorkeling gear or get a massage.

The Rosario Islands Magical Getaway offers a beautifully balanced experience of comfort, natural beauty, and authentic Caribbean charm. It’s ideal for travelers who want a stress-free day in a private island setting, combined with the scenic appeal of a boat tour. The inclusive lunch, VIP treatment, and small group size make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a special escape from the busy streets of Cartagena.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or with friends, this tour promises a memorable day of relaxation and light adventure, all at a reasonable price. It’s a chance to enjoy the best of Colombia’s Caribbean coast without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Just pack your swimsuit, bring your camera, and get ready for a taste of paradise.