Tour of the Rosario Islands, Cartagena

Tour of the Rosario Islands, Cartagena offers a fantastic way to spend a day exploring some of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches and vibrant coral reefs. For just $100 per person, you’ll enjoy an approximately 8-hour journey that includes stops at Isla Grande, Islas de Rosario, Playa Blanca, and Isla Tierra Bomba, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, relaxing on pristine beaches, and a delicious included lunch. Guided by friendly bilingual guides, this tour strikes a good balance between adventure, relaxation, and social fun.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the diverse stops — from snorkeling among colorful fish and rays to lounging on exclusive private beaches with a cold drink in hand. Plus, the well-organized itinerary makes sure you get maximum time at each location without feeling rushed. That said, it’s worth noting that certain reviews mention that vendors can be persistent at some beaches, which might be a bit of a distraction if you’re hoping for total beach bliss.

This tour suits adults looking for a lively, yet balanced day on the water, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends. If you’re after authentic beaches, stunning coral reefs, and friendly guides, this outing offers excellent value for the price.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary with stops for snorkeling, relaxing on private beaches, and enjoying a good lunch.
• Included snorkeling gear and a free activity that adds a fun, interactive element to your day.
• Expert guides like Cesar and Daniel, praised for their friendliness and helpfulness.
• Vibrant social atmosphere with options for music, drinks, and lively groups.
• Potential vendor annoyance at certain beaches, especially for those seeking quiet time.
• Great value for a full-day tour with multiple stops, activities, and food included.

A Detailed Look at the Rosario Islands Tour in Cartagena

When considering a day trip from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands, this tour covers all the highlights you might hope for — beautiful beaches, snorkel adventures, and lively island stops, all wrapped into an approximately 8-hour trip. Starting early at 7:30 am from the Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande, the tour offers a full day of island hopping with bilingual guides to help you navigate and get the most out of each stop.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Stop 1: Isla Grande
The adventure kicks off with a short boat ride to Isla Grande, where you’ll dock just meters from the coast to begin your 45-minute snorkeling session. This is a highlight for many travelers — you’ll venture among coral reefs teeming with endemic fish, rays, and other marine life. Snorkeling equipment is provided, so you can just enjoy the underwater sights without worrying about rentals or gear hassle.

As one reviewer notes, “The snorkeling was beautiful, and schools of fish and rays made it a memorable experience.” The reefs are lively and varied, but be aware that rough weather can impact snorkeling conditions, as some guests have experienced. Still, the included gear and guided safety make the activity accessible to most.

Stop 2: Islas de Rosario
Next, the boat heads to La Cocotera Island, where you’ll have roughly an hour to unwind on a private, exclusive beach. Here, you can lounge on beach beds, sip on a welcome shrimp cocktail or fresh lemonade, and enjoy the sea breeze. This stop feels like a real treat — an oasis away from the crowds, with less vendor activity than other beaches, according to reviews.

Stop 3: Playa Blanca
The tour’s last major stop is Mambo Beach or Playa Blanca, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and soft sandy shores. This semi-private beach club offers a relaxed environment to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a lunch included in the tour — usually featuring delicious seafood like snapper. Many guests have praised the quality of the food and the laid-back atmosphere.

This stop is perfect for bathing until sunset — bring your sunscreen and enjoy the perfect beach setting. But some reviews suggest that lunch timing can be late (around 2 pm), so be prepared for a full day in the sun.

Stop 4: Isla Tierra Bomba
The final scheduled stop is Anaho Beach Club at Isla Tierra Bomba, where you’ll spend about two hours. This is another relaxing spot, with a calm vibe and free access to the beach. While many find this a peaceful way to end the day, some reviews mention vendors can be intrusive, which might detract from the serenity if you’re after total relaxation.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes all fees and taxes, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and lunch at Playa Blanca. It’s notable that towels are not included, so packing your own is advisable. The lunch usually features fresh seafood, which many travelers find to be a highlight.

On the downside, some reviews point out disorganized pickups and small boats for the number of travelers, which might make the experience feel crowded or uncomfortable. However, others emphasize the friendly crew and excellent communication throughout.

Guides and Group Size

Guides like Cesar and Daniel receive high praise for their knowledge, attentiveness, and friendly demeanor. Several reviews mention that they keep the group well-informed, making sure everyone feels safe and included. The tour generally limits the group to 40 travelers, which strikes a balance between social and intimate.

Tour Length and Value

For $100, this tour offers a full day of island hopping, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. When you weigh the included activities, food, and the convenience of transportation, it presents good value — especially considering the multiple stops and the quality of the guided experience.

What Travelers Love & What to Watch For

Many guests rave about the variety of experiences, from underwater sights to lounging on exclusive beaches, to lively boat rides with music and drinks. Reviews like “The snorkeling was beautiful,” or “Cesar and Daniel made the trip memorable,” highlight the importance of friendly guides and beautiful scenery.

However, some reviews point out the vendors at certain beaches are relentless, which could be a concern if you’re seeking pure tranquility. Also, weather can impact snorkeling — it’s worth checking the forecast before booking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adults who want a lively but balanced day — you’ll find a good mix of adventure, relaxation, and social fun. It’s ideal if you enjoy snorkeling, beach lounging, and good food in a guided tour setting. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner and want a full day of island variety, this tour offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

This Rosario Islands tour provides a well-rounded, fun-filled day exploring some of Cartagena’s most stunning coastal spots. The included snorkeling and private beaches make it a worthwhile choice for travelers who want to combine adventure with relaxation. The friendly guides, good food, and lively boat rides ensure most guests leave with plenty of memorable moments.

While the vendor presence at some beaches might be a downside for those seeking total peace, the overall experience balances beautiful scenery, delicious meals, and friendly company. For anyone wanting an active, social, and scenic escape from the city, this tour is a solid pick.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is primarily geared toward adults; reviews highlight a vibe that favors more mature guests. It may not be ideal for young children due to activities and group dynamics.

How early do I need to book?
Most travelers book about 14 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures you secure your spot.

Are snorkeling gear and equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included in the tour, making it easy to enjoy the underwater scenery without extra hassle.

What should I bring?
Bring towels (not included), sunblock, cash for tips, and possibly a dry bag for valuables. Comfortable beachwear and swimwear are a must.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact snorkeling conditions; some guests have found the sea too rough for snorkeling. It’s a good idea to check the forecast before confirming your booking.

How long is each stop?
Isla Grande (about 45 minutes for snorkeling), La Cocotera (around 1 hour), Playa Blanca (1 hour), and Isla Tierra Bomba (2 hours). The schedule allows ample time at each location for relaxation and activities.

Is alcohol served during the trip?
While not explicitly included, guides often allow requests for music and drinks, creating a lively, fun atmosphere on the boat.

In sum, this tour balances scenic beauty, active snorkeling, and relaxed beach time at a reasonable price. It’s best suited for travelers eager to see multiple islands, enjoy good food, and be part of a lively group led by friendly guides. If you’re after a full day of authentic Caribbean island flavor and memorable underwater sights, this trip won’t disappoint.