Paue Island Tour in the Rosary Islands

Experience the Serenity of Paue Island in the Rosary Islands

If you’re seeking a day of relaxation, natural beauty, and fun activities just off the coast of Cartagena, the Paue Island tour is worth considering. For around $160 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring the turquoise waters and lush landscapes of this pristine island. The tour starts early, with a 7:30 am departure from Cartagena, and includes round-trip boat transportation, a delicious lunch, and opportunities to snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard.

Two things stand out for us: first, the personalized welcome with champagne or lemonade makes you feel special from the moment you arrive; second, the opportunity to explore vibrant coral reefs is perfect for nature lovers. While the full day’s schedule promises plenty of activities and relaxation, keep in mind that this tour’s main focus on natural beauty and leisure might not appeal to those looking for a more structured or adventure-packed trip.

If you enjoy beach lounging, marine life exploration, and local island charm, this experience is a great match. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a well-organized, friendly environment and want to enjoy the authentic atmosphere of Colombia’s Rosario Islands without worrying about logistics.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery with clear waters and lush tropical vegetation
• Inclusive amenities like lunch, drinks, and use of facilities
• Flexible activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding
• Professional guides providing information and assistance
• Comfortable transportation with scenic boat rides
• Ideal for relaxation, marine exploration, and culture

A Detailed Look at the Paue Island Tour

Starting Point and Early Departure

The tour begins bright and early at Muelle de la Bodeguita in Cartagena, with a departure time of 7:30 am. This might seem quite early, but it’s a common feature of full-day excursions that aim to maximize your time on the water and at the island. The round-trip boat ride is part of the adventure, offering scenic views of the Cartagena skyline and the surrounding archipelago. Expect a boat filled with fellow travelers, but with the possibility of being part of a group no larger than 90 people, so it’s still manageable and lively.

The Scenic Boat Ride and First Stop: Islas de Rosario

Your first stop involves a roughly two-hour scenic boat tour around the Rosario Islands. During this time, you’ll enjoy views of the islands’ natural beauty, with chances to snap photos of the sparkling sea and distant islands. The boat provides a comfortable, laid-back way to transition from the bustling city to the tranquil setting of Paue Island. The free admission to this part means you can simply relax and soak in the scenery, making it a perfect warm-up for the day ahead.

The Highlight: Paue Island

When you arrive at Paue Island, the true magic begins. Here, you’ll be greeted with a glass of champagne or lemonade—a thoughtful touch that sets a friendly, welcoming tone. Your stay on the island lasts about six hours, giving plenty of time for both relaxing and exploring.

The island itself offers a blend of pristine beaches and lush trails. You can choose to lounge on sunbeds, rest in hammocks, or stroll along tropical pathways, discovering an environment teeming with local flora and fauna. The white sand beaches are ideal for soaking up the sun, swimming in the calm waters, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Activities and Food

One of the tour’s biggest draws is the opportunity to snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard in vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Whether you’re an experienced swimmer or trying these activities for the first time, guides are available to assist, and equipment is provided. We loved the way the guides made everyone feel comfortable, especially the children who receive a refreshing lemonade as part of the welcome.

Lunch is included, with four tempting options that cater to various tastes: Typical Islander fare, chicken breast, pasta with vegetables, or creamy shrimp rice. The meals are served in a relaxed setting, allowing you to enjoy authentic flavors while chatting with fellow travelers. The included bottled water, alcohol, and non-alcoholic drinks ensure you stay hydrated and refreshed throughout the day.

Facilities and Additional Comforts

The island boasts clean bathrooms, a dining area, and plenty of beach chairs, hammocks, and beds for lounging. This attention to comfort makes it easy to spend hours here without feeling rushed or cramped. The availability of medical insurance is reassuring, especially for those concerned about safety or health.

Return and Reflection

As the day winds down, you’ll board the boat back to Cartagena, ending your adventure with memories of shimmering waters and lush landscapes. The entire experience wraps up close to your starting point, making it convenient and stress-free.

Authentic and Friendly Experience

Reviewers frequently praise the friendly, accommodating staff, noting how they go out of their way to ensure guests are comfortable and informed. Rashidathe_E shared that the “staff was very friendly and accommodating,” highlighting the personal touch that makes this tour stand out. The guides’ knowledge and clear communication are appreciated, making the whole day enjoyable and stress-free.

Analyzing the Value

At $160 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day trip with excellent amenities, friendly guides, and a variety of activities. When you consider the included lunch, drinks, and access to facilities, it represents good value—especially for travelers who want a hassle-free way to explore the Rosario Islands without worrying about logistics.

However, those looking for a more exclusive experience or more adventurous activities may want to compare options. Also, note that you’ll need to pay a small cash tax (34,500 COP) for pier entrance, which is common for such tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy relaxing on beautiful beaches, exploring coral reefs, and having friendly guides at your side, this is perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate well-organized excursions with good food and comfortable facilities. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike have found this trip rewarding.

The Sum Up

The Paue Island tour in the Rosary Islands offers an authentic taste of Colombia’s coastal beauty. It balances leisure with adventure, providing opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and simply relaxing in a peaceful island setting. The inclusion of a delicious lunch and the welcoming atmosphere make it a value-packed experience.

For those eager to escape the crowds and enjoy nature, this tour delivers. The friendly staff, scenic boat rides, and lush landscapes ensure a memorable day. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want an easy, well-organized trip that combines local charm with marine exploration and plenty of downtime.

If you’re after an authentic, relaxed day in Colombia’s Caribbean, this tour fits the bill. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and appreciation for natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting at 7:30 am from Cartagena and returning around mid-afternoon.

What activities are included?
You can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Equipment is provided, and guides help ensure you’re comfortable with each activity.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour offers a delicious lunch with four options, along with drinks like bottled water, wine, champagne, or lemonade for children.

What facilities are available on the island?
There are bathrooms, dining areas, beach beds, hammocks, sunbathing chairs, and shaded spots—making relaxation easy and comfortable.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip boat transportation from Cartagena is included, offering scenic views and a relaxed journey.

Are there any extra costs?
You’ll need to pay a small cash fee (34,500 COP) for pier entrance. Other than that, most activities and amenities are covered.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Children are greeted with lemonade, and the relaxed pace makes it family-friendly, especially with gentle activities like swimming and paddleboarding.

Embark on this journey to Paue Island if you crave a peaceful day surrounded by Colombia’s natural beauty, great food, and friendly faces. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to unwind while exploring the vibrant marine life and lush landscapes of the Rosario Islands.