Full day Isla del Encanto – Rosario Islands

Full day Isla del Encanto – Rosario Islands

When you think of a day in Cartagena, the image of golden sands, turquoise waters, and a peaceful island escape often comes to mind. This tour offers just that—an 8-hour journey from the city to Isla del Encanto in the Corales del Rosario Natural Park, a pristine stretch famed for its clear waters and lively marine life. The cost is around $158 per person, which includes speedboat transportation, lunch, and access to loungers, beach beds, and a pool. Starting at 8:00 am from Muelle de la Bodeguita, we hop aboard a speedy boat, making the one-hour trip to this slice of tropical paradise.

Two aspects of this tour stand out: first, the beautiful natural setting—with over 300 meters of clean, sandy beach perfect for lounging or strolling—and second, the inclusive amenities like comfortable loungers and a buffet-style meal that make the experience more relaxing. However, a practical consideration is that some reviews mention the organization can be hit-or-miss, especially during boarding and entry procedures, and there are extra costs for certain activities like the oceanarium visit.

This full-day trip is best suited for travelers looking to relax, families wanting a safe beach day, or anyone eager to escape the city’s hustle for a taste of Caribbean calm. If you’re aware of the potential for some disorganization or extra charges, you'll be prepared to enjoy what is almost universally praised as a beautiful, peaceful retreat.

Key Points

• Stunning Natural Beauty: The island’s crystal-clear waters and soft sands create an ideal setting for a day of relaxation.
• All-Inclusive Comforts: Loungers, hammocks, and a buffet lunch make it easy to unwind without worrying about logistics.
• Family-Friendly: The calm waters and available amenities make it suitable for families or couples looking for a quiet day.
• Optional Oceanarium Visit: For an additional COP30,000 per person, you can see dolphins, turtles, rays, and sharks—great for marine life enthusiasts.
• Transportation: Speedboat transfers keep the journey quick and exciting, but weather can influence the ride’s comfort.
• Mixed Reviews on Organization: Some travelers report logistical hiccups and extra costs, so arrive prepared.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins early at Muelle de la Bodeguita, a lively spot in Cartagena’s historic center. From here, a speedboat whisks you away across the water, offering a fun, breezy ride to your destination. The trip lasts about an hour, during which you'll enjoy views of the coast and perhaps spot some seabirds.

While most reviews praise the boat ride as smooth and fun, a few mention choppy tides returning, which might make some travelers a bit uneasy. The advantage of the quick transfer is that most of your day is spent on the island rather than in transit, maximizing your beach time.

Arrival and Exploration

Disembarking at the Isla del Encanto hotel, you’re free to explore or join a guided tour. The island boasts more than 300 meters of sandy beach, lined with palm trees and plenty of shaded spots. You can choose to settle on a sun lounger or hammock—offering a touch of luxury in an otherwise natural setting.

The island’s Caribbean climate means warm temperatures and sunshine, perfect for a swim or simply relaxing on the sand. We loved how the beach feels very private, as some reviews highlight, especially compared to busier tourist spots.

Water Activities and Relaxation

Included are kayaking and access to beach beds, loungers, and a pool, making it easy to switch between swimming, floating, and sunbathing. The calm waters are great for families or less experienced swimmers, and the gentle waves make for a peaceful atmosphere.

Lunch and Refreshments

A buffet-style meal is served around midday, offering local flavors in a casual setting. The quality of the food earns mixed reviews—some travelers praised it as “exceptional,” describing it as a good value, while others found it just adequate. Still, given that most tours don’t include a meal, this is a significant perk, especially in a setting where finding authentic local food can be tricky.

Optional Oceanarium Visit

For an extra COP30,000 per person, you can visit the Oceanario, which houses dolphins, turtles, rays, and sharks. This additional activity caters to marine life lovers and provides opportunities for close-up encounters — a highlight for some, but an extra expense to consider. Keep in mind, access to the oceanarium incurs an entrance fee of COP20,000 per person.

The Return Journey

By late afternoon, it’s time to head back to Cartagena, with most trips returning to Bodeguita pier around 3-4 pm. The ride back can sometimes be choppy, as noted by a few travelers, especially if the tides are rough. Nevertheless, the scenic waterway makes for an enjoyable end to the day.

What Do Travelers Say?

The overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 from 50 reviews reflects a generally positive reception, with certain caveats.

One traveler, Michele, called it “very organized,” emphasizing the quality of the experience and the privacy of the beach. She appreciated the “exceptional” food, which added to the value. Conversely, Rolando’s review highlights logistical frustrations — “terrible experience trying to get in the pier,” and charges for towels and extras, which some may find frustrating. His experience underscores that, while the natural beauty is undeniable, the organization at certain points can be lacking.

Sean’s review is enthusiastic, describing it as a “great family day,” emphasizing the peaceful, quiet atmosphere and friendly staff. His comments suggest this tour works well for those seeking a relaxed, low-key outing rather than an adventure-packed excursion.

Analyzing the Value

At $158 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—boat transfer, beach amenities, and lunch. Comparatively, many similar trips include just the ride and the beach, making the added comforts and meal a reasonable value. The optional oceanarium, while extra, can be a fun addition if marine life is a priority.

However, potential extra costs—boarding tax, oceanarium entrance, and fees—mean travelers should budget accordingly. Many reviews note the importance of bringing your own towels and being prepared for some hustle or disorganization, which is common in popular tourist spots.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re traveling as a family, couple, or group of friends seeking a peaceful, scenic day away from the bustling city, this trip fits the bill. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy beach lounging, swimming, and good local food in a safe, relaxed environment. Those hoping for a spontaneous adventure or a highly organized experience might find the logistical hiccups frustrating.

Final Thoughts

This tour to Isla del Encanto is about disconnecting from the chaos of Cartagena and soaking in Caribbean serenity. The natural beauty of the island, combined with amenities like loungers, pools, and a buffet lunch, offers genuine value for travelers looking to unwind in style. While some reviews mention organizational quirks and extra charges, most agree that the scenery and relaxed atmosphere make it worthwhile.

It’s best suited for those who prioritize comfort, stunning views, and a calm environment over a perfectly streamlined experience. Keep in mind the optional activities and be ready for some minor inconveniences, but overall, this day trip promises a memorable escape into the Colombian Caribbean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the calm waters and family-friendly amenities make this a good choice for children, especially if they enjoy swimming and beach play.

How long is the boat ride from Cartagena?
The speedboat journey takes about 1 hour each way, giving you quick access to the island and more time to enjoy your day.

What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket covers the speedboat transfer, lunch, loungers, beach beds, and access to the pool and kayaking.

Are there additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, there’s a COP31,500 boarding tax, and optional activities like the oceanarium have extra charges around COP30,000 for entrance and COP20,000 for the oceanarium fee.

Can I bring my own towels and snacks?
While not explicitly stated, reviews recommend bringing your own towels due to extra charges for towels, and you might find it useful to pack snacks or drinks, especially if you prefer specific items.

What should I know before booking?
Most travelers find the tour well-organized but be prepared for some logistical quirks and potential extra charges. Confirm your booking in advance and arrive early to ensure smooth boarding.

This trip to Isla del Encanto offers a relaxed, scenic day in the Colombian Caribbean with enough comforts to keep you at ease. Perfect for unwinding, enjoying nature, and sampling local flavors, it’s a good choice for travelers seeking a straightforward, peaceful escape. Just stay flexible, bring essentials, and get ready to bask in the sun and surf.