CARTAGENA: EXCURSION to the Rosario Islands by boat and white beach by bus.

Discovering the Rosario Islands and Playa Blanca: A Practical Review

If you’re looking to combine a taste of the Caribbean’s natural beauty with the convenience of organized transport, this tour from Cartagena might catch your eye. For $32 per person, you get a six-hour adventure that takes you by bus and boat to the stunning Rosario Islands and the famous Playa Blanca on Baru Island. The itinerary promises vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and pristine white sands, along with a traditional Colombian lunch.

What we appreciate about this experience is the chance to see multiple highlights in one day—from the shimmering marine life of the Rosario Islands to the laid-back charm of Playa Blanca. And the inclusions of boat and bus transportation make it feel like a hassle-free getaway. That said, it’s not perfect—some travelers have found the timing and quality of the experience to be less than ideal, which is worth considering before booking.

This tour is best suited for budget-conscious travelers eager for a taste of the Caribbean without the hefty price tag or lengthy arrangements. If you’re okay with some unpredictability and are looking for a straightforward, economical day trip, this could be a good fit. However, those valuing comfort, precise timing, and high-quality facilities might want to explore some of the more premium options available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price point for a full-day trip to Rosario Islands and Playa Blanca
• Includes transportation and lunch, simplifying logistics
• Highlights marine biodiversity and white-sand beaches, ideal for nature lovers
• Potential timing issues and facility conditions may affect comfort
• Limited beach swimming at Rosario Islands due to the nature of the location
• Mixed reviews suggest the experience offers genuine scenery but some logistical drawbacks

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup and Transport

The tour begins in El Laguito, a popular tourist hub in Cartagena, with a pickup by van. The ride to Baru takes about an hour, but some reviews note it can stretch to 1.5 hours—a detail worth keeping in mind if you’re sensitive to long bus journeys. The driver and guide (not named in the reviews but Spanish-speaking) will ferry you through busy streets, giving you a fleeting glimpse of Cartagena’s urban life before heading into the more tranquil countryside.

Stop at Baru Island

Once on Baru, you’ll typically have around three hours. The stop includes a photo opportunity and some free time for swimming or exploring. However, a reviewer lamented that the beach is not as pristine as expected—noting it was “dirty, rundown chairs,” and walking through calf-deep mud water to get back on the bus. This highlights an important reality: Playa Blanca, while famous, can sometimes fall short in the cleanliness and maintenance department, especially during busy days.

More Great Tours Nearby

Boat to Rosario Islands

Next, a speedboat ride of about 40 minutes whisks you to the Rosario Islands. Here, you’ll have about three hours for swimming and taking photos. The tour offers a photo stop and time to enjoy the marine surroundings, but remember, there are no beaches for swimming in the Rosario Islands themselves—you’re in the middle of the sea, and the beaches are for viewing. If you want to snorkel or visit the aquarium, you’ll need to pay extra, which can be a disappointment for travelers hoping for a no-extra-cost aquatic adventure.

Returning and Final Stop

After soaking up the island scenery, you’ll head back by van for about an hour, ending at Muelle de los Pegasos—a busy port area in Cartagena. This makes for a convenient drop-off close to the city center.

What’s Included and What To Be Aware Of

This tour includes lunch, boat transportation, and bus rides—a good combo for those who prefer an all-in-one package. The lunch features a whole mojarra fish, which most find tasty and authentic. However, extras like aquarium entrance or snorkeling are paid separately, with fees of around 40,000 COP and 50,000 COP respectively.

The tour operates in Spanish, which is important to note if you’re not fluent—guides typically do not speak English. The duration is 6 hours, with availability depending on the day, so checking ahead is recommended.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

What we love about this tour is the chance to enjoy some of Colombia’s most iconic Caribbean scenery at a reasonable price. The boat rides offer the opportunity to see marine life and enjoy the breeze, which is often memorable. The traditional lunch on Baru is hearty and adds a genuine local touch to the trip.

However, the timing and facilities have been points of contention. One traveler noted that the bus ride is much longer than the advertised 45 minutes, which can cut into your precious beach time. Others found the beaches at Baru to be in poorer condition than expected, with rundown chairs and muddy walkways. These details matter because they influence how relaxed or comfortable your experience will be.

The critiques from reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations. The boat used in the tour has reportedly been overloaded and in some cases poorly maintained, which could impact safety and comfort. While some travelers enjoyed their time in the water and appreciated the scenic views, others felt rushed or disappointed with the beach conditions and service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits budget travelers and those eager to see the Rosario Islands and Playa Blanca without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for an easy, all-in-one day trip and are willing to accept some compromises—such as longer travel times or less pristine beaches—then this tour offers good value.

It might not be ideal if you’re seeking a relaxing, high-end beach experience or want to spend extensive time swimming and snorkeling without additional costs. Plus, if you’re uncomfortable with long bus rides or crowded, less-maintained beaches, exploring other options could be worthwhile.

The Sum Up

This Cartagena tour to the Rosario Islands and Playa Blanca delivers a cost-effective way to enjoy some Caribbean scenery and marine views. It’s perfect for travelers on a budget who prioritize simplicity and convenience over perfection. The inclusions of lunch, boat rides, and transportation make it straightforward and accessible, especially for those new to the area.

However, potential travelers should be aware that timing can be unpredictable, and beach conditions might not meet everyone’s expectations. The experience can vary widely based on the day and group size, with some visitors enjoying their time while others are left feeling rushed or disappointed.

In essence, this tour provides a glimpse of coastal Colombia’s charm—but if you’re looking for a more pristine or tranquil experience, or are willing to pay a bit more for better facilities, you might want to explore alternatives. Still, for an affordable, lively day out in the Caribbean, it’s an option that’s worth considering.

FAQ

Does the tour include snorkeling or other activities?
Snorkeling and aquarium visits are optional extras you can pay for on site. The tour itself does not include these activities as part of the package.

How long is the bus ride?
Some reviewers report the bus ride takes about 1.5 hours instead of the advertised 45 minutes, so be prepared for a longer journey.

Can I just relax on Playa Blanca?
While the tour stops at Playa Blanca for about three hours, some travelers have found the beach to be dirty and poorly maintained, which may affect your relaxation.

Are the beaches at Rosario Islands swimmable?
Not exactly. The Rosario Islands are in the middle of the sea, and there are no beaches for swimming at the islands themselves. The water is for viewing and snorkeling if you pay extra.

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Guides are generally Spanish-speaking, so non-fluent travelers may find it challenging unless they have a translator or guide.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water, and possibly cash for extra activities or tips. Since facilities can be basic, packing some snacks and a towel is also wise.

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