From Cartagena: Rosario Islands Day Trip — A Detailed Review

Exploring the Rosario Islands from Cartagena offers a wonderful blend of scenery, history, and leisure. For $217 per person, you spend around eight hours on a small-group tour that whisks you away from the bustling city to a Caribbean paradise. The trip kicks off with hotel pickup in Cartagena, followed by a scenic speedboat ride across turquoise waters, offering some of the best views of Tierra Bomba and the surrounding islands.

What we especially like about this experience are the pristine beaches and the chance to relax away from crowds, plus the opportunity to snorkel or visit a local aquarium. The lunch served on a private island—featuring fresh fish—is another highlight, giving you a taste of authentic Colombian coastal cuisine.

One potential drawback worth noting is the organization at the port, as some travelers have expressed disappointment with the coordination, which might lead to delays or confusion. This tour is best suited for those looking for a comfortable, well-rounded day with options for both relaxation and light adventure. If you’re eager to see Colombia’s stunning marine scenery and enjoy a peaceful retreat, this trip might be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning turquoise waters, coral reefs, and relaxing beaches.
Comfortable transportation: Speedboats and private transfers ensure a smooth journey.
Diverse options: Relax on the beach, snorkel, hike, kayak, or visit the aquarium.
Authentic seafood: Lunch with fresh fish served in a gorgeous island setting.
Family friendly: Suitable for most travelers except very young children or those with mobility issues.
Some organization issues: Be prepared for possible delays at the port.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Getting There and Setting Off

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Cartagena, covering areas like Boca Grande, Laguito, Casco Antiguo, and Getsemani. The convenience of hotel pickup is a definite plus, saving you the hassle of navigating to the port. Once you’re at the dock, you’ll board a speedboat with a small group—an efficient and comfortable way to glide across the waters.

The scenic cruise to the Rosario Islands is a highlight itself. We loved the way the boat ride offered panoramic views of Tierra Bomba, an island just outside Cartagena, with the city skyline fading behind you. The waters are clear, and the breeze helps create a feeling of anticipation.

Arrival at Isla del Sol

Your first stop is Isla del Sol, a private island that feels like a slice of paradise. The island boasts a beachfront boutique eco hotel, a swimming pool, hammock kiosks, bars, and a small restaurant. Here, you’ll have some free time to choose how to spend your day—whether that’s lounging on the sand, swimming in the calm waters, or exploring the island.

Many travelers appreciate the well-maintained amenities and the feeling of being in a secluded corner of the Caribbean. You can also opt for activities like kayaking, snorkeling, or even a brief hike, which adds variety to your day.

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Visiting the Rosario Aquarium

One of the trip’s special features is the Rosario Aquarium, an open-water display showcasing marine life of the region. While the ticket isn’t included, many find this a fascinating glimpse into local biodiversity. Expect to see colorful fish, coral, and maybe even some sea turtles or rays, providing a memorable experience for nature lovers.

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Lunch on the Beach

The highlight for most is the lunch served on the beach. You’ll enjoy fresh fish and other local ingredients, all while soaking in the view. Several reviews mention the delicious seafood and the relaxed vibe—perfect for unwinding after a morning of travel and exploration.

Free Time and Optional Extras

After lunch, you’ll have the freedom to relax, swim, or engage in optional activities like body massages. The island’s tranquility is contagious—many travelers comment on how peaceful and beautiful the setting is. For those looking for more adventure, kayaking or snorkel gear can be rented, although these extras usually come at an additional cost.

Return Journey

Your day wraps up with the boat ride back to Cartagena in the late afternoon. The return trip offers another round of fantastic views and a chance to reflect on a day well spent. Keep in mind that some reviews noted organizational hiccups, so patience may be needed if delays occur.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This tour is especially appealing because of the mix of natural beauty and leisurely activities. The private island setting, coupled with the chance to see coral reefs and marine life, makes it ideal for travelers who want to experience Colombia’s coastal charm without a strenuous schedule. The fresh seafood lunch is a definite culinary highlight, often praised for its quality and authenticity.

The small-group format fosters a more intimate experience, allowing for personalized interaction with guides, who are bilingual (Spanish and English). Many travelers appreciate the comfortable boat rides, which, as one reviewer put it, are “very comfortable,” especially compared to larger, more crowded boat tours.

Considerations Before Booking

While the experience is largely positive, some travelers have expressed frustrations about poor organization at the port, which could mean waiting or confusion, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. It’s advisable to arrive early and be patient.

Another aspect to consider is the port fee of $18,500 COP per person, payable in cash, which adds to your total cost. Also, the aquarium visit is optional and not included, so if that’s a priority, plan accordingly.

Finally, the tour isn’t suitable for very young children under 5, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility or back issues, due to the boat rides and physical activity options.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers seeking a relaxed day in a beautiful setting with some optional activities like snorkeling or a walk around the island. It’s ideal for those wanting to combine scenic views, delicious food, and a touch of adventure without overexerting themselves. Families with older children, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate comfort and natural beauty will find this tour rewarding.

If you’re after a lively party vibe or extensive historical sightseeing, this may not be the perfect fit. But if you want a taste of Colombia’s Caribbean coast with a good balance of relaxation and light activity, it’s a smart pick.

Final Thoughts on the Rosario Islands Day Trip

This tour provides a well-rounded experience of Colombia’s coast—a good mix of scenic boat rides, tranquil beaches, vibrant marine life, and tasty seafood. The private island setting offers a peaceful retreat from city life, while the optional activities allow for some fun and exploration.

The price reflects the quality of the environment and the inclusions like transportation, lunch, and support. It’s a solid value for anyone looking for a hassle-free day in the Caribbean, provided you’re patient with the organization at the port.

For those who want to see and feel the tropical Caribbean vibe—without compromising on comfort—this Rosario Islands trip offers a memorable escape.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from hotels and accommodations in Cartagena, including Boca Grande, Laguito, Casco Antiguo, and Getsemani.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about eight hours, with specific start times depending on availability. Check with your booking for exact times.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, towel, and sun protection. It’s also helpful to carry cash for the port fee and any optional extras.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 years, pregnant women, or travelers with certain mobility or back issues.

What’s included in the price?
Transport from your hotel, speedboat rides, lunch, bilingual support, and a welcome fruit cocktail. Extra meals, beverages, aquarium entry, and dock tax are not included.

How is the boat ride?
Many describe the boat rides as comfortable and scenic, with good views and a smooth journey, although some reviews note the need for patience due to coordination issues.

Can I snorkel or do other activities?
Yes, optional activities like snorkeling and kayaking are available, but they are usually at an additional cost. The island also offers opportunities for relaxing or exploring.

What’s the main highlight?
Most travelers love the serenity of the private island, the delicious fresh seafood lunch, and the amazing views of the Caribbean waters and coral reefs.

Whether you’re after a serene escape, a chance to see Colombia’s marine life, or simply a beautiful day on the water, this Rosario Islands trip offers a compelling way to experience the country’s Caribbean coast in style.