Full day in 4 Rosario Islands includes cholon, baru and snorkeling

Experience the Charm of Cartagena’s Rosario Islands on a Full Day Tour

When we think about exploring Cartagena, the stunning Rosario Islands often come up as a top choice — and for good reason. This full-day tour, priced at around $73, takes you on a journey through some of Colombia’s most inviting islands. It’s approximately 12 hours long, starting early in the morning, and includes visits to Cholón, Baru, and snorkeling along the way. The tour involves hotel pickup, which is especially convenient if you’re staying in the busy downtown, Bocagrande, or the historic center.

One thing we love about this tour is how it mixes relaxation with adventure. You get to soak up the sun on quiet beaches, enjoy seafood cocktails amid a lively party scene, and explore underwater marvels with snorkeling gear. The second highlight? The sunset on a calm beach followed by the chance to see plankton — a natural wonder that’s both pretty and rare.

A possible drawback to consider is the group size — with a maximum of 16 travelers, it might feel busy during peak times, and some reviews mention coordination issues, especially with transportation. It’s worth noting that English is not widely spoken, which could be a challenge if language barriers are a concern. This tour suits adventurous, sun-seeking travelers who enjoy a mix of party vibes and peaceful beach time, as well as those interested in snorkeling and local cuisine.

Key Points

• Diverse Islands: Visit Cholón for lively parties and Baru for quieter beaches.
• Snorkeling & Marine Life: Includes guided snorkeling with equipment, giving you a close-up view of coral and fish.
• Authentic Food: Enjoy a seafood cocktail and a traditional Colombian lunch with several options.
• Natural Attractions: Experience a sunset on a tranquil beach and observe the natural plankton phenomenon (subject to natural conditions).
• Flexible Schedule: The itinerary balances active exploration with relaxing downtime.
• Limited English: Be prepared for some language barriers, as reviews note a lack of English speakers.

A Detailed Look at the Rosario Islands Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Scenic Transit

We’re picked up early from our Cartagena hotel, which makes for a stress-free start. The transportation is by land, leading us to Baru Island, where our boat awaits. The ride across the water is smooth, giving us our first glance at the turquoise waters and lush island scenery — a taste of what’s to come.

This part of the trip is straightforward but highlights the importance of punctuality. One reviewer, David, mentioned that a lack of coordination and communication caused some stress, especially with pickup times. So, be sure to confirm your pickup details ahead of time and give yourself a buffer.

Isla Grande: Snorkeling & Marine Marvels

Our first stop is Isla Grande, where a guide hands us snorkel gear to explore the vibrant underwater scene. We loved the chance to see corals and marine species up close, and the guided aspect reassures even novice snorkelers. The 45-minute snorkeling segment offers enough time to enjoy the marine life without feeling rushed.

This part of the tour is especially popular, as the reviewer Alfonso called it a “very full day” of beach, relaxation, and snorkeling. It’s a highlight for those who love to see the underwater world and appreciate the beauty beneath the surface.

Cholón: Party Island with Seafood & Music

Next, we arrive at Cholón, famous for its lively party atmosphere. Yachts line up, music blares, and the scene is festive. We’re offered a seafood cocktail as we soak in the vibrant vibe. While drinks are not included, you can purchase them directly from vendors or onboard.

Some travelers, like Alfonso, found Cholón to be a fun party scene, perfect for a lively break from the quiet beaches. However, others might find it a bit hectic if they prefer peaceful surroundings. One review noted that none of the guides spoke English, which could make communication tricky amid the music and crowd.

Baru Island: Quiet Beaches & Lunch

Our last major stop is Playa Tranquila on Baru Island, where we can relax on soft sands and enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch. The options include fried fish, roasted chicken, or vegetarian, all served with coconut rice, patacones, and salad — a hearty, satisfying meal that highlights local flavors.

The calm environment here contrasts nicely with Cholón’s lively scene. It’s a perfect place to unwind, sunbathe, or take a quick dip in the clear waters. This stop lasts about 4 hours, which is ample time for sunbathing, eating, or a gentle swim.

Sunset & Plankton Activity

As dusk approaches, the tour prepares for the plankton activity—a natural phenomenon where tiny organisms glow in the water, creating a sparkling effect. It’s a short but beautiful experience, best enjoyed around 8 pm. The review from Alfonso emphasizes this as a memorable part of the day, adding a touch of magic to the trip.

Afterward, we head back to Cartagena, tired but content, with a lot of wonderful memories packed into the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers all transportation, snorkeling gear, and some drinks like the seafood cocktail. Lunch on Baru is included, with three tasty options. Tips or souvenirs are not included, and any additional drinks or purchases are on you.

It’s important to note that expenditures not specified in the plan are not covered, so be prepared for optional costs, especially if you want extra drinks or souvenirs during Cholón.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: The tour starts at 12 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
• Language: Be ready for limited English — bringing a translation app or some basic Spanish can be helpful.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent, especially the plankton activity. If the weather turns bad, you may be offered a different date or a refund.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 16 people, the tour remains relatively intimate but can also get crowded, especially at Cholón.
• Physical readiness: Snorkeling and walking on beaches require a moderate level of mobility.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see multiple islands in one day, sample local seafood, and enjoy a mix of party and peaceful moments. If you love snorkeling, beach lounging, and beautiful sunsets, you’ll find plenty to love here. However, if you’re sensitive to language barriers or prefer a more relaxed, less crowded environment, you might want to consider other options. Families with children should be aware that parts of the tour are lively and may not suit very young kids.

Final Thoughts

The Full Day in 4 Rosario Islands tour provides a lively, fun-packed way to experience some of Cartagena’s most beautiful islands. With snorkeling, beach time, seafood, and a sunset, it offers a well-rounded day for those who want to combine adventure, relaxation, and local flavor.

While not perfect — some logistical hiccups and language barriers may cause frustration — the genuine natural beauty, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere make it a worthwhile choice for travelers looking for a full, active day on the water. It’s especially suitable for those who value authentic experiences over polished, overly curated tours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling is part of the experience, the tour provides equipment and a guide, making it manageable for non-swimmers, especially if they’re comfortable in shallow water. However, some comfort in the water is recommended.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water, cash for optional drinks, and a waterproof camera or phone. Also, pack a towel if you want to sunbathe after snorkeling.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?
Yes, the tour offers a vegetarian lunch option, along with fried fish and roasted chicken choices.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Yes, the itinerary allocates about 45 minutes for snorkeling, an hour at Cholón, and four hours on Baru, giving a good balance of activity and relaxation.

Is there any entertainment or party vibe included?
Yes, Cholón is known for its lively party scene, with music and yachts, making it ideal for those who enjoy a festive atmosphere.

How crowded does the tour get?
Maximum group size is 16, so it’s relatively small but can feel lively, especially during Cholón’s bustling party scene.

What if it rains?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Most travelers book about 20 days in advance, but last-minute availability depends on demand and weather conditions.

In all, this tour offers a lively, diverse taste of Cartagena’s island life, perfect for those eager to combine beach, marine life, and party scenes into one memorable day.