Full Day Premium Five Islands Tour in Cartagena

Full Day Premium Five Islands Tour in Cartagena: An Honest Look

When you think of Cartagena, it’s likely the vibrant Old Town, colorful streets, and lively atmosphere come to mind. But just a short boat ride away, the Rosario Islands beckon with stunning coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and plenty of opportunities for escapism. This full-day tour offers a chance to visit five different islands—each with its own unique vibe—and pack in activities like snorkeling, seafood tasting, and even the remarkable bioluminescent plankton experience. For $90, this 7-hour adventure is designed to give you a taste of the Caribbean’s natural beauty and lively island culture with a good mix of guided exploration and free time.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the variety of stops, which ensure you see different facets of the islands—from the wildlife-rich reefs to the party scene—and the knowledgeable guides who are often praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. You will hear interesting stories about each island’s history and nature, adding depth to your experience. The scenery is impressive, especially during the panoramic tours of the archipelago and the sunset in Playa Tranquila.

A potential consideration is that some reviews mention the organization and timing can be inconsistent—like long waits at the start or the itinerary being cut short due to weather or other issues. That said, most find the value outweighs these hiccups, provided you’re flexible.

This tour is perfect if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground in a single day, enjoy snorkeling and beach time, and don’t mind a busy schedule. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic guidance and are prepared for some lively island scenes, including party islands, and possibly crowded boat rides.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary with stops at 5 islands, each offering different experiences.
• Knowledgeable guides who provide interesting insights and keep the tour lively.
• Excellent value for a full day of activities, food, and scenery for $90.
• Variety of activities including snorkeling, seafood tasting, fruit tasting, and bioluminescent plankton viewing.
• Some organizational issues reported, such as wait times and itinerary adjustments.
• Good for those who want a comprehensive, energetic day trip with plenty of photo opportunities.

A Complete Look at the Full Day Premium Five Islands Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins bright and early at the Babylon restaurant in Cartagena’s El Centro neighborhood. Expect to meet at 8:00 am for check-in—this is a crucial detail, as punctuality ensures you won’t miss the boat. Most travelers find the meeting point convenient, though some mention the area can be bustling with vendors trying to sell souvenirs. The journey out to the islands is by air-conditioned bus, which makes a long day a bit more comfortable.

The First Stop: Torre del Reloj and Isla Agua Azul

Your adventure kicks off with a quick 45-minute visit in front of the clock tower in Plaza de Cervantes—an iconic Cartagena landmark. From there, the tour heads straight to Isla Agua Azul, where guests enjoy a swimming session and a fruit tasting. This first stop sets a relaxed tone, allowing you to cool off after the bus ride and get into vacation mode. Travelers who have been there say the beaches are among the most beautiful in the Caribbean, with soft sand and calm waters perfect for a quick dip.

The Panoramic of Rosario Islands Archipelago

Next, a 30-minute panoramic tour of the 27 islands that make up the Rosario archipelago provides a sweeping view of this marine paradise. This gives you a sense of scale, and guides often share interesting tidbits about the islands’ history and ecology. Several reviews highlight how this part of the trip helps you appreciate the vastness and diversity of the area, making the later activities feel more meaningful.

Snorkeling at Isla Grande

One of the trip’s highlight activities is the snorkeling session in Isla Grande. Here, you’ll see a variety of fish and coral reefs, and some reviews mention a sunken plane at the bottom of the sea—an unexpected bonus for underwater explorers. Guides are usually helpful, but some travelers note the snorkeling gear is basic or incomplete, sometimes without snorkels or fins, which can affect the quality of your underwater experience. Still, many enjoy the chance to see vivid marine life in crystal-clear waters.

Cholón: The Party Island

No trip to the Rosario Islands would be complete without a visit to Cholón, known for its party atmosphere. Guests often have about 90 minutes to soak in the lively scene, enjoy music, and sample fresh seafood. The reviews describe this stop as a bustling spot where vendors actively push jet-skis, massages, and drinks—so keep your wits about you and be ready to bargain. Some travelers, however, find the music surprisingly quiet and the scene less energetic than anticipated, or a bit overwhelming with vendors.

Isla Agua Azul: Beach Relaxation

The next stop is again at Isla Agua Azul, where travelers are encouraged to swim and relax on one of the area’s most stunning beaches. Most find the scenery here breathtaking, with calm waters and beautiful surroundings. It’s a good opportunity to unwind and take photos before heading to the final main stop.

Playa Tranquila Baru and Sunset

The last planned activity is at Playa Tranquila, where you can wait for sunset and observe the bioluminescent plankton. This part of the tour can be hit or miss—some reviews mention the lights are faint and the experience underwhelming, especially when many other groups are there. Still, the peaceful beach setting and the chance to see glowing microorganisms in the water make it a memorable finish for many.

The Night Experience: Bioluminescent Plankton

The tour ends around 8:00 pm, with a bus ride back to Cartagena. The bioluminescent activity is a special treat, but reviews suggest it’s often less spectacular than expected, with some travelers feeling it’s not worth the extra hours waiting in the dark lagoon. Still, if you’ve never seen glowing plankton, it’s a unique sight—albeit somewhat crowded.

What the Tour Includes and the Hidden Costs

The included part of the tour features a lunch with options like chicken, fish, or vegetarian dishes, which many reviewers praise as delicious. However, alcohol, bottled water, and towels are not included, so bringing your own water and a towel is wise. Vendors at the islands sell drinks and snacks at high prices, so a bit of cash in hand or bargaining skills will serve you well.

Most travelers find the value for money good, given the amount of activities, the scenic beauty, and guides’ expertise. However, some mention that the snorkeling gear provided is less than optimal, and the itinerary can sometimes be disrupted by weather or logistical issues, including long waits.

Reviews Highlighting the Experience

Many reviewers emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of guides like William or Jafet, often calling them “outstanding” or “amazing.” These guides keep the energy high, share interesting stories, and help travelers navigate the sometimes chaotic island environment.

Conversely, a handful of reviews express frustration over disorganization and safety concerns, like delays or feeling rushed. A few travelers report overcrowded boats and poor snorkeling gear, which can diminish the experience. Be aware that weather conditions can also impact the day—sometimes causing cancellations or shortened visits.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip appeals most to adventurous travelers eager to see multiple islands, snorkel in coral reefs, and experience local Caribbean flavors. It’s suited for those wanting a full day packed with diverse activities and don’t mind a sometimes busy schedule. If you enjoy lively party scenes or are curious about bioluminescent plankton, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have specific expectations about the quality of snorkeling equipment or the exact itinerary, some reviews suggest considering other options. This tour is best for travelers who are flexible and ready to embrace the chaos for a chance to see a variety of sights in one trip.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

For most, this full-day tour offers excellent value, blending stunning scenery, cultural insight, and fun activities. The guides’ enthusiasm and the diverse stops make it suitable for those keen on exploring the Caribbean’s marine and island environment comprehensively. It’s a lively experience—sometimes hectic, but rewarding for those who enjoy a bit of everything.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day that covers snorkeling, beach time, local eats, and a glimpse of bioluminescence, this tour can be a fantastic choice. Just keep in mind the potential organizational hiccups and prepare for some crowds and vendors. It’s best suited for active travelers who value authentic guided insights and are ready for an energetic, full-throttle adventure.

FAQs about the Full Day Premium Five Islands Tour

What is the meeting point for this tour?
The tour starts at Babylon restaurant in Cartagena’s El Centro area, with check-in at 8:00 am.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, ending around 8:00 pm with the return trip to Cartagena.

What islands are visited during the tour?
Stops include Isla Agua Azul, Isla Grande, Cholón (the party island), and Playa Tranquila Baru, among others in the Rosario archipelago.

Does the tour include snorkeling gear?
Yes, basic gear is provided, but some reviews note the gear is limited—often without snorkels or fins—which can affect your underwater experience.

Is the food included?
Yes, the tour offers a full lunch with options like chicken, fish, or vegetarian dishes. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, but alcohol and bottled water are not included.

Can I participate in the bioluminescent plankton activity?
Yes, the tour includes an evening visit to see the glowing plankton, but reviews suggest the lights may be faint and crowded.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, water, and maybe some extra cash for snacks or vendor bargaining. Be prepared for some heat, sun, and sea spray.

Is this tour suitable for children or solo travelers?
Most reviews mention friendly guides and a lively atmosphere, making it appropriate for solo travelers and families with children, provided they’re comfortable with busy boat rides and island crowds.

This tour, with its combination of vibrant scenery, engaging guides, and a taste of island life, offers a good snapshot of Cartagena’s nearby treasures—perfect for travelers craving a lively, varied day in the Caribbean.