An Honest Look at the Top 3 Islands Tour in Cartagena

If you’re dreaming of escaping the city chaos for a day, this 6-hour boat tour to the Rosario Islands archipelago might just be what you need. For $120 per person, you’ll visit three of Cartagena’s most celebrated islands—Pao Pao, Islabela, and Bora Bora—with a small group of up to 28 travelers. The tour departs from La Bodeguita Dock and promises a relaxed yet packed day of sightseeing, lounging, and good food.

What we love most about this experience is the intimate atmosphere created by the cap of 28 people, ensuring more personalized attention from your bilingual guide. Plus, the stunning views of crystal-clear waters and the distinct personality of each island make for memorable photos and meaningful moments. The inclusion of a local lunch—with options for fish, chicken, or vegetarian fare—is another big plus, letting you savor authentic flavors without extra cost.

One thing to consider before booking: the early start at 8:00 am could be a challenge for late risers, and the waiting time around the dock before departure might test your patience, especially if the weather turns hot. Nonetheless, this tour caters best to those who enjoy small-group experiences, beautiful scenery, and laid-back island hopping.

This tour is ideal for adventurers eager to see the Caribbean side of Colombia without breaking the bank, and those who appreciate guided tours with local insight. If you’re looking for a relaxing yet informative day on the water, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

Small-group experience: Max 28 travelers, ensuring personal attention.
Diverse islands: Each with its own charm—Pao Pao’s mangroves, Islabela’s eco-hotel, Bora Bora’s festive vibe.
Included amenities: Lunch with three options, welcome cocktails, and guided commentary.
Comfortable transportation: Speedboats with hydration provided.
Time flexibility: Approximate 2-hour stays on each island, weather permitting.
Extra costs: Dock taxes, towels, and VIP options are optional extras.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins at Muelle de la Bodeguita, with a prompt 8:00 am start. We found that early start necessary to maximize the day, but be prepared for a wait of about 45 minutes before the boat actually departs, as the boat leaves at 8:45 am. During this time, you might find yourself in the ** Cartagena morning heat**, so bringing a hat or sunscreen is wise. The boat itself is a speedboat, which promises a swift and exciting ride across the water, typically lasting around 45 minutes to reach the archipelago.

Panoramic Tour of the Rosario Islands

Once aboard, your bilingual guide provides commentary about the most iconic sights of the archipelago. We loved the way the guide shared stories and insights, making the journey not just transportation but part of the experience. The panoramic tour offers stunning views of the islands’ lush landscapes and turquoise waters, perfect for snapping some photos and getting excited for what’s ahead.

Pao Pao Beach Club

Your first stop is Pao Pao Beach Club, a small island with a reputation for natural beauty and tranquility. Here, you’ll be greeted with a welcome cocktail—a nice touch that sets a relaxed mood. The island’s mangrove surroundings and bird reserve give it an authentic tropical feel.

You’ll have about two hours to unwind—whether you want to swim in the clear waters, lie in a hammock, or explore the mangroves. One reviewer noted, “Its bird reserve and the turquoise color of its crystal-clear waters will make you enjoy this space created for relaxation.” Be aware that the length of stay can vary depending on weather and season, so don’t expect a full day here, but enough to enjoy some peace away from the crowds.

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IslaBela Eco Hotel

Next, the tour takes you to IslaBela, an eco-hotel that blends sustainability with comfort. This island offers multiple spaces to relax or take photos—think beach loungers, outdoor hammocks, and scenic spots perfect for making memories. The highlight here, for many, is the lunch. You get to choose among traditional fish, chicken, or vegetarian options, which is a thoughtful inclusion, allowing everyone to find something they love.

We found the environment calming and the food surprisingly good for a tour meal. As one guest put it, “The outdoor setting and fresh options made the lunch a highlight.” Expect about two hours on IslaBela, enough to relax and snap a few more photos before heading to the final stop.

Bora Bora Beach Club & Hotel

The last island is Bora Bora, a Caribbean paradise with a festive atmosphere. Here, the team’s attentive service and the lively vibe make for a perfect ending to your day. You can swim, enjoy the beach, or just relax in the festive environment. The vibe is joyful and laid-back, with plenty of space to unwind.

This stop is also around two hours long, giving you enough time to soak in the environment and savor the last moments of your island-hopping adventure. One reviewer specifically enjoyed Bora Bora, saying, “Our favorite was Bora Bora by far and would go back just to spend a day there.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included features make this tour a good value. You get speedboat transport, a bilingual guide, panoramic island views, hydration, welcome cocktails, and a delicious lunch. The exclusive spaces on each island ensure you won’t feel crowded, adding to the relaxed experience.

However, don’t forget about additional costs—dock taxes, which can be up to 31,500 COP, are extra, as are towels (around 15,000 COP/day). If you want to indulge in VIP areas, then expect to pay extra as well, but for most, the standard experience should suffice.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many travelers have praised the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. As one review pointed out, “Laura was great at translating to English when needed,” making the tour accessible to non-Spanish speakers. Stunning views and relaxing environments get high marks, with one tourist emphasizing their favorite island being Bora Bora.

Some critiques focus on logistics—waiting times in the morning—but overall, the consensus is that the experience delivers good value, especially considering the included lunch and small-group setting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits adventurous travelers looking for a guided experience that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culture. It’s ideal for those who value small group sizes and authentic island environments over large, commercialized tours.

It’s also well-suited for couples, friends, or solo travelers keen to see multiple islands without the hassle of planning individual boat trips. If you’re interested in photography, the variety of landscapes and colorful waters will give you plenty of photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

In our view, the Top 3 Islands Tour in Cartagena offers a solid balance of fun, relaxation, and value. For $120, you get a well-organized day with beautiful scenery, authentic local food, and the chance to connect with Colombia’s Caribbean side. It’s especially appealing if you’re someone who enjoys small groups, guided commentary, and diverse island environments.

While the early start and waiting times are minor inconveniences, they don’t overshadow the stunning views and thoughtful amenities. The tour’s focus on authenticity—from the informative guides to the genuine natural beauty—ensures you leave with more than just a few photos; you’ll take home a true sense of the islands’ charm.

If you’re ready for a day of island hopping, with delicious lunch and relaxed vibes, this tour deserves a spot on your Cartagena itinerary. Just pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age to join this tour?
Yes, this tour is only for people over 18 years old.

How long is the boat ride from Cartagena to the islands?
The boat journey takes about 45 minutes, providing a quick, exciting ride across the water.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll get a lunch with three options—fish, chicken, or vegetarian—and welcome cocktails on each island.

What are the extra costs I should be aware of?
Dock taxes can be up to 31,500 COP, towels are 15,000 COP per day, and VIP areas cost extra if you choose to upgrade.

How flexible is the schedule?
Each island stop is roughly two hours, but this can vary depending on weather and season, so you may spend slightly less or more time on each.

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, the guide is bilingual, and many reviews mention English translation, making it accessible for most travelers.

In sum, this is a thoughtfully curated, value-packed way to explore Cartagena’s most famous islands. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, relaxing beaches, or authentic local flavors, this tour hits all the right notes.