Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) Tours

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The Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) are a highlight of Colombia’s Caribbean Coast, famous for their vibrant marine life, pristine white beaches, and sun-soaked beach resorts. A cluster of 28 idyllic islands dotted offshore of the port city of Cartagena, this archipelago sits atop the world’s third-largest barrier reef and makes up Islas del Rosario National Park.

The Basics

Although many of the islands are private and therefore off-limits, the larger islands of Isla Grande, Isla Rosario, and Isla Caribaru draw a steady stream of day-trippers. Full-day tours from Cartagena often focus on Isla Barú, which lies closest to the mainland and houses attractions such as Playa Blanca, Playa Azul, the Bay of Cholón, and the fortresses of San Fernando and San Jose.

Things to Know Before You Go

Be sure to take everything you need, as there are no shops on the islands. Sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a sunhat are essentials.
Bring cash if you want to purchase food or drinks from beach kiosks—many do not accept credit cards.
Wi-Fi can be scarce on the islands, but some resorts offer paid or free access.
Many passenger ferries and private boats to the Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the operator in advance.

How to Get There

The Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) are located roughly 60 miles (100 kilometers) off the coast of Cartagena and are reachable only by boat. Fast boats take about 45 minutes to reach the islands, embarking from La Bodeguita Pier in central Cartagena.

When to Get There

The region’s dry summer (December through February) is the most popular time to visit the Rosario Islands, and resorts can fill up quickly during this time. Thanks to the mild Caribbean climate it’s possible to visit year-round, and off-season visitors can benefit from reduced rates on tours and accommodation.

Marine Life of the Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario)

The crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs of Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park (Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo) offer ample opportunities for water sports, especially snorkeling and scuba diving. Those venturing underwater can admire calcareous algae, anemones, sponges, dusters, and sea lilies; spot exotic marine life including spadefish, clown fish, barracuda, moray eels, and manta rays; or head to the Oceanary on Isla Rosario to see sharks, giant sea turtles, and dolphins.

Colombia

5 Tours and Activities to Experience Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario)

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Day Cruises

Exclusive Full-Day Trip on the Islands, Cholon and Gente de Mar from Cartagena

Experience the natural beauty of Colombia’s Rosario Islands on this all-day excursion. After a convenient pickup at select hotels, head to the archipelago with an informative local guide and spend the day and check out an island that once belonged to Pablo Escobar, enjoy a delicious complimentary meal and kick back in a hammock at Gente de Mar, and relax with a drink at Cholon Island.

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8 hours
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Free Cancellation

From

US$ 120.00

From

US$ 120.00

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8 hours
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Free Cancellation

Day Trips

Isla Baru Playa Tranquila

Experience beautiful Baru Island this guided adventure. After a convenient hotel pickup in Cartagena, head to Playa Blanca and take a quick seaside walk to find a quiet white sand beach. Spend the day kicking back and swimming in crystal clear water while enjoying a delicious lunch—it’s included in the tour price—and complimentary alcoholic drinks.

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7 hours
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Free Cancellation

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US$ 23.47

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US$ 23.47

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7 hours
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Free Cancellation

Nature & Wildlife

Private Speedboat from Cartagena to Rosario Islands

The Rosario Islands are a Caribbean paradise just an hour by boat from Cartagena, but visiting on a group tour can detract from the experience. Instead, make like a VIP on this private full-day speedboat tour from Cartagena; enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on Cholón beach; and indulge with a delicious lunch at a beachfront resort.

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Private experience

7 hours
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Free Cancellation

From

US$ 609.00

Price varies by group size

From

US$ 609.00

Price varies by group size

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7 hours
Reserve Now & Pay Later
Free Cancellation

Day Trips

Tour Volcán Del Totumo

Get the most out of your visit to the Totumo Volcano by traveling with a guide, who provides in-depth commentary and navigation as you travel. With all round-trip transportation provided, you'll be able to enjoy the scenery as you travel while someone else deals with driving and directions. Once there, explore the area and take the time for plenty of photo ops.

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6 hours

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US$ 24.00

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US$ 24.00

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6 hours

Day Trips

40ft Private Yacht to Rosario Islands & Barú

Explore the pristine beaches of the Rosario Archipelago and Baru Island aboard a private yacht on this 6-hour day trip from Cartagena. Pilot a course for adventure aboard a 40-foot (10-meter) yacht heading to the San Fernando and San Jose Fortifications that once guarded the city from pirates. The continue into the turquoise-blue waters of the Rosario islands, enjoy the great snorkeling and gorgeous scenery. Finish the day with beach time and a chance to purchase a tasty seafood lunch at Baru. Round-trip hotel transport, plus towels, floating tubes and refreshments are included.

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Private experience