A Guide To Rosario Islands, Cartagena - Updated 2024

Things to do / Highlights

Surely, when you arrive in this paradise that locals fondly call Corales Islas del Rosario, you will be left in awe with its incomparable beauty. A piece of heaven on earth, this place will make you fall in love with nature even more. If you’ve never been to Rosario Islands before, know that there is more to it than just a swimming spot. For your guidance, here is a list of some of the best things to do while on the island.

Swimming and sunbathing

One of the reasons people love beaches is because they make them reconnect with nature and escape the routine city life, filled with noise and pollution. With Rosario Islands’ pristine beaches, fine white sand, and crystal clear waters, you will surely be swimming in rejuvenating waters to your heart’s content and basking in the warmth of the golden sun till you achieve your desired tan. Additionally, if you’re on holiday with your family, you can make lasting memories making sandcastles and taking lots of souvenir pictures with them.

Go on an exciting cruise

Because of its geological features, there are a lot of exciting things to do in the Rosario Islands than just swimming and putting on some SPF. This chain of islands is made of 28 islands of varying sizes. To maximize your escapade, you might want to book a spectacular cruise that will tour you to the paradise’s most beautiful sights and see its hidden gems. Also, with a guided tour, professional tour guides will bring you to the most majestic snorkeling sites where you can marvel at colorful coral reefs. An experience that is just one for the books.

Kayak among mangroves

The Rosario Islands is not only known for its waterscape but also for its lush mangrove forestry. In Isla Grande, you will find stunning mangrove tunnels that are well-preserved and cherished by the people of Cartagena. You will surely feel every bit connected to nature as you paddle your way through the tunnels and enjoy the views in this one-of-a-kind ecosystem.

Visit the oceanarium

If you are on a much-deserved vacation with your family, especially the kids, be sure to bring them to the Oceanarium in Isla de Pajarales. There, they will surely have the time of their life learning about the region’s natural features and seeing fascinating sea creatures, such as dolphins and sharks.

Travelers tips

Wear comfortable clothing

Exploring the gorgeous archipelagic Rosario Islands is not for everyone, especially those who do not like physical and outdoor activities. But for those who do, it is an experience they will cherish for the rest of their lives. Although, there is really no dress code for going on adventures like this, be sure to be prepared with comfortable clothing that will let you move around with ease. Plus, make sure they are Instagram-worthy OOTDs as well. During transfers, be sure to wear comfortable shirts and shorts. Also, your most trusted slippers will be put to the test as there will be lots of walking and climbing from boats to boats. Also, be sure to have your swimsuits ready at all times because you surely want to flaunt that summer body.

Pack basic essentials

It is not enough that you are wearing your OOTD once you get to Rosario Islands, but you should also have some basic essentials that you will be needing during your adventure. As you will be exposed to the sun most of the time, be sure to bring sunscreen with you to protect you from those harmful UV rays. Also, insect repellants come in handy during camping and nature tours. Additionally, you will be needing a waterproof bag, phone protectors, a mini first-aid kit, protective sunglasses, and your favorite snorkeling set.

How to get there

These are a few ways to get to Rosario Islands:

Join a group tour

The Rosario Islands are located 100 km (62 mi) from Cartagena. One of the best ways to get to see this stunning chain of islands is to join group tours that are available online or via some travel businesses in Cartagena. Through this, your transfers will be hassle-free and you will be with the presence of an experienced guide who knows the twists and turns of the islands. Some of these tour packages include entrance fees in their rate, while others will let you know if they are excluded.

Book a private boat

If you want to make the most of your time, the best thing to do is to book a private boat in Cartagena. Private boat tours are available online through Viator, Getyourguide, Botesdelabahia, and other trusted travel sites. Through this, you will have the luxury of time and you can decide how much time you want to spend on a certain island before hopping onto the next ones.

Book accommodations in a hotel on the islands

For a convenient escapade experience, you can just book accommodations at some excellent resorts in Rosario Islands, such as Hotel Carolina Island, Gente de Mar Resort, Isla Tijereto, Punta Nativa Eco Hotel, and others. Most of these hotels offer transport services that will pick you up from Cartagena harbor and drop you off to their location. Plus, most of them also offer tour packages that will take you to the most magical places in the Rosario Islands.

Rosario Islands information

Rosario Islands

Address: Cartagena, Colombia

Department of tourism: Visit Colombia

Cartagena: Rosario Islands Catamaran with Lunch and Snorkel

Duration: 7.5 hour

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