On this trip to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena, you’ll discover one of the most beautiful natural settings in the Colombian Caribbean, known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life.
Tour Options
During the booking process, you'll be able to select one of the following tour options:
Tour With Isla Cholón
At the scheduled time, we’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cartagena de Indias or meet at the agreed meeting point. From there, we’ll head to the dock and board a speedboat for a scenic ride across the Bay of Las Ánimas. Gradually, we’ll leave the coastline behind and make our way into the open sea toward the Rosario Islands.
During the crossing, we’ll make a short stop to admire the exterior of the San Fernando Fortress in Bocachica from the boat. After passing this historic landmark, we’ll arrive at Isla Grande, the heart of the Rosario archipelago. Here, you’ll have free time to snorkel and observe the colorful tropical fish that inhabit these waters.
Next, we’ll disembark on Cholón Island, where you’ll enjoy one hour of free time to soak up the lively atmosphere. We’ll then continue to Playa Blanca on the Barú Peninsula. You’ll have another hour to swim in its turquoise waters and relax on the beach. Lunch will be served here and may include fried mojarra (a traditional local fish), grilled chicken, or other options accompanied by rice, salad, and a beverage.
After approximately 8.5 hours, we’ll return to Cartagena and end the tour at the Bocagrande dock.
Tour Without Isla Cholón
When booking, and depending on availability, you may choose the option that doesn't include Cholón Island.
In this case, we’ll make three stops of approximately 1.5 hours each at Isla Grande, Isla Isabela, and Isla Marina. Lunch will be served at Isla Grande. This option offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the Cholón experience. At the end of the visits, we’ll return to Cartagena, finishing the tour after approximately 7 hours.
Tour Without Cholón and With the Oceanarium
This option includes two panoramic stops at Fort Bocachica and the former Escobar Mansion, both viewed from the boat and lasting about 5 minutes. We'll then visit Isla Lizamar to see a small animal habitat, from where you'll have the option to enter the Oceanario (admission ticket not included).
The route continues to a beach club on Isla Grande, followed by a delicious lunch on Isla Marina. The snorkeling activity takes place at any of these stops and includes all necessary equipment.
Pickup and Meeting Points
The meeting point depends on the selected option.
- For the tour with Cholón Island (without Oceanarium) by boat, the activity begins at Muelle de La Bodeguita - Puerta 1.
- For the tour with Cholón Island (without Oceanarium) by speedboat, pickup is included from hotels in Bocagrande and El Laguito. If you’re staying in another area, the meeting point will be at Muelle de Los Pegasos, in the historic center of Cartagena.
- For the tour without Isla Cholón and without the Oceanarium, the activity begins at the Santander Monument at La Bodeguita Pier – Gate 1.
- For the tour without Isla Cholón and with the Oceanarium, the activity begins at the Santander Monument at La Bodeguita Pier – Gate 1.
Please note that for all options, the tour ends at Marina Todomar.
