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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.

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 Details

At the scheduled time, we’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cartagena 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 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 seven to seven and a half 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.

Afterward, you’ll choose at the start of the tour whether to stop at Isla Marina or visit the Rosario Islands Oceanarium. Please note that Oceanarium admission is not included and must be paid on site. The decision must be made before departure.

We’ll then continue to Isla Grande, followed by lunch on Isla Barú or Isla Tierra Bomba. Snorkeling takes place between stops, depending on sea conditions.

Optional Activities

Regardless of the option selected, you may choose to participate in optional activities organized with the staff of the Rosario Islands aquarium.

  • Snorkeling is free of charge, but equipment is not included.
  • There is also a shark and dolphin show available for an additional cost of 55,000 COP (US$ 14.64) per person.

If you’re interested in any of these optional activities, please indicate this when making your reservation.

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 Marina Todomar.
  • For the tour with Cholón Island (without Oceanarium) by speedboat, pickup is included from hotels in Bocagrande, Castillo Grande, and El Laguito. If you’re staying in another area, the meeting point will be Marina Todomar (Cra. 2 #15-364).
  • For the tour without Isla Cholón and without the Oceanarium, the activity begins at La Bodeguita Pier – Gate 3.
  • For the tour without Isla Cholón and with Oceanarium, the activity also begins at La Bodeguita Pier – Gate 3.

Please note that for all options, the tour ends at Marina Todomar.

View complete description

More Information

Duration

7h - 8h 30m.

Language

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English, although it may occasionally be done in two languages. The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English, although it may occasionally be done in two languages.

Included

Hotel pickup and drop–off (depending on selection)

Transport by bus or minibus and speedboat or boat (depending on selection)

English–speaking guide

Lunch

Not included

Port fees: 20,000 COP (US$ 5.32)

Shark and dolphin show: 55,000 COP (US$ 14.64) per person

Admission to the Aquarium: 40,000 COP (US$ 10.65) per person

When to book?

You can book up until 1 hour before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability conditions

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.
  • Has a gender equality policy.
  • Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Depending on the date, time, or language selected, this tour may be offered by different local suppliers: Coco Cartagena Corporate name: Latam Networks LLC Registered Office: 30 N Gould St Ste R, Sheridan, United States Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): 2022-0011885606 Contact information Email: abnbcol@gmail.com Phone: +57 304 215 8115 Vivamos Colombia Travel Corporate name: VIVAMOS COLOMBIA DMC SAS Registered Office: MZ H PRIMA LT 11 BRR VILLAGRANDE DE LAS INDIAS, Cartagena, Colombia Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): 9016117237 Contact information Email: pavapaola@gmail.com Phone: +57 3142839340

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Meeting point

Monumento Santander

View map

Depending on the date and time you have selected, your meeting point may change.

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