A Rosario Islands day trip from Cartagena is a full-day boat excursion (about 8 to 9 hours) to a protected archipelago of coral islands roughly an hour from the city, with snorkeling, beach time and a typical Caribbean lunch. With CanalMarket Travel it starts from US$70 per person, and national park and port taxes are paid on site. Here is what to expect and how to plan it.
What are the Rosario Islands?
The Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) are a group of 27 small coral islands off the Caribbean coast of Colombia, southwest of Cartagena. They are part of a national park that protects the coral reef and the marine life around it, which is why the water here is among the clearest on the Colombian Caribbean coast. Most travellers visit them as a day trip by boat from Cartagena, combining a swim on the reef with relaxed hours on an island beach.
What a typical day looks like
- Morning departure: you meet at the Cartagena marina, or we arrange pickup from your hotel in the Old City or Bocagrande, confirmed when you book.
- Boat ride: about an hour across the bay and along the coast to the islands.
- Snorkeling stop: the boat stops at the coral reef so you can swim and see the fish and corals.
- Beach time: several hours on an island or beach club with sun loungers, swimming and free time.
- Lunch: a typical Caribbean lunch of fresh fish, coconut rice and patacones (fried green plantain).
- Afternoon return: the boat takes you back to Cartagena in the afternoon.
If you prefer more space or comfort, private boats and premium beach clubs are available on request.
What is included and what you pay on site
- Included: round-trip boat transfer from Cartagena, lunch and use of the beach area.
- Not included: national park and port taxes (paid on site), snorkeling gear, drinks and gratuities.
Bring some cash in Colombian pesos for the taxes and extras. The amount of the park and port fees is set by the authorities and can change, so we confirm it with you before your trip.
What to bring
- Swimwear, a towel and a change of clothes.
- Reef-friendly sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses: the Caribbean sun is strong.
- Your passport or ID, and cash for taxes, drinks and tips.
- Your own mask and snorkel if you have them.
- A dry bag or zip bag for your phone: the boat ride can be splashy.
- Seasickness tablets if you get dizzy on boats; the sea can be choppy on some days.
Tips for a better day
- Do not touch or stand on the coral: it is alive and protected.
- Follow the crew’s instructions on the boat and during the snorkeling stop.
- Book a day or more in advance, especially on weekends and in high season.
- Keep the evening free: after a full day on the water most people want a quiet dinner in the Old City.
- Travelling with children or older relatives? Tell us when you book so we can suggest the most comfortable option.
Combine it with more of Colombia
Spend another day exploring the walled city on our Cartagena Old City and Getsemaní Walking Tour. Heading to Medellín too? Join the Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour. Visiting Panama on the same trip? The San Blas Islands Day Trip from Panama City is another unforgettable Caribbean island day. See all our tours in Panama, Colombia, Dubai and the USA, or compare prices on our tour prices page.
How to book with CanalMarket Travel
Open the Rosario Islands Boat Day Trip from Cartagena page, choose your date and number of guests, and send your booking. Our team confirms the itinerary, pickup and availability before you pay, and you pay securely by card. Questions first? Contact our team, write to us on WhatsApp (+507 6148-9795) or ask Gabriella, our travel assistant, on this page.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a Rosario Islands day trip from Cartagena?
It is a full day, approximately 8 to 9 hours, including about an hour by boat each way.
How much does a Rosario Islands tour cost?
With CanalMarket Travel it starts from US$70 per person, including the boat, lunch and the beach area. National park and port taxes, snorkeling gear and drinks are paid separately.
Can I snorkel at the Rosario Islands?
Yes. The tour includes a stop at the coral reef for snorkeling. Gear is not included, so bring your own or rent it on site.
Is there hotel pickup in Cartagena?
We meet you at the Cartagena marina or arrange pickup from hotels in the Old City or Bocagrande, confirmed with your booking.
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