How to get to Islas del Rosario from Cartagena? There are different ways to get from Cartagena de Indias to the Rosario Islands, which we will talk about in this article.
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How to get to Islas del Rosario from Cartagena de Indias?
The most common way to reach the Rosario Islands from Cartagena de Indias is by sea .
- Speedboat or Lancha: Speedboats leave daily from the port of Cartagena, usually from the Bodeguita Dock or the Los Pegasos Tourist Dock, located near the old town. The journey takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the weather conditions and the specific destination in the archipelago. Tickets can be purchased in advance at local travel agencies or at the port. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning to ensure a seat, as the boats usually leave early.
- Organized Excursions: Many travel agencies offer day or multi-day excursions to the Rosario Islands, which include round-trip boat transportation, meals, activities, and sometimes accommodation. These excursions can be a comfortable and hassle-free option for visitors who want to explore the islands in a group and with a guide.
- Private boat rental: If you prefer a more personalized and exclusive experience, it is possible to rent a private boat with a skipper to take you to the Rosario Islands. This option allows you to choose your itinerary and visit the islands at your own pace, without being tied to a fixed schedule. Rates vary depending on the size and type of boat, as well as the length of the rental.
If you long for a unique day in a peaceful place with beach, sea and radiant sun in the Rosario Islands, consider Islabela as your perfect option.
What is the distance between Cartagena de Indias and the Rosario Islands?
The Rosario Islands are located about 45 km southwest of Cartagena de Indias (Colombia). The boat trip from Cartagena to the archipelago usually lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the weather conditions, the type of boat and the specific destination in the Rosario Islands.
Also read: Where are the Rosario Islands
What are the main cultural differences between Cartagena de Indias and the Rosario Islands?
Cartagena de Indias and the Rosario Islands are part of Colombia and, therefore, share many cultural aspects. However, there are some differences due to its geographical situation and its history:
- Pace of life: Cartagena de Indias is a lively city, with a larger population and a more developed economic and tourist activity. The Rosario Islands, on the other hand, have a slower and more relaxed pace of life, with a smaller population and a lifestyle focused on maritime activities and tourism.
- Infrastructure: Cartagena de Indias is a historic city with a more developed infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops. The Rosario Islands offer more limited and less elaborate lodging and dining options, often centered around eco-lodges and small family-run establishments.
- Architectural heritage: Cartagena de Indias is famous for its architectural and historical heritage, with its walls, forts, churches, and well-preserved colonial buildings. The Rosario Islands do not have such a rich architectural heritage and are known mainly for their natural beauty and their beaches.
- Activities and attractions: In Cartagena, activities and attractions focus on history, culture, and architecture, while in the Rosario Islands, the main activities are related to nature, water sports, and relaxing on the beaches.
- Natural environment: The Rosario Islands are an archipelago with a rich and diverse marine ecosystem, which is home to a natural national park and coral reefs. Cartagena de Indias, as a coastal city, also has beaches, but the natural environment is less preserved and less diverse than that of the islands.
- Local Community: The inhabitants of Cartagena de Indias and the Rosario Islands share Colombian culture, but the local communities on the islands may have slightly different customs and traditions due to their isolation and island lifestyle.
Despite these differences, both Cartagena de Indias and the Rosario Islands offer unique and complementary experiences to visitors, who can enjoy the cultural and historical richness of the city while discovering the natural beauty and tranquility of the islands.
How long does it take to explore Cartagena de Indias and the Rosario Islands?
The time needed to explore Cartagena de Indias and the Rosario Islands depends on your interests and how you want to organize your stay.
Also read: Rosario Islands prices
Cartagena de Indias: It is recommended to have at least 2-3 days to explore the historic center of Cartagena, visit the main monuments, taste the local gastronomy and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city. If you also want to visit the beaches of Cartagena, such as Bocagrande, El Laguito or La Boquilla, you can add one more day to your stay.
Rosario Islands: In the case of the Rosario Islands, you can plan a day trip to get a general idea of the archipelago, but a stay of 2-3 days is ideal to fully enjoy the beaches, explore the different islands and do activities such as snorkeling. , scuba diving or kayaking. If you want to relax and immerse yourself even more in the calm atmosphere of the islands, you can consider a longer stay.
In summary, a stay of between 5 and 7 days would be adequate to explore Cartagena de Indias and the Rosario Islands, spending part of the time exploring the city and the rest relaxing and doing activities on the islands. Of course, you can adapt this itinerary according to your preferences and the time you have available.
Also read: What are the Rosario Islands
