Located a few kilometers off the coast of Cartagena, the Rosario Islands offer a true tropical paradise for those looking to escape the bustle of the city and enjoy an idyllic setting. With their pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, these islands are a must for nature and adventure lovers.
In this article we will give you valuable tips to successfully plan your trip to the 5 Rosario Islands . We will also explore the best transportation options available to get to this little piece of paradise from Cartagena.
To get to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena, there are several options for travelers. The first step is to reach the city of Cartagena, located on the north coast of Colombia. This destination is easily accessible by air from the main cities of Latin America and the United States and by land from other parts of Colombia.
Once in Cartagena, you have to choose the means of transportation to get to the Rosario Islands. The most common and comfortable option is the speedboat, which usually leaves from the tourist port La Bodeguita Pier or Los Pegasos Tourist Pier, located in the historic center of Cartagena. Departures are daily between 8:30 and 9:00 in the morning, with a return trip scheduled for 3:30-4:00 in the afternoon. It is recommended to buy tickets at least one day before departure to avoid disappointment due to the limited space available on these fast boats.
Prices vary depending on the services included, such as access to certain private beaches or meals served during the trip; expect to pay between about 60,000 COP (about 20 USD) and more from 200,000 COP (about 70 USD) for an all-inclusive experience and VIP access to some of the luxury hotels of these paradisiacal islands.
Arriving at the Rosario Islands, you will discover an archipelago of 27 islands , some private and others open to the public. The main islands accessible to visitors are Isla Grande, Isla del Encanto , and Playa Blanca , on the island of Barú . Each one offers beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling or simply relaxing under the palm trees.
Isla Grande is the largest of the Rosario islands and offers a wide range of accommodation, from simple eco-lodges to luxury hotels. You can practice various activities, such as scuba diving in the coral reefs that are part of the Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park , a protected ecosystem with exceptional marine life. Where are the Rosario Islands?
Planning your trip to the Rosario Islands: tips and advice
Planning a trip to the Rosario Islands, in Cartagena, is a great idea to spend an unforgettable vacation. The islands are known for their natural beauty , their white sand beaches and the crystal clear waters that surround the archipelago. To make your trip run smoothly, here are some helpful tips and tricks:
First of all, plan your itinerary in advance to be able to take full advantage of the tourist attractions that the Rosario Islands have to offer. You’ll also need to book a hotel or villa in the area before you arrive, as there aren’t many options available locally.
Then make sure your papers are in order before you leave, as some areas cannot be visited without special permission. If possible, also find a local guide to show you all that this magical destination has to offer.
Once there, do not hesitate to explore every corner of the Rosario Islands; hike the coastal paths or take a boat tour to see the unique beauty of the area from the sea. Do not forget to try some of the typical dishes of the area, such as the fresh and tasty tropical fruits or the grilled fish served with white rice and black beans.
Finally, take your time to enjoy the spectacular sunsets and sunrises that this earthly paradise offers. With all these practical tips, you are ready to leave for the enchanting archipelago of the Rosario Islands!
The best transportation options to get to the Rosario Islands
The Rosario Islands, in Cartagena, are a tropical paradise that is worth visiting. If you want to go there, there are several transportation options to get there.
The first option is by boat . There are regular services between the ports of Cartagena and the Rosario Islands, with daily departures and an approximate duration of 1 hour. It is the most comfortable option if you are traveling in a group or with many belongings, since it offers enough space to carry everything comfortably.
Another option is to rent a private boat or embark on an excursion organized by one of the many local agencies that offer this service to tourists who want to visit this unique destination. Tours usually include a full excursion to the main attractions of the islands, such as the crystal white sand beach and the picturesque town of the main island of Saint Bernard, as well as a stop at El Pirata restaurant for authentic local cuisine served right on the beach.
Discover the hidden treasures of the Rosario Islands in Cartagena
The Rosario Islands in Cartagena are a hidden treasure that deserves to be discovered. This archipelago of 27 islets is located an hour by boat from the Colombian coast . Its turquoise waters and pristine beaches offer visitors the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.
You can explore the islands on a day trip or more, allowing you to see all that paradise has to offer: scuba diving , snorkeling, kayaking and other water activities. You’ll also be able to spot local marine life such as sea turtles , brightly colored tropical fish, and even manta rays .
If you want to spend several days here, there are several hotels that offer a wide variety of services, such as gourmet restaurants and luxurious spas, to make your trip unforgettable. Discover the Rosario Island Oceanarium .
So don’t wait any longer to discover the hidden treasure of the Rosario Islands in Cartagena!
Stay in the Rosario Islands: essential accommodations and activities
The Rosario Islands are an ideal vacation destination for those looking for a quiet and relaxing place. Located a few kilometers from the Colombian coast, the islands offer visitors spectacular scenery , as well as the opportunity to enjoy various water activities. Travelers can choose from several hotels and resorts located on the main island, where they will find all the necessary amenities for an unforgettable stay.
Once installed, visitors will have plenty to choose from when it comes to activities on the Rosario Islands: scuba diving, kayaking, sport fishing or boat trips around the different islets that make up the archipelago. Nature lovers will also be delighted, as the turquoise waters are home to a rich and varied marine fauna and a large number of exotic plant species.
Finally, to complete your unique experience in the Rosario Islands, we strongly recommend that you discover the local culture by visiting the typical village located on the main island, where you will find all kinds of local crafts , as well as several restaurants serving authentic Colombian cuisine.
