The Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) are a breathtaking archipelago located off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia. Known for their turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life, the islands are a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or both.
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or an extended stay, this guide has all the details you need to make the most of your visit. I’ll explain what the Rosario Islands are, how to get there, and provide a detailed breakdown of each island and beach worth exploring. From the vibrant Isla Grande to the picturesque Playa Blanca on Isla Barú, and the lively Isla Cholon to the serene Isla San Martín de Pajarales, you’ll find everything you need to plan your perfect Rosario Islands adventure.
- What Are the Rosario Islands?
- How to Get to the Rosario Islands
- Isla Grande
- Isla Barú (Playa Blanca)
- Isla Rosario
- Isla Cholon
- Isla San Martín de Pajarales
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What Are the Rosario Islands?
The Rosario Islands form part of the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Park, a protected area established to conserve Colombia’s stunning coral reefs and marine biodiversity. The archipelago comprises 27 islands, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, luxury resorts, and authentic charm.
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How to Get to the Rosario Islands
The Rosario Islands are just a 1–2 hour boat ride from Cartagena. Here’s how to get there:
- Public Boats: Boats leave daily from Muelle de la Bodeguita in Cartagena to all the islands between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Prices vary depending on your destination, typically ranging from 60,000–100,000 COP ($15–25 USD) round trip.
Credit cards are not accepted for ticket purchases, so make sure to bring enough Colombian pesos to cover your expenses for the entire day.
- Private Boats: Ideal for groups or those seeking flexibility, private rentals are available at Cartagena’s marinas. Expect to pay between 700,000–1,500,000 COP ($175–375 USD) for the entire boat.
- Tour Packages: Many companies offer organized tours that include boat transport, lunch, and access to private beaches. Prices start at around 150,000 COP ($38 USD) per person.
Key Tips Before You Go:
- Port Tax: As of 2024, travelers must pay a port tax of 26,500 COP ($6 USD) at Muelle de la Bodeguita before boarding. They do not accept credit card, so bring enough pesos.
- Schedule: Boats generally return to Cartagena between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM, and afternoon winds can make the ride choppy. Morning departures are recommended.
- Cash Only: Many islands do not accept credit cards, so carry enough Colombian pesos for food, activities, and entry fees.
- Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, a towel, water shoes, and snorkeling gear to enhance your experience.
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Isla Grande
Isla Grande, the largest of the Rosario Islands, offers lush greenery, beautiful beaches, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can choose between luxury resorts and local village experiences.
How to Get There: Public boats can take you to Isla Grande in 45–60 minutes. They cost 60,000 COP ($30 USD).
Can You Stay Overnight? Yes. Accommodations range from budget options like Ecohotel Las Islas to high-end boutique stays like Hotel Isla del Sol, with prices from 250,000 COP ($60 USD) to over 1,000,000 COP ($250 USD) per night.
Crowds: While it’s one of the busier islands, you can find quieter areas if you explore further.
My Personal Experience: Isla Grande was hands down my favorite place I visited in Colombia. I went on a day trip, and the boat organization at the pier was surprisingly straightforward. Even though I traveled during the peak season in August, the crowds weren’t overwhelming—especially if you take the time to explore further away from where the boats drop you off.
What really stood out to me about Isla Grande was how accessible and affordable it was. It’s one of the cheapest and shortest boat rides from Cartagena, making it an easy escape to paradise. The crystal-clear water, stunning beaches, and tranquil vibe made it feel like a dream destination. I can’t recommend Isla Grande enough—it’s the perfect spot to experience Colombia’s tropical beauty without breaking the bank!
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Isla Barú (Playa Blanca)
Famous for its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, Playa Blanca is technically part of the mainland but is often included in Rosario Islands tours.
How to Get There: Travel by public boat or take a tour from Cartagena (1 hour by car).
Crowds: Playa Blanca is extremely popular, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Can You Stay Overnight? Yes. While most visitors go for day trips, accommodations like Hostel Casa en el Agua offer overnight stays.
Cost: Public transport costs 40,000–60,000 COP ($10–15 USD) round trip. Day tours range from 60,000–120,000 COP ($14–30 USD) including transportation back and forth from your accommodation and lunch.
My Personal Experience: To be honest, I wouldn’t recommend visiting Playa Blanca. Here’s why:
First, it’s incredibly crowded, especially during tourist seasons. No matter the day of the week, the beach is packed with people. It was honestly the most crowded beach I’ve ever seen, and the experience felt far from relaxing.
Second, unless you arrive super early, finding a free spot on the sand is almost impossible. This means you’ll likely need to rent lounge chairs. While they’re not very expensive, it’s still an added cost for an already underwhelming experience.
Lastly, for the price you’ll pay to visit Playa Blanca, I believe your money is better spent exploring other islands in the Rosario archipelago. Many of the other islands offer a much more enjoyable and serene atmosphere, making them far more worth your time and budget.
If you’re looking for a truly memorable experience, skip Playa Blanca and choose one of the other stunning islands instead!
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here is an option we believe is among the best.
Cartagena: Tour Barú Island’s Playa Blanca with Lunch – Click Here
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Isla Rosario
This small yet stunning island is best known for its coral reefs and the Oceanarium (Acuario de Rosario), a must-visit for families and marine life enthusiasts.
How to Get There: Isla Rosario is about 1 hour by boat from Cartagena. Public boats depart daily from the Muelle de la Bodeguita and round-trip fares range from 60,000 to 100,000 COP ($15–25 USD).
Cost: Entrance to the Oceanarium costs 35,000 COP ($8 USD). While visiting the Oceanarium is a popular activity on Isla Rosario, the entrance fee is only required if you choose to enter the facility. Access to the island itself does not mandate visiting the Oceanarium.
Can You Stay Overnight? No accommodations are available on Isla Rosario itself, but nearby islands like Isla Grande have plenty of options.
Crowds: Less crowded than Playa Blanca, but it can still get busy during peak tourist seasons.
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Isla Cholon
Known as the party island, Isla Cholon is a hotspot for vibrant boat parties, floating bars, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a favorite among young travelers and groups looking to let loose and enjoy the tropical vibe with music, drinks, and plenty of energy.
How to Get There:
- Isla Cholon is 45 minutes by boat from Cartagena.
- Public boats: Prices for round-trip fares start at around 70,000–100,000 COP ($18–25 USD).
- Private boats: These are ideal for groups and cost 700,000–1,500,000 COP ($175–375 USD)depending on the boat size and duration of rental.
Cost:
- Tours to Isla Cholon, including transportation and access to party spots, start at 150,000 COP ($38 USD) per person.
- Additional costs for drinks, food, and floating bar services can vary, so plan to bring extra cash.
Can You Stay Overnight? No. Isla Cholon is a day-trip destination only.
Crowds: Very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Expect a lively party scene with lots of music and energy.
Is It Better to Go Solo or Join a Guided Tour?
- Solo/Private Party: If you’re traveling with a group of friends, renting a private boat might be the best option. It gives you flexibility, privacy, and control over your itinerary, allowing you to enjoy the island at your own pace.
- Guided Tour: For solo travelers or small groups, joining a guided tour is often more cost-effective and hassle-free. Tours usually include round-trip transportation, a spot on the beach or in the water, and sometimes drinks or food.
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here is an option we believe is among the best.
7
Isla San Martín de Pajarales
If you’re seeking tranquility, Isla San Martín de Pajarales offers clear waters, excellent snorkeling opportunities, and a peaceful atmosphere.
How to Get There: The island is approximately 1 hour by boat from Cartagena. Public Boats depart daily from the Muelle de la Bodeguita and round-trip fares range from 60,000 to 100,000 COP ($15–25 USD).
Cost:
- Beach/Resort Access: This island does not have public beaches. Access to beaches or resorts requires paying a fee, which varies by establishment.
Can You Stay Overnight? No. This island is primarily for day trips.
Crowds: Less crowded than other islands, making it ideal for travelers seeking a quiet escape.
Final Thoughts
The Rosario Islands offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking to party, relax on a serene beach, or explore vibrant coral reefs. With its proximity to Cartagena and variety of experiences, the archipelago is a tropical paradise waiting to be discovered.
Plan your trip early, choose the island that matches your travel style, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in one of Colombia’s most stunning destinations.
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