Rosario Islands: How to Get There, Beaches & Day Trips from Cartagena
The Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) are an archipelago off the coast of Cartagena.
The Rosario Islands are a very popular destination on the Caribbean coast.
They form one of Colombia's National Natural Parks, made up of a marine area of 120,000 hectares and 28 islands.
These coral islands are ringed by reefs that are home to hundreds of marine species, which makes the waters around the Rosario Islands excellent for diving. The white-sand beaches with warm, crystal-clear water are a favorite with many travelers.
How to get to the Rosario Islands
The easiest way to reach the Rosario Islands is by boat (tourist boats and speedboats) departing from Cartagena's tourist pier. By speedboat the trip takes about 45 minutes.
Trips and excursions
Most travelers visit the Rosario Islands on a day tour from Cartagena. The day trip includes transport, lunch, free beach time and, in some cases, admission to the aquarium.
The Rosario Islands also offer the option of staying several days in one of their hotels, cabins or resorts.
Rosario Islands Aquarium
The aquarium (oceanarium) is on San Martín de Pajarales Island. It displays marine life from the area, such as turtles, sharks and various fish species. The dolphin show is one of the main activities. Each day, the tours leaving Cartagena arrive at the aquarium and give passengers the chance to visit it. Entrance tickets are bought at the aquarium ticket office.
Beaches in the Rosario Islands
The islands offer paradise beaches where visitors enjoy the sea and many snorkel to discover the colorful seabed. The different beaches offer umbrella rental, food and drinks.
+ See also: Cartagena
Frequently asked questions about Rosario Islands
They are an archipelago off Cartagena, in the Caribbean, forming a National Natural Park with 28 coral islands and highly biodiverse reefs.
By boat from Cartagena's tourist pier (La Bodeguita). By speedboat it's about 45 minutes; there are also larger tourist boats.
The day tour usually includes boat transport, beach time and lunch; in some cases, admission to the San Martín de Pajarales Aquarium. Pier taxes and, sometimes, beach access are paid separately.
Snorkeling and diving on the reefs, enjoying the white-sand beaches, visiting the aquarium and, for more peace and quiet, staying overnight in island hotels or cabins.
Yes. Besides day trips, there are hotels, cabins and resorts on several islands for one or more nights.
Warm weather all year; the dry season (December to April) usually offers calmer seas for boating and snorkeling.