The Rosario Islands Full Day Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the natural wonders of this picturesque archipelago off the coast of Cartagena. Departing at a convenient time, the tour transports guests on a scenic speedboat ride to the islands, where they’ll discover stunning white-sand beaches, lush mangrove forests, and a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history. With a focus on providing a personalized and immersive experience, the tour includes a delicious local lunch and the guidance of a bilingual translator. Those seeking to delve deeper into the islands’ rich culture and biodiversity won’t want to miss this captivating adventure.
About Your Stay
- A full-day excursion to the picturesque Rosario Islands, located off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia, featuring transportation, a speedboat ride, and a provided lunch.
- The tour includes roundtrip transportation from the Muelle de la Bodeguita dock and a bilingual translator available at the resort.
- Guests have the opportunity to explore pristine white-sand beaches, lush mangrove forests, and the historic UNESCO World Heritage fort during the tour.
- The tour has a maximum capacity of 30 participants, and pricing starts at $155.59, with some exclusions such as personal expenses and additional fees.
- While the tour receives generally positive reviews, there have been occasional negative feedback regarding safety concerns and COVID-19 precautions, which the host has acknowledged and offered refunds for.
Tour Overview
The Rosario Islands Full Day Tour takes travelers on an excursion to the stunning Rosario Islands, located off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia.
The tour lasts the entire day, starting at 7:30 am from the Muelle de la Bodeguita meeting point. It accommodates up to 30 participants and is priced from $155.59.
The tour includes pickup, transport by speedboat, lunch, and a bilingual translator at the resort.
However, it excludes meals and drinks not mentioned, additional experiences, personal expenses, and fees like the wharf tax and towel rental.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cartagena.
Inclusions and Exclusions
What does the Rosario Islands Full Day Tour include and exclude?
The tour includes roundtrip transportation from the meeting point at Muelle de la Bodeguita dock, a speedboat ride, and a provided lunch. It also includes a bilingual translator at the resort.
However, the tour excludes any meals or drinks not mentioned, as well as any experiences or transportation not specified. Travelers are also responsible for personal expenses, tips, the wharf tax, and towel rental fees.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infants can sit on laps, and most travelers can participate without serious medical conditions.
Health and Safety Information
The Rosario Islands Full Day Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed.
Infants must sit on laps during the tour. Guests shouldn’t have any heart problems or serious medical conditions that could prevent them from participating.
Most travelers can take part in the experience. Individuals should consider their own fitness level and health status before booking the tour.
Safety is a top priority, and all necessary precautions will be taken to ensure an enjoyable and secure experience for everyone involved.
Booking Details
When booking the Rosario Islands Full Day Tour, travelers receive confirmation immediately after reserving their spot.
The tour offers a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for customers. Travelers also have the option to reserve their spot now and pay later, making it convenient to plan their visit.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 30 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Customer Feedback
Occasionally, the Rosario Islands Full Day Tour receives negative customer feedback, such as the review from Sabrina_C in March 2021 who described it as the "Worst experience ever" and demanded a refund.
The host responded by emphasizing the safety of the speedboat experience, though they offered a refund despite disagreeing with the validity of the concerns.
Other customers have voiced concerns about the boat ride’s safety and COVID-19 risks.
The tour generally maintains a 3.5/5 rating based on 5 reviews, with notable complaints about:
- Hazardous boat ride conditions
- Inadequate COVID-19 precautions
- Unsatisfactory value for money
- Poor overall experience
Navigating the Rosario Islands Full Day Tour entails several key steps.
First, guests must meet at the designated meeting point, the Muelle de la Bodeguita dock, by 7:30 am. After check-in, they’ll board a speedboat for the journey to the islands.
During the boat ride, a bilingual translator will be on hand to assist. Once at the resort, guests can enjoy a provided lunch and explore the islands at their leisure.
At the end of the day, the tour returns to the original meeting point. Proper planning is essential, as the wharf tax and towel rental must be paid separately.
Exploring the Islands
The Rosario Islands offer visitors a chance to explore a unique tropical paradise.
As part of the full-day tour, guests can expect to:
-
Discover pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
-
Stroll through lush mangrove forests, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including vibrant birdlife.
-
Visit the island’s historic fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that provides a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
-
Indulge in a delicious locally-sourced lunch, showcasing the flavors of the Caribbean coast.
Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable bilingual guide will be on hand to enhance the exploration and provide insights into the Rosario Islands’ natural and cultural wonders.
Questions About Your Stay
What Activities Are Available on the Rosario Islands?
The Rosario Islands offer a variety of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the beaches and natural surroundings. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely lunch at the resort or simply relax on the islands’ tranquil shores.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Travelers cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes a provided lunch, but any additional meals or beverages not mentioned in the inclusions must be purchased separately at the resort.
How Long Is the Boat Ride to the Islands?
The boat ride to the islands takes approximately 1 hour each way. The speedboat transport is included in the tour package, and the total travel time to reach the Rosario Islands is around 2 hours in total.
Do the Islands Have Any Shopping or Markets?
The islands have limited shopping and markets. There are some small souvenir shops and local artisans selling handicrafts, but the main focus is on enjoying the natural beauty and beach activities. Travelers shouldn’t expect a wide variety of shopping options.
Is There an Opportunity to Swim or Snorkel During the Tour?
The tour includes the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the clear waters surrounding the islands. Guests can enjoy activities like swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the island’s beaches and natural landscapes during the day trip.
Final Verdict On This Stay
The Rosario Islands Full Day Tour offers a captivating exploration of the region’s natural wonders. Guests can enjoy a scenic speedboat ride, savor local cuisine, and discover the historic UNESCO World Heritage site. With a personalized experience and knowledgeable guidance, this tour provides an immersive adventure amidst the stunning beaches and lush mangrove forests of the Rosario Islands.
More Tours in Cartagena
More Tour Reviews in Cartagena
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Cartagena we have reviewed
- Tour of Cholón Island Rosario Islands
- Cartagena in Times of War
- Cartagena: Roman Forum Entry Ticket
- Cartagena : Roman Theatre Museum Entry Ticket
- Cartagena: Panoramic Lift & Conception Castle Ticket
- 25 Best Tours In Cartagena
- 21 Best Guided Tours In Cartagena
- 3 Best National Park Tours In Cartagena
- 12 Best Shore Excursions In Cartagena
- 16 Best Shopping Tours In Cartagena
- 25 Best Drinking Tours In Cartagena
- Ecoruta Volcano of Totumo and Experience in the Mangroves