Visit The Rosario Islands: How To Enjoy This Paradise
Editeur
Update
A practical and easy-to-read guide to enjoying the Rosario Islands in Colombia, created and updated based on my numerous visits since 2015.
By the way, do you know the 5 biggest mistakes travelers make when renting a boat in Cartagena?
Edit 09/2024: We completely revised this article.
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WHAT YOU MUST KNOW ABOUT THE ROSARIO ISLANDS
For making smart choices quickly and effortlessly.
GENERAL OVERVIEW
The Rosario Islands are a small paradise near Cartagena.
The Rosario archipelago is a group of about thirty coral islands located 20 km from Cartagena, on the Caribbean coast, in the Bolívar department.
It is one of Colombia’s 60 national parks (since 1988). Before this date, it was long a small paradise reserved for drug traffickers. There are several abandoned buildings on the islands.
The beaches of Cartagena are not great.
If you want to enjoy turquoise water and a postcard landscape during your stay, you will need to visit the Rosario Islands. They are the most famous islands in the country.
It is hot year-round on the Rosario Islands (average temperature of 28°C).
- Rainiest months: May, September, and October.
- Sunniest months: December to March.
- Rough sea: From December to April, there is quite a bit of wind in the afternoon, and boat returns are earlier (and bumpier).
- High season: Late December to late January, Easter week, and long weekends (with a public holiday Monday).
You can organize a day trip to tour the different islands (from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.), but I recommend staying for two nights to make the most of it—especially in the morning when there are fewer people around.
©Tomplanmytrip
ISLA BARU
The most accessible Rosario Island.
- First is its accessibility. You can reach it both by sea and by land, providing flexibility in travel plans.
- The island is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the Rosario archipelago. While their prices are high, the experience they offer is unmatched: luxury meets tropical paradise.
- Then, there’s Playa Blanca, which is one of the most famous beaches in Colombia.
- I also loved visiting the Aviario Nacional.
- The most noticeable issue is the impact of mass tourism, especially at Playa Blanca. The abundance of street vendors, while understandable as their way of earning a living, can sometimes be overwhelming for my taste.
- In terms of scenery, the coastline facing the Bay of Barbacoa and the southern part of Isla Barú don’t quite match the idyllic image I had in mind. The water isn’t the bright turquoise blue I love due to the rivers flowing into the bay.
- Another personal complaint is the tendency of some locals to inflate prices for tourists.
- Then there’s the noise factor. Depending on where you are, there might be loud music, especially near Isla Cholon or Playa Blanca.
You can take a taxi (1 to 1.5 hours, depending on where you want to go), a private boat, a shared tour, or a hotel boat.
On Isla Barú, you have the choice between resorts north of Playa Blanca (Sofitel Calablanca), bungalows at Playa Blanca (Soy Local), the tranquility of Barbacoa Bay (Playa Manglares), and the paradisiacal setting in the south of the island (Las Islas).
©Tomplanmytrip
ISLA GRANDE
My favorite island of the Rosario Islands.
Isla Grande is a little piece of paradise in the Rosario Islands, and here’s why I’m completely in love with it:
- Shaded Paths: The island’s trails are shaded and peaceful, perfect for quiet walks or more adventurous explorations.
- Snorkeling: Visibility is usually excellent—unfortunately, most of the corals are dead.
- Dreamy Scenery: Imagine turquoise blue water, swaying palm trees, and a cocktail in hand as you relax in your swimsuit.
- Escape the Crowds: Spending the night on Isla Grande makes all the difference. You avoid the hordes of tourists who come for a day trip from Cartagena, enjoying a more authentic and less crowded island experience in the early morning and late evening.
- Beaches: The island features charming private beaches. It’s the ideal spot to relax, soak up the sun, and breathe in the tranquility.
- Sandy Beaches are Rare: Much of its coastline is bordered by fossilized corals or mangroves.
- Environmental Issues: I have seen parts of Isla Grande where environmental preservation seems to be somewhat neglected, with trash scattered in some areas.
- Rigid Travel Hours: Getting to and from Isla Grande isn’t straightforward. Arrivals and departures are at specific times.
- Choppy Seas Depending on the Season: During my stays from December to April, I encountered rough seas, especially in the afternoon. The return boat trip can be a bit unsettling, particularly for those who are not fond of choppy waters.
Boats depart from the docks in front of the Cartagena wall around 9 am, or you can take the boat provided by your hotel (better if available). It is also possible to rent a private boat.
You can stay in Isleta (right across from Isla Grande). That’s where my favorite hotels are (Islabela and Coralina Island). On Isla Grande, I like El Hamaquero and Isla del Sol.
©Tomplanmytrip
ISLA CHOLON
The Rosario Island for partying.
It’s fun. Many people arrive by boat to listen to music, dance, and drink.
Prices are high (bring your drinks), the music is often too loud, and there is no shade.
You will need to rent a private boat or join a tour.
There is no hotel on Isla Cholón.
©Tomplanmytrip
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF IT
It’s up to you whether you want to spend one or several days there.
This is my favorite option as it allows you to avoid some of the tourists and enjoy the islands for a longer period. I like the south of Isla Barú and Isla Grande. Read my analysis of the best hotels in the Rosario Islands.
Renting a boat is ideal if you only have one day to explore the islands. You can choose the places where you want to stop.
This can be an excellent way to meet other travelers, see different islands, and pay less. On the other hand, there are many poorly organized tours, so I recommend booking online. I enjoyed this catamaran tour.
Many hotels offer day packages, allowing you to spend about 5 hours on the hotel’s beach. I particularly like Pa’ue and IslaBela.
©Tomplanmytrip
SAFETY OF THE ROSARIO ISLANDS
Here’s what to expect.
On the islands, refuse all so-called free samples (massages, oysters, etc.). They are never actually free. Always ask for prices before buying anything. Some locals tend to inflate (significantly) the prices for foreigners.
The sea is rough from December to April. The captains are very skilled at maneuvering in these conditions, but it might surprise you if you’re not used to it (and it’s not very pleasant either).
I explored the Rosario Islands alone without any issues.
©Tomplanmytrip
TIPS FOR THE ROSARIO ISLANDS
My tips for making the most of the Rosario Islands.
The beaches (private or not) and hotels are filled with boats and tourists.
Credit card payments are rare, and additional bank fees will be applied. Moreover, there are no ATMs on the Rosario Islands.
Boats are only allowed to operate between 8 AM and 5 PM. Therefore, you cannot depart for the islands after 2-3 PM—unless you take land transportation to Isla Barú.
Only Movistar phone signal works on Isla Grande. Download the Maps.me app to explore the island on foot.
Many tours of the Rosario Islands are of (very) poor quality—crowded and poorly organized. Avoid choosing the cheapest excursions sold on the street, or you might regret it.
©Tomplanmytrip
ITINERARIES
How to include the Rosario Islands in your trip?
You won’t have time to stay overnight on the Rosario Islands. I recommend renting a private boat or joining a tour.
Perfect! Come for a 2-night stay on the Rosario Islands. You’ll have at least one full day in paradise.
©Tomplanmytrip
Visit The Rosario Islands: How To Enjoy This Paradise
From a terrible day trip on a modest motorboat to Isla Barú to the excitement of renting a boat to party in paradise waters and an eight-day stay on Isla Grande, I’ve come to know the Rosario Islands from every possible angle.
Let’s start by giving you an overview of the most well-known islands of the archipelago.
TOM’S TIP
⚠️ Many boat tour agencies for the Rosario Islands are overpriced and of low quality. That’s why we tell you how to rent the best boats in Cartagena.
Isla Baru: The largest of the Rosario Islands
Isla Barú is the largest and most accessible of the Rosario Islands. It is famous for Playa Blanca, a long white sand beach lined with palm trees facing the turquoise blue Caribbean Sea.
how to get to Isla baru from Cartagena?
If you come on your own, it’s best to take a taxi. Some hotels offer their own transportation (boat or shuttle).
COMING TO ISLA BARÚ BY PRIVATE TRANSPORT
Thanks to the bridge built over the Dique Canal, you can now reach the Rosario Islands by car from Cartagena.
If you go to Playa Blanca, you should pay about 150,000 COP per taxi trip (1 hour).
On the way back, you can try to find a boat. Day trips return to Cartagena around 3 PM-4 PM. Ask them if they have availabilities.
COMING BY BUS + MOTO
Another inexpensive way to get to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena is to use public transportation.
Take the bus from Monumento India Catalina (Avenida Venezuela y Playa Pedregosa #34) to Pasacaballos, then a moto-taxi to Isla Baru. The trip takes 2-3 hours.
I don’t recommend it. It can be a bit dangerous.
COMING BY BOAT
TOM’S TIP
The easiest way to get to Isla Baru is to contact a reliable driver who can take you there and pick you up at a specific time. Alternatively, you can come by private boat.
WHERE TO STAY IN Isla Barú?
There are different places where you can stay in Isla Barú.
North OF Playa Blanca
There is an area where several resorts have been built. Among these resorts are Decameron and Sofitel Calablanca.
THE BEACH OF PLAYA BLANCA
The most economical option is to travel with a small bag and stay in the bungalows on Playa Blanca beach. These bungalows are quite basic, with limited access to fresh water and no electricity during the day.
If you’re looking for something a bit more comfortable, check out Thani Ecolodge or Soy Local Baru.
THE BAY OF BARBACOA
The Bay of Barbacoa is a good choice if you’re looking for a peaceful spot and don’t have an absolute need to swim in turquoise Caribbean waters. There are fewer visitors, and customer service is better. Travelers generally like Playa Manglares.
THE BAY OF CHOLÓN
The Bay of Cholón is beautiful, but the area can be noisy on weekends or during high season. Boats from Cartagena gather there to party. Aura Hotel is an excellent choice.
SOUTH OF ISLA BARU
Finally, there is the southern part of Isla Barú. Mangroves surround the hotels, giving the impression of being cut off from the world.
The setting is idyllic. Las Islas and Isla del Encanto are two options that might interest you.
ADRIEN’S TIP
If you want to stay in a modern and easily accessible hotel, I recommend Sofitel Calablanca. If you’re looking for a more secluded spot, you should head to the southern part of the island.
THINGS TO DO IN ISLA BARU?
There are a few specific activities to enjoy in Isla Barú.
THE FAMOUS BEACH OF Playa Blanca
It’s the most famous beach in Cartagena.
It’s a day trip that you can easily organize on your own if you speak some Spanish.
If you don’t want to handle the organization, you can choose to take a day tour.
- With this tour, they take care of transportation and meals.
- With this tour, you will spend the day at a trendy beach club on Playa Blanca.
Spending the night at Playa Blanca offers a more authentic experience and allows you to enjoy the beach when it’s less crowded. However, for those who are only coming for the day, I suggest a beach club. It significantly simplifies logistics – you avoid transportation hassles and some of the tourists, and you won’t get ripped off on prices.
TOM’S TIP
Once you arrive at Playa Blanca, walk 15 minutes to Playa Tranquila—turn right when facing the sea. The place is generally more tranquilo 🙂
Visit THE aviario naCional
Instead of crowding with thousands of people in swimsuits, you can choose to visit Cartagena’s Aviary. It features numerous species that have fallen victim to illegal wildlife trafficking. The tour is well-organized and allows you to admire these birds with fantastic plumage easily.
It’s easy to get there if you have a vehicle. Otherwise, you’ll need to contact private transport or book a tour.
ADRIEN’S TIP
The aviary hosts a bird show twice a day: at 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM. I loved it.
Visit THE mangroves
La Boquilla is not the only place where you can explore the mysterious mangrove ecosystem.
Most hotels in the south of Isla Barú should be able to arrange this for you.
If you can’t spend the night in the Rosario Islands, there’s an excellent tour (which you can book here) to enjoy Isla Barú, the mangroves, and the village of Baru!
TOM’S TIP
Learn why I absolutely love renting a boat with this expert.
Isla Grande: my favorite island of the Rosario Islands
With over 200 hectares, Isla Grande is a beautiful paradise in the Rosario Archipelago. Known for its peaceful natural environment, many agencies and resort hotels offer day trips from Cartagena.
If you can, try to stay at least two nights on Isla Grande.
HOW TO GET TO ISLA GRANDE FROM CARTAGENA
There are 4 boat options to reach Isla Grande from Cartagena. You will need to pay an entrance fee as it is a natural national park—Coral Islands of Rosario and San Bernardo.
→ Option 1: The cheapest option is a boat ride from the Bazurto market. I don’t recommend it as the boat only departs when complete, around 10-11 AM.
→ Option 2: You can also depart from the “El Muelle” tourist port. Departures are around 9 AM, and the boat stops at various hotels on Isla Grande. You will arrive around 11 AM.
→ Option 3: The most well-known hotels on the island organize daily trips with their private boats. Departures are around 8:30 AM. Don’t miss it, or you will need to arrange private transportation.
→ Option 4: An excellent option is to rent a boat in Cartagena with friends and ask the captain to drop you off at your hotel in the afternoon.
ADRIEN’S TIP
To enjoy Isla Grande, you will need to take a boat (either from your hotel, a semi-public boat, or renting a private boat). Boats are only allowed to be at sea from 8 AM to 5 PM.
WHERE TO STAY IN Isla Grande?
After visiting over 10 hotels on Isla Grande, from the most basic accommodations to eco-resorts, I’ve seen it all. Whether you’re looking for essential comfort or luxury, there’s something for every taste and budget.
You can choose between Isla Grande and Isleta (a smaller island just across from Isla Grande).
HOTELS IN ISLA GRANDE
Travelers who want to enjoy a beautiful beach can head to Hotel Rosario de Mar, those looking to party should book at Hostel Secreto, and budget travelers will love El Hamaquero.
I also enjoyed Isla del Sol (which has a more family-friendly atmosphere).
Hotels in Isleta
Isleta offers a serene and paradisiacal setting. Few boats approach it, and you’ll find my favorite hotels in the area (smaller size and better value for money).
Stay at Coralina Island if you want a high-end, romantic, and intimate experience. Alternatively, stay at Islabela if you wish to your own semi-private white sandy beach.
TOM’S TIP
I have analyzed the best hotels in the Rosario Islands so you can make the right choice.
THINGS TO DO IN Isla Grande?
There are several great experiences to discover on this island of the Rosario Archipelago. You will need to book these activities through your hotel.
Mangrove and jellyfish tour
Part of Isla Grande consists of mangroves, which form natural lagoons and tunnels that can be explored by canoe. During the trip, you’ll only hear the sound of the boat moving through the water and the occasional calls of birds seeking shade.
The experience concludes with the observation of unusual orange and purple jellyfish.
It is best to do this activity early in the morning.
bioluminescent PLANKTON IN THE Laguna encantada
Depending on your hotel, you’ll either arrive directly by boat at Laguna Encantada or go through the mangroves (choose the second option if possible).
After sunset, the guide will take you to the lagoon to witness an unusual phenomenon. Microorganisms called plankton illuminate the water with movement, giving the effect of having superpowers. I love it.
To truly appreciate the display, you need to swim with your mask and snorkel and put your head underwater. It’s even more spectacular if you wear a white shirt or T-shirt.
The darker it is, the more visible this phenomenon is, so it’s best to go on new moon nights.
SCUBA DIVING
Between shipwrecks and coral reefs, there’s plenty of time to spend underwater. Moreover, visibility is fantastic (10-20m), and you won’t have to worry about the temperature—it’s warm year-round (around 28 degrees)!
However, most of the corals are dead.
If you wish, you can even choose to complete your diving certifications.
There are 2 dive centers on Isla Grande:
- Scuba Cartagena, located at the La Cocotera hotel.
- Diving Planet is located at the Majagua Hotel. It’s the most famous. You can also plan your excursions from Cartagena.
Snorkeling
Some coral reefs are close to Isla Grande. You can get there by swimming or kayaking.
However, you must be very cautious as boats pass at high speed. To swim safely, you should:
- Use a buoy (like the one I’m wearing in the image above) that you attach to your foot. This will make you more visible to boats.
- Go snorkeling when there are fewer boats, from 6 AM to 9 AM and after 4 PM.
Kayak or paddle
You can rent or borrow a kayak or paddleboard to explore the mangroves or the coastline of the island.
During my stay at Islabela, I circumnavigated Isleta by kayak in 45 minutes. Don’t forget to bring water and protect yourself from the sun.
Find the best white sand beaches
The advantage of staying on Isla Grande is that you can move around and stop at the beach of your choice. If it’s a private beach, you will need to eat/drink on-site.
- Playa Libre is the only public beach. It is pretty small, but the area is pleasant.
- Sol y Papaya is a restaurant with a beautiful view and a lovely white-sand beach. Its prices are affordable.
- Luxury is next to Sol y Papaya. The beach is lovely, but prices are higher.
- Eco Hotel La Cocotera is an affordable hotel with another beautiful white sand beach.
- Rosario de Mar, formerly known as Gente de Mar, has two stunning white sand beaches.
- PA’UE is a fantastic beach bar.
ADRIEN’S TIP
Navigating the island is not easy, especially since there are no signs. Download your map on the Maps.me app.
The Rosario Islands Oceanarium
The Rosario Islands Oceanarium is located next to Isla Grande.
On their website, they claim to undertake numerous conservation efforts for the national park. However, they also allow people to swim with dolphins—which is horrible!
I do not recommend it.
TOM’S TIP
You can rent a private boat to explore the Rosario Archipelago and then get dropped off at your hotel on Isla Grande in the afternoon.
isla Cholón, The Party Island
Located next to Isla Barú, Isla Cholón is a peninsula where Colombians love to gather and party. Every weekend, a mini spring break is organized. In the morning, private yachts and party boats bring visitors from Cartagena before blasting reggaeton all day long. Amid this cacophony, everyone dances and drinks in the Caribbean Sea while street vendors offer cold beer, cocktails, and grilled barbecue lobster.
Isla Cholón is expensive, but you’ll get an unforgettable glimpse of how Colombians love to party!
Be aware that this island isn’t for everyone.
HOW TO GET TO Isla Cholon FROM CARTAGENA
The best way to experience Isla Cholón is to rent a private boat with friends. This gives you the freedom to leave whenever you’ve had enough. It’s just an hour from Cartagena.
Alternatively, you can join a tour. Some agencies will take you directly to Isla Cholón, while others include it as a one-hour stop in their itinerary.
ADRIEN’S TIP
Don’t forget to bring your own bottles of alcohol and a cooler if you’re planning to party at Isla Cholón. This expert can help you out.
Cartagena: Partying on Isla Cholon 1d
Hop on a private boat with friends to Cartagena's most festive island. Reggaeton, turquoise waters, and an epic party await under the sun!
View this tourHow to Enjoy the Rosario Archipelago
There are several ways to enjoy the Rosario Islands during a visit to Cartagena.
Renting a Boat with Friends
Renting a private boat in the Rosario Islands is my favorite experience if you only have one day available.
There are no lines, no strict schedules to follow – it’s a trip at your own pace. You can choose to party on Isla Cholon, search for the best private beach on Isla Grande, or sunbathe surrounded by turquoise waters.
In short, total freedom.
Usually, it goes like this
We leave at 9 AM, and everyone’s already buzzing with excitement. We’ve got our trendy swimsuits on, sunglasses in place, and a cooler with our favorite drinks.
The short boat ride to Isla Grande is a blast – just an hour of speeding over stunning turquoise waters. We’re all about reggaeton and salsa music, dancing, diving into the Caribbean sea, and sipping on tequila and white wine. What a mix!
Feeling a bit drunk around 2 PM, we decided to swing by Isla Cholon, the famous party island. Aymeric had arranged for some delicious arroz de camaron to be delivered right to our boat. The island is buzzing with loud music, yachts everywhere, and a lively crowd.
We head back at 3:30 PM. Despite the choppy waves, half of us doze off, exhausted from the day’s fun. It’s one of those days where you live every moment to the fullest – sun, sea, and unforgettable memories
MY Useful Tips
- Renting a boat to explore the Rosario Islands is quite affordable if you’re a small group. Expect to pay around €450 for a boat and captain that can accommodate 8 to 10 people.
- It’s essential to find a boat with a friendly captain. They are the ones who will show you the best spots.
- The Caribbean sun can be unforgiving, and a bad sunburn can make the rest of your trip much less enjoyable. Make sure to protect yourself well.
- Avoid stopping at Agua Azul. It’s a lovely public beach near Isla Barú, but the people managing the place and restaurants are thieves. They will charge you WAY TOO MUCH for a simple lunch or a plastic chair by the water. Some boat captains might try to convince you to go there (they get a hefty commission). Refuse outright.
ADRIEN’S TIP
Some rental agencies are really bad (overpriced, poor crew, lack of communication). It’s better to go through someone trustworthy, like this expert we know personally.
Staying Overnight in the Rosario Islands
Spending at least two nights on the Rosario Islands, especially on Isla Grande, is a decision you won’t regret.
By staying overnight, you get to enjoy those beach moments that day tourists miss out on. Imagine the tranquility of early morning, with soft light casting a golden tint on the sand and calm waters before the crowds arrive. It’s peaceful and completely rejuvenating.
Day trips often leave you feeling like it’s not enough. You’re always watching the time, knowing you need to head back by late afternoon. There’s barely time to relax, especially considering the round-trip boat travel. I’ve always preferred to take my time and immerse myself in my surroundings, which isn’t possible in just a few hours.
Accommodations on the islands can be a bit expensive, and sometimes the quality doesn’t quite match the price. However, there are exceptions.
TOM’S TIP
I recommend the southern part of Isla Barú and Isleta. These areas offer a serene atmosphere, away from the busier spots.
Living on a Private Island
Want to rent an island for you and your friends? It won’t be as expensive as you think.
The locals had the brilliant idea of building houses on tiny coral islands. Some homes are pretty luxurious and come with staff, air-conditioned rooms, and living rooms equipped with all the necessary amenities.
Enjoy stunning sunsets, surrounded only by your friends and the fish. It’s perfect for an unforgettable bachelor party.
ADRIEN’S TIP
The most famous private islands are Isla Pelicano, Isla Rosa, and Isla Matamba.
Exploring the Rosario Islands aboard a Catamaran
The Rosario Islands are relatively distant from each other. You’ll be spending several hours on the boat.
Most day trips to the Rosario Islands visit the same locations: Isla Grande, Isla Cholón, and Isla Barú. Depending on the tour, the boats might not stop at the island beaches.
Many of the tours are quite poor (especially the ones sold on the street). Boarding times can be horribly long, and you end up at the most crowded places. Be sure to know what you’re buying and book directly online.
That’s why I particularly enjoyed this catamaran tour.
It visits Isla Grande and Isla Barú but never stops at the beaches. This lets you swim peacefully in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, away from the crowds.
Onboard, there’s a bar offering delicious cocktails and playing cross-over music.
Lunch, a welcome drink, and snorkeling gear are included.
ADRIEN’S TIP
The catamaran tour is a great way to have a more peaceful sea experience in the Rosario Islands.
Day PaSS for the Rosario Archipelago
ROSARIO ISLANDS: HOW TO ENJOY
Most hotels in the Rosario Archipelago offer day trips that include transport, lunch, and access to private beaches and facilities. Choose wisely if you don’t want to end up among hundreds of tourists.
You should arrive at your chosen hotel between 9 and 10 AM and depart around 2:30 PM. This means you’ll have 5-6 hours to enjoy your day pass. Travel times are usually about an hour each way.
This can be an interesting option for travelers who just want to relax on a lovely beach (especially since the beaches in Cartagena aren’t great), sipping cocktails by the sea with a good book.
TOM’S TIP
My favorite day trip packages are Islabela, Coralina Island, and Pa’ue.
FAQ: The Rosario Islands
Here are the most frequently asked questions from our readers.
Yes, it’s safe to visit the Rosario Islands. I strolled around Isla Grande without feeling unsafe. From December to April, the Caribbean Sea can be rough in the afternoon. Depending on the boat captain, the trip can be a bit daunting for some travelers, mainly if they are not accustomed to it. Naturally, do not leave your belongings unattended on the beach.
In the Rosario Islands, you can discover bioluminescent plankton in the mangroves, find the best snorkeling spots, dive, party on Isla Cholón, or visit various beach clubs. Isla Grande offers more choices than Isla Barú.
Yes, you can stay in the Rosario Islands. You can choose your hotel on Isla Barú, Isla Grande, Isleta, or even rent a small private island.
Visiting the Rosario Islands costs depend on your transportation choice. Expect to pay around 60,000 COP for a public boat. There’s also an entrance fee of about 20,000 COP because it’s a national natural park.
I haven’t come across any sharks in Cartagena. I suppose there might be some harmless “requins bobo”
No public boat offers this route. You can ask your hotel to set up private transport with a local fisherman.
Playa Blanca is a beautiful beach, but unfortunately, it’s too crowded. To enjoy the best beaches in the Rosario Islands, I recommend Sol y Papaya, Pa’ue, and Rosario de Mar.
Yes, the Rosario Islands are expensive. The quality of the hotels doesn’t always match the cost. You’re paying for the location. Be prepared to pay prices similar to those in Europe.
There aren’t any ATMs in the Rosario Islands. Make sure to bring enough cash.
My favorite months to visit the Rosario Archipelago are February, March, July, August, November, and December.
best Tours In the Rosario Islands
Directly contact the best local agencies for this destination
Cartagena: Rent a boat to explore the Rosario Islands 1d
Colombia
1 Day
3 places
A tailor-made boat trip to enjoy the Rosario Islands: Find the most stunning islands and either dodge the tourists or party with them.
View this tour
Cartagena: charter a yacht to visit the Rosario Islands 1d
Colombia
1 Day
3 places
A comfortable and luxurious tailor-made boat trip to enjoy the most stunning islands of the Rosario Archipelago.
View this tour
Cartagena: Partying on Isla Cholon 1d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Hop on a private boat with friends to Cartagena's most festive island. Reggaeton, turquoise waters, and an epic party await under the sun!
View this tour
Cartagena: sailboat to enjoy the Rosario Islands 3d
Colombia
3 Days
4 places
Booking a sailboat for a few days is the perfect way to explore the Rosario Islands in peace, catching the magic of sunrise and sunset.
View this tour
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Tom & Adrien
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Great article Tom! Maybe a little precision for Isla Grande. The hostels are overpriced and use ‘ecological’ as an excuse for not having A/C which is obviously bullsh*t. Unless you are used to sleeping in a room of over 30°C with lots of mosquitos, the night is quite a bad experience. Also, you could mention that when it rains, it takes more than 3h to get there and the boats often stop on Isla Baru for no comprehensible reason. That’s without mentioning the port’s organisation and infrastructures which are completely unsuited for the amount of tourists they have. All in all, the journey to Isla Grande is a disaster.
And yet, you’re absolutely right, it’s still worth going! Isla Grande is one of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia and much less crowded than Isla Baru. For a little slice of paradise, coping with some of these problems is ok, but day-trips are impossible because the organisation is so bad.
Cheers !
Whaou Jack! Thx for the inputs mate! I gonna update my post 😉
I guess it’s still a piece of quiet paradise because it’s a pain in the ass to get there haha
That’s exactly right! Because the infrastructure is not on point and because it’s so badly organised, the islands have remained heavenly. Every coin has two sides as we know, Cheers !
Wow! Great post! Thank you for sharing the detailed info. The photos look very enjoyable and relaxing. Gonna try this soon. ????
Thx Sarah 🙂 Don’t hesitate to tell us about your adventures when you come back! Have fun ^^
Great article, Tom and amazing pictures – can’t wait to go!
Do you know, if it’s possible to rent a boat by yourself (considering you have a boat license)?
Hi Judy!
I never did it myself but I’m pretty sure you can. Many Colombians love to do it 🙂
Have fun!
We are looking forward to our trip to Cartegena on Feb. thanks for the info. We want to spend a few days in the Rosario Islands and have yet booked our accommodations. We may need to work (yuck) a bit and wondering if you have insight to the strength/dependability of internet on Isla Grande or any of the islands we shouldn’t avoid because of the need to stay connected. Thanks!
Hi Tanya,
The internet and the phone signal on the Rosario islands are bad. I wasn’t able to work online.