The 4 Rosario Islands tour offers an immersive Caribbean experience. Combining snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs and a visit to the lively Cholon Island, this 7-hour excursion promises adventure and relaxation. Participants can expect a scenic boat ride, historical exploration, and festive activities, all while taking in breathtaking views and diverse marine life. Whether seeking an active day or simply a chance to unwind, this tour provides a well-rounded encounter with the region’s natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. With inclusions and amenities to enhance the experience, it’s an opportunity to discover why the Rosario Islands are a renowned destination on the Colombian coast.
Key Points
- Immersive tour of the Rosario Islands with snorkeling at the coral barrier reef, exploring Bocachica, and visiting the lively party destination of Cholon.
- Duration of 7 hours, priced from $110.74 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required.
- Includes transportation, snorkeling equipment, optional lunch, and a visit to Playa Blanca for a potential bioluminescent plankton experience.
- Tour not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 70, and participants are advised to bring necessary items and follow safety protocols.
- Pickup available from various neighborhoods in Cartagena, ensuring a streamlined start to the tour and maximizing exploration time on the islands.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour offers an immersive experience across the Rosario Islands, including snorkeling and a visit to the lively Cholon Island.
Priced from $110.74 per person, the tour lasts 7 hours and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment, making it a convenient option.
The tour covers transportation, snorkeling, an optional lunch, and a visit to Playa Blanca on Baru Island.
With a bilingual guide, 2 beers per person, and local alcohol, the tour promises a memorable day of exploring the natural wonders and vibrant party atmosphere of the Rosario Islands.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Baru Island.
Itinerary and Activities
The tour begins with a 20-minute van transfer to the docks, followed by a 45-minute speedboat ride to the Rosario Islands.
Visitors will then spend 15 minutes sightseeing in Bocachica before embarking on a 1-hour snorkeling excursion at the Rosario Islands’ coral barrier.
Guests can enjoy an optional 2.5-hour lunch at the islands.
The tour then moves on to the party island of Cholon for 2 hours of festivities.
Finally, the group will visit Playa Blanca on Baru Island for 1 hour before returning to Muelle de la Bodeguita.
The tour includes a bilingual guide, lunch, and 2 beers per person.
Highlights and Experiences
Visitors can explore the historical forts of San Sebastian and San Luis during the Rosario Islands tour. These iconic landmarks offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
The snorkeling activity in the Rosario Islands National Natural Park allows guests to marvel at the vibrant coral barrier reef and diverse marine life.
At Cholon, the group can enjoy the lively party atmosphere with boats, music, and festivities.
For an optional activity, guests can experience the bioluminescent plankton at the picturesque Playa Blanca beach, adding a touch of natural wonder to the excursion.
Inclusions and Amenities
The tour package includes pickup from the guest’s Airbnb or hotel, as well as the services of a bilingual tour guide who can provide information in both English and Spanish. Lunch is included, along with 2 beers per person and local alcohol (while supplies last). The tour also provides snorkeling equipment and transportation back to the guest’s accommodation at the end of the day.
Inclusions | Amenities |
---|---|
Pickup from Airbnb or hotel | Bilingual tour guide (English, Spanish) |
Lunch | 2 beers per person + local alcohol |
Snorkeling activity | Transportation back to hotel or Airbnb |
Important Information and Recommendations
Suitability limitations exist for certain groups, as the tour may not be well-suited for pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals prone to motion sickness, or those over 70 years of age.
Participants should come prepared with sunglasses, towel, sunscreen, and cash.
The experience at the Rosario Islands is dynamic, featuring a group setting. Visitors should be ready to engage in the lively atmosphere.
It’s essential to follow the tour guide’s instructions and safety protocols throughout the day to ensure a smooth and enjoyable excursion.
Pickup Locations
The tour offers pickup locations across several neighborhoods in Cartagena, including Bocagrande, Laguito, Castillo Grande, Marbella, Crespo, and Morros.
This convenient service ensures that guests can easily access the tour from their accommodations. The pickup process is efficient, as the tour van will transport participants from these designated locations to the departure point.
This streamlines the start of the Rosario Islands and snorkeling adventure, allowing travelers to maximize their time exploring the islands and participating in the activities.
The variety of pickup spots caters to the diverse needs and locations of the tour’s participants.
Bocachica Sightseeing
After the initial speedboat ride, the tour makes a brief sightseeing stop at Bocachica. This historic town holds significance as the former entry point to the Cartagena bay, guarded by the imposing San Fernando fortress.
The sightseeing experience offers three key highlights:
- Admiring the well-preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone streets that transport visitors back in time.
- Gaining insights into Bocachica’s strategic role in protecting Cartagena’s harbor during colonial times.
- Enjoying panoramic views of the bay and the nearby Rosario Islands, setting the stage for the upcoming snorkeling adventure.
This quick stop provides a glimpse into the region’s rich history and natural beauty, preparing guests for the main activities ahead.
Cholon and Playa Blanca
Next, the tour heads to the lively island of Cholon, a popular party destination.
Visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere with boats, music, and festivities. After the snorkeling experience at the Rosario Islands, guests will have approximately 2 hours to explore Cholon.
Following the visit to Cholon, the tour continues to Playa Blanca on Baru Island. Guests can spend an hour at this beautiful white sand beach, with the option to witness the bioluminescent plankton if the conditions are right.
The tour then returns to the departure point at Muelle de la Bodeguita, completing the day’s adventures in the Rosario Islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Typically, guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on this tour. The package includes lunch, 2 beers per person, and local alcohol, so bringing outside items is generally not permitted.
Is There an Age Limit for This Tour?
The tour has an age limit of 70 years, as it may not be suitable for older individuals due to the physical activities involved. Pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with motion sickness are also advised against joining this tour.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim for the Snorkeling?
No, you don’t need to know how to swim for the snorkeling activity. The tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment, and the guides will ensure your safety during the snorkeling experience even if you can’t swim.
Can I Extend My Stay at the Islands?
While no extension of stay at the islands is mentioned in the tour overview, guests can likely arrange for additional time on their own after the main tour activities are completed. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any customization options.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing that’s suitable for swimming and water activities. Beachwear or casual attire is appropriate for the excursion.
Recap
The 4 Rosario Islands tour offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs, exploring historical sites, and immersing in the lively atmosphere of Cholon Island make this excursion an unforgettable adventure along the stunning Caribbean coast. With a range of inclusions and a convenient pickup, this tour provides a perfect opportunity to discover the beauty and charm of the Rosario Islands.
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