Full Day 5 Best Island Spots From Cartagena

Set out on a captivating journey through the coastal gems of Colombia’s Caribbean region with a full-day tour to five stunning island destinations from Cartagena. This immersive adventure promises to unveil the pristine beaches of Baru, the vibrant coral reefs of the Rosario Islands, and a wealth of natural wonders teeming with marine life. Savor fresh seafood, bask in the sun, and learn about the serene beauty of these enchanting islands. With expert guidance and an array of inclusions, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best that Colombia’s islands have to offer. Dive deeper into the details, and discover why this excursion is the perfect way to explore the captivating coastal landscapes of this remarkable destination.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Cartagena.

Contents hide

1 Tour Overview

2 Inclusions and Costs

3 Meeting Point and Logistics

4 Customer Experiences and Feedback

5 Recommendations and Tips

6 Exploring the Baru Islands

7 Discovering the Rosario Islands

8 Snorkeling Highlights

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Explore the pristine white-sand beaches and vibrant marine life of the Baru Islands, a premier snorkeling destination near Cartagena.
Discover the protected Rosario Islands, known for their crystal-clear waters, thriving coral reefs, and diverse array of tropical fish and larger marine creatures.
Enjoy a comprehensive package that includes snorkeling equipment, a fresh seafood lunch, snacks, and beverages, as well as port taxes.
Benefit from the expertise of knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the local ecology and history during the island-hopping tour.
Opt for a weekday visit to avoid crowds and maximize the safety and organizational experience of the tour.

Tour Overview

Exploring the captivating Baru Islands and Rosario Islands is the focus of this full-day island hopping and snorkeling tour from Cartagena, which boasts a Badge of Excellence with over 200 reviews and a 4.5-star rating.

Accommodating a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour departs at 8:30 am from the Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande, allowing you to learn about the stunning natural beauty of these Colombian archipelagos for approximately 8 hours.

All snorkeling equipment is provided, ensuring a seamless experience as you discover the vibrant marine life.

With a fresh seafood lunch, snacks, and beverages included, this comprehensive tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the islands’ hidden gems.

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Inclusions and Costs

The tour includes all the necessary snorkeling equipment, ensuring a hassle-free experience exploring the vibrant marine life.

Guests can also look forward to a fresh seafood lunch, with a menu cap of up to $30,000 Colombian pesos, as well as snacks, salad, fruits, and bottled water throughout the day.

Plus, the port tax of COP $20,000 is covered, and the company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

This comprehensive package provides excellent value, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the natural wonders of the Baru and Rosario Islands without worrying about additional costs.

The inclusions and pricing make this tour a top choice for those seeking a memorable island adventure from Cartagena.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Travelers meet at the Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande in Cartagena, with a prompt 8:30 am departure time. They’ll want to arrive by 8:00 am to ensure the tour departs on schedule. This full-day island hopping and snorkeling adventure is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible, though children as young as 6 years old are welcome (infants must sit on laps). Plus, pregnant individuals and those with serious medical conditions are not recommended to participate.

Meeting Point	Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande, Cartagena
Arrival Time	8:00 am
Departure Time	8:30 am
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Age Limit	Minimum age of 6 years

Customer Experiences and Feedback

While the tour’s logistics and accessibility are well-established, the customer experiences and feedback present a more mixed picture.

Some travelers praise the tour for its safety, informative guides, and beautiful beaches, highlighting the enjoyable snorkeling, delicious food, and engaging guides.

However, others report issues with late departures, overcrowded boats, and some unanticipated stops, such as tunnels, that weren’t part of the original itinerary.

Concerns have also been raised about personal belongings being at risk in crowded areas.

The reviews are a mix, suggesting that the tour’s quality may depend on factors like the specific day, guide, and group size.

Travelers are advised to choose a reputable tour company to avoid organizational issues.

Recommendations and Tips

When visiting, bringing one’s own drinks and snacks can be advisable, as lockers are available for storing belongings.

Considering a weekday visit to avoid crowds may also enhance the experience. Nonetheless, exercising caution with personal items, especially in crowded areas, is prudent.

For the best experience, travelers are recommended to choose a reputable tour company to mitigate potential issues with organization.

The tour typically departs at 8:30 am from Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande, so arriving by 8:00 am is advised for a prompt departure.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and has a minimum age of 6 years, infants can sit on laps. Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

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Exploring the Baru Islands

From the Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande, the island-hopping tour takes visitors on a journey to explore the stunning Baru Islands, which lie off the coast of Cartagena.

These idyllic islands boast pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a wealth of marine life that makes them a prime snorkeling destination.

Guests can expect to see a diverse array of colorful tropical fish, vibrant coral reefs, and perhaps even spot larger marine creatures like sea turtles or rays.

The tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience.

With its unspoiled natural beauty and abundant marine life, the Baru Islands offer a truly unforgettable glimpse into Colombia’s coastal wonders.

Discovering the Rosario Islands

After exploring the enchanting Baru Islands, the tour continues its island-hopping adventure to the renowned Rosario Islands. These breathtaking islands, part of a protected national park, boast an abundance of natural wonders that captivate visitors from around the world.

The tour provides an opportunity to take in the vibrant marine life, with chances to spot colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and perhaps even playful sea turtles.

Guests can enjoy snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, discovering the underwater beauty that makes the Rosario Islands a premier destination for nature enthusiasts.

The islands are also home to pristine white-sand beaches, perfect for relaxing, swimming, or simply taking in the stunning Caribbean vistas.

Knowledgeable guides share insights into the islands’ ecology and history, enriching the overall experience for participants.

Snorkeling Highlights

The snorkeling excursion offers visitors a captivating underwater adventure, where they’ll have the chance to enjoy the vibrant marine ecosystems of the Baru and Rosario Islands.

Equipped with high-quality snorkeling gear, participants can explore the colorful coral reefs and encounter a diverse array of tropical fish, rays, and even the occasional sea turtle.

Guides provide expert commentary, pointing out the unique marine life and highlighting the importance of preserving these delicate habitats.

The clear, sheltered waters make for an ideal snorkeling experience, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the beauty and wonder of the region’s underwater world.

With safety as a top priority, the tour ensures a memorable and enriching snorkeling adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do We Get to the Meeting Point From Our Hotel?

To reach the meeting point at Todomar CHL Marina Bocagrande, guests can take a taxi or Uber directly from their hotel. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Guests should arrive by 8:00 am for a prompt 8:30 am departure.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but it’s best to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on the islands and getting in the water for snorkeling. Bringing a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen is also recommended.

Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling equipment if you prefer. However, the tour provides all necessary snorkeling gear, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own unless you have a specific preference.

Are There Any Medical Facilities on the Islands?

No, there are no dedicated medical facilities on the islands visited during the tour. In case of an emergency, the tour company has protocols in place to transport travelers to the nearest medical center on the mainland. It’s important to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions before the tour.

Can We Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Islands?

The tour provider can extend the duration and visit additional islands, but this would incur an extra charge. Travelers should discuss this option with the operator in advance to understand the costs and logistics involved.