Set off from Cartagena for a seven-hour boat trip through the Rosario Islands with snorkel stops, a beach-club lunch, and an hour at Cholón’s party beach. Warm water, reef swims, and a shallow wreck make this a full day of marine sights and island time.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off from Cartagena’s Clock Tower as the city shrinks into salt and color, the boat skimming toward the flat, reef-studded horizon of the Rosario Islands. Wind lifts the boat’s spray; an open bar hums at the stern while turquoise patches grow larger—La Piscinita, a shallow cove; a shallow sunken plane that begs for a wide-angle shot; and beaches whose sand reads like sugar.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness and comfort with swimming; participants should be able to swim short distances and climb back onto a boat via ladder.
Wildlife
History
The Rosario Islands are a coral-reef archipelago on a Pleistocene shelf; the area was later designated a national park to protect its marine habitats and small fishing communities.
Conservation
Tour operators commonly encourage reef-safe products, no-touch snorkeling, and limiting single-use plastics to protect corals and seagrass meadows.
Reserve your spot on the 5 Islands & Snorkel Adventure today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The islands' coral reefs are sensitive—use biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen and reapply after swimming.
Pack a well-fitting snorkel mask
Rentals vary—bringing your own mask ensures a better seal and clearer views when snorkeling at La Piscinita and the wreck.
Take seasickness precautions
If you’re prone to motion sickness, medicate before departure and sit mid-boat where motion is least noticeable.
Carry small cash
Beach clubs and vendors may accept only cash for extras, tips, or locker rentals.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects both your skin and the coral ecosystems ubiquitous in the Rosario Islands.
summer
Personal snorkel mask and snorkel
Ensures a clear, leak-free experience—rental gear can be hit-or-miss.
Water shoes or reef boots
Helpful for walking rocky shorelines and protecting feet when entering shallow reefs.
Dry bag (small)
Keeps phone, wallet and a spare dry shirt safe from spray during transfers and swims.