Mochiliante
Mochiliante
Have you ever dreamed of white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life? The Rosario Islands, an archipelago located off the coast of Cartagena in Colombia, are that dream come true. In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this fantastic destination.
The Rosario Islands are made up of a group of 27 islands and are a National Natural Park of Colombia. These islands are famous for their coral reefs, which host a rich marine biodiversity.
Their proximity to Cartagena makes them an ideal day trip destination, although it is also possible to stay and we recommend you to stay in this place, we did it and we do not regret anything
The Rosario Islands are located in the Caribbean Sea, approximately 45 kilometers southwest of Cartagena, Colombia. This archipelago is part of the Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park, known for its diversity of marine life and coral ecosystems.
The most common way to get to the Rosario Islands is by boat from Cartagena. For this, you must go to the La Bodeguita pier, which is in front of the Clock Tower. Buy your ticket directly at the ticket offices. DO NOT BUY outside the ticket office; these are resellers who will charge you higher prices.
The price of the boat ranges between $70,000 COP and $80,000 COP. Also remember to add to this the dock usage tax, which is $25,000 COP. If you are looking for a cheaper way, you can go to Playa Blanca, Barú. We are sure that you will not spend more than $15,000 COP to get there. We have a travel guide about this place. Click here to see how to get to Playa Blanca, Barú
If you plan to travel between today and September 30, 2025 , by booking through Booking with Mochiliante, you can get a 20% discount or more on your next getaway by clicking here
For those who wish to spend more time on the islands, there are a variety of accommodation options. From luxurious resorts to cozy eco lodges, there is something for all tastes and budgets. Below, we show you 3 ideal accommodation options for your stay:
Secreto Hostel: Offers an outdoor pool, garden, terrace, and restaurant, as well as a bar and barbecue area. Just 2.2 km from Playa Libre, the hostel provides free wifi and airport shuttle service for an additional cost, with all rooms equipped with a wardrobe. Click here to book
Photo obtained from Booking
El Hamaquero Hostal EcoNativo: It is ideal for travelers with pets, it has free WiFi, a terrace, and a beachfront restaurant. It offers some rooms with a seating area. It also has bicycle rental to explore the island and is perfect for diving and snorkeling. Click here to book
Photo obtained from Booking
Hotel Islabela Rosario Islands: has a private beach and is close to Pasadía Bora Bora Beach less than 1 km away. All rooms have a seating area, private bathroom with shower and free toiletries. Some rooms have sea views. Click here to book
Photo obtained from Booking
Exploring the Rosario Islands is an adventure in itself. Here is a list of activities you can't miss:
The Rosario Islands are a paradise for diving lovers. The coral reefs are full of colorful marine life, including tropical fish, rays, and turtles. There are several operators in the area that offer diving excursions and equipment rental
If you are looking for relaxation, the Rosario Islands offer dream beaches where you can sunbathe, swim in crystal clear waters, and enjoy tranquility. Isla Grande has most of the famous beaches, so if you stay on this island, you can walk to all points of interest
There are several tours such as the boat tour around the islands of this archipelago. At night, you can observe the bioluminescence of the sea and visit the village through a lagoon where you can observe jellyfish and a mangrove tunnel. We recommend taking the tours where you are staying, with known guides from the place.
If you are going to buy a tour on your own, remember to agree on the price before taking it
Pack the Essentials: Make sure to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and your snorkeling gear if you have any. Although some islands have shops, it is better to be prepared and bring everything you might need.
Respect the Environment: Remember that the Rosario Islands are a national park. It is crucial to respect the local flora and fauna, avoid leaving trash, and not touch the corals. Practicing responsible tourism ensures that this paradise remains beautiful for future generations
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Don't miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine. Fresh seafood is a specialty on the islands, and there are several restaurants that offer delicious typical Colombian dishes.
We hope your visit to the Rosario Islands is unforgettable! Enjoy the paradisiacal beaches, the rich marine biodiversity, and the experiences that this destination has to offer. Have a great trip, Backpacker (Mochiliante)! 😁🫡😉
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