Full-Day Rosario Islands Including Barú, Bocachica & Playa Blanca

Cartagena, Colombia

Great choice

5+ bookings last month.

8 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Why travelers loved this

4.2

· Tia_M ·

Jul 2025

We had a ball! Visiting 3 islands, a beach club, a party spot while traveling on a speed boat required organization to which Melvin and Jose delivered!

· Salem_A ·

Jul 2025

It was extremely amazing bout trip , the stuff were so friendly with positive energy vibes , highly recommended.

Overview

Explore the pristine beaches of three or five of the Rosario Islands during this day trip from Cartagena. Travel off the coast of Colombia to the Corales del Rosario National Park. Swim and snorkel in the azure waters, relax on the soft sand beaches, and take in the picturesque natural surroundings. National park fees, lunch, and snorkel equipment are included. Upgrade to a private option for the undivided attention of your guide.

Visit Isla Grande, Cholon, and Playa Blanca
Go snorkeling on coral reefs (snorkeling equipment included)
Eat lunch beachside and relax in a hammock
Round-trip transportation from Cartagena

What's Included

Local guide
snorkeling - (VIP only)
Lunch

You have a 30.000 COP to use in the menu we have extra charge for special dishes
Bottled water
Alcoholic Beverages

Shots of Rum

Port tax

COP29,000.00 per person
Jacuzzis at ANAHO optional

COP20,000.00 per person

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

Muelle de la Bodeguita - Puerta 1
Centro, Cartagena, Cartagena Province, Bolivar, Colombia
Our meeting point will be at our place of departure, called Muelle Bodeguita door #1 window #6

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Operating hours
.7:30 am

Itinerary

Arrive on time to the meeting point in central Cartagena in the early morning, then travel to the coastal town in a comfortable speed or standard boat, depending on the option selected.

Upon arrival to Isla Grande, we'll spend an hour approx. snorkeling around the coral reefs. Refuel with some water and local fruits before continuing to another magical stop in Rosario Island.
Here you'll have some free time to swim, relax or get a massages (own expense); you're welcome to visit the local bars for drinks too (own expense).

We continue to Cholón, known as the party island. We will enjoy a mini party in the water where customers from other boats can also join. Alcoholic drinks will be offered at own expense.

Next stop is lunch at Playa Blanca. Following a hearty meal, spend the afternoon swinging in the hammocks, lounging on the beach, or sipping tropical drinks from the bar.

You're dropped off back at the original meeting point in Cartagena at the end of the day.

Fuerte de San Fernando de Bocachica

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Isla Grande

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Isla Grande

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Cholón (Islas del Rosario)

45 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Isla Baru

2 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Anaho Beach Club

2 hours • Admission Ticket Included

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Most travelers can participate
Not recommended for older adults.
A short distance of walking is involved

Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs or bikes) may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Cholón Island: While incredibly fun, Cholón is a lively "party island" where alcohol consumption is common. It's not suitable for everyone. Your safety regarding any activities undertaken while under the influence of alcohol is your personal responsibility; we are not liable for incidents occurring due to intoxication. Please choose this option wisely based on your preferences.
Personal Belongings: Always keep your valuables with you. We are not responsible for any items lost or left behind on the boat.
Additional Fees: Any entrance fees to additional attractions or extra services you choose are not included in your tour price and are your responsibility to pay directly.
Snorkeling Safety: Our snorkeling activity takes place in deeper waters, not directly from the beach. For your comfort and safety, we highly recommend wearing water shoes and using the provided life vests.
Personal Insurance: While our tour includes basic coverage for minor accidents up to certain limits, it's essential that all travelers have their own comprehensive personal insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 100 travelers

Supplied by

Cancellation Policy

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Traveler Photos

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Featured review

anat9

This is a very good tour. The Islands are beautiful, a must see for anyone who visits Cartagena. Jesus Herazo was our tour guide, he was very knowledgeable, professional, and attentive always asking everyone if we were OK or if we needed something. I would recommend this tour 100%.

Reviews

4.2

based on 1,729 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

We perform checks on reviews

Horrible!!!

Kyle_P, Jan 2026

I do not recommend this tour, especially for families. Despite being advertised as a VIP five island tour, there was nothing VIP about the experience. One of the main stops was a party island with excessive and very obvious drug and alcohol use. People openly approached us offering drugs, which made the environment feel unsafe and completely inappropriate for families. None of the beach clubs felt clean or well maintained, and the lunch provided was not good. On top of that, there were many hidden fees on the islands that were not clearly communicated in advance. Overall, the experience was disappointing and stressful. I would strongly advise families to avoid this tour altogether.

A Blast!

Tia_M, Jul 2025

We had a ball! Visiting 3 islands, a beach club, a party spot while traveling on a speed boat required organization to which Melvin and Jose delivered!

Must do.

shastri_c, Jul 2025

Great experience all together. From The moment we checked in to the time we returned, Milton and Franklin were amazing. Taking time to make sure everyone was comfortable and having a great time. Taking the time to explain the history of the islands that’s we stopped at. Lun cu was amazing , and the party island was a great touch at the end of the trip. I would def do this again.

It was extremely amazing...

Salem_A, Jul 2025

It was extremely amazing bout trip , the stuff were so friendly with positive energy vibes , highly recommended.

I had an amazing time....

Arvis_S, May 2025

I had an amazing time. Highly recommend to anyone that wants to try this tour. I would definitely try it again.

Response from Host, Jun 2025

We’re so glad you had an amazing time! Your recommendation means a lot to us, and knowing you’d do the tour again is the best feedback we could hope for. We’ll be more than happy to welcome you back anytime for another unforgettable adventure! 🌋✨

Excellent! The tour...

Mutungi_T, Apr 2025

Excellent! The tour guided by Milton and Caesar was very nice and the service was very good. I would do it again.

Response from Host, May 2025

Thanks a lot for your great feedback! We're so happy Milton and Cesar made your tour enjoyable. Would love to have you back for another fun adventure anytime! —Backpackers team 😊🌟

The boat was CRAMMED with...

Alex_S, Apr 2025

The boat was CRAMMED with people. You’re thrown in with random groups of families and partners. And it was not a nice boat. The first island could have been skipped. Snorkeling was great, as was the party island and the lunch. But I would definitely try to find a more private boat for a better time.

Response from Host, May 2025

Thanks for sharing your experience! We're really glad you enjoyed the snorkeling, party island, and lunch — those are definitely highlights. We hear you about the boat crowding and first stop, and we’ll pass that along to the team. A private boat can definitely offer a more relaxed vibe, and we hope to welcome you back for a different kind of island adventure! – Backpackers team

Backpackers came through!

Armando_P, Apr 2025

Our experience with The Backpackers staff was great. Our guide Nicher was beyond welcoming and attentive. We had a blast!

Response from Host, May 2025

Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 We’re thrilled to hear that Nicher made you feel so welcome and attentive throughout your tour. It’s awesome that you had such a blast! We hope to see you again soon for more fun adventures! – Backpackers team

Fun!

Ana_R, Mar 2025

Regardless if I did not completely love Cartagena, I had lots of fun during this tour. This tour was the highlight of our trip.

Response from Host, May 2025

We're so glad to hear the tour was a great time for you, even if Cartagena wasn't your favorite place! It was a pleasure having you with us. – Backpackers team

Must Do!

Travis_T, Mar 2025

Tour was good. Food was good. VERY SAFE! Tour guide was polite and very knowledgeable. Bring water shoes 👞.

island hopping!

katy_w, Mar 2025

a long day of fun with franklin! if you're solely looking for a beach island party, be aware that the first stop is a walking tour of a historical landmark. my only complaint was that we didn't stay on each island long enough! each stop was 50-60min, but the boat ride was fun baru (last stop) was my favorite beach. bring some cash if you want to save some money, most places accept card/apple pay with an additional 15% service fee

Amazing tour

yazmindelacruz4590, Mar 2025

Everything was amazing even though the boat ride was a bit bumpy. Besides that, I totally recommend! Everyone was super nice and made it a fun trip!

Response from Host, Mar 2025

Great to know you had an amazing time! The boat ride can get a bit bumpy, but it’s all part of the adventure. Happy to hear the team made it a fun and enjoyable trip for you. Hope to see you again for another great experience! Backpackers Travel

Don’t recommend

Neilande_L, Mar 2025

My sister originally sent me this for us to book for our trip. We thought it was a party boat but it wasn’t. We made it fun but the experience was boring and didn’t follow what was stated in the description. Like the guides just do whatever they want and go whenever they feel like it. Some stop we stayed longer, the boring ones. And some stop we left quickly. Overall me and my family and another girl made it fun. We got our own bottle and had a good time lol. Everyone around us had a good time too. But yeah not nothing I would recommend or book again. We paid for hookah at colon island we didn’t even get to enjoy cause they was rushing us lol

Response from Host, Mar 2025

Sounds like you made the best of the experience, and we appreciate your honest feedback. We aim to provide a well-organized and enjoyable tour, so we’re sorry to hear it didn’t fully meet your expectations. Your comments about timing and stops are valuable, and we’ll take them into account to improve. Glad to hear you and your group still found a way to have fun! Thanks for sharing your experience with us. Backpackers Travel

Island Hopping with Mike

Toni_W, Mar 2025

We had an great time. Our guide Mike was simply amazing, He was so personable, very helpful, and extremely knowledgeable. Mike definitely made this experience worth it. The island hopping tour was exactly like the advertisements. I will advise that on the actual islands you pay close attention to your belongs, your surrounds, and your charges if you use a card especially if you do not speak fluent Spanish. Some of the locals can be extremely aggressive and persistent. And some of the guys seemed to be too touchy feely.

Response from Host, Mar 2025

Sounds like you had an amazing time! Mike is definitely one of the best, and we’re so glad he made your experience special. It’s great to hear the tour lived up to expectations. We appreciate your advice for future travelers—being mindful of belongings and surroundings is always a good idea. Your feedback is important to us, and we’ll take it into account to keep improving. Thanks for choosing us for your adventure, and we hope to see you again soon! Backpackers Travel

Do It!!

Trina_M, Feb 2025

Franklin, the captain, and the other nice guy were professional and made sure we got the best out of each island. They paid close attention to everyone to make sure we always got what we needed. They gave us shots and even let us be on the aux! We stopped at an historic fort/“small mouth”;Super informative for my history nerds&curious minds. Food at Cholon island was amazing, the drinks were nice as far as presentation…alcohol wise of course they may use a cheaper liquor or make it a bit weak so you can buy more. Baru beach was nice and the water was beautiful. Be prepared for the people who are selling hookah, massages, jet skis, banana boat, jewelry etc; they WILL continue to ask you to buy something the whole time. We were super tired and definitely feel like we got our moneys worth. The boat ride to Baru Beach island was a bit choppy so be prepared; bring your Dramamine. The food that was included was actually pretty good to our surprise. Great time, memories made would 10/10 recommend you get some of everything.

Response from Host, Feb 2025

It’s awesome to hear you had such a great time with Franklin and the crew! They really know how to make the experience special. Glad you enjoyed the food and the historic stop—perfect for those curious minds! We appreciate the heads-up about the vendors and the boat ride; it’s all part of the adventure. Sounds like you made some fantastic memories, and we’d love to have you back for more fun in the sun! Best, Backpackers Travel

Okay… depends on what you’re looking for.

Evan_G, Feb 2025

Overall the trip wasn’t bad. Organization with checking in was a dumpster fire. We selected a 7am trip, was told we couldn’t check in until 8am, and didn’t leave for the islands until close to 9am. A couple of the islands were very nice and relaxing. The others we could have done without including the first stop at the fortress and the “party island” of Cholon. Nothing much to see snorkeling. Be aware that many of the places you go you will constantly be approached by people trying to sell you things, which after a while gets annoying. We ventured around Cholon island to escape the noise and stumbled upon a beautiful view when some guy named Fernando tried to tell us that this part of the island belonged to him and wanted us to pay him just to sit there by the water. Don’t fall for these guys. And be sure to asked your guide what is included in your package.

Response from Host, Feb 2025

It’s great to know you found some parts of the trip enjoyable! We appreciate your honest feedback about the check-in process and the islands. We’re always looking to improve, and your insights will help us do just that. It’s good advice to be aware of the vendors and to clarify what’s included in the package. We hope you still had some memorable moments and would love to see you again for a smoother experience next time! Backpackers Travel

Fun activites, i recommend

MarcAndre_B, Feb 2025

Speed boat = half the fun, the way back was bumpy and nice. The destinations get more fun through the day, and are diversified (playa, historic) Engel was on point to guide us and translate. Fun Guy with good taste in musics. Take into account: its not a party boat/day to party. We were a small group of 6 persons on the boat. Bring snacks, you arrive à 7:45 and the lunch is à 2 pm!

Response from Host, Feb 2025

It’s awesome to hear you had such a great time! The speed boat definitely adds to the adventure, and it sounds like Engel made the experience even better with his guidance and music choices. We appreciate the tips about snacks and the group size—it's all about enjoying the journey at a relaxed pace. Hope to see you on another trip soon! Best, Backpackers Travel

An interesting trip to be done only those who are under 60 and in pretty good shape.

Pemiel_P, Feb 2025

Overall it was a good experience thanks to Cesar and one other guide who swam out to rescue me from the strong currents where we were snorkeling. The best part was the camaraderie that all the tour participants established among our selves. The food was okay and the boat was terrible as it should have been bigger with a real changing space, a bigger ladder to go up and down into the water and above all, enough space to get on the boat. It should have been a catamaran for all those people as I hurt myself really bad trying to get on the boat and as a result my good knee is now swollen and hurts a lot!

Response from Host, Feb 2025

It means a lot that you appreciated Cesar and our team’s effort to keep you safe. We’re really sorry to hear about your injury and the challenges with the boat. Your feedback is super valuable, and we’ll definitely take it into account to improve future experiences. We always aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable trip, and your insights help us do better. If there's anything we can do to make it up to you, please let us know. Wishing you a speedy recovery! Backpackers Travel

Rosario’s Island

Israel_V, Feb 2025

It was okay during the trajectory but coming back it was scary like hell, the ocean was chappe and the velocity scary then so many boats going back at the same time trying to pass each others and be so close to each other is a call for desastre one of this days thanks God it was not on my day

Response from Host, Feb 2025

That sounds like quite an intense experience! We appreciate you sharing your feedback. Safety is always a priority, and we understand how rough waters and busy routes can feel overwhelming. We'll take your comments into account to improve the experience and ensure smoother returns. If you ever decide to join us again, we’d love to make it a more enjoyable ride for you. Thanks for trusting us with your adventure! Backpackers Travel

Excellent experience...

Amanda_H, Feb 2025

Excellent experience everybody was so kind and nice. The liquor on the boat was cheap but we had a great experience. The food was wonderful. They gave us a private cabana where we ate and relaxed. The beach party was excellent but keep in mind. If you are an older couple the beach party may not be the best. It’s more for younger crowds and your girl is forever young and lit .😂

Response from Host, Feb 2025

We're so happy you had a great time with us! It’s awesome to hear that the food, private cabana, and beach party made your experience special. We totally get that the party vibe might be more energetic for some, but we're glad you still had fun. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, and we hope to welcome you again soon! Best, Backpackers Travel

FUN & safe!!

Joy_D, Jan 2025

The tour was great because of the tour guide Franklin. The captain and co-captain were great. I would recommend . Franklin provided bilingual ( English & Spanish) interpretation and was an advocate when purchasing from the locals; this was great! Franklin made sure we were safe and provided tips for smooth transactions.

Response from Host, Jan 2025

It’s awesome to hear you had such a great time with Franklin and the team! We’re so glad the bilingual support and his tips made the experience even better. It means a lot to us that you felt well taken care of. Your recommendation is greatly appreciated! Best, Backpackers Travel

Nothing luxury, do NOT book it - READ THIS

Anita_F, Jan 2025

It is not luxury at all. Visitnig 3 spots, first was ok, second - we taught somebody is kidding, didn’t have a place to swimm, lunch was not good, only one vegan/vegetarian option with old rice, beach was not nice, not easy to enter the water. Guide Cesar was nice at the begining, but did not care a lot. We came at 7.45 and started at almost 9am (instead 8am) since we had to wait for 3 people that did not appear at the end. Rum was some cheap drink and we had in total 5-6 small drunks, but with every spot it was less and less in the bottle of 2Liters - so the guys (guides) were drinking all of the time. At 2.30 pm they have saud we have to go, and we complained because we have paid 8 hours- first he was pretending not to know what we say, than waited for 20min and made us go. Drink was not free-we had to pay everything. Didn’t get water. On the way back wawes ware so big that we almost turned around, terrible experience with drunk driver. I have set left in back and was completely wet all of the time, wawes flushing in my face, couldn’t breath at some point. Worst boat ride of my life. At the end guide Cesar have “joked” with me that tih seat is for pitty ass. Probbably beacuse I have previously complained. Friend was throving up when we finally reached the land. Waste of time, money and almost life.

Response from Host, Jan 2025

It’s disheartening to hear about your experience, and we truly value your detailed feedback. We sincerely apologize for the issues you encountered, from the timing and safety concerns to the quality of the stops, meals, and service provided. These are not the standards we strive for. We will immediately address this with our team and guides, including Cesar, to ensure such incidents are never repeated. Your comments about safety and respect are especially concerning, and we take them very seriously. Please contact us directly so we can work to make this right. Backpackers Travel

Fun

Miguel_P, Jan 2025

Professional staff! Our guide was very knowledgeable, friendly and genuine! Not rushed at all, you get your money’s worth.

Response from Host, Jan 2025

It's awesome to hear you had such a great experience with our team! We love that you felt the tour was relaxed and enjoyable, and that our guide made it special for you. Your feedback means a lot to us, and we’re so glad you felt you got great value from your time with us. Best, Backpackers Travel

Worst experience ever, stay away!

Jonathan_R, Jan 2025

Absolutely horrible, no one contacted us and let us know anything. My friend and i wasted a whole day due to no communication! Please do better!

Response from Host, Jan 2025

We’re really sorry to hear about your experience and we completely understand your frustration. Communication is key, and it’s clear we missed the mark here. We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback and will make sure to improve on this for future bookings. We hope you'll give us another chance to make things right. Best, Backpackers Travel

Beaches were not great...

Stephannie_B, Jan 2025

Beaches were not great and constantly harassed by vendors. Not relaxing at all. Boat trip back to Cartagena was dangerous. Crew was nice. That was the only good part.

Response from Host, Jan 2025

We appreciate your feedback! We're sorry to hear that the beaches didn't meet your expectations and that the boat trip felt unsafe. We always strive to ensure a relaxing experience, and we'll certainly take your comments into account to improve. It's great to know you enjoyed the crew's hospitality! Best regards, Backpackers Travel

Beware of their BS

Andre_W, Jan 2025

Booked 24 hours in advance. Received confirmation through What’s App informing location, time, and to bring ID. Arrived to the site to confirm and check in ONLY for the company to day they “overbooked” and offered to cancel or rebook the next day. I couldn’t rebook for 1/3 as I leave to go back to the US. So then gentleman took our info so we could cancel. NEVER AGAIN!!

Response from Host, Jan 2025

We really appreciate your feedback and sincerely apologize for the inconvenience you experienced. We understand how frustrating it must have been to deal with an overbooking situation, especially with limited time. We’ll definitely look into this issue to ensure it doesn’t happen again. We value your input and hope you'll consider giving us another chance in the future. Best regards, Backpackers Travel

Unfortunately very disappointing

Rachael_k, Dec 2024

My mom got really sick and we’re pretty sure it was from this part of our vacation. The sanitary conditions of two of the stops were terrible. There was no working water in the bathroom to wash your hands at the place that we had lunch and at the first stop, the toilets were almost filled with poop. Also, the original stop we were supposed to go to for snorkeling we weren’t allowed to go there for some reason, so the captain just took us to some random reef that was about 15 to 20 feet deep so you really couldn’t see anything unless you dove down and held your breath. It was the worst snorkeling I’ve ever experienced and I’ve probably snorkeled about 50 times in my life. I did complain about it and they took us closer to shore to be able to see things in more shallow water and that was better, but definitely not what I would consider good snorkeling. I thought the captain did a good job of navigating the water, though the way back was so insanely rough that three people on the boat were terrified. Also climbing in and out of the boats is definitely not ideal for someone not physically fit. There are no docks so you’re climbing in and out and the guys are grabbing your arms and pulling you up or helping u get down. I wouldn’t bring an older person on this trip at all. My mom is pretty fit but in her early 70s and it was definitely too much for her. Also, the food was not good and they wait until the last island of the day to have you eat so you’re a bit too hungry by then. Highlight was definitely the party island Cholon which surprised me. Hanging out in the water and you have your own table and the food and the services and the come to you on kind of floating rafts and such. It was a fun vibe. The tour was pretty cheap and it has a lot of good reviews. I’m not sure why because the Backpackers tour company does not have a good set up once you stop at each place. I would recommend a different tour company for going to the islands with a little bit more high-end accommodations.

Response from Host, Jan 2025

It’s clear that your experience wasn’t what you expected, and we sincerely regret that it fell short in so many areas. Your feedback about sanitary conditions, snorkeling, and the setup at stops is concerning, and we’re already addressing these issues with our partners. We appreciate your acknowledgment of the captain’s efforts and your enjoyment at Cholon. Your comments about accessibility and timing for meals are also noted and will help us improve. We strive for better, and your input is invaluable for making necessary changes. Thank you for sharing your detailed experience. Backpackers Travel

Amazing !

Maria_B, Dec 2024

The islands were beautiful! We could’ve skipped the cholon beach (party beach) and spend more time at mambo beach in isla baru. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see San Fernando because it was heavily raining at the beginning, but our tour guide asked us if we wanted to skip. The tour guide Angel was lovely. He was kind and a great tour guide.

Response from Host, Dec 2024

It’s great to hear you enjoyed the islands! We appreciate your feedback about Cholón Beach and Mambo Beach, we’ll definitely keep that in mind. Sorry you missed San Fernando due to the rain, but we’re happy Angel made the experience better for you. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Best regards, Backpackers Travel

Met new friends and Milton is a great guide. Good music on the boat ride too!

Andrei_J, Dec 2024

Great time and met new friends. Make sure to bring cash as you’ll need it! Went to three or four islands. The last was spectacular where we had lunch.

Response from Host, Dec 2024

Sounds like you had an amazing time! It’s great to hear you made some new friends and had the chance to explore the islands. And yes, good tip about bringing cash – definitely helps to be prepared. We hope to welcome you back soon for more unforgettable adventures! Best, Backpackers Travel

Highly Recommend

Stephen_S, Dec 2024

Angel was our Guide, and he made the experience 10x better than it would've been if it were someone different. The entire experience from start to finish was amazing, and I would definitely do this again. Very beautiful, and very fun

Response from Host, Dec 2024

We're so happy you had such a great time with Angel as your guide! It's awesome to hear how much he enhanced the experience. We’re grateful for your feedback and are excited that you enjoyed the beauty and fun of the tour. Looking forward to having you join us again soon! Best, Backpackers Travel