The Islas del Rosario are a scatter of small coral islands off the coast south-west of Cartagena, and a day on the water here is the perfect counterweight to the heat of the old town. They lie inside the Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario y de San Bernardo, a protected area that holds the largest coral platform on Colombia’s continental Caribbean coast, together with seagrass meadows and mangroves. Most visitors come on a day trip by boat from the city, which typically combines time on an island beach or beach club, snorkelling over the reefs and a stop at the Oceanario on Isla San Martín de Pajarales, a conservation aquarium with marine species from the region. Some trips also visit Playa Blanca on Barú, the peninsula that encloses the area. The water is clear and calm in good weather, and the islands range from simple fishing villages to private hideaways. It is the essential island day from Cartagena, but it pays to choose an authorised operator and know the park rules.
How it works: according to Parques Nacionales, boats leave from the La Bodeguita tourist dock on Avenida Blas de Lezo, in front of Parque de la Marina, usually between 8:00 and 10:00, and the crossing takes about one to two hours depending on the boat and stops. Return times depend on the port authority and sea conditions. Only authorised operators may run trips, snorkelling and diving.
What you must know: since 1 March 2026, every visitor entering the park must hold mandatory accident insurance from the park’s approved insurers, and rangers check it at entry points such as Playa Blanca and Isla Múcura. A park entry fee is also due. Confirm with your operator that the insurance and fee are arranged or included before you pay, since anyone without insurance is refused entry.
Making the most of it: single-use plastics are banned, and you must not touch or take coral, shells or starfish, so pack a reusable bottle and reef-safe sunscreen. The Oceanario opens only in the morning, so check your boat stops there in time. Bring cash, a hat and seasickness tablets if you need them.
What to expect
The experience
A boat day trip from La Bodeguita dock into a marine national park, with island beaches, snorkelling and often a stop at the Oceanario aquarium.
Best time
Calm, sunny mornings, with departures between 8:00 and 10:00; check the forecast in the rainy months, when seas can be choppier.
How long
A full day, typically leaving in the morning and returning in the mid to late afternoon.
Tips
Confirm the mandatory park insurance and entry fee with your operator, and bring reef-safe sunscreen and a reusable bottle.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Turquoise water, snorkelling and a beach day away from the city’s heat.
- Families
- Good for families, especially with a stop at the Oceanario, but choose a larger, steadier boat for small children.
- Couples
- Book a quieter island beach club for a slow, romantic day by the sea.
- Pair with
- The Aviario Nacional on Barú on another day, by road.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Where do boats to the Rosario Islands leave from?+
Most leave from the La Bodeguita tourist dock on Avenida Blas de Lezo in Cartagena. Departures are usually between 8:00 and 10:00.
Do I need insurance to visit the Rosario Islands?+
Yes, since 1 March 2026 every visitor to the national park must hold mandatory accident insurance from an approved insurer. Rangers check it, and people without it are refused entry.
Is there a national park fee?+
Yes, an entry fee is charged and is separate from your boat ticket. Ask your operator whether it is included.
How long is the boat ride?+
It takes around one to two hours depending on the boat and the stops. The sea can be bumpy, so sit towards the back if you are prone to seasickness.
Can I snorkel at the Rosario Islands?+
Yes, snorkelling is one of the main activities, offered by authorised operators. Never touch or stand on the coral.