Cartagena 5 Islands Tour: Rosario, Cholón & Snorkeling Day Trip

Summary

Snorkeling Adventure & Island Hopping in Cartagena’s Rosario Archipelago

You’ll get to snorkel over coral reefs at Isla Grande, dance and snack at Cholón’s party scene, swim in Agua Azul’s calm waters, and finish with a real Caribbean lunch on Playa Tranquila—all guided by locals who know these islands inside out.

What’s the experience like?

The day started early for us, right in front of the old clock tower at Plaza de Cervantes. There was a bit of a salty breeze and the square was already buzzing—vendors selling coffee out of thermoses, folks chatting in quick Spanish. Our guide checked us in with a big smile and handed out wristbands. I could already hear the distant thump of reggaeton from somewhere nearby.

Once we boarded the boat, we cruised past Bocachica. The guide pointed out the San Fernando Fort—honestly, it looked like something straight out of a pirate movie. He told us about its history defending Cartagena from invaders. As we zipped across the water, you could spot tiny islands dotting the horizon—27 in total, if you’re counting. The sun was already warming up but there was this cool spray coming off the bow that kept things comfortable.

Our first real stop: Isla Grande. Mask on, fins tight—I slid into the water and everything went quiet except for my own bubbles. Fish darted around coral heads and, weirdly enough, there’s an old plane wreck down there covered in sea fans. The colors were wild—yellows and blues everywhere you looked. I lost track of time just floating above it all.

Back on board, we headed to Cholón—the so-called party island. Boats everywhere, music pumping from every direction, people laughing waist-deep in the sea with plates of shrimp and crab going around. We tried some fresh ceviche right off a plastic tray; tangy lime juice hit just right after swimming.

Next up was Agua Azul. Here it felt quieter—just soft waves and a few families lounging under palm trees. Someone handed me a slice of sweet mango while I waded into clear blue water that honestly looked unreal against the white sand.

Lunch came last at Playa Tranquila—a simple plate of fried fish (you could pick chicken or veggie too), coconut rice, and patacones. Nothing fancy but honestly one of my favorite meals in Colombia so far; maybe it’s just eating with sandy feet under a shady palapa that makes it taste better.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day Rosario Islands Tour

• Meet at Plaza de Cervantes
• Panoramic tour of Rosario Islands
• Snorkeling at Isla Grande
• Visit Cholón Island with seafood tasting
• Sea bath and fruit tasting at Agua Azul
• Lunch at Playa Tranquila

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yep! All snorkeling gear is included—you don’t need to bring anything extra.

What kind of food is served for lunch?

You’ll have options like fried fish (the classic), chicken or vegetarian plates—plus coconut rice and local sides.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

Kids can join as long as they sit on an adult’s lap during transport; just keep in mind there’s lots of time on boats and in the sun.

I can’t swim well—can I still join?

No worries! Life jackets are available and guides help everyone during snorkeling stops.

What’s included

This full-day trip covers hotel pickup and drop-off (or meeting point), all boat rides between islands, guided snorkeling at Isla Grande with equipment provided, seafood tasting at Cholón, fruit tasting at Agua Azul, plus a hearty Caribbean lunch at Playa Tranquila—all led by friendly local guides who really know their stuff.