Cartagena Islands Tour: Snorkeling, Lunch & Local Guide

Summary

Explore Rosario & Barú Islands with snorkeling and lunch

You’ll set out from Cartagena by boat with a local guide, stopping at historic forts before snorkeling among coral reefs in the Rosario Islands or visiting the Oceanarium if you prefer. Taste fresh shrimp cocktail at Cholon’s lively beach scene and enjoy a relaxed lunch on Barú Island’s Playa Tranquila—a day full of sun, sea air, and moments you’ll remember long after you’re back in town.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to finish my coffee before we were hustled onto the boat at the Cartagena pier—our guide, Andrés, was already cracking jokes in both Spanish and English. The city faded fast behind us, replaced by salty wind and that weirdly sweet smell you only get near mangroves. First stop was off Tierra Bomba. We bobbed in the water while Andrés pointed out the old forts—San Fernando and San José—telling stories about pirates and cannons. I tried to picture it all but mostly just felt the sun on my face and the spray on my arms. It’s louder out there than you’d think, with music from other boats drifting over.

When we reached the Rosario Islands, I didn’t expect to see an actual plane wreck (apparently Pablo Escobar’s—Andrés winked when he said it). Some people went for snorkeling right away—I hesitated because honestly, I’m not great with masks—but ended up following everyone in. The water was warm and clear enough to see flashes of fish darting around coral. At one point I lost track of time just floating there. If you’re not into snorkeling, they’ll take you to the Oceanarium instead; a couple from Bogotá did that while we splashed around.

Cholon was next—music everywhere, boats tied together like some floating block party. Someone handed me a shrimp cocktail in a plastic cup (spicy, tangy—way better than I expected) while our group tried to shout over reggaeton. After that we stopped at Agua Azul for a quick swim—the color really is something else—and then finally made it to Playa Tranquila on Barú for lunch around 1:30pm. Fried fish, coconut rice… simple but perfect after swimming all morning. Some people stayed late for the plankton thing at sunset; I almost wish I had too.

I still think about that feeling of salt drying on my skin as we sat under palm trees after lunch—everyone a little tired but happy, swapping stories in half-Spanish, half-English. Not everything went smoothly (I forgot sunscreen on my knees), but honestly that’s part of why it sticks with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Island Tour and Snorkeling

• Depart Cartagena pier; panoramic stop at Tierra Bomba forts
• Visit Rosario Islands; Pablo Escobar's Plane; snorkeling at Isla Grande
• Visit Cholon party island; shrimp cocktail; visit Agua Azul beach
• Lunch and beach time at Playa Tranquila, Barú; optional plankton viewing

Top questions

How long is the 5 islands tour from Cartagena?

The tour lasts most of the day, starting in the morning and including several island stops before returning after lunch.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this Cartagena islands tour?

Yes, snorkeling masks are included for guests who want to snorkel at Rosario Islands.

Do I need to speak Spanish for this Cartagena day trip?

No, your guide is bilingual and will give recommendations in both Spanish and English.

What food is included during the tour?

The tour includes a shrimp cocktail tasting at Cholon and lunch (usually fried fish with coconut rice) at Playa Tranquila on Barú Island.

Can I visit the Oceanarium instead of snorkeling?

Yes, guests can choose to visit the Oceanarium (admission not included) while others snorkel or relax at Isla Grande.

Is hotel pickup included for this Cartagena islands tour?

No hotel pickup; you meet at the main pier in Cartagena for departure.

Are there any age or fitness restrictions?

The tour requires moderate physical fitness; not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries. Infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

What should I bring for this day trip to Rosario Islands?

Sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses—and maybe extra cash if you want snacks or Oceanarium entry.

What’s included

Your day includes private boat transportation from Cartagena’s pier with a bilingual local guide making sure everyone feels welcome; all snorkeling gear is provided if you want it; chairs are set up at beach stops; enjoy a shrimp cocktail tasting at Cholon plus a relaxed lunch on Playa Tranquila before heading back in the afternoon.