Should You Do an Islands Tour in Cartagena?

A typical islands tour from Cartagena takes you by speedboat to the Rosario Islands, about an hour away. You'll stop at 4 or 5 spots for swimming, snorkeling (gear usually provided), and lounging on small beaches. Most include a decent lunch of grilled fish, chicken, or vegetarian options. Expect a mix of beautiful clear water and moments where the boat feels crowded with 20-30 other people. The experience is fun and relaxing if you like being on the water, but it's not a deserted paradise—it's a popular day trip with music, guides herding groups, and vendors selling drinks or photos.

Best time is December to March when seas are calmer and visibility is better for snorkeling. July-August can work but often has rougher water and more rain. Expect to pay around $80–$130 per person depending on group size, inclusions, and whether it's a smaller or party-style boat. Private tours cost significantly more.

Tip: Choose the 5-stop version with lunch if it's your only chance to see the islands—it's the sweet spot. Skip the snorkeling if you're not a strong swimmer or if the group is large; the reefs are nice but not world-class and fish are fed by tours. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, cash for extras, and earplugs if you're sensitive to loud music on the boat.