Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon and Playa Blanca: A Must-Do Day Trip from Cartagena

Are you planning a trip to Cartagena and wondering about the exciting activities to do around the city? One of the most popular activities is a day trip to the Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon and Playa Blanca. Here are some of the most common questions and answers that might help you plan your trip.

What is the Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca?

The Rosario Islands are an archipelago located off the coast of Cartagena in the Caribbean Sea. The archipelago consists of 27 small coral islands, and the waters surrounding the islands are part of the Corales del Rosario National Park. Barú is one of the largest islands of the Rosario Islands archipelago, while Cholon and Playa Blanca are famous beaches on Isla Barú.

What is the best way to explore the Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca?

The best way to explore the Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca is by taking a day trip from Cartagena. You can book the full-day Rosario Islands, including Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca tour through Viator. Depending on your preference, you can either travel via speedboat or standard boat while enjoying the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

What are the main attractions of the Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca?

During the day trip, you will visit Isla Grande, Cholon, and Playa Blanca. Among the highlights of the trip is snorkelling at the coral reefs of the Corales del Rosario National Park. You’ll have the chance to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters while observing the diverse marine life around the islands. On Isla Grande, you will also get the opportunity to explore the vibrant and colourful marine life at the San Martin de Pajarales Aquarium.

Are meals included in the Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca tour?

Yes, meals are included in the day trip. You will be served a delicious traditional Colombian lunch, consisting of fresh fish, rice, coconut rice, and salad. If you have any dietary requirements, please inform the tour provider when booking, and they will do their best to adjust the meal accordingly.

What is the cost of the full-day Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca tour?

The cost of the full-day Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca tour varies depending on the type of boat you choose for transportation. The standard boat option costs around $70, while the speedboat option costs around $110. The price includes the national park fees, snorkelling equipment, lunch, and drinks.

What should I bring on the day trip?

It is recommended that you bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. You may also want to bring a change of clothes, a towel, and some extra cash for souvenirs or extra drinks. The tour provider will provide snorkelling equipment, but if you have your own gear, you are welcome to bring it along.

Conclusion

The Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca day trip from Cartagena is an unmissable experience. You’ll have the chance to explore the pristine beaches, coral reefs, and picturesque surroundings of the Rosario Islands archipelago. With the tour guide and provided equipment, you’ll be able to explore the natural beauty of the islands safely and comfortably. I strongly recommend taking this tour when visiting Cartagena. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity!

Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon and Playa Blanca: A Must-Do Day Trip from Cartagena – An Insider’s Guide

Are you planning a visit to Cartagena and looking for a unique experience? Look no further than a day trip to Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca. But before you set off on your adventure, let me give you an insider’s guide to Cartagena with a fresh perspective that goes beyond the typical tourist spots.

Local Attractions: A Local’s Guide to Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known attractions in Cartagena, there are many hidden gems that only locals know about. One such place is the Getsemani neighborhood, a vibrant and colorful area with street art, live music, and a bohemian atmosphere. Visit the Plaza de la Trinidad, a bustling square where locals gather to drink and dance. Take a stroll through the historic El Cabrero district, with its colonial-style architecture and stunning views of the city.

Dining Spots: Exploring the Local Cuisine

Cartagena is known for its Caribbean cuisine, rich in seafood and spices. For a unique experience, try the local specialty, ceviche, at the Mercado de Bazurto, a bustling market where you can also find fresh produce, exotic fruits, and traditional dishes like sancocho, a hearty soup made with meat, vegetables, and plantains.

For a more upscale dining experience, head to La Vitrola, a restaurant that serves classic Colombian dishes in a stylish setting. Or try Restaurante Interno, a unique dining experience inside a women’s prison, where you can support the rehabilitation of incarcerated women while enjoying delicious food.

Cultural Experiences: The Soul of Cartagena

Cartagena is a vibrant and colorful city steeped in tradition. Every November, the city comes alive with the Festival de la Independencia, a celebration of Cartagena’s history and culture that includes music, dance, parades, and fireworks.

For a more intimate cultural experience, visit the Casa Museo Rafael Núñez, the former home of a Colombian president turned museum. Or explore the city’s street art scene, which showcases the work of local artists and tells the story of Cartagena’s cultural evolution.

Local History: Captivating Stories and Legends

Cartagena has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress built by the Spanish in the 16th century to protect the city from invaders. Explore the Palacio de la Inquisición, a museum that tells the story of the Spanish Inquisition in Colombia.

And for a truly captivating historical experience, visit the Catedral de San Pedro Claver, a church that honors the patron saint of slaves and tells the story of the city’s dark past as a center of the African slave trade.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

For a truly unique experience in Cartagena, try kayaking through the mangroves of La Boquilla, a fishing village north of the city. Or take a sunset horseback ride along the beach in Manzanillo del Mar.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a day trip to Isla Fuerte, a remote island off the coast of Cartagena that is known for its pristine beaches and stunning coral reefs.

With this insider’s guide to Cartagena, you’ll be able to explore the city’s hidden gems and experience its rich culture and history in a more intimate and personal way. So pack your bags, and get ready for a day trip to the Rosario Islands, Barú, Cholon, and Playa Blanca. You won’t be disappointed!