Why You Should Visit the Rosario Islands at Least Once in Your Lifetime

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As part of the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park, the Rosario Islands are integral to one of the most important areas of natural beauty in Colombia. As a result, the best attractions in Rosario islands are the islands and surrounding waters, which are remarkably well preserved and protected, meaning you can enjoy their wonders as nature intended.

Though close to the city, the islands provide a nice contrast to the tourists, heat and pace of Cartagena. The cool breezes, beautiful nature and laid-back attitude here make it the perfect weekend getaway.

Among the coolest backpacker hostels in Colombia, Secret Paradise is a unique hostel collective on Isla Grande. It’s formed of seven outposts, all opened within the former mansions of emerald barons. With great swimming pools, airy terraces and well-appointed rooms – as well as a privileged location right on the seafront – the Secret Paradise might not be that secret these days, but it remains a paradise.

Although some of the islands are rocky or surrounded by mangroves, many are home to picture-perfect Caribbean beaches, with white sand, sparkling blue waters, a few palm trees and not much else.

The seafood available on the islands is about as fresh as any you’re likely to find in Colombia. And it’s so plentiful, you even get fisherman anchoring their boats alongside yours to sell you fresh-out-of-the-sea lobster or shellfish.

The beauty of visiting the Rosario Islands is that there’s an activity for everyone. Adventure lover? Grab a kayak to explore the Caribbean Sea or journey through the mangroves before snorkeling coral reefs or grabbing a rod to go sport fishing. Looking to chill? The beach offers relaxed days, hammocks and cocktails.

As you’d expect from a Caribbean archipelago, the sunsets here are spectacular. Any westward-facing hotel or beach offers front-row seats. Every night is different, so expect to see some memorable sunsets during your visit.

Whether you fancy learning to dive or are already an expert, you will certainly enjoy scuba diving in the protected waters here. There are well-preserved coral reefs, and even a few wrecks, to explore. To keep things simple, many arrange dive trips while in Cartagena, which could include transportation and hotel pick up and drop off.

While there are budget-friendly hostels and hammocks here, there are also more exclusive and upmarket options available. Resort hotels such as Isla del Pirata Hotel, Hotel San Pedro de Majagua or Gente de Mar offer luxury rooms, private beaches and quality food.

If you are wondering where to visit in Rosario Islands, try Isla del Pirata. It is one of the smallest islands in the archipelago, but also one of the prettiest. While most tour boats head straight for Baru and Playa Blanca, Pirate Island is more tranquil and a generally fantastic place to spend a few days in the Caribbean.

If you want to experience the magic of the Rosario Islands in true luxury, arrange a tour of them in a private yacht or catamaran. There are many tour agencies in Cartagena that offer these luxury packages, so if you have a group of friends and some money to spend, you can enjoy the azure waters around the islands aboard a lovely yacht.

The brackish water lake at the heart of Isla Grande is home to the surreal spectacle of phosphorescent plankton, which, on a dark, star-free night, glow and oscillate with every touch of the water. Swimming in the lake at night while watching tiny green lights dance around your body is one of the most memorable experiences you can have on the islands.