These picture postcard islands, part of a coral reef, are low-lying and densely vegetated, with fine sand beaches.
The National Park of Corales del Rosario embraces the archipelago of Rosario (a group of 30 coral islets, 45 km southwest of the Bay of Cartagena) and the mangrove coast of the long island of Barú to its furthest tip.
Isla Grande and some of the smaller islets are easily accessible by day trippers and those who wish to stay in one of the hotels. Permits are needed for the rest, entrance fee US$2.
Rosario (the largest and best conserved) and Tesoro both have small lakes, some of which connect to the sea, and many of the smaller islets are privately owned. There is an incredible profusion of aquatic and bird life here and the Aquarium, or Oceanario (US$3), in the sea is worth visiting. Look out for the huge catfish but note that the price of entry is not included in boat fares. The island has access to some of the best coral reefs on the archipelago and diving and snorkelling are available. The Hotel Caribe in Bocagrande offers scuba lessons in its pool followed by diving at its resort on Isla Grande, for US$230 and upwards.
Travel agencies and the hotels offer excursions from the Muelle Turístico, leaving 0700-0900 and returning 1600-1700, costing from around US$45, lunch included; they are free if staying at one of the hotels. Overnight trips can be arranged through agencies, but they are overpriced. Note that there is an additional ‘port tax’ of US$5 payable at the entrance to the Muelle or on the boat. Book in advance. For five or more, try hiring your own boat for the day and bargain your price. This way you get to see what you want in the time available. The tour boats leave you with plenty of time with the beach vendors. For the cheapest rates, buy tickets from the boat owners (make sure they are the boat owners!) at the dockside, but they may already be booked up. Aventure Colombia organizes sailboat tours of the islands.
If you wish to enjoy the islands at your leisure there are a number of hotels to stay in. Recommended are Isla del Pirata, which has a number of simple, comfortable cabañas and where fresh fish and lobster are served for lunch and dinner. On neighbouring Isla Grande is San Pedro de Majagua, owned by Hotel Santa Clara in Cartagena. Snorkelling and diving organizers Cultura del Mar also have an ecohotel here, where you can sleep in hammocks or beds, with cooking provided by a local family....
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