5 Islands Tour From Cartagena Including Snorkeling and Lunch

Exploring the picturesque islands off Cartagena’s coast is a must-do for any visitor. The 5 Islands Tour promises a day of adventure, with a boat ride to stunning destinations like Barú and Cholon. Snorkeling amid vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish, along with a family-style lunch, make this tour a compelling option. At $85 per person, it’s an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Colombia’s coastline. What else does this tour have in store?

Key Points

• The 5 Islands Tour from Cartagena includes a boat ride to various islands, such as Barú and Cholon, with opportunities for snorkeling and exploring natural surroundings.
• The tour provides a private transportation service, lunch, chairs, limited snorkeling gear, and entrance to the oceanarium, starting at $85 per person.
• Pickup and meeting point options are available in Cartagena’s tourist areas, with guests outside the pickup zone required to arrive at the designated meeting point.
• Snorkeling highlights include colorful coral formations, schools of tropical fish, and the chance to spot playful sea turtles and explore underwater caves.
• The tour requires a moderate fitness level and is not wheelchair accessible, with higher costs for additional food and drinks on the islands.

Tour Overview

The tour is titled "5 Islands Tour from Cartagena Including Snorkeling and Lunch" and is located in Cartagena, Colombia.

A 5 Islands Tour from Cartagena, Colombia, including snorkeling and lunch, awaits adventurous travelers.

It has 53 reviews with a 4.3-star rating. The price starts at $85 per person, which includes private transportation, lunch, chairs, a limited snorkeling activity, and entrance to the oceanarium.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 25 travelers. Pickup is available at most hotels in tourist areas, with a meeting point at Babylon Dg Restaurant.

The tour begins at 7:30 am and ends back at the meeting point.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Pickup is available at most hotels in tourist areas, with times between 7:30 am and 8:00 am.

The meeting point is at Babylon Dg Restaurant, Dg. 35 #34-41, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias at 8:10 am.

Guests staying outside the pickup area must arrive at the meeting point. No pickup is offered from Manzanillo del Mar hotels or other specified neighborhoods.

Travelers are advised to confirm pickup details directly with the tour provider after booking to avoid any confusion.

Tour Itinerary

The tour begins at 7:30 am and returns to the meeting point at the end of the day.

Guests will enjoy a boat ride to various islands, including Barú and Cholon. At these destinations, they can go snorkeling and explore the natural surroundings.

Lunch will be provided at designated stops. The tour’s activities require a moderate fitness level, and the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Guests should be prepared for the physical aspects of the tour and bring their own snorkeling gear, as the provided equipment is limited.

Snorkeling Experiences

Although the tour provides limited snorkeling gear, guests are advised to bring their own equipment for the best experience.

The snorkeling takes place at various designated spots around the islands, allowing visitors to observe the vibrant marine life up close.

Key highlights include:

1. Colorful coral formations teeming with tropical fish.

2. Schools of parrotfish, angelfish, and other vibrant species.

3. The opportunity to spot playful sea turtles gliding through the clear waters.

4. Underwater caves and crevices to explore, revealing hidden wonders.

While the snorkeling isn’t the main focus of the tour, it adds an engaging element for those seeking a deeper connection with the islands’ natural beauty.

Dining and Refreshments

Alongside the snorkeling opportunities, the tour includes a delightful lunch at designated stops throughout the islands. Guests can expect a tasty, local meal, typically featuring fresh seafood and traditional Colombian dishes.

The lunch is served family-style, allowing travelers to sample a variety of flavors. However, the costs for food and drinks on the islands can be higher than expected. Visitors are advised to bring cash for any additional purchases, as the remote locations may not accept credit cards.

Island Hopping Highlights

Five picturesque islands are the highlights of this captivating tour from Cartagena.

Guests will discover:

Guests will discover the captivating islands, each offering unique experiences from pristine beaches to vibrant party atmospheres.

1. Barú, a tranquil island with pristine beaches and lush mangrove forests.

2. Cholon, a lively party hub known for its floating restaurants and vibrant atmosphere.

3. Isla del Rosario, home to the impressive Oceanarium and diverse marine life.

4. Isla Grande, offering opportunities to snorkel and explore the island’s natural beauty.

The boat ride between the islands provides stunning views of the Caribbean coastline.

This immersive tour allows travelers to experience the allure of Colombia’s coastal gems.

Tour Logistics and Inclusions

The tour includes private transportation, a tasty lunch, and snorkeling equipment, though the availability of the latter is limited.

Pickup is arranged at most hotels in the tourist areas, but guests outside the pickup zone must arrive at the designated meeting point.

The tour starts around 7:30 AM and returns to the same meeting location.

Activities include snorkeling, visiting various islands like Barú and Cholon, and enjoying lunch at designated spots.

A moderate fitness level is recommended, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Guests are advised to bring their own snorkeling gear and be cautious with personal belongings.

Guest Feedback and Recommendations

Many guests enjoyed the beautiful islands, engaging tour guides, and the opportunity to meet new people.

Specific praise was given for the boat ride and the crew’s friendliness.

However, common complaints included:

Complaints included inadequate snorkeling gear, overcrowded boats, high prices, and issues with communication and organization.

1. Inadequate snorkeling gear

2. Overcrowded boats

3. High prices for food and drinks

4. Issues with communication and organization

Guests were advised to bring their own snorkeling gear, as the provided equipment was limited.

They were also advised to confirm pickup details directly with the tour provider after booking and to be cautious with personal belongings due to potential scams on the islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in the Snorkeling Activity?

The tour’s snorkeling activity is open to children, though it’s recommended they have some experience and supervision. Parents should ensure their children’s comfort and safety in the water.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?

No, the tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility as it requires a moderate fitness level. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and the activities may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Bad Weather?

The tour operator has a flexible cancellation policy in case of inclement weather. Guests can reschedule or receive a full refund if the tour is cancelled due to safety concerns caused by bad weather conditions.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

The tour price doesn’t include any additional fees or taxes. However, guests should expect to pay around $10 for the oceanarium entrance fee at one of the islands. It’s best to budget for this extra cost.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Island Visits?

The tour’s itinerary can’t be customized to include specific island visits. The tour provider follows a set route visiting several islands, and guests don’t have the option to choose which ones they visit.