Isla Grande (Islas del Rosario)
Isla Grande is the largest island in the Rosario archipelago, an hour by boat from La Bodeguita. It has beach clubs, trails and the Laguna Encantada, with plankton that glows on moonless nights.
- Hours
- Boats leave in the morning and return before 5:00 p.m.
- Price
- Paid: boat, port fee, and beach club or lodging.
- Duration
- All day
- Address
- Isla Grande, Islas del Rosario, Cartagena
Isla Grande is inside the Parque Nacional Corales del Rosario. It has a fishing village, dry forest, mangroves and several beach clubs and hostels. Sandy beaches are few and small; the plan is more about clear water and snorkeling.
What sets it apart is the Laguna Encantada: on moonless nights the plankton lights up when you move the water. To see it you need to sleep on the island or take a night tour.
Blogs agree that the day trip feels short and rushed. With one or two nights you see the island when it's quiet, after the tourist boats have gone.
What to see
- The Laguna Encantada with glowing plankton at night.
- The mangroves by kayak.
- Snorkeling on the nearby reefs.
Getting there
- Boat from the Muelle Turístico de La Bodeguita: about an hour, depending on the sea.
- Many clubs and hotels on the island include the boat transfer.
Tips
- Buy your trip from an established operator or club, not on the street.
- Bring cash: there are no ATMs on the island.
- Check the moon phase if you want to see the plankton.
- From December to April the sea gets choppy in the afternoon; leave early.
FAQ
How do I get to Isla Grande?
By boat from the Muelle Turístico de La Bodeguita, in about an hour.
When can you see the plankton?
On moonless nights, in the Laguna Encantada.
Is it worth staying overnight?
Yes. The day trip is short, and the island is more enjoyable once the day boats leave.
Are there ATMs on the island?
No. Bring cash.
On the map
Photos: Cartagena Explorer · Cartagena Explorer · Cartagena Explorer · Wikimedia Commons
