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The Enviroment:
ROSARIO ISLAND
A small archipelago of 27 islands comprise the Islas del Rosario. Some are so small that there’s only room for one house. The archipelago is situated some 45 kilometers SE of the bay of Cartagena de Indias only 45 minutes by rapid sea-going launch. The archipelago is part of the National Rosario and San Bernardo Coral Nature Park (Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo), which covers an area of 19,500 hectares, or some 190 square kilometers, and was founded to protect the coral reefs, mangroves and the complex marine ecosystem which is home to a profusion of marine flora and fauna.
The history of this area and that of Cartagena de Indias are closely linked. According to historians the islands were originally inhabited by a tribe of indigenous people, the Karib, whose territory originally spanned much of South America’s Caribbean coast, and who were subsequently wiped out during the Spanish Conquest. By the 19th century the islands’ many coves had become home to communities of runaway slaves, known as cimarrones. White coral sand beaches ring the dazzling turquoise waters; the islands have a magic all their own: you can’t help but relax, isolated as you are from the travails of everyday life. The idyllic Rosario Islands (or Islas del Rosario as they are known in Spanish), are a group of some 30 very small islands protected by a National Park. Boats depart every morning (none in the afternoon) from Cartegena, and the scenic trip takes 90 minutes. The Rosario Islands are very unspoilt and relaxing, and the locals are very welcoming to visitors. Activites include a bike tour of the main island, birdwatching, kayaking, a visit to the Aquarium for a look at some large fish, but above the main activity is chilling out on the lovely beaches. These coral islands don't have many beaches, but the few that are present are clean and generally relaxing.
Many tourists who visit the Rosario Islands are rather disappointed - normally because the destination has been over-hyped or mis-sold to them. Take note that there is next to nothing to do on these islands other than sunbathe or swim in the sea. If you are happy doing absolutely nothing after a busy few days in nearby Cartagena, the Rosario Islands are a good place to relax (although the beach hawkers are unfortunately increasingly persistent). It's also worth noting that the few beaches that are present are all very small, and can get crowded, especially during the high season when they fill up with day trippers from Cartagena (a day trip from cartagena costs about US $50). Those travellers seeking a more extended visit to a beach orientated island will find that the idyllic Providencia Island is far more relaxing, authentic, peaceful place, and one that has a variety of activities to offer. Having said this, the Rosario Islands are worth a visit - but for one or two nights only!
A tour or a week in Rosario Island and San Bernardo Island are perfect after a stay in |
