Spend a private day on Mangata Island in the Rosario archipelago: paddle between coral outcrops, snorkel clear waters, then enjoy an a la carte lunch and beachside comfort. Ideal for small groups seeking an active yet relaxed island escape from Cartagena.
Spend a private day on Mangata Island in the Rosario archipelago: paddle between coral outcrops, snorkel clear waters, then enjoy an a la carte lunch and beachside comfort. Ideal for small groups seeking an active yet relaxed island escape from Cartagena.
The morning skims Cartagena’s harbor as a speedboat cuts a clean line toward Mangata Island, water flashing like a dare. By the time shore comes into view, palms lean out over a pale sand spit and the sea loosens from turquoise to the deep blue of the open Caribbean. On Mangata, kayaks and paddleboards sit ready; the island’s beach restaurant hums with the low beat of a DJ and the smell of grilled fish.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by COSTEÑA TRAVEL · Cartagena, Bolívar
The morning skims Cartagena’s harbor as a speedboat cuts a clean line toward Mangata Island, water flashing like a dare. By the time shore comes into view, palms lean out over a pale sand spit and the sea loosens from turquoise to the deep blue of the open Caribbean. On Mangata, kayaks and paddleboards sit ready; the island’s beach restaurant hums with the low beat of a DJ and the smell of grilled fish.
The Rosario Islands are a coral archipelago formed from uplifted reef and Holocene sediment, long used by Indigenous peoples and later referenced in colonial-era navigation charts. Today the islands mix small-scale tourism and fishing culture: chefs serve fried mojarra and coconut rice while local guides point out coral bommies and seagrass beds that shelter reef fish.
Expect a day that balances gentle activity and relaxation. Paddle lanes between fringing reefs, slip on a mask to check out parrotfish and sea urchins, then return for an a la carte lunch in an air-conditioned restaurant. Facilities include freshwater showers, towel service, Balinese beds, and sun chairs.
Practicalities: transfers are by speedboat and the trip runs about eight hours round-trip from Cartagena; basic swimming ability is required. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a quick-dry shirt, and a waterproof phone case. Weekdays are quieter; mornings offer the calmest water for paddling and snorkeling. Respect the reef by not standing on coral, and follow guides’ instructions when snorkeling. This private outing is ideal for families or small groups seeking a straightforward, full-day island experience with personal service and minimal technical demands.
Most tours meet at the private Todomar marina in Cartagena; confirm the exact drop‑off time and arrive 15 minutes early to check in.
No—basic instruction is provided for kayaks and snorkel gear; swimmers or those comfortable in shallow water will be most comfortable.
Lunch (eight menu options) and a welcome drink are included; additional beverages or activities not listed are extra.
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; trips may be canceled for bad weather with refund options.
COSTEÑA TRAVEL operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The morning skims Cartagena’s harbor as a speedboat cuts a clean line toward Mangata Island, water flashing like a dare. By the time shore comes into view, palms lean out over a pale sand spit and the sea loosens from turquoise to the deep blue of the open Caribbean. On Mangata, kayaks and paddleboards sit ready; the island’s beach restaurant hums with the low beat of a DJ and the smell of grilled fish.
The morning skims Cartagena’s harbor as a speedboat cuts a clean line toward Mangata Island, water flashing like a dare. By the time shore comes into view, palms lean out over a pale sand spit and the sea loosens from turquoise to the deep blue of the open Caribbean. On Mangata, kayaks and paddleboards sit ready; the island’s beach restaurant hums with the low beat of a DJ and the smell of grilled fish.
The Rosario Islands are a coral archipelago formed from uplifted reef and Holocene sediment, long used by Indigenous peoples and later referenced in colonial-era navigation charts. Today the islands mix small-scale tourism and fishing culture: chefs serve fried mojarra and coconut rice while local guides point out coral bommies and seagrass beds that shelter reef fish.
Expect a day that balances gentle activity and relaxation. Paddle lanes between fringing reefs, slip on a mask to check out parrotfish and sea urchins, then return for an a la carte lunch in an air-conditioned restaurant. Facilities include freshwater showers, towel service, Balinese beds, and sun chairs.
Practicalities: transfers are by speedboat and the trip runs about eight hours round-trip from Cartagena; basic swimming ability is required. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a quick-dry shirt, and a waterproof phone case. Weekdays are quieter; mornings offer the calmest water for paddling and snorkeling. Respect the reef by not standing on coral, and follow guides’ instructions when snorkeling. This private outing is ideal for families or small groups seeking a straightforward, full-day island experience with personal service and minimal technical demands.