National Natural Park of Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo: Jewel of the Colombian Caribbean

The Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo National Natural Park is perfect for observing colorful coral reefs in shallow waters. Located at 45 kilometers from the Bay of Cartagena, the park protects underwater ecosystems, mainly the coral reefs, which are fragile ecosystems, inhabited by a multitude of invertebrate species and a variety of fish whose movements and colors resemble ballet choreography. Extensive algae prairies and sea grass beds are also found in the park.

Multi-color underwater garden in the crystal clear waters of the Colombian Caribbean.

The coral reefs, with their enormous profusion of invertebrates and an endless number of multi-colored fish, are true underwater gardens that constitute the greatest charm of this protected area. White beaches for enjoying sunbaths are another distinguishing attraction of the park. Thanks to its crystalline and placid waters, Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo are privileged spaces for recreational water activities, among them canoeing, snorkeling, and diving.

Characteristics

• This is the only underwater park in the country.
• It measure 19,500 hectares and includes the islands of Rosario and San Bernardo.
• The Rosario Archipelago includes thirty islands, all of which have been developed.
• Sea prairies in shallow water surround the islands.
• Aside from the mangroves, 125 species of algae are present, as well as 52 species of coral, 125 species of protozoan, and 45 species of sponges.
• There are 197 species of mollusks, 170 of crustaceans, 132 of coelenterates, 35 equinoderm, 215 fish, and 31 birds.
• The climate is intermediate between sub-humid and dry and is influenced by the northwest trade winds.
• Mean temperature ranges from 27º C to 30º C.
• There is one rainy season, from August to November.
• Human presence goes back to Paleo-Indian times.
• All the Colombian Caribbean islands were inhabited by tribes of the Karib Indian family, who were displaced by the conquistadors.
• The islands were occupied in the nineteenth century by fugitive slaves.

Access

• Land route: from Cartagena, by the Mamonal road to Pasacaballos; then by ferry to cross the Canal del Dique; from there by an unpaved road to Playa Blanca or the village of Barú.
• Sea route: by speed boat from Cartagena to San Bernardo or El Rosario. Los Pegasos wharf is the point of departure to Corales del Rosario. Travel to San Bernardo is done from private marinas.
• Travel time between Barú and Islas del Rosario is 20 minutes.
• From Tolú (in the department of Sucre), travel time to San Bernardo is one hour.

Attractions

Mangroves, coral reefs, and sea prairies make up one of the most diverse and productive flora and fauna complexes in the entire planet. This environment is suitable for the growth of algae, bird nesting, and the breeding of countless marine species

• Playa Blanca
• Ciénaga de Cholón
• Isla de los Pájaros
• El Islote
• Lagunas de Tintipán y Mohán
• Isla Maravilla
• Aquarium at the San Martín de Pajarales Island

Access to the park

Consult you travel agent or enter www.parquesnacionales.gov.co

Lodging

It is scattered throughout the Barú community and several islands. Contact can be made through travel agencies, hotel chains, and the community.