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Magdalena River, Colombia

Wonders of Colombia - Cruise Only

Cartagena - Barranquilla - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard MS AmaMagdalena
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Embark on an 8-day river cruise aboard the MS AmaMagdalena. Experience the magic of Colombia, the "Land of a Thousand Rhythms," as you embark on an unforgettable journey along the majestic Magdalena River. Walk the historic streets of Palenque, Colombia's first free city, where the beats of cumbia and vallenato fill the air. Stroll through Cartagena's vibrant Getsemaní district, a dynamic hub of creativity, color, and culture. Witness the fusion of Spanish and pre-Colombian influences that have shaped the nation's music, traditions, and identity. Let these captivating destinations and the warmth of the people along the riverbanks leave an everlasting imprint on your heart.
Toucan in ColombiaTraditional Maracas in ColombiaMompox, ColombiaBarranquilla, ColombiaCholao Drink in ColombiaMagdalena River, Colombia
Highlights
  • Explore colorful Getsemani Cartagena and enjoy its vibrant culture
  • Discover historic Palenque town and embrace its rich traditions
  • Tour scenic Calamar by bicycle taxi and see its historic landmarks
  • Witness gold artistry in Mompox and learn its colonial history
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Cartagena | Embark

Arrive in Cartagena, the stunning capital of the Bolivar region on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. After settling into your stateroom, explore the lively Getsemaní neighborhood, where colorful murals, charming colonial homes, and enticing local flavors create a feast for the senses. Afterward, return to your ship and sail on your unforgettable journey along the enchanting Magdalena River.

Day 2: Gambote | Calamar

Start your morning in Palenque, the first free town in the Americas, founded by those who escaped slavery during colonial times. Its rich history and traditions remain beautifully intact, earning it UNESCO recognition as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Immerse yourself in its vibrant culture and enjoy a special performance showcasing the town’s unique musical rhythms. In the afternoon, visit Calamar, a historic town established in 1840 at the entrance of the Canal del Dique. Explore its landmarks, including the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción, as you tour by paola, a traditional bicycle taxi for two.

Day 3: Santa Barbara de Pinto | Mompox

Spend your morning in Santa Barbara de Pinto, located on the banks of the Mompox arm of the Magdalena River. Enjoy a walking tour through this traditional town, where you may see local landmarks such as the Santa Barbara Church and enjoy intricate hand-made crafts created in the town. In the afternoon, arrive at the island town of Mompox, be welcomed with open arms and lively music during an exclusive jazz performance played by local musicians.

Day 4: Mompox

A town frozen in time, Mompox embodies the appearance of what many villages looked like during colonial times. Founded in 1540, this remote village became an important Spanish trading post. Some Spaniards found Mompox to be a haven for keeping gold and other treasure protected from the pirates that pillaged coastal cities like Cartagena, and with this precious metal and the work of skilled artisans from Spain came beautifully crafted artifacts. Since then, the town has become famous for its incredible filigree jewelry, which you can learn more about during your tour of this town in the afternoon. While visiting the largest inland island in Latin America, journey through the incredible ecological Ciénaga Pijiño region, exploring the massive lake that is home to a variety of flora and fauna native to the region. In the afternoon, take a stroll through this storied town on a guided walking tour. With stunning colonial churches, breathtaking nature surrounding the town, and delicious local delights such as capa cheese and butifarra, Mompox is sure to be a highlight of your journey along the magnificent Magdalena River.

Day 5: Mompox | El Banco

Bid farewell to Mompox before embarking on a scenic cruise down one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Magdalena River – a picturesque part of the La Mojana region – and reaching the town of El Banco, nestled at the intersection of the Magdalena and César rivers. Founded in a strategic location for both the native people and the Spaniards, the town was repeatedly destroyed in their struggles and then rebuilt atop its ashes. In 1749, a freed black slave named José Domingo Ortiz led a group of settlers to this special location, carrying with him a statue of the Virgin Mary, staking this place as their new home. Because of this connection, the Virgin of Candelaria — a special invocation of the Virgin Mary — is specially venerated in this region. Embark on a guided walking tour of this incredible destination and learn more about its history as the birthplace of cumbia, an iconic genre of music and dance that has now been popularized around the world. What began as a courtship dance practiced by African slaves later incorporated American steps and European and African instruments has become a worldwide sensation, which is especially popular in the Andean region of Colombia. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive cumbia performance by locals.

Day 6: Magangue

Witness the sights, hear the bird calls, and watch the wildlife around you as spend the day docked near Magangue. Immerse yourself in the presence of Colombian nature surrounding this city on a birdwatching tour, giving you a unique opportunity to see birds only found in this specific part of the country.

Day 7: Nueva Venecia | Barranquilla

In the morning, visit the Floating Village of Nueva Venecia. A charming town filled with inviting locals, Nueva Venecia, or “New Venice,” can only be navigated by boat. With its beautiful colonial houses, vivid architecture and local sanctuary protecting the native flora and fauna, this town highlights the beauty and warmth of Colombia. Witness its splendor as you tour the village. While here, explore this village and learn more about the lives of its people during a guided tour. Enjoy the traditional crafts and art that is on display, learn about the techniques the fishermen of Nueva Venecia use, and taste the local delicacies as you embrace this village and its unique culture. Later in the day, venture to the beautiful seaside city of Barranquilla, a vibrant destination home to notable musicians, writers and artists. Immerse yourself in the warmth and culture of the city’s atmosphere as you venture through this magnificent location, where you may visit famous landmarks such as the bocas de cenizas, the point at which the magical Magdalena River meets the breathtaking Caribbean Sea, and the “Carnaval” Museum, which showcases the unique history of this incredible festival. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive “Carnaval” celebration just for AmaWaterways guests as it brings the full traditional experience.

Day 8: Barranquilla | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Bid your ship and crew farewell as you disembark and prepare for your flight home.

Ship/Hotel

MS AmaMagdalena

Mompox, Colombia
Centro Histórico de Cartagena
Carnaval de Barranquilla

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$3,839 2-3 travelers
AmaMagdalena Category A B C
Category C
Twin Balcony, 237 sq. ft.
AmaMagdalena Category A B C
Category B
Twin Balcony, 237 sq. ft.
AmaMagdalena Category A B C
Category A
Twin Balcony, 237 sq. ft.
AMAmagdalena C
Luxury Suite
Twin Balcony, 306 sq. ft.
Amamagdalena Grand Suite
Grand Suite
Twin Balcony, 516 sq. ft.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Port Fees
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
  • Beverages: Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
  • Knowledgeable guides
  • Internet and Wi-Fi access
  • Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
  • 24/7 Colombian coffee and tea station
  • All fine dining on board, plus a special dinner on shore in El Banco
  • Exclusive year-round Carnaval Celebration in Barranquilla and cumbia performance in El Banco
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • Laundry 

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Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
Lisa Bridge

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