Dates
Overview
Join Dick and Leslie West and embrace the Magic of Colombia as you explore the “Land of a Thousand Rhythms” and its magnificent Magdalena River during this special 7-night river cruise journey. Move to the beat of a variety of Latin American musical styles, including cumbia and vallenato, reveling in exciting performances at a colorful Carnaval experience in Barranquilla just for AmaWaterways guests. Drink the smooth, refined flavors of Medellín’s famous coffee as you listen to the calls of tropical birds and wildlife unique to Colombia’s biodiverse ecosystem. Discover timeless traditions practiced by the friendly guides, welcoming residents, and creative minds who comprise part of Colombia’s diverse population.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Medellín – Hotel Check-in
Arrive in the city of Medellín, the second-largest city in Colombia. Named the most innovative city in the world by the Urban Land Institute in 2013, this fascinating city combines modern conveniences with colonial history. Check into your hotel and enjoy your first night in this unique city.
Day 2 – Medellín – Medellín City Tour
Though the city was once known for violent campaigns, Medellín has undergone impressive social transformations, and you will get to examine the drastic differences as you tour one of the city’s neighborhoods. Once a setting of political corruption’s influence on the city, the neighborhood has now been elevated to a place of strengthened community, music, and art. See this vibrant atmosphere for yourself on your guided tour. (B)
Day 3 – Medellín – Coffee Region Tour & Tasting
The region’s ideal climate and soil conditions, combined with the skill and passion of local farmers, make for a unique and delicious coffee experience, which you can learn about and enjoy during a guided excursion. Before the majority of coffee farms moved south, the state of Antioquia was where coffee growth in Colombia first began, planting the seed of tradition and culture strongly in this region. The coffee beans grown in Medellín are known for their rich and complex flavor profiles, with notes of dark chocolate, caramel, and berries. This delightful coffee is also certified by organizations such as the Rainforest Alliance, which ensures that the coffee is grown in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. (B)
Day 4 – Medellín – Flight to Barranquilla – Embarkation – Exclusive “Carnaval” Celebration
Fly to the beautiful city of Barranquilla and settle into your stateroom as you prepare for your journey along the Magdalena River. In the evening, enjoy a special Carnaval celebration, bringing the full traditional experience exclusively to AmaWaterways’ guests year-round. Widely considered one of Colombia’s most important folkloric celebrations, the Carnaval of Barranquilla has been declared a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and you will revel in this authentic experience as you learn the Carnaval’s motto: Quien lo vive, es quien lo goza (Those who live it are those who enjoy it).
Day 5 – Sitio Nuevo – Village Tour
Today, visit a local village along the river. Explore the village and learn more about the lives of its people during a guided tour. Enjoy the traditional crafts and art on display and taste the local delicacies as you embrace the village’s unique culture. (B,L,D)
Day 6 – Magangué – Nature Excursion – Mompox
Exclusive Jazz Street Performance
Experience the vibrant sounds and sights of Colombian nature from one of our intimate excursion boats as you immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Boca de Tacaloa (the mouth of Tacaloa)—a striking natural wonder surrounded by rich landscapes, local legend, and untamed energy in the Magangué region. This nature tour offers a rare opportunity to encounter fascinating species, including birds unique to this region of the country. Then, enjoy a scenic cruise en route to the island town of Mompox. There, you will be welcomed with open arms and lively music as local musicians treat you to an exclusive jazz performance. (B,L,D)
Day 7 – Mompox – Nature Experience – Historic Walking Tour with Tuk-Tuk Ride – Filigree Workshop
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 treasures protected from pirates that pillaged coastal cities like Cartagena. Since then, the town has become famous for its incredible filigree jewelry. While visiting one of the largest inland river islands in Latin America, journey through the surrounding wetlands, exploring the massive lake that is home to a variety of flora and fauna native to the region. (B,L,D)
Day 8 – Mompox – Scenic Cruising – Santa Bárbara de Pinto
Later, visit Santa Bárbara de Pinto, a typical Magdalena riverside village. Enjoy an immersive tour of the town and, if you prefer a more active adventure, explore the surrounding natural beauty on a guided hike. (B,L,D)
Day 9 – Calamar – Scenic Cruising – Historic Tour by Bicitaxi – Palenque Cultural Experience
Board a bicitaxi (a bicycle taxi for two) for a historic tour of Calamar, including a scenic ride along the Malecón. Later, cruise to Palenque, the first “free town” in the Americas. UNESCO has declared Palenque an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and you will enjoy a special performance that brings the town’s spirit to life. (B,L,D)
Day 10 – Cartagena – Walled City Tour – Castillo San Felipe de Barajas & Getsemaní
Explore Cartagena’s historic center before visiting the UNESCO-designated Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, followed by a walking tour of the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood. (B,L,D)
Day 11 – Cartagena – Disembarkation
Bid your ship and crew farewell as you disembark and prepare for your flight home—or stay on to explore more of Colombia!
