COLOMBIA: Magdalena River Cruise, Wonders of Colombia, 7 nights plus 2 nights in cartagena pre cruise
Overview
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Colombia, the "Land of a Thousand Rhythms," as you journey along the magnificent Magdalena River. Walk the cobblestone streets of historic Palenque—the first free town in the Americas. Marvel at Cartagena’s vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood, a flourishing hub of local art and culture. Be inspired by the blend of Spanish and pre-colonial traditions that have shaped Colombia’s spirit. From soulful music to rich natural beauty, this unforgettable journey connects you to the heart of Colombia and its warm, welcoming people.
Wonders of Colombia
Cruise from Cartagena to Barranquilla
7-Night Cruise with 2 Nights in Cartagena Pre-Cruise
Overview
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Colombia, the “Land of a Thousand Rhythms,” on a captivating journey along the Magdalena River. Explore the vibrant streets of Palenque, the first free city in the Americas, and feel the pulse of cumbia and vallenato music. Walk through Cartagena's colonial past as a Spanish stronghold fending off Caribbean pirates, and be enchanted by the colorful neighborhood of Getsemaní—now a hub of art and culture. Discover the rich blend of Spanish and pre-colonial traditions that shape Colombia’s identity today. Let these unforgettable destinations inspire you as you connect with the heart and soul of this mesmerizing river and its people.
Countries: Colombia
River: Magdalena
At a Glance
Enjoy an extensive lineup of included excursions throughout your journey. Highlights include historical walking tours, live music performances, nature and birdwatching experiences, and immersive cultural encounters designed to showcase Colombia’s vibrant spirit.
Itinerary: Cartagena to Barranquilla
Day 1 – Cartagena
Hotel Check-In & Walled City Walking Tour
Arrive in Cartagena, located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Begin your journey exploring this once-Spanish stronghold. Visit landmarks like the Catedral de Cartagena and the city's ancient stone walls, built to guard against pirate attacks. Learn about the city’s role in colonial trade and its resilience through history.
Day 2 – Cartagena
San Felipe Castle Visit
or Gold Museum and Caribbean Naval Museum
Visit the UNESCO-designated San Felipe Castle, built to defend Cartagena from foreign attacks. Alternatively, explore the Gold Museum's ancient artifacts and learn about Colombia’s naval legacy at the Caribbean Naval Museum. Along the way, discover the story of Colombia’s emeralds and their cultural importance. (B)
Day 3 – Cartagena
Hotel Check-Out, The Vaults Walking Tour, Embarkation, Getsemaní Tour, Sundown Cruise
Tour the famous Vaults of Cartagena, once used as Spanish military headquarters and later transformed into prisons. Today, they host galleries, shops, and restaurants. After boarding the ship, enjoy a guided visit to Getsemaní, a neighborhood filled with vibrant murals, street food, and colonial charm. In the evening, set sail with a scenic sundown cruise. (B, D)
Day 4 – Palenque & Calamar
Palenque Cultural Experience & Historic Tour by Paola
Dock in Mahates and visit Palenque, the first free town in the Americas. Discover its symbolic hairstyles, ancestral medicine, and vibrant music, recognized by UNESCO. Later, cruise to Calamar and tour this town via paola (a bicycle taxi), visiting historical landmarks such as Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción. (B, L, D)
Day 5 – Magangué & Mompox
Nature Excursion & Exclusive Jazz Street Performance
Cruise the Boca de Tacaloa and marvel at Colombia’s unique bird species and untamed landscapes. Later, arrive in Mompox and be welcomed with an exclusive jazz street performance by local musicians. (B, L, D)
Day 6 – Mompox
Nature Experience, Walking Tour with Tuk Tuk Ride & Filigree Workshop
Explore Colombia’s colonial heritage in Mompox, a town once used to safeguard Spanish treasures from pirates. Discover its wetlands, birdwatch at sunrise or sunset, and visit a filigree jewelry workshop. Enjoy a guided tuk-tuk ride through the charming streets, visiting historic churches and sampling local treats like capa cheese and butifarra. (B, L, D)
Day 7 – Mompox to Scenic Cruising
Exclusive Cumbia Performance Onboard
Sail from Mompox and enjoy an onboard performance from local families who preserve the tradition of La Cumbia—the iconic rhythm of Colombian music. Experience authentic storytelling, music, and culture firsthand. (B, L, D)
Day 8 – Santa Barbara de Pinto to Sitio Nuevo
“Traditions of Pinto” Experience & Scenic Cruising
Visit Santa Barbara de Pinto on a private boat tour. Learn traditional crafts like fishing net weaving and tobacco rolling. Visit a local church and shop for handcrafted goods. Choose between a cultural tour or a scenic nature hike. Continue cruising toward Sitio Nuevo. (B, L, D)
Day 9 – Sitio Nuevo & Barranquilla
Village Tour & Exclusive “Carnaval” Celebration
Begin the day in a welcoming village to learn about local culture and daily life. In the afternoon, arrive in Barranquilla—a coastal city famed for its music, writers, and Carnival. Celebrate with a private traditional “Carnaval” festival hosted exclusively for AmaWaterways guests. (B, L, D)
Day 10 – Barranquilla
Disembarkation
Say farewell to your crew and disembark in Barranquilla as you prepare for your return home. (B)