Embark on this 8-day cruise in the wonders of Colombia, along the Magdalena River aboard AmaMaMelodia. Explore Palenque, Getsemaní, Mompox, and El Banco, each offering unique cultural experiences and historical insights. Visit the Floating Village of Nueva Venecia, witness the vibrant city of Barranquilla, and embrace the spirit of Palenque, the first free town in Colombia. Delight in traditional music, local crafts, mouthwatering delicacies, and the rich heritage of Colombia. This river cruise is a gateway to unforgettable cultural encounters and great landscapes.
Highlights
Explore ancient ruins, local markets and historic sites
Visit famous landmarks such as Bocas de Cenizas and Carnaval Museum
Witness Columbian nature and wildlife or take a hike through Cienága
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.
Arrive in Cartagena, the stunning capital of the Bolivar region on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Settle into your stateroom, then take a tour of the picturesque Getsemaní neighborhood. Enjoy the vibrant colors of the homes and street art, and savor the local delicacies. Return to the ship and embark on your journey along the enchanting Magdalena River.
In the morning, visit Palenque, the first "free town" in the Americas. Founded by those who escaped slavery during colonial times, the town's spirit and appearance have been preserved over time. In 1713, the Spanish crown issued a Royal Decree freeing the people of Palenque from slavery. Immerse yourself in the town’s rich culture and traditions, recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Enjoy a special performance by local musicians showcasing the town's unique music and rhythms. Later, visit Calamar, located at the entrance of the Canal del Dique and first settled in 1840. Explore historic sites like the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Conception and tour the town by paola, a bicycle taxi for two.
Spend the 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, see local landmarks such as the Santa Barbara Church and enjoy intricate handmade crafts created in the town. In the afternoon, arrive at the island town of Mompox, and be welcomed with open arms and lively music during an exclusive jazz performance played by local musicians.
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, learn more about it during a 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 the journey along the magnificent Magdalena River.
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 dinner in town and witness an incredible cumbia performance by locals.
Witness the sights, hear the bird calls, watch the wildlife around, and spend the day docked near Magangue. Immerse yourself in the presence of Colombian nature surrounding this city on a birdwatching tour, giving a unique opportunity to see birds only found in this specific part of the country. can also take a hiking tour through the picturesque cienága, teeming with Colombian wildlife.
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 exploring 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 are on display, learn about the techniques the fishermen of Nueva Venecia use, and taste the local delicacies that 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 venture through this magnificent location, 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 we bring the full traditional experience to our guests all year round.
Day 8: Barranquilla | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Bid ship and crew farewell, disembark and prepare for a flight home.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Initial deposit is $400, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or Amex. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000.00 charge
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor
TrustScore 4.9 | 306 reviews
TrustScore 4.9 of 5
Based on 306 reviews on
19 hours ago
Tony and Shannon were always quick to answer my questions and requests. They booked my Upper Mississippi cruise perfectly. They made sure that my dietary needs were met which is a big deal for me. I have the utmost confidence with their assistance.
Code
1 day ago
Third trip we have book with Adventure Life. Like the last two, we have had a quick response to all inquires
Carol Borland
1 day ago
Angela was fantastic! She was thoughtful, helpful, and prompt in her responses without being intrusive. She accommodated our large group and was genuinely excited for us when it all worked out. Can't say enough good things! This is our second trip booking through Adventure Life and we will definitely do it again.
Emily
2 days ago
Jessica was extremely helpful and generous with her time. She was very responsive to our questions and comments and in a very timely fashion. She worked with us in partnership to plan a trip specifically for us and our wants and needs.
Linda Coleman
2 days ago
Mary Curry found right trip for my budget and the best date that I liked. She made
that reservation when other company's agent could not do it.
Thank you so much!