AmaWaterways has proudly become the first river cruise line to cruise the deeply symbolic and culturally significant Magdalena River that traverses Colombia, stopping at ports of call like Cartagena, Mompox, Santa Barbara de Pinto, and Barranquilla, and introducing guests to the myriad wonders of each town. Local delicacies, stunning nature, and welcoming townspeople make each stop an awe-inspiring experience. All you have to do is hop aboard your luxurious AmaWaterways river cruise ship. Let’s explore.

Choose Your Adventure

AmaWaterways presents two 7-night cruises to Colombia with optional land packages in Medellín, Cartagena, and Panama City—choose from the Wonders of Colombia (cruise from Cartagena to Barranquilla) or Magic of Colombia (cruise from Barranquilla to Cartagena) itineraries and cruise aboard the spacious AmaMelodia or AmaMagdalena ships.

The Jewels of Colombia

You may never be the same after your Colombian journey, thanks to fully immersing yourself in the country’s one-of-a-kind culture and the cities and small towns that give it its vibrancy and spirit. From delectable foods and urban innovation to celebratory songs and dancing, these cities balance past, present, and future with impressive dexterity.

Medellín

Those who choose the optional land package are in for a very special treat with three days in Medellín, one of the most progressive cities in the world that’s undergone a truly unbelievable transformation. This second-largest city in Colombia is now an exemplar of how progress and change can foster a new way of life. Outdoor escalators and cable cars hanging high above the city’s museums, libraries, and restaurants are one of the prime examples of innovation that has generated more connection for inhabitants. You’ll also find yourself in awe of Medellín’s seamless integration of nature and urbanity. Lush gardens, verdant parks, and hiking trails can be found throughout, inviting locals and tourists to get a taste of the outdoors as often as possible.

Cartegena

Also known as “the walled city,” Cartagena is a sight to behold with its stunning colonial architecture and historic, fully walkable old town. Traipse down the cobblestone streets of this beautiful fishing village and you’ll discover pastry shops serving unique Colombian sweets like milhojas de arequipe (layers of flaky puff pastry filled with pastry cream and topped with dulce de leche), best enjoyed with a delicious cup of legendary Colombian coffee.

Palenque

One of the premier stops on both itineraries is the town of Palenque, which has the distinction of being the first “free town” in the Americas after a Royal Decree freed enslaved Africans in the region. During your visit, you’ll discover exactly what makes this town so incredibly different (from symbolic hairstyles to ancestral medicine) that UNESCO has officially declared it a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. With its colonial appearance hardly changed since the 1700s, Palenque offers visitors a step back into time.