Awarded “Best River Cruise Line” by the world’s leading cruise review website, AmaWaterways invites you to embark on immersive and authentic journeys along the world’s legendary rivers. Now, you can experience an entirely new river cruising destination: the magical Magdalena River in Colombia.
As the first major river cruise line to embark on this breathtaking river, AmaWaterways invites you to experience a truly authentic journey. From Cartagena to Barranquilla and beyond, here are a few details you can enjoy along these highly anticipated river cruises.
Cruising the Magdalena River
Choose between the 7-night Magic of Colombia itinerary, which cruises from Barranquilla to Cartagena, and the 7-night Wonders of Colombia river cruise, cruising from Cartagena to Barranquilla. With AmaWaterways’ personal touch, experience the vibrant culture of Colombia aboard one of two stunning ships, the 60-passenger AmaMagdalena or 64-passenger AmaMelodia, all while being pampered by the attentive crew, an expert Wellness Host and a dedicated Cruise Manager, locals familiar with the river and the surrounding destinations. Throughout the entire cruise, experienced local guides will accompany you, and they will be immersed in the energy of this fascinating country on a wide variety of included and authentic excursions.
The Renowned Barranquilla Carnaval
Barranquilla boasts the second largest Carnaval celebration in the world. In 2003, UNESCO declared the Barranquilla Carnaval a “Masterpiece of Humanity’s Intangible and Oral Heritage.” Four days before Lent, the city breaks out into boisterous festivities, and the streets of Barranquilla come alive with music, masks, costumes, floats and an explosion of colors.
While traditionally celebrated for only four days out of the year, every AmaWaterways guest will get to experience Carnaval when visiting Barranquilla – a year-round event available exclusively from this river cruise line. During this festival, you can dance, sing and get lost in the radiant spirit that excites all who embrace this exuberant energy.
The Historic Highlights of Cartagena
Cartagena became a major port during the Spanish conquest, funded by the Spanish crown, which led to many pirate raids on the city. To protect against these raids, the Spanish royalty ordered the construction of stone walls around Cartagena, which can still be seen today. This fortification is the reason Cartagena is also called la ciudad amurallada—“the walled city.”
During AmaWaterways’ 7-night Magic of Colombia journey along the Magdalena River, tour this vibrant city, seeing the historic walls with your own eyes. San Felipe Castle, a fortress that defended the city from British and French attacks, also awaits you along the way.
The Hidden Beauty of Mompox
Safeguarding Cartagena’s treasure in Mompox allowed for the rise of skilled craftsmen to mold and reshape the precious metals into wonderous new relics and trinkets, perfecting the art of filigree that has become a feature of this town.
Now, you can learn more about this fascinating past and see the talent that has been cultivated in this town over the centuries during a special included excursion during your AmaWaterways itinerary, where you can learn to make filigree jewelry yourself. Whether it be a special souvenir or a priceless memory, find your own treasure as you immerse yourself in the rich culture and history along your journey.
A Special Offer for Your Journey
When reserving your AmaWaterways journey in Colombia, you can save up to C$1,800 per stateroom on select 2025 and 2026 Magdalena River cruises. Explore the country’s vibrant culture and immersive destinations at the best value for you!
Contact your travel advisor or visit AmaWaterways.ca/colombia to learn more!