Day 1 CARTAGENA

Arrive in Cartagena, the beautiful capital of the Bolivar region located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Take the day to delight in the beautiful coastal city of Cartagena. Many Spaniards flocked to this location when they heard tales of gold found in the tombs of indigenous leaders, expanding this small port into a thriving city. As you tour the city, you may witness iconic landmarks such as the Catedral de Cartagena or the stone walls built to protect the city from the plundering of pirates, although they did not stop Sir Francis Drake from holding the city for ransom in 1586.

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Day 2 CARTAGENA

Start your day by exploring the incredible UNESCO-designated San Felipe Castle, the fortress that defended Cartagena from French and British attacks. As you walk through Cartagena, learn more about emeralds and the impact of these precious gemstones on the city’s history. Alternatively, visit the Gold Museum, which features ancient gold artifacts from the indigenous cultures found in this region. You will also visit the Caribbean Naval Museum. Follow the story of this fascinating country and its incredible naval history from pre-Hispanic times until the present. (B)

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Day 3 CARTAGENA – EMBARKATION

Before checking out of your hotel, tour the famous vaults of Cartagena. These vaults have gone through many transformations – from being Spanish headquarters to a prison for those seeking independence from Spain to the art galleries, restaurants and shops you can witness today. After settling into your stateroom, enjoy a tour through the breathtaking neighborhood of Getsemani. With the vibrant colors of the homes and street art as well as the mouthwatering local delicacies that can be found throughout the area, this historic neighborhood will delight all your senses. In the evening, watch the sun set on Cartagena as we set sail on your magical Magdalena River journey (B, D)

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Day 4 MAHATES (PALENQUE) – CALAMAR

In the morning, dock in Mahates, your gateway to the town of Palenque, the first “free town” in the Americas. Founded by those who fled a life of slavery during colonial times, the spirit and appearance of this town has been preserved through time. In 1713, the Spanish crown issued a Royal Decree that officially freed the people of Palenque from slavery. Immerse yourself in the town’s deeply rooted culture and traditions, from symbolic hairstyles to ancestral medicine, which are so distinct that UNESCO declared Palenque to be a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. You will also visit a local home during this excursion. An important piece of Palenque’s heritage is the music and rhythmic style that was developed in this city, which you will enjoy during a special performance that brings the town’s spirit to life. Later in the day, cruise to Calamar. Located at the entrance of the Canal del Dique, this town was first settled in 1840. Witness historic sites such as the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Conception as you tour this beautiful destination by paola (a bicycle taxi for two). (B, L, D)

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Day 5 MAGANGUÉ REGION - MOMPOX

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, such as beautiful birds that are unique to this region of the country, making for an unforgettable immersion in wildlife. Then, enjoy scenic cruising 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)

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Day 6 MOMPOX

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, which you can learn more about during your tour of this town. While visiting the largest inland island in Latin America, journey through the beautiful wetlands, exploring the massive lake that is home to a variety of flora and fauna native to the region, with opportunities to birdwatch at sunrise, early morning and sunset. In either the morning or the afternoon, you can choose to take a stroll through this storied town on a guided tour beginning with a tuk-tuk ride from Plaza de San Francisco, visiting key landmarks. You may also visit a filigree workshop in either the morning or afternoon, witnessing the intricate jewelry artistry that defines Mompox’s renowned craftsmanship. 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 your journey along the magnificent Magdalena River. (B, L, D)

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Day 7 MOMPOX - SCENIC CRUISING

Bid farewell to Mompox before embarking on a scenic cruise down one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Magdalena River – La Mojana Region. Learn more about the history 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 world-wide sensation, which is especially popular in the Andean region of Colombia. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive cumbia performance by locals. (B, L, D)

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Day 8 SANTA BARBARA DE PINTO - SCENIC CRUISING

Embark on one of our private excursion boats to visit Santa Barbara de Pinto, located on the banks of the Mompox arm of the Magdalena River. Enjoy an immersive tour of the town that includes learning the traditional craft of fishing net weaving and watching skilled artisans hand roll tobacco. You will also visit a historic church. Plus, shop for intricate handmade wares crafted by local townspeople while delighting in the pastel-toned Spanish architecture throughout the town. If you prefer a more active adventure, exploring the natural beauty surrounding this riverside town on a guided hike through its lush landscapes. (B, L, D)

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Day 9 SITIO NUEVO – BARRANQUILLA

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 as you tour 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 is on display, learn about the techniques the fishermen of Nueva Venecia use, and taste the local delicacies as you 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 you venture through this magnificent location, where you may see the bocas de cenizas, the point at which the magical Magdalena River meets the breathtaking Caribbean Sea. 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. (B, L, D)

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Day 10 BARRANQUILLA – DISEMBARKATION

Bid your ship and crew farewell as you disembark and prepare for your flight home. (B)