Wonders of Colombia with AmaWaterways

Enjoy complimentary UK airport lounge access before your overnight flight from the UK to Medellín.

On arrival in Medellín, a transfer will take you to your hotel where you'll be based for the next three nights. Colombia's second largest city today, Medellín has emerged from its turbulent past to become one of South America's most vibrant and innovative cities, with a diverse array of cultural attractions and a burgeoning culinary scene. 

On your second day, a guided tour of the coffee region will introduce you to the rich, complex flavours of Antioquia's treasured produce and the skill and dedication of the farmers who grow the beans that form these unique blends. Later on, a cable car ride will give you a fascinating perspective of Medellín from above. 

The next day, you'll have the opportunity to explore Medellín itself in greater depth, with a fascinating guided tour showcasing the city's remarkable transformation from a place once associated with violence and unrest into a thriving 21st century cultural hub. 

Stay: Hotel in Medellín

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and return to the airport for your flight to Cartagena, a colourful port city Colombia’s Caribbean coast. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour of the walled city. This beautiful coastal capital of the Bolivar region once attracted Spaniards, who flocked here when they heard tales of gold found in the tombs of indigenous leaders. This expanded what was once a small town into a thriving city. During your tour, spot landmarks such as the Cathedral de Cartagena and the stone walls, originally built to protect the city from plundering pirates. These mighty walls were unsuccessful, however, at stopping Sir Francis Drake from holding the city for ransom in 1586.

The following day presents a further opportunity to explore Cartagena. Start by exploring the UNESCO-listed San Felipe Castle, a fortress that defended the city from both French and British attacks. As you walk through Cartagena, learn the city’s association with emeralds and how the gemstones have impacted its history. Also take the chance to delve into Cartagena's Caribbean heritage at the Gold Museum and the Caribbean Naval Museum. The latter explores the country’s incredible naval history, from pre-Hispanic times to the present day.

Stay: Hotel in Cartagena

This morning, tour the famous vaults of Cartagena. Over the years, these vaults have seen many transformations: from being Spanish headquarters to a prison to the art galleries, shops and restaurants you’ll find today. Afterwards, return to your hotel to check out and be transferred to the port to embark on your AmaWaterways river cruise.

Once you’ve settled into your stylish stateroom or suite, set out on a breathtaking neighbourhood tour of Getsemani. These streets are a feast for the senses senses with their colourful homes and street art, as well as mouthwatering local delicacies. This evening, watch the sun set over Cartagena as you set sail on your luxury Magdalena River cruise.

Stay: AmaMagdalena or AmaMelodia

The first stretch of your cruise brings you to Palenque, the first free town in the Americas, founded by those who had fled slavery during colonial times. In 1713, the Spanish crown issued a decree officially freeing the people of Palenque. It has been well-preserved through the years, allowing you to immerse yourself in the town’s culture and traditions today. In fact, its cultural heritage is so deeply rooted that UNESCO saw fit to declare Palenque a ‘Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.’ The music and rhythmic style developed here is particularly important, which you can experience during a special performance by local musicians. Later, visit Calamar and hop on a paola (a bicycle taxi for two) to see historic sites such as the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Conception.

Stay: AmaMagdalena or AmaMelodia

Spend the morning in Santa Barbara de Pinto, a traditional town located on the banks of the Mompox arm of the Magdalena River. Set out on a walking tour to discover intricate hand-made crafts and to spot local landmarks such as the Santa Barbara Church. This afternoon brings you to Mompox itself, an island town where you’ll be welcomed with open arms and lively music during an exclusive jazz performance by local musicians.

Stay: AmaMagdalena or AmaMelodia

Mompox, Latin America’s largest inland island, is in many ways a town frozen in time. It embodies what villages would have looked like during colonial times. Mompox became an important trading post after Spaniards found it to be a haven for storing and protecting their gold from the pirates who pillaged nearby coastal cities. The result of this precious metal and the skilled Spanish artisans is a flourishing tradition of beautifully crafted artefacts, which you still see evidence of today in Mompox’s famous filigree jewellery. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour to discover the town’s stunning colonial churches, breathtaking natural surroundings, and delicious local delicacies such as capa cheese and butifarra.

Stay: AmaMagdalena or AmaMelodia

Take a scenic cruise down one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Magdalena River as you make your way toward El Banco. El Banco was founded in a strategic location for both the native people and the Spaniards; it was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt over the years. In 1749, José Domingo Ortiz, a freed slave, led settlers here with a statue of the Virgin Mary, which he staked to claim their new home. A guided walking tour delves into El Banco’s history as the birthplace of cumbia, a genre of music and dance now popular around the world. It began as a courtship dance and later incorporated American steps and European and African instruments. This evening, enjoy an exclusive dinner paired with an incredible cumbia performance by locals.

Stay: AmaMagdalena or AmaMelodia

Get a healthy dose of nature today as you explore the sights, bird calls and wildlife of Magangue. A birdwatching tour will give you the unique opportunity to discover species only found in this specific part of the country. If you’d prefer, you can also choose to explore picturesque Ciénaga on an alternate and fascinating excursion. 

Stay: AmaMagdalena or AmaMelodia

Spend the morning in the floating village of Nueva Venecia (New Venice), which can only be navigated by boat. Discover traditional crafts and artworks, learn the techniques of local fishermen and sample local treats. Later, venture to the seaside city of Barranquilla, a haven for musicians, writers, and artists. Breathe in the city’s atmosphere and visit landmarks such as the bocas de cenizas, the point at which the Magdalena River meets the Caribbean Sea, and the ‘Carnaval’ Museum, showcasing the history of this remarkable festival. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive ‘Carnaval’ celebration only for AmaWaterways guests, no matter the time of year.

Stay: AmaMagdalena or AmaMelodia

After breakfast onboard this morning, it's time to disembark your AmaWaterways cruise in Barranquilla and be transferred to the airport for your overnight flight home.