Overview
Embrace the magic of Colombia as you explore the “Land of a Thousand Rhythms” and its magnificent Magdalena River during this special 7-night river cruise journey. Move to the beat of a variety of Latin American musical styles including cumbia and vallenato, reveling in exciting performances at a colorful Carnaval experience in Barranquilla just for AmaWaterways guests. Drink a steaming cup of the country’s famous coffee as you listen to the calls of tropical birds and wildlife unique to Colombia’s biodiverse ecosystem. Discover timeless traditions practiced by the friendly guides, welcoming residents, and creative minds who comprise part of Colombia’s diverse population. Enjoy the soul and spirit of Colombia as you sail the Magdalena River along with AmaWaterways, the Heart of the River™.
Inclusions
| May 17 – December 24, 2025 |
Cruise Only |
| Balcony |
from $4569 |
| Taxes & Fees Included |
3 nights Medellin Pre-cruise: add from $1811 more
3 nights Panama Post-cruise: add from $2154 more |
Reversed itinerary is available – Call us!
Add Ons
Optional Land Tours
3-nights Medellin Pre-Cruise
Add from $1811 per person
DAY 1: MEDELLÍN
Arrive in the city of Medellín, the second largest city in Colombia. Named the most innovative city in the world by the Urban Land Institute in 2013, this fascinating city combines modern conveniences with colonial history. Check into your hotel and enjoy your first night in this unique city.
DAY 2: MEDELLÍN
The region’s ideal climate and soil conditions, combined with the skill and passion of local farmers, make for a unique and delicious coffee experience, which you can learn about and enjoy for yourself during a guided excursion. Before the majority of coffee farms moved south, the state of Antioquia was where coffee growth in Colombia first begin, planting the seed of tradition and culture strongly in this region. The coffee beans grown in Medellin are known for their rich and complex flavor profiles, with notes of dark chocolate, caramel, and berries. This delightful coffee is also certified by organizations such as the Rainforest Alliance, which ensures that the coffee is grown in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. (B, L)
DAY 3: MEDELLÍN
Though the city was once known for violent campaigns, Medellín has undergone impressive social transformations, and you will get to examine the drastic differences as you tour Comuna 13. This neighborhood was once the center of political corruption’s influence on the city, and it has now been elevated to a place of strengthened community, music, and art. Ride a cable car through this unique area and witness how it has grown. (B)
DAY 4: MEDELLÍN – BARRANQUILLA – EMBARKATION
Fly to the beautiful city of Barranquilla and settle into your stateroom as you prepare for your journey along the Magdalena River. In the evening, enjoy a special Carnaval celebration, bringing the full traditional experience exclusively to AmaWaterways’ guests all-year round. Widely considered one of Colombia’s most important folkloric celebrations, the Carnaval of Barranquilla has also been declared a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, and you will get to revel in this truly authentic experience as you learn the Carnaval’s motto: Quien lo vive, es quien lo goza (Those who live it are those who enjoy it).
3-nights Panama Post-Cruise
Add from $2154 per person
DAY 8: CARTAGENA (or BARRANQUILLA) – DISEMBARKATION – PANAMA
Disembark your ship and fly to Panama City, famous for the canal that separates North and South America. Start your Panama journey in Panama La Vieja, the site of the original Panama City. Located in the middle of skyscrapers, this charming UNESCO World Heritage Site still conserves its initial mystical flavor. Built on an indigenous village, Panama La Vieja was the first city founded by Spain in the Pacific Coast in 1519. Continue into Causeway Amador, a road that unites Panama City to the islands of Naos, Perico and Flamenco, as you immerse yourself in the modern sights of this wonderful city. In the afternoon, explore the intriguing Museum of Biodiversity. Designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry, this unique museum invites you to delve into the stories surrounding country’s diverse ecosystems, tectonic forces of the earth, and first settlements of humans in the area, all joining together to create the Panama we know today. After, walk through the vivid colors of Casco Antiguo, where you will be staying during your time in this incredible city. (B)
DAY 9: PANAMA
Take in the man-made majesty of the Panama Canal during this full day of incredible excursions. Before this marvel of engineering was constructed, ships were forced to sail the southernmost tip of South America along the Drake Passage or the Strait of Magellan. Once the Panama Canal was opened in 1914 after over 30 years of construction directed by multiple countries, international trade changed forever. Visit the building where the chief engineer, George W. Goethals, centralized the canal’s administrative activities before embarking along this legendary canal for yourself. Journey along the Panama Canal as you witness the breathtaking Gatun Lake. Known as the largest artificial lake in the world, this body of water is surrounded by the beauty of petrified trees frozen in time, tropical rainforest, and the unique flora and fauna found along its banks. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort and discover more about the history, biodiversity and operation of the Panama Canal during a private tour of the Miraflores Visitor Center. (B, L)
DAY 10: PANAMA
Be dazzled by the breathtaking rainforest of Chagres National Park, taking in the amazing scenery that surrounds you. Navigate the Chagres River through this magical jungle aboard a piragua, traditional canoe, captained by a knowledgeable Emberá (an indigenous tribe) guide. Stop at a magnificent waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool water and absorb the energy of this natural wonder, before continuing to an Emberá village. The Emberá are a riverine people of Panama, historically building their houses along banks of rivers. Learn how to cook a traditional Emberá lunch, that you will enjoy. Immerse yourself in the ritual dances, local music, handcrafts and more as you experience and embrace this unique culture. (B, L)
DAY 11: PANAMA
Bid Panama farewell and prepare for your flight home. (B)
