Day 1 - Barranquilla, Colombia
Arrive in 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'.
The festival is a celebration of sights, sounds and tastes! You’ll have the chance to try traditional dishes such as bollo de yuca, the arroz de lisa, the sancocho of guandú and fried specialties such as empanadas and patacón.

Day 2 - Nueva Venecia, Colombia
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. 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.

Day 3 - Magangué, Colombia
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.

Day 3 - Mompox, Colombia
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. Since then, the town has become famous for its incredible filigree jewelry. 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. Take a stroll through this storied town on a guided tour beginning with a tuk-tuk ride from Plaza de San Francisco.

Day 4 - Mompox, Colombia
Today we’ll explore Mompox, a magical town on an island in the middle of the Magdalena River. It exudes history, romanticism, and nostalgia in every corner, especially along the Calle Real del Medio, or Main Royal Street. While visiting the largest inland island in Latin America, journey through the incredible ecological Ciénaga Pijiño region. In the evening, we’ll stroll through this storied town on a guided walking tour to see stunning colonial sites and taste delicious local delights such as capa cheese and butifarra, a local sausage delicacy.

Day 5 - Santa Barbara de Pinto, Colombia
This afternoon we’ll arrive in Santa Barbara de Pinto, a typical Magdalena riverside village. Enjoy an immersive tour of the town that includes watching skilled artisans hand roll tobacco. You will also visit a historic church andshop for intricate handmade wares crafted by local townspeople. This evening, we'll visit onboard with local families from El Banco who are keepers of La Cumbia... the soul of Colombian music and the heart of this region. You will have the chance to experience this cultural treasure firsthand, with authentic music, stories and celebration.

Day 6 - Calamar, Colombia
In the morning, board a paola (a bicycle taxi for two) for a historic tour of Calamar, starting with a scenic ride along the Malecon to the House of Culture. We’ll have a guided walking tour of Calamar and learn more about its history as the birthplace 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.

Day 6 - Palenque, Colombia
Later, depart Calamar and cruise to 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. Immerse yourself in the town’s deeply rooted culture and traditions. 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 that brings the town’s spirit to life.

Days 7 & 8 - Cartagena, Colombia
Take the day to delight in the beautiful coastal city of Cartagena. Start your day with a tour the city, including iconic landmarks such as the Catedral de Cartagena or the stone walls built to protect the city from pirates. Later we'll visit the incredible San Felipe Castle, the fortress that defended Cartagena from French and British attacks. You will also enjoy a tour through the breathtaking Getsemaní neighborhood. 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.