Colombia comes into focus while cruising on the Magdalena River, which connects vibrant cities, historic river towns, and tropical landscapes. Learn about the country’s past during guided visits in Cartagena’s walled Old Town and places like Mompox, then experience its natural side through birdwatching and scenic stretches of river travel along the way.
Colombia River Cruises
Sailing This Itinerary
Bustling Port Cities to Riverside Towns
Colombia’s diversity comes through in its cities and towns. Cartagena’s walled Old Town reflects centuries of Caribbean trade and colonial history, while places like Mompox offer a quieter setting where preserved architecture and guided visits provide context on the region’s past and long-standing traditions.
Featured Experiences in Colombia
Take A Guided Tour of Cartagena’s Getsemaní
Walk through Cartagena’s Getsemaní district with a local guide, where colorful streets and murals reflect the city’s Caribbean roots and creativity.
Visit Palenque, Colombia’s First Free Town
Travel to Palenque to experience the area’s Afro-Colombian heritage by spending time with locals in this UNESCO-recognized community.
Discover Mompox Through History and Craft
Explore the colonial town of Mompox on a guided tour that highlights its preserved architecture and long-standing tradition of intricate filigree.
Wildlife Excursion to Boca de Tacaloa
Travel by small boat through Boca de Tacaloa in the Magangué region, where wetlands and waterways support bird species native to the region.
Explore Medellín’s Coffee Culture
While in Medellín, join a visit to a nearby coffee farm to taste locally grown coffee and learn about the region’s agricultural heritage.
Not sure where to start?
Let us help you choose the right cruise. Our river cruise experts are here to help you find the perfect journey, tailored to your interests and travel dreams.
Sailing the Magdalena
Testimonials
“We’ve told so many people about how river cruising with AmaWaterways is the best-kept secret in travel, and we are already talking about what river we will experience next.”
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Meghan F.
“Hats off and a bow down to the AmaSiena crew for providing a wonderful experience. I want to give a special shout-out to our Cruise Director. She was there for us all the time including pre- and post-cruise experinces. She is the best Cruise Director of any cruise we have ever been on! ”
TC
Tom C.
“We had planned our river cruise during Christmas, but we didn’t even miss celebrating at home because AmaLucia was completely decked out with wreaths, ornaments, and lights and there were at least four Christmas trees on board. Our gift to the kids this year was the river cruise, but we did take advantage of the ship’s tradition of everyone putting their slippers out to sneak some trinkets into theirs. It was so fun; we may even start doing this at home! On board the ship, our family played a lot of board games in the lounge and danced to the live music each evening. We also spent some quiet time together in the stateroom watching Christmas movies. The gift of traveling with your family is that you don’t have constant distractions or activities to run to – you can just spend more time being together.”
JV
Jennifer V.
“As a slightly disabled 80-year-old, I missed out on many included excursions with other companies. Then I found AmaWaterways and their gentle walker options and my world opened up.”
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Patricia T.
“From the moment we landed in Amsterdam for the pre-cruise until the last day of the post-cruise in Zurich, our tour manager, Florentin, made us feel welcome and safe. He remained with us throughout the trip and was extremely professional, knowledgeable and resourceful. Florentin always had a smile on his face and interesting details about the cities on our trip.”
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Ernestina R.
Land Extensions
Extend Your Colombian Journey in Medellín
Explore beyond the river with extra days in Medellín, where a dramatic mountain setting frames a city shaped by bold urban ideas and creativity. Guided city tours and visits to nearby coffee farms offer dded perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Panama
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France
France has long been shaped by its rivers, where villages grew, vineyards took root and daily life continues along the water’s edge. Following the Seine, Rhône or Garonne means tracing centuries of history past château-lined banks and wine country towns. Any journey through France is deepened by the country’s enduring relationship with food and wine, experienced through onshore tastings and thoughtfully crafted onboard dining.
Vietnam
Vietnam’s mix of bustling cities, tranquil riverside villages, and beautiful landscapes offer a varied experience as you cruise along the Mekong. Spend days learning about the country’s history in Ho Chi Minh City, wandering lantern-lit streets in Hoi An, or touring floating markets and artisan shops along the Mekong.
Journeys That Move You.
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