A Remote Colombian River Cruise with Colourful Cartagena

Upon arrival in Bogotá, you will be transferred to your hotel. Take the day to relax before a Welcome Dinner this evening to meet your fellow guests and Botanical Guide.

Spend the day exploring the vibrant heart of Colombia’s capital. Begin with a brief orientation tour, starting in the historic Plaza de Bolívar, which is encircled by grand government buildings and steeped in rich cultural heritage. Meander through La Candelaria, with its cobbled streets, colourful facades, and centuries-old architecture. At the Gold Museum, see one of the world’s largest collections of pre-Columbian gold artefacts — a gleaming insight into Colombia's ancient civilisations. Later, immerse yourself in the lush and serene Bogotá Botanical Gardens. Wander pathways through native flora, from delicate orchids to towering tropical species. Admire the rose garden, where more than 70 vibrant varieties bloom in a kaleidoscope of colour and fragrance.

Travel to Chingaza National Park, on the eastern slopes of the Andes. The vegetation here ranges from forest to moorlands and lagoons, and we see the endemic species of the páramo ecosystem, including the frailejón – commonly known as espeletia – a high-altitude shrub found in Andean climates. Walk through the park and admire the variety of páramo plants and blooming flowers.

This morning, fly to Barranquilla and settle into your stateroom aboard the AmaMagdalena as we prepare for our journey along the Magdalena River. This evening, enjoy a special Carnaval celebration. 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. 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’).

Our vessel docks near a local village within the Sabanagrande municipality. Learn about the lives of its residents during a guided tour, browse locally made arts and crafts, and taste regional delicacies during our visit.

Arrive at Boca de Tacaloa, within the Magangué region. Hear about local legends and witness some of the area’s wildlife, including numerous bird species, monkeys and fish during a tour. In the afternoon, arrive in the island town of Mompox, where we are welcomed with an exclusive jazz performance.

The remote village of Mompox was an important Spanish trading post, and its many colonial buildings have been well preserved. The town is famous for its filigree jewellery, which we learn about during our tour this afternoon. We also visit the area’s massive lake, which is home to a variety of native flora and fauna. Take a stroll through the town or join a filigree workshop, appreciating the work of its talented local artisans. While here, take the opportunity to try the local capa cheese and butifarra.

Cruise to Santa Bárbara de Pinto, a typical riverside village of the Magdalena. Immerse yourself in the town, learning about the traditional crafts of net weaving and the hand rolling of tobacco, as well as long-established fishing techniques. Visit the local church, whose artefacts document Colombian history, culture and architecture. Absorb the alluring pastel tones of the town’s buildings and perhaps select one of the locally handmade craft pieces as a souvenir. For those who prefer a more active adventure, choose to join a guided hike further across the lush landscapes beyond the town. Afterwards, families from the municipality of El Banco join us aboard AmaMagdalena. Experience the lively music and dance of La Cumbia, which originated in Colombia and is shared with us by our guests during a special performance.

This morning, board a paola, – a tandem bicycle taxi – for a tour of Calamar. Ride along the waterfront to the House of Culture before departing for Palenque, a village founded by Africans who had fled a life of slavery. The distinctive hairstyles and ancestral medicine found here helped to earn Palenque a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity from UNESCO. During our tour, we visit the home of a resident and also discover the hypnotic rhythms of the vibrant local music style.

Take the day to delight in the beautiful coastal city of Cartagena, whose many brightly coloured buildings can be seen adorned with flower boxes. The discovery of gold led to the expansion of what was once a small port into a thriving city. Observe iconic landmarks, such as the Catedral de Cartagena, or the stone walls built to protect the city from plundering pirates. This afternoon, stand before the sprawling San Felipe Castle, which once defended the city from attacks by the French and British. Then enjoy a tour through the breathtaking Getsemaní neighbourhood. Amid the vibrant, colourful homes and street art, mouthwatering local delicacies can also be found throughout the historic neighbourhood.

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