Wonders of Colombia & Panama Cruise & Escorted Tour

Cartagena • Palenque • Magangue • Mompox • Santa Barbara de Pinto • Sitio Nuevo • Barranquilla • Panama City

Embark on a captivating 13-day journey from Cartagena to Panama City, blending Colombia’s rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty with the engineering marvels of Panama. Begin in the coastal gem of Cartagena before cruising the magical Magdalena River, stopping at culturally significant towns like Palenque, Mompox, and Barranquilla, with immersive local experiences including music, crafts, and wildlife. Then, fly to Panama City to explore the iconic Panama Canal, colonial Casco Viejo, and the indigenous Emberá community.This unforgettable adventure offers a seamless blend of heritage, nature, and modern marvels—perfect for culturally curious travelers seeking a once in a lifetime South American experience.


Arrive in Cartagena, the beautiful capital of the Bolivar region located on Colombias Caribbean coast. Take the day to delight in the beautiful coastal city of Cartagena. Many Spaniards flocked to this location when they heard tales of gold found in the tombs of indigenous leaders, expanding this small port into a thriving city. As you tour the city, you may witness iconic landmarks such as the Catedral de Cartagena or the stone walls built to protect the city from the plundering of pirates, although they did not stop Sir Francis Drake from holding the city for ransom in 1586.


Start your day by exploring the incredible UNESCO-designated San Felipe Castle, the fortress that defended Cartagena from French and British attacks. As you walk through Cartagena, learn more about emeralds and the impact of these precious gemstones on the citys history. Alternatively, visit the Gold Museum, which features ancient gold artifacts from the indigenous cultures found in this region. You will also visit the Caribbean Naval Museum. Follow the story of this fascinating country and its incredible naval history from pre-Hispanic times until the present.


Before checking out of your hotel, tour the famous vaults of Cartagena. These vaults have gone through many transformations from being Spanish headquarters to a prison for those seeking independence from Spain to the art galleries, restaurants and shops you can witness today. After settling into your stateroom, enjoy a tour through the breathtaking neighborhood of Getsemani. 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. In the evening, watch the sun set on Cartagena as we set sail on your magical Magdalena River journey

Cartagena, Columbia
Arrive in Cartagena, the beautiful capital of the Bolivar region located on Colombias Caribbean coast. After settling into your stateroom, enjoy a tour through the breathtaking Getseman 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. Upon returning to your ship, embark on your journey along the magical Magdalena River.


In the morning, dock in 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. In 1713, the Spanish crown issued a Royal Decree that officially freed the people of Palenque from slavery. Immerse yourself in the towns deeply rooted culture and traditions, from symbolic hairstyles to ancestral medicine, which are so distinct that UNESCO declared Palenque to be a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. You will also visit a local home during this excursion. An important piece of Palenques heritage is the music and rhythmic style that was developed in this city, which you will enjoy during a special performance that brings the towns spirit to life. Later in the day, cruise to Calamar. Located at the entrance of the Canal del Dique, this town was first settled in 1840. Witness historic sites such as the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Conception as you tour this beautiful destination by paola.


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 Magangu 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.


Established in 1540, the remote colonial town of Mompox was a significant Spanish trading post and a safe place to store treasures away from coastal pirates. This history, along with the work of skilled Spanish artisans, led to the town's fame for its intricate filigree jewelry.On a tour of Mompox, you can explore the towns colonial architecture and visit a filigree workshop to see the craftsmanship firsthand. You can also take a boat trip through the surrounding wetlands and Latin America's largest inland island to see the local wildlife and go birdwatching.With its blend of history, unique craftsmanship, and natural beauty, Mompox is a highlight of any trip along the Magdalena River.


Bid farewell to Mompox before embarking on a scenic cruise down one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Magdalena River La Mojana Region. Learn more about the history 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. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive cumbia performance by locals.


Embark on one of our private excursion boats to visit Santa Barbara de Pinto, located on the banks of the Mompox arm of the Magdalena River. Enjoy an immersive tour of the town that includes learning the traditional craft of fishing net weaving and watching skilled artisans hand roll tobacco. You will also visit a historic church. Plus, shop for intricate handmade wares crafted by local townspeople while delighting in the pastel-toned Spanish architecture throughout the town. If you prefer a more active adventure, exploring the natural beauty surrounding this riverside town on a guided hike through its lush landscapes.


In the morning, visit a charming village on a guided tour that highlights the beauty and warmth of Colombia. Learn more about the local culture and the lives of the residents. Later in the day, venture to the beautiful seaside city of Barranquilla, a vibrant destination home to notable musicians, writers and artists. Immerse yourself in the warmth and culture of the citys atmosphere as you venture through this magnificent location, where you may see the bocas de cenizas, the point at which the magical Magdalena River meets the breathtaking Caribbean Sea. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive Carnaval celebration just for AmaWaterways guests as we bring the full traditional experience to our guests all year round.

Barranquilla
Bid your ship and crew farewell as you disembark


Disembark your ship and fly to Panama City, famous for the canal that separates North and South America. Start your Panama journey in Panama Casco Viejo. Located in the middle of skyscrapers, this charming UNESCO World Heritage Site still conserves its initial mystical flavor. Casco Viejo preserves the first institutions and buildings that laid the foundation for the Panama that we know today. Explore the city walls that were built to protect the city from pirate attacks. Walk through Plaza de Francia, a beautiful public square that pays homage to Frances role in building the iconic Panama Canal, and Plaza Carlos V, named for the most powerful monarch in Europe during the 16th century. Take in the stunning la compaia architecture prominent in this historic area of the city, showcased in breathtaking buildings such as the Catedral Baslica Santa Mara la Antigua de Panam. Immerse yourself in the vivid colors of Casco Viejo as you make your way to your hotel, where you will be staying during your time in this incredible city.


Discover one of the worlds engineering marvels, the Panama Canal, on this full-day excursion. Opened in 1914 after more than 30 years of construction, the canal revolutionized international trade by shortening voyages between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Visit the Panama Canal Administration Building, a historic landmark, and learn about the legacy of Chief Engineer George W. Goethals and the canals impact on global commerce. Then, embark on an intimate boat expedition on Gatun Lake, once the worlds largest artificial lake. Surrounded by lush rainforest, the lake serves as a vibrant habitat for the local wildlife, including many species of tropical birds and monkeys. After enjoying a delicious lunch featuring regional cuisine at a local resort, continue to the Miraflores Visitor Center for a private tour, where you'll dive deeper into the canals history, operation, and biodiversity and discover why it continues to be a vital waterway for international commerce.


Be dazzled by a breathtaking rainforest near Chagres National Park, taking in the amazing scenery that surrounds you. Navigate Gatun Lake through this magical jungle before continuing to an Ember village. The Ember are a riverine people of Panama, historically building their houses along banks of rivers. These people came from another location when Gatun Lake was created, finding a new home next to this bridge of water. Savor a traditional Ember tasting experience that is sure to delight your taste buds. Immerse yourself in the ritual dances, local music, handcrafts and more as you experience and embrace this unique culture.


Bid Panama farewell and prepare for your flight home.


A72671 London from £10449

• Return flights from London with 23kg baggage
• 2 Night Cartagena In-depth Escorted Tour
• Airport transfers
• Walled City Walking Tour
• San Felipe Castle Visit OR Gold Museum and Caribbean Naval Museum
• The Vaults Walking Tour
• Daily Breakfast
• 07 nights All Inclusive cruise on board the Ama Magdalena
• All fine dining on board
• Wine, beer and soft drinks included during lunch and dinner
• Sip & Sail cocktail hour with complimentary drinks
• 24/7 Colombian coffee and tea station
• Immersive excursions in every destination
• High-quality Wi-Fi
• 3 Night Panama City In-depth Escorted Tour
• Internal flights
• Airport transfers
• Old Town Panama Tour
• Full-Day Panama Canal Tour
• Full-Day Chagres National Park Tour
• Daily Breakfast and one lunch