Magdalena River Cruises
Flowing from the soaring Andes to Colombia’s Caribbean coast, the Magdalena River is the vibrant lifeline of the country. Often called the River of a Thousand Rhythms, it winds through lush wetlands, colourful towns and landscapes rich in wildlife, history and music.
A Magdalena river cruise is a journey into the cultural soul of Colombia. Unlike the dense rainforest of the Amazon, this waterway reveals colonial heritage, floating communities and the joyful spirit of a nation shaped by Indigenous, Spanish and African traditions.
Why Cruise the Magdalena River?
The Magdalena River is one of the newest luxury river cruise frontiers in the world, offering a rare opportunity to explore Colombia in comfort, depth and style. With AmaWaterways pioneering luxury cruising here, you will experience a destination still untouched by mass tourism, where every day feels like a true discovery.
As you sail, the river reveals lush ecosystems alive with tropical birdlife, vibrant landscapes and ever-changing scenery along the banks. Beyond nature, the Magdalena is also shaped by Colombia’s rich cultural spirit, from the rhythms of cumbia to colourful local traditions that bring each destination to life.
With exclusive encounters designed especially for river cruise guests, including private celebrations in Barranquilla, this is a journey that feels immersive, pioneering and completely unforgettable.
Top Destinations Along the Magdalena River
The Magdalena River connects Colombia’s most captivating cultural highlights and historic treasures.
Cartagena
A UNESCO-listed coastal city of colonial charm, colourful streets and Caribbean atmosphere, perfect for beginning or ending your cruise.
Barranquilla
A vibrant cultural city famous for Colombia’s Carnaval (and Shakira!), brought to life through exclusive music, dance and celebrations.
Mompox
A beautifully preserved riverside town known for its colonial heritage, filigree jewellery and rich musical traditions.
Unmissable Magdalena River Cruise Experiences
A Mekong river cruise is defined by unforgettable cultural moments, spiritual encounters and immersive local discovery.
Private Carnaval Celebration
One of the most unforgettable highlights of the Magdalena is an exclusive private Carnaval experience in Barranquilla. Created especially for AmaWaterways guests, this vibrant celebration brings Colombia’s most famous festival to life with dazzling costumes, energetic dancers and the infectious rhythms of cumbia and vallenato, offering rare cultural access at any time of year.
Wetlands Sunset Cruise
Step into the natural beauty of the Magdalena basin with a magical sunset cruise through the Ciénaga Pijiño wetlands. As the sky turns gold and the river becomes still, you will glide past lush tropical landscapes alive with birds returning to their nests, creating one of the most peaceful and breathtaking moments of the journey.
Floating Village Encounters
Explore the remarkable floating village of Nueva Venecia, where entire communities live in stilt houses built above the water. Travelling by small boat through narrow canals, you will meet locals, witness daily life shaped by the river, and gain a rare insight into a way of living that has remained beautifully unchanged for generations.
Music in Mompox
In the colonial town of Mompox, music is part of the atmosphere. Enjoy an intimate street performance where local musicians fill the evening air with traditional Colombian sounds, surrounded by lantern-lit plazas and historic architecture. It is a soulful cultural moment that captures the rhythm, romance and heritage of the Magdalena.
Cruise Lines on the Magdalena River
The Magdalena River is served exclusively by AmaWaterways, the pioneers of luxury river cruising in Colombia. As the first operator to introduce premium sailings on this extraordinary waterway, AmaWaterways offers a truly immersive way to explore Colombia in comfort, safety and style, with expertly curated excursions and exceptional onboard service throughout.
Guests can sail aboard the AmaMagdalena, an intimate boutique ship welcoming just 60 guests, featuring twin-balcony staterooms, a sun deck pool and elegant design inspired by Colombia’s vibrant culture. The AmaMelodia, her beautiful sister ship, carries only 64 guests and offers the same refined atmosphere, spacious suites and al fresco dining, creating a relaxed and exclusive river cruise experience unlike any other in South America.
Where Do Magdalena River Cruises Start and End?
Most Magdalena River cruises sail between Cartagena and Barranquilla, combining Colombia’s Caribbean coast with the rich cultural heart of the Magdalena basin. Some itineraries begin in the vibrant port city of Cartagena and travel inland towards floating villages and colonial towns, while others operate in reverse, ending with a stay in Cartagena’s historic walled city. This seamless route allows you to experience both Colombia’s coastal beauty and its hidden interior in one extraordinary journey.
Recommended Magdalena River Cruise Itineraries
Magdalena River cruises are typically seven-night sailings designed to showcase the very best of Colombia in a relaxed and immersive way. Itineraries often include Cartagena, Barranquilla, Mompox and Nueva Venecia, blending cultural encounters, wildlife-rich wetlands and exclusive local experiences. Many guests also choose to enhance their voyage with land extensions in Medellín or Panama City, creating a broader South American adventure around this pioneering river cruise destination.
When is the Best Time to Cruise the Magdalena River?
The Magdalena River is a year-round river cruise destination, with consistently warm tropical weather. Its equatorial climate makes it ideal for winter sun escapes, while the landscapes remain lush and vibrant throughout the seasons.
Cartagena: The Perfect Pre-Cruise Stay
A stay in Cartagena is the ideal way to begin your Magdalena River cruise holiday. This UNESCO World Heritage city is one of South America’s most beautiful coastal destinations, filled with colourful colonial streets, vibrant plazas and Caribbean atmosphere. Arriving early allows you to explore the historic walled city, visit San Felipe Castle, enjoy rooftop dining at sunset and settle into Colombia’s rhythm before embarking on your river journey inland.
Ready to Explore the Magdalena River by Cruise?
Explore our best Magdalena river cruise offers below, or speak with our cruise experts to find the perfect itinerary, ship and sailing season for you.