A Remote Colombian River Cruise with Colourful Cartagena

Trip Type: River Cruise
Colombia | 10 Days
Starts From:

NZD 11,495.00 /Person

Cruise Colombia’s enchanting and largely unexplored Magdalena River aboard the AmaMagdalena. Visit small villages and discover the diverse flora an...

A Remote Colombian River Cruise with Colourful Cartagena

Cruise Colombia’s enchanting and largely unexplored Magdalena River aboard the AmaMagdalena. Visit small villages and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Learn more about Colombia’s native plants during a visit to Bogotá Botanical Garden and see the vivid and vibrant buildings of coastal Cartagena.

Upon arrival in Bogotá, you will be transferred to your hotel. We take a city tour of the Colombian capital, starting in Bogotá’s Plaza de Bolívar (the main square) and continue to the government buildings before entering Candelaria, the colonial city centre. End the day with a cable car ride to the summit of Monserrate Hill, best-known landmark. Enjoy beautiful views of the city and the surrounding landscapes before having dinner at our hotel this evening.

Accommodation
Two Nights: Bogotá, Bioxury Hotel or similar

Meals Included
Lunch

Location
Cartagena , Colombia

Travel north towards Chingaza National Park, which sits on the eastern slopes of the Andes. The vegetation ranges from forest to moorlands and lagoons. Here we see the endemic species of the páramo ecosystem. One of the more beautiful plants unique to the region is 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. In the evening, we return to our hotel, where you’re free to spend the rest of the night at leisure.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch

Location
Cartagena , Colombia

This morning, visit the Bogotá Botanical Garden to discover native flowers and plants. Follow pathways around the garden to exhibits showcasing an abundance of plants. The rose garden here has more than 70 varieties of colourful roses to smell and admire, while the Andean forest, with its tall oak trees, are inspiring. This afternoon, fly to Barranquilla and settle into your stateroom aboard the AmaMagdalena as you prepare for your journey along the Magdalena River. In the 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’).

Accommodation
Seven Nights: AmaMagdalena

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch

Location
Cartagena , Colombia

Visit the Floating Village of Nueva Venecia. A charming town filled with welcoming 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. Explore the village and learn more about the lives of its people during a guided tour. Enjoy viewing the traditional arts and crafts on display, learn about the locals’ fishing techniques, and taste the local delicacies as you embrace the unique culture of the village.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cartagena , Colombia

Spend your morning in Santa Bárbara de Pinto, along the banks of the Mompox arm of the Magdalena River. Enjoy a walking tour through this traditional town, where you may see landmarks such as the Santa Barbara Church and enjoy seeing the intricate handmade crafts created in the town. In the afternoon, arrive in the island town of Mompox, where we are welcomed with an exclusive jazz performance.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cartagena , Colombia

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 Ciénaga de Pijiño region, whose massive lake is home to a variety of native flora and fauna. In the afternoon, take a stroll through Mompox on a guided walking tour. Stunning colonial churches and breathtaking nature surround the town. Take the opportunity to try the delicious local delights, including capa cheese and butifarra.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cartagena , Colombia

Bid farewell to Mompox before embarking on a scenic cruise through the La Mojana Region, one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Magdalena River. Reach the town of El Banco, at the intersection of the Magdalena and César rivers. The town was repeatedly destroyed during the struggles between native inhabitants and the Spanish colonists. Embark on a guided walking tour and learn more about the town’s history, including its status as the birthplace of cumbia, the distinctive music genre and dance style that has been popularized around the world. Originating as a courtship dance practiced by African slaves, the style later incorporated American steps, as well as European and African instruments, and became especially popular within the Andean region of Colombia. This evening, enjoy an exclusive dinner in town and witness an incredible cumbia performance by locals.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cartagena , Colombia

Spend the day in Magangué, immersing yourself in Colombia’s natural surroundings during a birdwatching tour. Here, we have the opportunity to witness birds only found in this specific part of the country. You can also take a hiking tour through the beautiful and vibrant city of Ciénaga. Later today, visit Calamar, located at the entrance of the Canal del Dique. See the historic Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción during our tour of this beautiful destination by paola (a bicycle taxi for two).

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cartagena , Colombia

Take the day to delight in the beautiful coastal city of Cartagena, whose many brightly coloured buildings can be seen adorned with flower boxes. Tales of gold discoveries 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. In the afternoon, 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. This evening, watch the sun set on the incredible San Felipe Castle.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cartagena , Colombia

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

Meals Included
Breakfast

Location
Cartagena , Colombia

  • Escorted by an expert Botanical Guide and Tour & Cruise Director
  • Seven-night cruise aboard AmaMagdalena for up to 20 Botanica guests, and two nights’ accommodation in centrally located four-star hotels
  • Return private transfers from door to door, tipping and porterage, port taxes, plus 24 meals and select beverages
  • All sightseeing, shore excursions and entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Sail the Magdalena River in Colombia, exploring the local villages and flora of the region
  • Visit the Bogotá Botanical Garden and explore colourful Cartagena and its flower-filled Old Town
  • Explore the floating village of Nueva Venecia and learn about the region’s cultural traditions
  • Spend time in the colonial town of Mompox and enjoy local delicacies
  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Our experience of gardens, their flora, and other aspects of nature, is subject to weather conditions and seasonality, which may vary
  • Some excursions may require a high level of mobility and fitness
  • Group Size: Up to 20 Botanica guests aboard the AmaMagdalena, which has a capacity of 60 passengers. Cruise is in partnership with AMA Waterways. To view deck plans, visit www.botanica.travel/cruise-fleet
  • Fitness rating: High

Departing

Finishing

Availability

Price: NZD 11,495.00

Provided by
APT
Reference Code:
BTCOL10
Trip Location
Trip Starts:
Bogotá, Colombia
Trip Finishes:
Colombia
Countries Visited:
Colombia
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Destination Details
Colombia | 10 Days

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