Travelpack

Medellin • Barranquilla • Sitio Nuevo • Magangue Region • Mompox • Santa Barbara de Pinto • Calamar • Mahates (Palenque) • Cartagena • Panama City

Embark on a vibrant journey through Colombia and Panama, starting in the dynamic city of Medellín with immersive cultural tours and a luxurious hotel stay. Cruise along the magical Magdalena River aboard the AmaMelodia, exploring historic towns, wildlife-rich landscapes, and vibrant Afro-Colombian heritage. Celebrate Carnaval in Barranquilla, uncover the colonial charm of Mompox, and experience the soul of cumbia music. Continue to the coastal beauty of Cartagena before flying to Panama City, where you’ll discover the marvels of the Panama Canal and the rich traditions of the Emberá people in Chagres National Park. This unforgettable adventure blends history, culture, and natural wonders in style and comfort

Day 1: Medellin
Flights from London Heathrow Airport to Medellin Jose Maria Codova Airport
Shared Transfer Airport to Hotel
Stay at Medellin Marriott Hotel for 3 nights

Day 2: Medellin City Tour
Though the city was once known for violent campaigns, Medelln has undergone impressive social transformations, and you will get to examine the drastic differences as you tour one of the city's neighborhoods. Once a setting of political corruption's influence on the city, the neighborhood has now been elevated to a place of strengthened community, music and art. See this vibrant atmosphere for yourself on your guided tour.

Day 3: Coffee Region Tour & Tasting
The region's ideal climate and soil conditions, combined with the skill and passion of local farmers, make for a unique and delicious coffee experience, which you can learn about and enjoy for yourself during a guided excursion. Before the majority of coffee farms moved south, the state of Antioquia was where coffee growth in Colombia first begin, planting the seed of tradition and culture strongly in this region. The coffee beans grown in Medelln are known for their rich and complex flavor profiles, with notes of dark chocolate, caramel, and berries. This delightful coffee is also certified by organizations such as the Rainforest Alliance, which ensures that the coffee is grown in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way.

Day 4: Magic of Colombia
Shared Transfer Hotel to Airport
Flights from Medellin Jose Maria Codova Airport to Barranquilla Ernesto Cortissoz
Shared Transfer Airport to Port

Barranquilla
Arrive in Barranquilla and settle into your stateroom as you prepare for your journey along the Magdalena River. In the evening, enjoy a special Carnaval celebration, bringing the full traditional experience exclusively to AmaWaterways guests all-year round. Widely considered one of Colombias most important folkloric celebrations, the Carnaval of Barranquilla has also been declared a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, and you will get to revel in this truly authentic experience as you learn the Carnavals motto: Quien lo vive, es quien lo goza (Those who live it are those who enjoy it).

Day 5: Sitio Nuevo
Today, visit a local village along the river. While here, explore this village and learn more about the lives of its people during a guided tour. Enjoy the traditional crafts and art that are on display and taste the local delicacies as you embrace this village and its unique culture.

Day 6: Magangue Region - Mompox
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.

Day 7: Mompox
A time capsule of colonial life, Mompox was founded in 1540 on the Magdalena River as a Spanish trading post. It became a secure location for gold and treasure, shielded from coastal pirates. This wealth, combined with the skills of Spanish artisans, established a tradition of exquisite filigree jewelry crafting, for which the town is now renowned. A guided tour provides a glimpse into this storied past, while a visit to a filigree workshop reveals the intricate artistry firsthand. The surrounding area, part of Latin America's largest inland island, offers breathtaking natural beauty. Boat trips on the expansive lake provide opportunities for birdwatching and observing diverse flora and fauna. With its preserved colonial architecture, rich craftsmanship, and natural wonders, Mompox stands as a highlight of any journey along the Magdalena River.

Day 8: Mompox - Santa Barbara de Pinto
Bid farewell to Mompox before embarking on a scenic cruise. Later, embark on one of our private excursion boats to visit Santa Barbara de Pinto, a typical Magdalena riverside village. 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. Later in the day, we will invite on board 20 local families from El Banco who are keepers of La Cumbia the soul of Colombian music and the heart of this region. You will have the chance to experience this cultural treasure firsthand, right on board, with authentic music, stories and celebration.

Day 9: Calamar - Mahates (Palenque)
In the morning, board a paola (a bicycle taxi for two) for a historic tour of Calamar, starting with a scenic ride along the Malecon to the House of Culture. Later, depart Calamar and cruise to 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 that brings the towns spirit to life.

Day 10: Cartagena
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. Start your day with a 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. In the afternoon, witness the incredible UNESCO-designated San Felipe Castle, the fortress that defended Cartagena from French and British attacks. You will also 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

Day 11: Cartagena
Disembark your ship and fly to Panama City, famous for the canal that separates North and South America.
Shared Transfer Port to Airport
Flights from Cartagena Rafael Nunez Airport to Panama City Tocumen Intl Apt
Shared Transfer Airport to Hotel
Stay at Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama City for 3 nights

Day 12: Panama Canal Tour
Discover one of the world's 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 canal's impact on global commerce. Then, embark on an intimate boat expedition on Gatun Lake, once the world's 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 canal's history, operation, and biodiversity and discover why it continues to be a vital waterway for international commerce.

Day 13: Chagres National Park
Be dazzled by the breathtaking rainforest of Chagres National Park, taking in the amazing scenery that surrounds you. Navigate the Chagres River through this magical jungle aboard a piragua, traditional canoe, captained by a knowledgeable Ember (an indigenous tribe) guide. Stop at a magnificent waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool water and absorb the energy of this natural wonder, before continuing to an Ember village. The Ember are a riverine people of Panama, historically building their houses along banks of rivers. Learn how to cook a traditional Ember lunch, that you will enjoy. Immerse yourself in the ritual dances, local music, handcrafts and more as you experience and embrace this unique culture.

Day 14: Departure
Shared Transfer Hotel to Airport

Prices & Departures
Deposit: £2950pp
A81148 Heathrow from £7,799pp
A82214 Manchester from £7,799pp
A82215 Glasgow from £7,899pp

Terms & Conditions
Based on 2 adults sharing

Offer Includes

Meal Plans