THE MAGIC OF COLOMBIA
A KEMP TRAVEL HOSTED RIVER CRUISE
FEBRUARY 1 - 13, 2026 | 13 DAYS
- SELLING FAST -
Join us for an unforgettable 13-day adventure aboard AmaWaterways’ AmaMelodia, cruising along the Magdalena River through Colombia. Hosted by Sheila & Kirk Kemp, this exclusive tour includes exciting stops in Medellín, Barranquilla, Mompox, and Cartagena. Experience Colombia’s diverse culture through unique excursions like a jazz performance in Mompox, a scenic birdwatching tour in Magangue, and a historic walking tour of Cartagena’s Walled City. With rich local traditions, vibrant celebrations, and luxury river cruising, this journey promises unforgettable memories.
WHATS INCLUDED?
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- All International and Domestic Airfare
- 5 Star Accommodations Throughout:
- 3 Nights Pre-Cruise in Medellin
- 7 Nights in a Cruise Cabin of your choice
- 2 Nights Post-Cruise in Cartagena
- 12 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 9 dinners
- Beer/Wine with lunch & dinner onboard
- Daily Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour onboard
- A variety of excursions, including birdwatching and boat tours as well as nightly entertainment
- Prepaid Gratuities for onboard staff
- Guided tours in Cartagena and Medellin
- Arrival and departure transfers
- Transport between all included activities
- Local Tour Guides throughout
- Hosted by Sheila & Kirk Kemp
Cultural Experience
Enjoy an exclusive Barranquilla Carnaval celebration, a UNESCO-recognized event filled with vibrant music and dance.
Historical Excursions
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage town of Mompox, celebrated for its colonial architecture and filigree jewelry.
Natural Landscapes
Discover the stunning ecosystems of the La Mojana region and spot rare bird species in Magangue.
DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
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Day 1 – February 1, 2026 | Depart for Medellin, Colombia
Today our Colombian Adventure begins – we will board our flight to Medellin this evening with a connection through Central America. Flight TBD closer to departure.
Upon our arrival in Medellin we will be transferred as a group to our 5-Star accommodation for the next 3 nights. This evening is on your own to rest up for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 – February 2, 2026 | Medellin (B, D)
After an included Breakfast we will head out for an in-depth Medellin city tour. Our tour will take up the better part of the day but you’ll have some time to relax at the hotel before an included group welcome dinner this evening to get to know your fellow travellers better!
Day 3 – February 3, 2026 | Medellin (B)
Today you will have the day to explore Medellin on your own. Perhaps take some time to enjoy the amenities of the hotel or head out on an adventure to explore the Medellin area.
Day 4 – February 4, 2026 | Medellin to Barranquilla (B, D)
Today we will fly from Medellin to Barranquilla to board our cruise ship – the AmaMelodia and set sail this afternoon.
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 Colombia’s 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 Carnaval’s motto: Quien lo vive, es quien lo goza (Those who live it are those who enjoy it).
Day 5 – February 5, 2026 | Neuva Venecia (B, L, D)
Visit the Floating Village of Nueva Venecia. A charming town filled with inviting 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. 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 is on display, learn about the techniques the fishermen of Nueva Venecia use, and taste the local delicacies as you embrace this village and its unique culture.
Day 6 – February 6, 2026 | Santa Barbara de Pinto and Mompox (B, L, D)
Spend your morning in Santa Barbara de Pinto, located on the banks of the Mompox arm of the Magdalena River. Enjoy a walking tour through this traditional town, where you may see local landmarks such as the Santa Barbara Church and enjoy intricate hand-made crafts created in the town. In the afternoon, arrive in the island town of Mompox, where you will be welcomed with open arms and lively music as local musicians treat you to an exclusive jazz performance.
Day 7 – February 7, 2026 | Mompox (B, L, D)
A town frozen in time, Mompox embodies the appearance of what many villages looked like during colonial times. Founded in 1540, this remote village became an important Spanish trading post. Some Spaniards found Mompox to be a haven for keeping gold and other treasure protected from the pirates that pillaged coastal cities like Cartagena, and with this precious metal and the work of skilled artisans from Spain came beautifully crafted artifacts. Since then, the town has become famous for its incredible filigree jewelry, which you can learn more about during your tour of this tour in the afternoon. While visiting this unique island, journey through the incredible ecological Cienága Pijiño region, exploring the massive lake that is home to a variety of flora and fauna native to the region. In the afternoon, take a stroll through this storied town on a guided walking tour. With stunning colonial churches, breathtaking nature surrounding the town, and delicious local delights such as capa cheese and butifarra, Mompox is sure to be a highlight of your journey along the magnificent Magdalena River.
Day 8 – February 8, 2026 | Mompox and El Banco (B, L, D)
Bid farewell to in Mompox before embarking on a scenic cruise down one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Magdalena River – La Mojana Region – and reaching the town of El Banco, nestled at the intersection of the Magdalena and César rivers. Founded in a location strategic for both the native people and the Spaniards, the town was repeatedly destroyed in their struggles and then rebuilt atop its ashes. In 1749, a freed black slave named José Domingo Ortiz led a group of settlers to this special location, carrying with him a statue of the Virgin Mary, staking this place as their new home. Because of this connection, the Virgin of Candelaria, a special invocation of the Virgin Mary, is specially venerated in this region. Embark on a guided walking of this incredible destination and learn more about its history as the birthplace 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 dinner in town and witness an incredible cumbia performance by locals.
Day 9 – February 9, 2026 | Magangue and Calamar (B, L, D)
Witness the sights, hear the bird calls, and watch the wildlife around you as you spend the day in Magangue. Immerse yourself in the presence of Colombian nature surrounding this city on a birdwatching tour, giving you a unique opportunity to see birds only found in this specific part of the country. You can also choose to explore the picturesque Ciénaga, teeming with Colombian life, on another fascinating excursion. Later in the day, visit 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 paolo (a bicycle taxi for two).
Day 10 – February 10, 2026 | Cartagena (B, L, D)
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 city’s history. In the afternoon, delve deeper into the enriching history of this Caribbean city as you 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. In the afternoon, enjoy a tour through the breathtaking Getsemaní 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. In the evening, watch the sun set on Cartagena during a special sunset cruise.
Day 11 – February 11, 2026 | Cartagena (B)
This morning we’ll arrive in Cartagena and disembark the cruise ship. We will transfer to our 5-Star accommodation in Cartagena which sits in the old town. Take the day to relax and get settled into your new accommodations!
This evening is on your own to explore the area and get a taste of Cartagena!
Day 12 – February 12, 2026 | Cartagena (B, D)
After an included breakfast at the hotel we will head out for a day of touring in Cartagena.
Tonight we will gather for one last evening together as a group for an included farewell dinner this evening.
Day 13 – February 13, 2026 | Depart Cartagena for Home (B)
After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport today to board our connecting flight home.
We will bid farewell to our new and old friends after an incredible Colombian Adventure!
TOUR COST
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DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: $13,995
SINGLE OCCUPANCY: $18,495
Pricing is based on a Balcony Stateroom (Category B), upgrades are available upon request. Prices are per person in CAD. Includes taxes of approximately $1,500 CAD. Book now with a $1,000 deposit. A secondary deposit of $2,000 will be due at time of flight confirmation. Final payment is due on October 1, 2025. All payments are non-refundable.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended – please call office for pricing. Prices are subject to change. This itinerary is only a guide and is subject to change.
AMAMELODIA
Cruise in luxury along Colombia’s magnificent Magdalena River on board our stunning newly designed AmaMelodia, an intimate 64-passenger ship designed to maximize your views along this special waterway. Take in spectacular views from the twin balconies (French balcony and outside balcony) within your spacious stateroom, where accommodations range from 237 sq. ft. to 306 sq. ft. in our luxury suites. Taste exquisite, locally inspired Latin American cuisine and Western favorites within the Main Restaurant, enjoy an intimate al fresco specialty dining experience and tap your foot along to live music and more each evening within the Main Lounge. For the ultimate in relaxation, soothe your muscles in the sun-deck pool, or treat yourself to a massage.
CONNECT WITH AN AGENT
Ready to embark on the Magic of Colombia river cruise? To book your spot or learn more, simply fill out the form below or reach out to your Kemp Travel agent for all the details. Don’t miss the chance to explore Colombia’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes—secure your place today!