For those seeking a cultural and ecological journey, 2025 is the perfect time to cruise Colombia’s legendary Magdalena River. Passengers can enjoy vibrant Afro-Caribbean music, spot rare wildlife, and explore UNESCO-listed towns. The return of luxury cruises, including AmaWaterways’ new vessels, enhances regional infrastructure while celebrating the river’s deep history. Nora Walsh of The New York Times hails it as one of the year’s top experiences, blending adventure with relaxation.

In March and June, AmaWaterways will unveil two new luxury vessels for weeklong, 450-mile cruises on the Magdalena River in Colombia, offering an immersive experience of local culture, music, food, and wildlife, including manatees and caimans. Passengers will visit culturally and ecologically significant ports, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mompox, known for its cumbia music and colonial history; San Basilio de Palenque, the first freed-slave village in the Americas; and Nueva Venecia, a village built on stilts. AmaWaterways is also investing in regional infrastructure, including the construction of docks and local guide training.