Magdalena river

7-night cruise from Barranquilla to Cartagena

Embrace the magic of Colombia as you explore the country along the magical Magdalena River during this special 7-night journey. Move to the beat of a variety of Latin American musical styles including  cumbia and vallenato, and revel in exciting performances at a colorful Carnaval experience in Barranquilla just for AmaWaterways guests. Drink a steaming cup of the country’s famous coffee. Listen for the calls of distinctive birds and wildlife not found anywhere else on the planet. Discover timeless traditions while getting to know the friendly guides and residents from diverse backgrounds who live beyond the riverbanks. Enjoy the soul and spirit of Colombia as you sail this river along with AmaWaterways, the Heart of the River™. find out more here or Call 1 800-684-3260 ext 205

 

ABOUT MAGDALENA RIVER

The Magdalena River is the most important river in Colombia, spanning approximately 1,528 kilometers (949 miles) in length. It is named after Mary Magdalene and holds great cultural, economic, and ecological significance for the country. Geographically, the Magdalena River originates in the Andes Mountains, near the city of Huila. It then flows northward through several departments, including Huila, Tolima, Caldas, Cundinamarca, Santander, Antioquia, Bolívar, and Atlántico, before reaching the Caribbean Sea. The river basin covers about one-fourth of Colombia's land area, making it the country's largest watershed.

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The Magdalena River has played a crucial role in the history and development of Colombia. During the colonial period, it served as a major trade route for goods, facilitating the transportation of valuable resources like gold, emeralds, and coffee from the interior to the Caribbean coast. It also served as a means of communication and transportation between different regions of the country.

Today, the Magdalena River continues to be an important transport artery, although its significance has somewhat diminished due to the development of roads and railways. However, it remains a vital lifeline for many riverside communities, especially those located in remote areas with limited infrastructure.

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The river and its surrounding ecosystems are also rich in biodiversity. It supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, including numerous bird species, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The river basin is home to various protected areas, such as the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, a large wetland complex recognized as a Ramsar site and an Important Bird Area. Despite its ecological importance, the Magdalena River faces several challenges, including pollution, sedimentation, deforestation, and the construction of dams. These factors have led to environmental degradation and pose risks to the river's ecosystems. Efforts are being made to address these issues and ensure the sustainability of the Magdalena River. Projects for river cleanup, reforestation, and the promotion of sustainable practices are underway. Additionally, plans for the construction of new infrastructure, such as ports and navigability improvements, aim to revitalize the river's role in Colombia's transportation network.

In conclusion, the Magdalena River is a significant waterway in Colombia, serving as a historic trade route, an ecological haven, and a lifeline for riverside communities. While facing environmental challenges, it continues to play a crucial role in the country's cultural and economic fabric.

 

To find out more about the Colombia cruise call 1 800-684-3260 ext 205