Stacy Reece with mytravelmischa

06/18/2026

💛🇨🇴Palenque holds a special place in history as the first free town in the Americas, founded by people who escaped slavery and built a community where they could live freely. Today, that spirit is still alive through its traditions, language, music, medicine, and culture.

During our visit, we learned about the significance of traditional hairstyles, ancestral healing practices, and the unique language that has been preserved through generations. We also visited a traditional home and gained a deeper understanding of the customs that make this community so special. ❤️🇨🇴

06/18/2026

06/18/2026

🚢 One of the unique experiences we had during our scenic cruising today was a behind-the-scenes tour of the wheelhouse. ⚓

We had the opportunity to meet the captains and pilot who safely navigate the AmaMagdalena along the Magdalena River. Captain Julio has spent more than 40 years captaining boats on this river.

We also met Captain Elizabeth, who came from the ocean cruising world and made history as the first female captain on the Magdalena River! 👏 Because of her pioneering role, she was honored as the godmother of AmaWaterways’ newest ship, the AmaMelodia.❤️🇨🇴

06/18/2026

🚲🇨🇴 This morning we explored the historic town of Calamar by paola—a pedal-powered bicycle taxi!

We cruised along the Malecón, visited local landmarks, including the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción, and enjoyed a wonderful cultural dance performance. 💃🎶

I am loving discovering small towns and local traditions that many travelers never get the chance to experience. Another great morning in Colombia! ❤️🚢

06/18/2026

More pictures from yesterday’s activities.

06/18/2026

Later, we visited the town of Santa Bárbara de Pinto. Some of us chose a hike into town, while others arrived by other means, but everyone came together to experience the community’s rich traditions. We learned about fishing net weaving, watched artisans hand-roll to***co, visited the historic church, and enjoyed local music and dancing.

One of my favorite things about this itinerary is how much interaction we have with local communities. These aren’t just sightseeing stops—they’re opportunities to learn about the people, traditions, and way of life that make this region of Colombia so special. ❤️🇨🇴

06/18/2026

🎶🇨🇴 Yesterday was all about experiencing the culture and traditions of life along the Magdalena River.

Our morning began onboard with local performers who shared the music, rhythms, and traditions of Cumbia—one of Colombia’s most iconic dance styles. We enjoyed a lively performance and even had the chance to learn a few dance moves ourselves! 💃🎵

06/17/2026

🚤🐒 What a way to end the day on the Magdalena River! 🌅

Tonight we enjoyed a beautiful sunset cruise and our second bird-watching excursion of the day. Now, anyone who knows me knows that birds and I have a complicated relationship—I tend to get a little nervous when they get too close! 😂🐦 But that didn’t stop me from joining not one, but TWO nature excursions today.

The wildlife was incredible. We spotted countless birds, monkeys swinging through the trees, and even a couple caiman along the riverbank. 🐒🐊

One of my favorite moments was watching local children jump into the river as we passed by. They were having the time of their lives and splashing at the boats—and yes, they definitely managed to splash us! 💦😆

With perfect weather, beautiful scenery, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, it was another amazing day exploring a side of Colombia that few travelers get to experience. 🇨🇴❤️🚢

06/16/2026

After a quick breakfast back on board, we headed into Mompox for a tour by tuk-tuk. It was a fun way to explore this historic colonial town and get a closer look at local life. 🛺✨

Now we’re back on the ship enjoying some well-deserved pool time before this afternoon’s adventures. Not a bad way to spend a day in Colombia! ☀️🏊‍♀️🚢

06/16/2026

🚤 What a fun morning on the Magdalena River! 🇨🇴

We started the day with a nature excursion by boat, exploring the waterways surrounding Mompox. The wildlife did not disappoint—we saw thousands of birds, livestock along the riverbanks, and even a caiman, which looks a lot like a small alligator! 🐊