Archive

Day 1, HANOI.

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city boasts a rich cultural heritage that blends in harmony with its vibrant present. From ancient temples to French Colonial architecture and modernday skyscrapers, along with beautiful parks and lakes, Hanoi is an eclectic and lively city.

Day 2, HANOI.

Discover some of Hanoi’s most famous historic and cultural sites on your guided tour that includes: Ba Dinh Square and The Temple of Literature. You’ll also visit the infamous prison that American POWs sarcastically dubbed the “Hanoi Hilton” during the Vietnam War. Take an authentic rickshaw ride, known as “cyclo,” in Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, and then enjoy a traditional water puppet show. (B)

Day 3, HANOI HA LONG BAY

Ethereal Ha Long Bay is considered by many to be the Eighth Natural Wonder of the World. Board an elegantly appointed ship designed with all the modern conveniences to ensure smooth sailing for an incredible once in a lifetime experience. The backdrop of the bay’s magnificent scenery and dramatic limestone cliffs and rock formations provide you with the perfect setting for a memorable sojourn. (B,L,D)

Day 4, HA LONG BAY SIEM REAP

Spend the morning sailing across the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay with more than 2,000 small islands rising from the water

like a dragon’s back. Later in the morning, disembark the ship and transfer to Hanoi Airport for a short flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Khmer empire. (B,L)

Day 5, SIEM REAP

Begin your morning exploration of the Angkor temple complex at Angkor Thom, meaning “the great city.” This is home to Bayon Temple, best

known for its gigantic smiling stone faces, as well as the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. You’ll then visit nearby Ta Prohm, known as the

“Kingdom of Trees,” for the way in which the temple stones have become intertwined with thick forest vegetation over the centuries. Afternoon excursions take you to the fascinating jewel in the crown of Angkorian art, Banteay Srei, meaning “Citadel of Women,” as it has been said that the carving is too fine to have been done by the hand of man. Cap this memorable day off with a special “Apsara Dance Show” at your hotel, featuring local Cambodian/Khmer folk dancers. (B,D)

Day 6, SIEM REAP

Discover the heart and soul of Cambodia and the most iconic of all Angkorian Temples, Angkor Wat. This is one of the largest religious monuments ever constructed and a true masterpiece of Khmer architecture built by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century to honor the Hindu god, Vishnu. (B,D)

Day 7, SIEM REAP KAMPONG CHAM EMBARKATION

Transfer via motorcoach to the AmaMaya in Kampong Cham for your seven night cruise. Board a motor coach to the Twin Mountains, known as Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei (male and female mountains). In the annals of Khmer legend, the twin mountains were formed as the result of a competition between the men and women of an ancient Cambodian kingdom to resolve which gender would be responsible for wedding proposals. Later, join fellow guests for an evening Welcome Dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 8, ANKGOR BAN OKNHATEY VILLAGE

During the morning, go on a walking tour to Angkor Ban, one of the few villages in Cambodia that was not destroyed under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Here people still live in their traditional wooden abodes and keep their old cultural traditions alive. Hundreds of wooden houses stand intact on stilts, shaded with banana trees, among the hustle and bustle of the daily agricultural ongoing of the local villagers. After visiting here, the ship sails to Oknhatey or “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River. This island is known for its rich tradition of silk weaving. While here, you’ll visit a local elementary school and observe the traditional silk weaving that have been preserved for centuries. Your ship moors in Oknhatey village. (B,L,D)

*Based on seasonality, the port of Angkor Ban may be inaccessible from August September. During this time, Wat Hanchey will replace Angkor Ban as the port of call.

Day 9, PHNOM PENH OUDONG KAMPONG TRALACH

Your cruise continues to sail to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. The morning excursion takes you to Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital from the early 17th century until 1866. Today, Oudong is a place of pilgrimage for Cambodians. While here, be treated to a memorable Buddhist Blessing Ceremony at a monastery. After visiting Oudong, be treated to a truly authentic excursion, an oxcart ride through a local village Kampong Tralach. Later in the day, experience Phnom Penh via a tuk tuk ride and be enchanted by the city’s French Colonial architecture and treelined boulevards set amidst monumental Angkorian architecture. After returning to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by local children in the Saigon Lounge. (B,L,D)

Day 10, PHNOM PENH

This morning’s excursion takes you to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum). Alternatively, you may wish to shop for unique treasures at the bustling yellowcolored

Central Market. After lunch on board, you’ll explore the highlights of the city, followed by a visit to the Royal Palace, the spectacular Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts. (B,L,D)

Day 11, BORDER CROSSING

Spend the day cruising the Mekong River as your ship crosses the border into Vietnam. (B,L,D)

Day 12, TAN CHAU

Visit Tan Chau, a small Mekong River town unspoiled by tourism. You will have the opportunity to enjoy an authentic experience via a traditional “xeloi” (trishaw) ride around the town, with stops at silkmaking and rattan mat workshops, followed by a boat ride through the narrow channels of the Mekong River to “Evergreen Island.” Alternatively, take a boat ride to Evergreen Island and return to Tan Chau, where you will visit a rattan mat workshop. Later in the day, cruise to Sa Dec. (B,L,D)

Day 13, SA DEC XEO QUYT CAI BE

Once ashore in Sa Dec, tour the town where French writer Marguerite Duras spent many years in her youth. Visit a colorful local market and the 19th century house of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, Duras’ Chinese paramour, on whom her prizewinning novel “The Lover” is said to be based. Later, board a motorcoach for Xeo Quyt, once used as a military base during the French war and now an important ecological site. You will have an opportunity to visit candy and rice paper making workshops, and the historic Kiet Old House. In Cai Be, cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board. (B,L,D)

Day 14, MY THO HO CHI MINH CITY DISEMBARKATION

Disembark the AmaMaya in My Tho Port and transfer to Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnam’s former capital of Indochina was once known as “Paris of the Orient,” and today, it is an industrial, cultural and educational hub. Explore such famous landmarks as the former Presidential Palace, the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and the War Remnants Museum before visiting the Ben Thanh Market—one of the oldest and most iconic structures in Ho Chi Minh City. (B,L) *For those not staying in Ho Chi Minh, we recommend that you schedule your onward flight to depart Ho Chi Minh after 2:30pm to avoid potential missed connections.

Day 15, HO CHI MINH CITY

Visit Chu Chi Tunnels, an immense underground network built during the Vietnam War. Spend your afternoon at leisure exploring more of Ho Chi Minh City. (B)

Day 16, DEPART HO CHI MINH CITY

Bid farewell to Vietnam as you prepare for your homeward flight. (B)

Day 1, MEDELLIN, COLOMBIA

Welcome to Colombia! Arrive in the second largest city in the country, Medellin & check into your hotel. Enjoy a welcome event and meet your fellow travellers.(WR)

Day 2, MEDELLIN, COLOMBIA

After breakfast, depart for a guided tour. Though the city was once known for violent campaigns, Medellín has undergone impressive social transformations, and you will get to examine the drastic differences as you tour one of the city’s neighbourhoods. Once influenced by political corruption, the city’s neighbourhoods have been elevated to a place of strengthened community, music and art. Witness this vibrant atmosphere for yourself on your guided tour. (B)

Day 3, MEDELLIN,  COLOMBIA

After breakfast, enjoy another enlightening tour. 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 this guided excursion. Before the majority of coffee farms moved south, the state of Antioquia was where coffee growth in Colombia first began, planting the seed of tradition and culture strongly in this region. The coffee beans grown in Medellín are known for their rich and complex flavor profiles, with notes of dark chocolate, caramel, and berries.  (B)

Day 4, CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA

In the morning, check out of your hotel and fly to Cartagena, the beautiful capital of the Bolivar region located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
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. As you 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, although they did not stop Sir Francis Drake from holding the city for ransom in 1586. (B)

Day 5, CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA

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. Alternatively, visit the Gold Museum, which features ancient gold artifacts from the indigenous cultures found in this region. (B)

Day 6, CARTAGENA  AND EMBARKATION

Before checking out of your hotel, tour the famous vaults of Cartagena. These vaults have gone through many transformations – from being Spanish headquarters to a prison for those seeking independence from Spain to the art galleries, restaurants and shops you see today. After the tour you will check out and transfer to the AmaMagdalena. Settle into your stateroom, then enjoy a tour through the breathtaking neighborhood of Getsemani. 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 as we set sail on your magical Magdalena River journey on board the AmaMagdalena. (B,D)

Day 7, GAMBOTE/PALENQUE/CALAMAR

In the morning, visit Palenque, the first “free town” in the Americas, founded by those who escaped slavery during colonial times. Its spirit and appearance have been preserved over time. In 1713, the Spanish crown issued a Royal Decree freeing Palenque’s people from slavery. Experience the town’s rich culture and traditions, so unique that UNESCO declared it a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Enjoy a special performance by local musicians showcasing the town’s distinctive rhythmic style. Later, explore Calamar, settled in 1840 at the entrance of the Canal del Dique. Tour historic sites like the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción by paola (bicycle taxi for 2)  (B,L,D)

Day 8, SANTA BARBARA DE PINTO – MOMPOX

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 handmade crafts created in the town. In the afternoon, arrive at the island town of Mompox, where you will be welcomed with open arms and lively music during an exclusive jazz performance played by local musicians. (B,L,D)

Day 9, MOMPOX, COLOMBIA

Frozen in time, Mompox reflects the look of colonial-era villages. Founded in 1540, this remote town became a key Spanish trading post. Spaniards used Mompox to safeguard gold and treasure from pirate raids on coastal cities like Cartagena. The town later became famous for its exquisite filigree jewelry, which you’ll learn about during your visit. Explore the largest inland island in Latin America, journeying through wetlands and a vast lake rich in native flora and fauna, with birdwatching opportunities at sunrise, early morning, and sunset. Take a guided walking tour of the town, home to colonial churches, beautiful nature, and local delicacies like capa cheese and butifarra, making Mompox a highlight of your Magdalena River journey. (B,L,D)

Day 10, MOMPOX /EL BANCO

Bid farewell to Mompox and embark on a scenic cruise along the Magdalena River, passing through the picturesque La Mojana Region to El Banco, located at the intersection of the Magdalena and César rivers. Founded in a strategic location, El Banco was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. In 1749, José Domingo Ortiz, a freed black slave, led settlers to this area, bringing a statue of the Virgin Mary. Due to this connection, the Virgin of Candelaria is venerated here. Take a guided walking tour to explore the town’s history as the birthplace of cumbia, a genre of music and dance that began as a courtship dance among African slaves. Over time, it incorporated American steps and European and African instruments, becoming popular worldwide, especially in Colombia’s Andean region. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive cumbia performance by locals.  (B,L,D)

Day 11, MANANGUE

Hear the bird calls, and watch the wildlife around you as spend the day docked near 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. (B, L,D)

Day 12, NUEVA VENECIA/BARRANQUILLA

In the morning, visit Nueva Venecia, a charming floating village only accessible by boat. With its colonial houses, vibrant architecture, and local sanctuary protecting native flora and fauna, Nueva Venecia showcases Colombia’s beauty and warmth. Take a guided tour to explore the village, learn about local fishing techniques, admire traditional crafts, and taste local delicacies. Later, head to the seaside city of Barranquilla, home to musicians, writers, and artists. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and visit landmarks like Bocas de Cenizas, where the Magdalena River meets the Caribbean Sea, and the “Carnaval” Museum, which celebrates the history of this lively festival. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive “Carnaval” celebration just for AmaWaterways’ guests, bringing the traditional experience year-round. (B,L,D)

Day 13, DISEMBARKATION OR CONTINUE ON TO PANAMA CITY

Disembark the AmaMagdalena and say “Adios” to Colombia as we head to the airport for onward flights home OR perhaps choose an optional post-cruise extension to Panama. (B)

OPTIONAL 3-DAY POST-CRUISE EXTENSION

Disembark and fly to Panama City, renowned for the canal that separates North and South America. Begin your journey in Panama’s Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled among skyscrapers, preserving its original charm. This area holds the foundations of modern Panama, with city walls built to defend against pirate attacks. Visit Plaza de Francia, honoring France’s role in building the Panama Canal, and Plaza Carlos V, named after the 16th-century European monarch. Admire the stunning la Compañía architecture, seen in landmarks like the Catedral Basílica Santa María la Antigua de Panamá. Experience the vibrant colors of Casco Viejo as you head to your hotel for the night. (B)

Day 14, PANAMA CITY

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, take a boat expedition on Gatun Lake, once the world’s largest artificial lake. Surrounded by lush forest, the lake serves as a vibrant habitat for 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 (B, L )

Day 15  PANAMA CITY/CHAGRES NATIONAL PARK

Be dazzled by a breathtaking rainforest near the Chagres National Park, taking in the amazing scenery that surrounds you. Navigate the Gatun Lake through this magical jungle before continuing to an Emberá village. The Emberá are a riverine people of Panama, historically building their houses along banks of rivers. They migrated to this area when Gatun Lake was created. Savour a traditional Emberá tasting experience that is sure to delight your taste buds. Immerse yourself in the ritual dances, local music, handcrafts and more as you experience and embrace this unique culture. (B)

Day 16  DEPART PANAMA

Depart the hotel for your onward journey home, bidding farewell to your AmaWaterways Cruise Manager and this fascinating country. (B)

DAY 9 ESNA – LUXOR

Spend a morning of scenic cruising along the glistening Nile River. Relax on the Sun Deck as you cruise from Esna back to Luxor. First, explore the Temple of Karnak, the largest religious complex in Egypt and one of the largest in the world, covering about 200 acres in a vast network of columns, hieroglyphics, obelisks, sphinxes and colossi — even a lake is on the grounds. The Hypostyle Hall is a great architectural marvel and filled with its roof blocks, supported by colossal 134 columns standing at 70 feet high, with 12 larger columns standing at 80 feet high lining the central aisle. This hall is still the largest room of any religious building in the world. After visiting the temple, journey to a museum and discover the art of papyrus making. Learn how the ancient Egyptians used this special plant that flourished in the Egyptian Delta and Nile River Valley. Made from the aquatic papyrus plant, also known as paper plant, this unique writing material served many purposes in ancient times from sails, cloth, food and especially paper for important documents and texts. Afterwards, you will visit the Temple of Luxor, constructed over hundreds of years by Amenhotep III, Ramses II, Tutankhamun and other pharaohs. You then have the option of heading back to the ship to relax or visiting the colorful Luxor Market, where you can find eye-catching piles of spices, jewelry and clothing as well as irresistible smells of incense and perfumes. (B, L, D)

DAY 10 LUXOR – QUENA – CAIRO

Set sail to Qena to explore its ancient Egyptian heritage. You’ll go to Dendara to visit the best-preserved temple in Egypt, the Temple of Hathor – the Goddess of Love, to whom the powers of joy, feminine love and motherhood were attributed. The temple was built by Ptolemy and a group of Romans who worshipped her; so don’t miss the back of the temple where there is a relief depicting Cleopatra with Caesarion, her son by Julius Caesar, the Roman Emperor who brought us the months of July and August. Following your visit here, sail back to Luxor. (B, L, D)

DAY 11 CAIRO Disembark the ship in Luxor and fly back to Cairo where you will be taken to the Abdeen Presidential Palace, considered one of the most luxurious palaces in the world. The palace consists of multiple museums, including the Silver Museum; the Arms Museum; the Royal Family Museum; a Presidential Gifts Museum and a Historical Documents Museum, which is a relatively new addition. It is also one of the official residences and places of work for the President of Egypt. Afterwards, be treated to a very special lunch at the palace. Finally, you’ll explore the old part of the city, which includes Coptic Cairo, where the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue are located. (B, L)

DAY 12 CAIRO – HOME

Bid farewell to Cairo and prepare for your flight home. (B)

ARRIVE IN BUDAPEST
Arrive in Budapest and check into your hotel for 2 nights.

Day 2
BUDAPEST

After breakfast, join your guide through the lesser-known areas of Budapest, often called the “Queen of the Danube”. (B)

Day 3 BUDAPEST/EMBARKATION

After breakfast you will check out of your hotel and take a transfer to the AmaMagna.  (B,D)

Day 4 BUDAPEST

Enjoy a city tour that will take you to both the “Buda” (hilly) and “pest” (flat) side of the city. Visit one of the vibrant Christmas Markets then cruise the Danube as you meander to our next port of call.

Day 5

BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA
Enjoy a walking tour of the “Coronation City of Kings”.  Visit Bratislava’s charming Christmas Market or join a “Tastes of Slovakia” Tour.  There is also an optional hike up to Bratislava Castle for exceptional views.  (B,L,D)

Day 6
VIENNA, AUSTRIA

The City of Waltzes offers a wide variety of gems, from music to museums, pastries to promenades, and amazing architecture to awesome markets!  Enjoy a tour showcasing it all and then visit Schonbrunn Palace, topping off your day with “Vienna by Night” and its exceptional Christmas Market experience.(B,L,D)

Day 7
KREMS/DURNSTEIN/SPRITZ

There are lots of choices to enjoy today with a visit to 3 different areas. From strolling the Baroque village of Durnstein to biking along the river, tasting apricot treats (including the famous liqueur), visiting the 900-year old Melk Abbey,  and then an evening wine tasting, this will be a full day!  (B,L,D)

Day 8

LINZ/SALZBURG, AUSTRIA

Linz is know for being the city of Christmas Creches and of course the delicious Linzer Torte! Several wonderful excursions are available today including a full-day trip to Salzburg, with the UNESCO-designated old town made famous in The Sound of Music. Walk in the steps of Maria Von Trapp & relive the movie! You’ll also visit a beautiful Christmas Market.  Alternatively you could take a full-day excursion to the Czech mountain town of Cesky Krumlov. Here, see Krumlov Castle, one of Europe’s largest castle complexes. So much to do … and don’t forget Linz itself, Austria’s 3rd largest city. (B,L,D)

Day 9
PASSAU/VILSHOFEN, BAVARIA

During the Advent season Passau dresses in her Bavarian holiday best which you’ll discover on your walking tour. Visit the Christmas Market and see the beautiful St. Stephens Square, home to the magnificent cathedral.  Later sail to Vilshofen where you’ll be treated to an Oktoberfest Celebration!

(B,L,D

Day 10
VILSHOFEN DISEMBARKATION
Disembark the ship and bid farewell to the AmaMagna as you prepare for your return flight home or choose to continue on a supplemental 3-night tour in Prague, Czech Republic.  Ask for details & cost. (B)