Online Check-In

AmaWaterways’ convenient online Cruise Check-In becomes available once final payment has been made on your reservation. We require that each step of your Cruise Check-In is completed to board our ships. To complete, visit our website at www.AmaWaterways.com/Check-In. In addition to providing the mandatory information required for embarkation, the Cruise Check-In process:

• Ensures your personal information, as it appears on your passport, is correct
• Includes your required pre-cruise survey
• Provides us with an emergency contact in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Allows you to pre-register for all your shore excursions

What to Pack

It is always advisable to travel light in South America, so “if in doubt, leave it out.” Colombia is a tropical country with hot and humid weather.

Bring lightweight easy-care clothing that includes some long-sleeved items for protection from mosquitoes and sun, raingear, and sturdy and comfortable walking shoes that you won’t mind getting wet or muddy. You might also pack a few casually elegant items to wear at the Welcome and Farewell dinners. 

Other recommended items:  

• Shorts and/or long cotton pants 
• T-shirts and long-sleeved cotton shirts
• Sweater, sweatshirt, or warm wrap for chilly nights
• Bathing suit, cover-up and flip flops
• Small flashlight
• Camera equipment and extra batteries/accessories
• Converter and electrical adapter (220v)
• Travel-sized deodorant, toothpaste, disinfectant wipes, insect repellent, etc.
• Prescription medications in original containers (to be packed in carry-on bag, not checked luggage)
• Small first aid kit with aspirin, antibacterial cream, etc.
• Feminine products and cosmetics
• Hat with brim, sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses
• Money belt or other secure place to keep passport and cash
• Day pack large enough to hold camera, binoculars, etc.
• Photocopies of your passport and other important documents

For Your Travels

Tips for Long Flights

• Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Alleviate ear pressure by chewing gum, yawning, swallowing or gently blowing your nose.
• Periodically walk up and down the aisle to stretch your legs and get blood circulating. You can also do a few isometric exercises while seated.
• Try to sleep during your flight – an eye mask, noise cancelling headphones and a light sweater or scarf may help you to be more comfortable and sleep so you can acclimate to the local time more quickly.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses during your flight, as recirculated cabin air tends to dry them out.

Airport Security and Check-in

It is recommended you be at the airport at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights. This allows enough time to check your baggage, present your passport and other forms required including proof of vaccination or related tests, confirm seat assignments and boarding passes, and clear security procedures before proceeding to the boarding area. Most airlines offer online check-in 24 hours prior to departure, which can help you avoid long lines once at the airport. If permitted, this is also a chance to request seating assignments or buy an upgrade if available. Airport security regulations require that sharp objects of any kind be stored inside your checked luggage, not in your carry-on bag. You may be asked to put your shoes and/or coat through an X-ray scanner, so be prepared to remove them.

TSA Secure Flight Program
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers to provide Secure Flight passenger data when reserving airline travel. This includes your full name, date of birth and gender as it appears on non-expired government-issued travel documents (e.g., passport, re-entry permit, alien registration card, “green card,” photo ID, etc.). Any missing or incorrect information can cause unnecessary delays at the airport. If you reserved your airline tickets through AmaWaterways and have not yet provided us with this Secure Flight passenger data, please contact our office as soon as possible at 800-626-0126 or 818-428-6198 (if dialing from outside of the U.S.). Please refer to your local transportation authorities for more information.

Late or Missed Flights

If you miss a flight, immediately advise an airline representative that you are a cruise guest bound for a specific location/date/time to meet your ship. If your flight is cancelled, await instructions from the airline regarding alternate travel arrangements. Typically, airlines will do everything in their power to get you on the next available flight. Once you know your new flight information, please call the emergency contact number listed within this Travel Document.

Reciprocity Fee for Canadian Guests

Starting November 14th of 2023, all Canadian visitors are required to pay the fee of CDN$85 per visitor during the immigration process. This fee can be paid with a debit/credit card. It is important to remark that “failure to comply with this measure will be grounds for denial of entry to Colombia and will necessitate the return to the country of origin by the immigration authorities.” 

Travel Protection and Insurance

If you have not yet taken out travel protection/insurance, please contact your travel advisor, independent insurance broker or AmaWaterways in advance of your departure. Foreign medical care is often paid for in cash prior to treatment and medical evacuation can be expensive. Travel protection/insurance is strongly recommended for all river cruise and land journeys to Colombia. Please make sure to write down important information such as the insurance company’s telephone number and your policy number. 

Baggage

International air carriers are often very strict about the size and weight of baggage and carry-on luggage. Please contact your air carrier or visit its website for specific requirements prior to your departure, as size and weight limitations vary according to the airline. It is also important to check Intra-South America Air flight regulations as these too may vary. International flights allow one piece of checked luggage and one carry-on bag per person. Some airlines limit each checked bag to a maximum of 62 linear inches (158 linear cm) and weight do not exceed 50 lbs. (23 kg). Your carry-on should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 22 cm) or weigh more than 15 lbs. (7kg). International air carriers may impose fees for baggage that is too large or heavy and/or require you to remove certain articles in order to meet weight restrictions. Current security regulations require that all liquid items in your carry-on bag be no larger than 3 oz. and contained in a clear quart-sized plastic bag.  

Intra-South America Luggage Restrictions (applies to any flight within South American countries)

• One checked-in bag: must not exceed 50lbs/23kg in weight and a maximum of 62 inches (158 cm) 
• One carry-on bag: must not exceed 15lbs/7kg in weight and a maximum of 45 inches (115cm), plus one small personal item, such as ladies’ purse or a small handbag must fit under the seat in front of you.

*An extra fee will apply for overweight and/or each additional piece of checked-in luggage. Fees to be paid by guests directly to Avianca, Latam Airlines and Copa Airlines. Fees may be charged at the different airlines counters at Rafael Nuñez International Airport (Cartagena), Ernesto Cortizzos International Airport (Barranquilla), Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (Medellin), El Dorado International Airport (Bogota) or Tocumen International Airport (Panama).

NOTE: Airlines may impose fees for excess baggage and/or require you to remove articles and place them in another bag if weight/size limits are exceeded. AmaWaterways is not responsible for any additional fees imposed by airlines. Also, storage space may be limited on board your ship and/or motorcoaches/AmaWaterways excursion boats, and porters may refuse to carry heavy, oversized suitcases. 

For these reasons, we recommend bringing only one suitcase and one carry-on bag per person.

It is a good idea to place your itinerary and contact information inside your checked bag, just in case it goes temporarily astray.

Delayed Baggage

Baggage can sometimes be delayed during air transport. Pack a change of clothing in your carry-on bag or your traveling companion’s bag just in case. Place a copy of the hotel and ship contact info inside each piece of checked luggage, as this will help the airline locate you should your bags be delayed. Please note that it is the responsibility of the airline to deliver any delayed bags to you. Claims for reimbursement for delayed luggage should be submitted directly to the airline. Fill out a claim form at the appropriate airline desk before leaving the airport.

Mobile Phones

Please contact your service provider for information on overseas usage. Your phone will need to be set up for international roaming.

Making the Most of Your Journey

Experienced travelers know how to be flexible. The more you can adapt to constantly changing conditions, the less stressed you’ll be and the more you will enjoy your journey. This is especially true when traveling in developing countries such as Colombia and Panama. Being friendly and open-minded will make things more enjoyable for everyone. No matter where you go in the world, a warm smile is always welcome!

Health & Well-Being

Vaccines & Medications

All North American residents should consult the latest vaccine recommendations issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Visit www.cdc.gov or call 1-800-232-4636 (toll free in the U.S.). Residents of other countries should contact the appropriate government agency in their home country to determine what, if any, vaccinations are recommended.

Depending on your health history, your physician may also recommend certain booster shots, such as yellow fever (highly recommended), tetanus and/or Hepatitis A and B. Anti-diarrhea medicine may also be advised in case you are sensitive to certain spices or unfamiliar ingredients commonly used in South America.

For river cruises in 2025, AmaWaterways is not requiring proof of Covid-19 vaccination to board our ships. All guests traveling with AmaWaterways remain responsible for ensuring they meet the travel entry requirements for each country they plan to visit before, during or after their river cruise. These requirements, as mandated by airlines and individual countries or regions, may change without notice and cancellation fees will apply should guests no longer meet the country entry requirements for their cruise or land package.

Physical Requirements 

AmaWaterways’ Colombia itineraries are as varied and active as you want them to be. Cruising days provide ample opportunities to relax on board; land packages and shore excursions require a moderate-to-challenging amount of walking. Streets, docking locales, and other sites may have steps and/or uneven terrain.  

Accessibility Facilities 

AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia are not accessibly equipped with ramps or elevators, and hallways and doorways may not be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or scooters. Motorcoaches, AmaWaterways excursion boats, and minibuses used for transfers and shore excursions also may not be accessible.

You should be as fit and healthy as possible before starting on your journey and have enough physical stamina to go on shore excursions and sightseeing tours.

Medical Conditions

There is no doctor or nurse aboard your cruise. Please consult your physician prior to traveling if you have a medical condition that might pose limitations during your trip. Please advise us at the time of the booking if you have any medical conditions requiring special attention during your trip. If you take medication, it is essential that you bring your prescription with you so that you can purchase it at a pharmacy or drugstore, if needed, in the main cities. 

Special Diets 

Please let us know prior to your departure if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). We will make every effort to accommodate your requests, with the resources available to us. 

Drinking Water

We recommend using bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth when you travel to South America. A supply will be readily available on board during your river cruise. If you have a meal in town on your own, ask that bottled drinks be opened at the table (to ensure purity) and refuse ice cubes. Drink often to avoid dehydration, too.

Street Food

Please be cautious when sampling any food purchased from street vendors, as hygiene standards may be sub-par. It’s best to avoid dairy products, salads and any food that is uncooked or fruit that you have not peeled yourself.

myAmaCruise App

Packed full of features to enhance your river cruise experience, our app puts your itinerary at your fingertips.

Download our myAmaCruise App [iOS] [Android]

Please be advised that although you may download the app at any time, you will not be able to add or access details for your upcoming cruise until approximately 60 days prior to your departure.

Stay Informed: Enable push notifications within the app settings before you depart to ensure you receive important communications such as a last-minute change to your embarkation location. Instructions on how to enable push notifications are below:

• iPhones and Apple Devices: Open the icon for your device’s Settings, select Notifications, and then scroll down to “myAmaCruise” where you can toggle Allow Notifications to “on.”
• Android: Open the icon for your device’s Settings, select Apps, then scroll down to “myAmaCruise” where you can Select Notifications and toggle the button to “on.”

Excursion Selection: Register for your shore excursions as early as 45 days prior to embarkation after final payment – plus, make changes to your selection if needed once on board.

My Cruise Itinerary: Access a live tracking map of your river cruise route as well as information about each destination you will visit.

My Cruise Album: Upload your river cruise memories to your personal cruise album. You can also share with friends via Facebook, X (Twitter) or email postcard.

Electronic Documents: Access your Daily Cruiser newsletter as well as your electronic Travel Documents (approximately 45 days prior to embarkation) and even complete your post-cruise guest survey.

Daily Cruiser: During your cruise, access an electronic version of your Daily Cruiser newsletter, which provides information about the day ahead including a schedule of shore excursions, onboard activities and more.

Learn more at www.AmaWaterways.com/myAmaCruiseApp

Air with AmaWaterways

• Excellent Fares
• Trusted Airlines
• Quality Experience
• Transfers (to and from airport are included)
• Peace of Mind

Learn About Your Destination

Learn About Your Destination

It may be helpful to do some reading up on the locations you plan to visit. You might wish to learn a few key words and phrases too, especially if you plan to do any exploring on your own.

• Click here to visit our Colombia destination hub
• Click here to read our Colombia blog articles

Average High/Low Temperatures

To get the current weather conditions, log on to www.weather.com

Time Zone

Colombia has one time zone, Colombia Time (COT), which is in the UTC−05:00 zone, 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

Airport Information

Check back soon for details.

Transfers

International Airport Transfers (Arrivals)

If you have a pre-arranged transfer provided by AmaWaterways, please collect your luggage upon arrival and proceed through Immigration and Customs. Head to the meeting place (see info/maps on the following pages) where you will be met by an AmaWaterways representative holding an “AmaWaterways” sign.

International Airport Transfers (Departures)

If you have a pre-arranged transfer provided by AmaWaterways, you will be notified of your pickup time the last day of the tour. Passengers without a pre-arranged transfer can contact the hotel concierge to schedule a ride to the airport by taxi or other local transport.

Cruise Only Guests/Guests with Their Own Transfer Arrangements

If you do not have a transfer provided by AmaWaterways, please make your own way to the hotel indicated in your detailed itinerary.

Docking Locations

Please note that in various ports the docking process may involve narrow walkways, local AmaWaterways excursion boats or dirt-covered paths. There may be times when multiple ships are tied together and views from your stateroom are temporarily restricted. These are typical situations beyond the control of AmaWaterways.

Land Packages & Hotel Information

Hotel Arrival & Departure Information

The official check-in time is 3:00 p.m. local time. If your flight arrives in the morning, your luggage can be dropped off at the hotel before check-in and delivered to your room later.

Check-out times vary but are typically between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. If you have a late afternoon or evening flight, most hotels have a room where you can store your luggage until you depart for the airport.

Travel Money Tips

Currency

Colombia: Colombian Pesos (COP)

Panama: Panamanian Balboa (PAB)

We suggest bringing some crisp U.S. dollars in newer condition and in small denominations. Please be advised that larger bills and bills in poor condition (i.e. folded, ripped or washed) may not be accepted. Traveler’s checks are generally not accepted anywhere in South America.

ATM (Automated Teller Machine) and Credit Cards

Our ships do not have cash machines, but ATMs are available in major cities throughout Colombia. Please be sure to bring your personal pin number or security code for your card(s). Prior to your departure, we recommend notifying your bank of your travel plans, so they can inform you of any applicable foreign transaction fees and/or restrictions.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards (Visa, Master Card, American Express) are accepted in the major cities on your itinerary. Note that some shops and restaurants may require a minimum charge. Be sure to bring two credit cards, as some places may accept one type but not another. Before traveling, make sure your credit cards are activated and valid for at least 30 days after you return home. It’s a good idea to let your credit card company know you may be using your card in South America, and to inquire about any transaction fees and/or restrictions.

Please keep in mind that there may not be electronic payment options available upriver/downriver. It’s a good idea to bring cash (Colombian Pesos) and to have small denominations on hand.  

Note: We recommend you bring a chip-style credit card and memorize your PIN number as most places use chip-and-pin credit cards. Cards with magnetic strips on the back (commonly used in North America) are used less frequently and may not work. You might want to carry some extra cash in your wallet to use in these situations just in case. 

Safety Precautions

Stay Alert

As in many touristic destinations, pick-pocketing is something to remain vigilant of while traveling worldwide. It is not advisable to have passports or other valuables (i.e. jewelry, money) on your person during excursions. Whenever possible, valuables should be kept in the safe available in your hotel room or stateroom. Stay alert while venturing out on your own or in the evening, especially if traveling solo.
For additional safety reason, please be mindful of the pets and animals at the destination you’ll visit.

Embarkation & Disembarkation Points
There are very few proper embarkation/disembarkation points along the Mekong River. You may need to embark or disembark via a narrow gangway or a local tender boat, or occasionally cross a dirt- or grass-covered surface to reach the ship. Our helpful and friendly staff will always be on hand to assist you.

Motorcoaches and Tender Boats
To avoid injury, please remain seated whenever riding in a motorcoach or small boat. Day packs and other personal items should be stowed in the overhead racks or under your seat to keep the aisles clear. Heavy or fragile items should never be stored overhead. Do not leave any valuables behind during sightseeing tours. Please watch your step when exiting any vehicle or tender boat and always check for oncoming traffic. All guests must wear lifejackets anytime they are in a tender boat. AmaWaterways reserves the right to prevent any guest refusing to comply with this requirement from participating in the scheduled excursion.

Moving About On Board
Please exercise caution when moving around the ship, especially when it in transit and/or when you are navigating wooden stairs and floors.

During Your River Cruise

Reception

Should you need any assistance during your cruise, please contact the ship’s reception desk.

Onboard Languages

The onboard crew consists of 35 crew members. Key English-speaking personnel include the Cruise Manager, Hotel Manager and Purser at Reception Desk.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the ship, only outside in the designated area.

Ship Schedule

Your ship will promptly depart each port of call according to its cruising schedule. We are unable to delay departure for passengers who may not be back on board. Unless you are on a shore excursion accompanied by an AmaWaterways-appointed Cruise Guide, you will need to make your own way back to the ship at a subsequent stop. AmaWaterways is not liable for any costs incurred if you miss the ship’s departure for any reason.

Stateroom Information

Telephone

Each stateroom has a telephone that may be used to make calls within the ship.

Climate Control

All staterooms are equipped with air conditioning with individual climate control.

Electricity

Electricity on board is 110v and 220v. For safety reasons, the use of your personal curling iron, blow dryer, electric kettles, travel irons, garment steamer or any other electric devices are prohibited.   

Amenities

Each stateroom provides bathrobes, slippers, a hair dryer, soap, body wash, and conditioning shampoo.

Water

All water on board is purified and filtered, suitable for washing. We do not recommend drinking tap water. Complimentary bottled water will be provided to you daily for drinking and brushing your teeth.

Safe

All staterooms are equipped with a safe. We recommend placing your passport and other valuables in the safe whenever you are away from your room.

Onboard Facilities & Amenities

Sun Deck 

The Sun Deck has lounge chairs, a pool and plants. Please proceed with caution when walking around on the sun deck. For safety reasons, there may be times when access to the Sun Deck is restricted, such as late evening or during inclement weather. 

Main Lounge

Your ship has a large, comfortable indoor lounge with a full-service bar on the upper deck. This lounge serves as a gathering spot for announcements, lectures and entertainment.

Fitness Room & Pool

Your ship has a fitness room with basic exercise equipment. There is also a refreshing pool located on the Sun Deck. Please note there is no attendant on duty and use of these facilities is solely at your own risk.

Gift Shop 

The gift shop has a selection of accessories, souvenirs and gifts. Please contact the reception desk for the hours of operation.

Laundry

Onboard laundry services are available for a fee. A price list can be found in your stateroom. Please note that clothes cannot be dry cleaned on board. 

Books & Games

The ship has a small collection of books and games that you are welcome to borrow free of charge. Please return books before the end of the cruise. Book donations are always appreciated!

Medical Facilities

There is no doctor or nurse aboard your cruise. In the event you need medical assistance, the closest medical facility will be contacted. We strongly urge you to obtain adequate travel protection to cover any medical treatment and/or medical evacuation while in South America.

Onboard Dining

All meals on board are included and are served in the dining room in a single seating. Open seating allows you to sit wherever you wish and to meet fellow passengers. Table reservations are not accepted. However, for dinner at our specialty restaurant reservations are required and our reception desk staff will be happy to assist you on board.

Meals are prepared by our executive chefs and offer a choice of Western or Colombian cuisine.

Complimentary bottled water, soft drinks, juices, house brand spirits, local beers, coffee and tea are available at any time throughout the cruise. These beverages are also available during meals along with unlimited fine wine served during lunch and dinner in the restaurants. Premium wine and brand-name liquor are also available for purchase.

Special Diets

Please let us know prior to your departure if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). We will make every effort to accommodate your requests, with the resources available to us.

Shore Excursions

Daily Activities

The ship’s Daily Program contains updated information about each day’s scheduled activities, shore excursions, tour departure times and more.

A sightseeing tour is included at each location on your itinerary. These tours can involve walking and/or travel by motorcoach or a small boat. Each tour is led by a qualified English-speaking guide. Note that scheduled activities and tours are always subject to change, particularly in the event of low water levels or inclement weather.

Motorcoaches and Excursion Boats

To avoid injury, please remain seated with seatbelt fastened whenever riding in a motorcoach or small boat. Day packs and other personal items should be stowed in the overhead racks or under your seat to keep the aisles clear. Heavy or fragile items should never be stored overhead. Do not leave any valuables behind during sightseeing tours. Please watch your step when exiting any vehicle, excursion boat or tender boat and always check for oncoming traffic. All guests must wear life jackets anytime they are in an AmaWaterways excursion boat. AmaWaterways reserves the right to prevent any guest refusing to comply with this requirement from participating in the scheduled excursion.

Embarkation & Disembarkation Points

There are very few proper embarkation/disembarkation points along the Magdalena River. You may need to embark or disembark via a narrow gangway or tender boat, or occasionally cross a dirt- or grass-covered and uneven surface to enter or exit the ship. Our helpful and friendly crew will always be on hand to assist you.

Safety Tip

As in many touristic destinations, pickpocketing and some panhandling is something to remain vigilant of while traveling worldwide. It is not advisable to have passports or other valuables (i.e. jewelry, money) on your person during excursions. Whenever possible, valuables should be kept in the safe available in your hotel room or stateroom. Stay alert while venturing out on your own or in the evening, especially if traveling solo.

Moving Around on Board

Please exercise caution when moving around the ship, especially when it is in transit and/or when you are navigating wooden stairs and floors.

Recommended Gratuities

Check back soon for details.

Contact Information

Check back soon for details.

Hotel Contact Information

Check back soon for details.

Ship Contact Information

Check back soon for details.