The museum is housed in the former Customs House where all goods entering the interior of Colombia from the Caribbean coast were taxed during the colonial period.
The building was constructed using thick walls and traditional materials to withstand the tropical heat of the Magdalena Valley.
The Magdalena River, which the museum documents, flows for over 1,500 kilometers and is the principal river of Colombia.
The exhibits cover the 'Steamboat Era,' when Honda was a crucial transshipment point for cargo moving between the river and the inland city of Bogota.
Honda is often referred to as the 'City of Bridges' due to the numerous colonial and republican-era structures spanning the Gualí and Magdalena rivers near the museum.
The Magdalena River Museum is located in the colonial river port city of Honda, Tolima, housed within a restored 17th-century building that formerly served as the Aduana (Customs House). It is dedicated to the social, economic, and environmental history of the Magdalena River, which historically served as the primary artery for trade and navigation into the Colombian interior. The museum utilizes multimedia installations and historical artifacts to illustrate the transition from indigenous river cultures to the steamship era. Exhibits emphasize the technological evolution of river navigation and the cultural impact of goods like coffee and gold on the region's development. It provides context on the river’s current ecological state and the importance of its preservation. The facility also functions as a community space for cultural events. Its architecture reflects the traditional colonial style of Honda, featuring internal courtyards and thick masonry walls typical of the region's historical river-facing architecture.
The internal colonial courtyard, which offers balanced lighting and features traditional architectural elements.
Walk the surrounding historic district after your visit to view the preserved colonial-era houses and cobblestone streets.
Carry a handheld fan or stay hydrated, as the Magdalena River Valley experiences high humidity and temperatures.
Speak with the museum staff for recommendations on local artisan craft shops that highlight traditional river-region woodcarving.
Attempting to walk long distances between sites in the midday heat; use local taxis or tuk-tuks if moving between the river port and the higher town sections.
Typically closed on Mondays.
Casual clothing is appropriate; maintain a quiet demeanor as the building's acoustics can carry sound easily.
