Lost City Trek, Colombia – Complete Guide To The Legendary Ciudad Perdida

Tucked deep within the dense greenery of Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the Lost City, or Ciudad Perdida, remains one of the country’s most thrilling and lesser-known treasures. This ancient city, believed to be around 650 years older than Machu Picchu, offers intrepid travelers an unforgettable journey into Colombia’s rich history and lush landscapes.

For those who dare to step off the beaten track and venture into the heart of the jungle, the Lost City Trek reveals a world far removed from Colombia’s bustling cities and sun-drenched beaches.

This multi-day hike of about 22 km one way, 44 km in total takes you through challenging terrain, across rivers, and up steep inclines, rewarding you with a glimpse into an ancient civilization, spectacular views, and a profound connection with nature. An adventure that’s off the typical tourist radar, the Lost City Trek is a must for every seasoned explorer.

Despite having to hike on the same path to get to the Lost City and to come back (a loop is always nicer), it is truly one of the most beautiful treks I have done in South America, along with the Mount Roraima trek or the trek to Machu Picchu.

On this page, I will share my experience trekking to the Lost City, and share my best tips, as well as things I wish I had known before going. Let’s go!

The Fascinating History of the Lost City

Ciudad Perdida, literally translating to “Lost City”, is believed to have been built in 800 CE, making it a significant archaeological site that predates Machu Picchu by several centuries. It was once the heart of a network of villages inhabited by the Tairona, a sophisticated indigenous culture known for its intricate gold work and pottery.

The city was ‘lost’ to the outside world for centuries, hidden by dense jungle and the passage of time, until it was rediscovered in 1972 by local treasure looters, who stumbled upon the stone steps leading up to the city. After a period of looting and consequent archaeological restoration, the Colombian government opened the site to visitors in the mid-1980s.

The Lost City is considered sacred by the indigenous communities living in the Sierra Nevada, some of whom are descendants of the Tairona. Today, it serves as an important cultural and spiritual site, offering fascinating insights into the life and beliefs of its ancient inhabitants.

Comprising a series of 169 terraces carved into the mountainside at an altitude ranging from 900 to 1300 m / 3,000 to 4,300 ft above sea level, a net of tiled roads, and several small circular plazas, the Lost City stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the Tairona.

The town is believed to have been home to several thousand people (some estimate around 2,000 people). Unfortunately, the Tairona and the Lost City did not survive the Spanish invasion. As you walk among these ancient ruins, surrounded by the sounds and sights of the living jungle, it’s hard not to feel a deep connection with the past.

Planning Your Trip to The Lost City

As an adventurer, the key to a successful journey is planning. And for a challenging trek like the Lost City, it becomes even more essential. Here are some crucial points to consider:

Best Time to Visit: The Lost City Trek can be done all year round. However, the dry seasons, from December to March and July to August, are generally more comfortable for trekking. These periods experience less rainfall, which can make the trails less muddy and the river crossings easier.

Getting to the Starting Point: The trek to the Lost City starts from the coastal city of Santa Marta. Direct flights to Santa Marta are available from Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena. Once in Santa Marta, most trekking companies include transportation from your accommodation to the starting point of the trek in their packages.

Permits and Legal Requirements: All trekkers need a permit to hike to the Lost City. This is usually handled by your trekking company when you book your tour. In terms of health requirements, while there’s no compulsory vaccination for this region, keeping your routine vaccines up-to-date and considering vaccines for diseases like Typhoid and Hepatitis A is recommended.

Health and Fitness Considerations: The Lost City Trek is quite challenging, with long days of hiking, several river crossings, and some steep climbs. Sometimes under a very hot sun. Therefore, a reasonable level of fitness is required. Also, ensure to check with your doctor before the trek, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Choosing Your Trekking Company

For safety reasons and due to the area’s protected status, independent trekking is not permitted to the Lost City. You’ll need to join a guided group tour with an authorized trekking company. Here are some factors to consider:

Reputation and Reviews: Check the company’s reviews online, look at their safety records, and ask for recommendations from fellow travelers.

Group Size: Smaller groups tend to offer a more personalized experience.

Guide Quality: The quality of guides can significantly enhance your trek experience. Look for companies that employ knowledgeable local guides who can share insights about the culture, history, and wildlife of the region.

Included Services: What does the tour package include? Look for companies that include transportation from Santa Marta, meals, accommodation, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.

Responsible Tourism Practices: Ensure the company follows responsible tourism practices, respects local communities, and contributes to local economy.

From personal experience, I can recommend Expotur, which offers a great balance of all these factors.

Can I Do The Trek Alone?

No. The Lost City Trek is a guided trek, it is illegal to go on your own. And honestly, I don’t really see the point of going alone. Such a trek requires quite a bit of logistics and it’s nice to just focus on your hike and discovering the landscape, without worrying about all that stuff.

I find the price very reasonable, and you get everything included except drinks outside of the camps or small extra snacks you might want to buy. You get access to the camps with a bed and a shower, the food is good, the guides are friendly…

And you get to meet other trekkers from all over the world, from your own group but from other groups as well when you spend the night at the same camp.

Moreover, no one forces you to hike as a group. I know I am a fast hiker and I was often in front of the group walking either alone or with a few other fast movers. It’s fine. So go ahead, book your trek with an agency and enjoy!

Is The Lost City Trek Safe?

Yes. I know Colombia has some kind of reputation, but the Lost City Trek is safe. In 2003, 8 tourists were kidnapped at the Lost City by guerilla groups but this is a remote memory. Nowadays, the Lost City is guarded by the military and the guerillas no longer operate in the region.

So now you only need to pay attention to not get a heat stroke and be careful while bathing in the river if the flow is strong.

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary for The Lost City Trek

Day 1 – Santa Marta → Machete → Adán Camp

• Minivan: 63 km (39 mi), 2 hours
• Hiking: 8.3 km (5.17 mi), 3:15 hours

Machete, 63 km west of Santa Marta, Colombia. It was in this village that I got to know the group of people I was about to share this adventure with, with a nice lunch. We didn’t know it yet, but it was also the last time we would be dry, and wearing dry clothes in 4 days! On the first day of the trek, the goal is to reach the Adán Camp. That’s an 8 km / 5.2-mile hike, more or less.

This first day is, in my opinion, the hardest of the trek. The culprit? A really sweltering heat that surely doesn’t help when you need to climb challenging, long steep slopes. The result: all your clothes quickly get drenched in sweat. And they will stay that way for the whole trek (bring enough clothes!).

The thing is, on the first day, you need to cross the countryside, and this heat is the direct result of the heavy deforestation that took place in this area. Not many trees are left to provide some shade and keep some “coolness”. The whole day, I bet everyone kept thinking of the wonderful natural pool awaiting us near the camp to escape the heat!

Nevertheless, the scenery is already stunning as we keep getting closer to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, with its mysterious peaks hidden in the clouds.

After three and a half hours of hike in the countryside and a bit of jungle, you will arrive at the Adán Camp, nicely located next to the Río Honduras. Before dinner, your long-awaited reward is now within reach: jumping in a natural pool in the Honduras River, surrounded by jungle. It’s the perfect way to get rid of the sweat covering your body!

Day 2 – Adán Camp → El Paraíso Camp

• Hiking: 14 km (8.7 mi), 7 hours

The program for this second day is to first walk no less than 14 km / 8.7 miles to reach the Paraíso Camp, which is the closest to the Lost City. The lunch break takes place at another camp, the Mumake Camp, conveniently located exactly in the middle of today’s hike. So you hike for 3:30 hours in the morning, and 3:30 hours in the afternoon.

This day is also an opportunity to learn about the Kogi and Wiwa tribes, which have survived the Spanish Conquistador invasion, unlike the Tayronas. They are trying hard to preserve their culture and their lifestyle, and are not always too happy about getting more and more trekkers crossing their land – but they do get involved in the tourism economy and they are able to make some money out of it.

On this second day, you leave the countryside to really penetrate into the rainforest, enjoying the most welcome shade from the trees. Some of the mountain views are really stunning! Untouched forest and mountains as far as you can see. As you slowly gain altitude, the heat becomes more and more bearable. The Lost City is perched at 900 to 1300 m / 3000 to 4300 ft above sea level.

Most of the trail follows the course of the Río Buritaca, and the Paraíso Camp was built on its bank. It is a really privileged environment to relax in, surrounded by untouched nature, with the sound of a small waterfall nearby.

Day 3 Morning  –  El Paraíso Camp → Visiting The Lost City

• Hiking: 850 m (0.53 mi), 45 min to the Lost City

Finally! The legendary Lost City is now (almost) within our reach! From the Paraíso Camp, a last small effort of 1200 steps is needed to get there.

As soon as I arrived at the site, I saw something very different from what I had imagined. Before going, I was just imagining a few small terraces lost in the jungle – I soon realized that it is much more extended than that.

But what I did imagine correctly is the incredible view of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, still largely untouched. When you think about it, it is often the surrounding scenery that makes an archaeological site stand out. It is the case for Machu Picchu for example, and it is also the case for the Lost City.

It is fascinating to imagine the Tayrona people building all this and living in these mountains. The site is divided into two main parts, linked by a really beautiful stone staircase. When you reach the furthest, most elevated terrace, the view of the whole archaeological site and the forested mountains around is unforgettable.

Day 3 Afternoon  –  El Paraíso Camp → Mumake Camp

• Hiking: 6.8 km (4.23 mi), 3:30 hours

After walking 22 km to the Lost City, it is now time to walk this 22 km back to Machete. If we had to find a negative aspect of the Lost City Trek, it would be that we take exactly the same path to go to the Lost City and come back, instead of making a loop for example. However, I wouldn’t consider it to be a really negative aspect – the landscapes are gorgeous enough for you to bear seeing them twice!

We had been lucky with the weather so far but in the afternoon of the third day, thunderstorms burgeoned and before we knew it, we got caught in an insanely heavy rain only the tropics can produce.

As I was always among the fastest-moving hikers, I was lucky to arrive at the next hut just as the heavy downpour started. And I just watched the other people in my group arriving slowly, under the heavy rain. A good rain poncho and backpack cover are important!

As a result of the rain, the once swimmer-friendly rivers were in spate, violent and muddy. As for the mountains and jungle, they were caught in an elegant mist.

At the end of the day, we got back to the Mumake Camp, where we had lunch on the second day. This time, we got to spend the night there.

Day 4  –  Mumake Camp → Machete → Santa Marta

• Hiking: 15.5 km (9.63 mi), 6-7 hours
• Minivan: 63 km (39 mi) ⁝ 2 hours

After a good night at the Mumake Camp, we crossed back the overheated countryside to Machete, and the trek was over! Exhausted and sweating but feeling happy and satisfied with what I had just accomplished, I was sitting at the restaurant in Machete, watching the new batch of hikers getting ready for the trek, all fresh and dry, thinking “if they knew all the heat, the sweat and the slopes that are awaiting them…!”.

What to Expect on the Trek

The Lost City Trek is a journey like no other, teeming with awe-inspiring views, challenging terrain, diverse flora and fauna, and a fascinating dose of ancient history. When you sign up for a trek, it’s not always easy to know what to expect in terms of organization, local weather, or infrastructure. So let’s see what the Lost City Trek looks like.

It departs from your agency’s office in Santa Marta and starts with a 2-hour drive to a small town called Machete. It is a 4-day trek, from Machete to the Ciudad Perdida. You will be using the same path to go and come back, and each way is about 22 km / 14 miles long.

In the detailed itinerary above, I wrote the hiking distance and hiking time for each day. Of course, it can be a little longer or a little shorter depending on how fast you walk. But the most you will have to walk in a day is about 7 hours.

Terrain and Trail Conditions

The path to Ciudad Perdida is a mix of jungle trails, river crossings, and stone steps. You will traverse through muddy paths, cross crystal-clear rivers, hike up steep inclines, and descend slippery slopes.

The most challenging part is the 1,200 ancient stone steps leading to the Lost City itself. Remember, it’s not a race; take your time and travel at a pace that suits you.

Altitude and Weather Conditions

The trek reaches a maximum altitude of around 1,300 meters (4,265 feet), so altitude sickness is generally not an issue. Weather in the Sierra Nevada can be unpredictable. Expect warm, humid days and cooler nights.

Rainfall can occur even in the dry season, making parts of the trail muddy and slippery, but the rain also brings a beautiful mist that adds to the mystical allure of the journey.

Flora and Fauna

The trek takes you through the dense jungle of Sierra Nevada, home to a staggering diversity of flora and fauna. Expect to see towering Ceiba trees, bromeliads, orchids, and numerous other plant species.

In terms of wildlife, it’s common to spot monkeys, colorful parrots, and butterflies. With a bit of luck, you might also catch a glimpse of a spectacled bear or a jaguarundi, although these sightings are rare.

Accommodations and Meals

Staying in the middle of the jungle after a day of challenging trek is an experience in itself. Here’s what you can expect:

Accommodation

During the trek, you’ll stay in a series of rustic campsites situated along the trail. I didn’t really know what to expect from the camps. Will they be small? Big? Comfortable? Or just an old hammock between two trees?

They are actually much bigger and more developed than I imagined. All the camps have a dormitory area with two levels of beds, each with a mosquito net.

Each camp also has flushing toilets and simple showers, and also a “restaurant” area with a kitchen and large tables. The camps are built along rivers and most people enjoy a nice swim after a long day of hiking.

Meals and Drinks

Along the way, wooden huts were built allowing trekkers to take a break, buy cold drinks and enjoy some fresh juicy fruits. Make sure to bring enough cash with you, in these shops, the drinks are overpriced (5000 pesos – double the normal price) but you will still need to buy them because it’s very hot and you will be incredibly thirsty. And well, you probably pay for the fact that all these bottles had to be brought all the way there as well.

Meals during the trek are typically included in the tour package. You’ll be treated to a variety of Colombian dishes prepared by the camp cooks. Expect lots of rice, beans, plantains, and meat.

Breakfast might consist of eggs, arepas (Colombian corn cakes), and fresh fruit. Make sure to inform your trekking company ahead of time if you have dietary restrictions or allergies.

Remember, you’re here for the adventure, and while the accommodations and meals may be basic (but they are often tasty), they are part of the overall trek experience. Plus, falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle is truly magical.

What To Pack for Lost City Trek

The Lost City trek is marked by a lot of heat… and very high humidity. One thing I wish I had known before is the necessity to take 2 pants. At first, I was thinking that pants were heavy, I would just wear the same pants for 4 days and be a little dirty, never mind.

The thing is, after the first day, your pants are already drenched in sweat. On the first night, it dried a little so it was still okay to wear the next day. But at El Paraiso Camp, the air is not only extremely humid but also quite cool: nothing dries at all.

I just couldn’t wear my pants anymore and ended up finishing the trek with my swimming shorts! That’s all I had left. So better bring 2 hiking pants, quick-drying ones preferably.

As for t-shirts, it is also good to have one that you will keep clean and dry to wear only at night after shower (+ on the 4th day going back to Santa Marta). If you absolutely need to change your shirt every day, take 4, but I think you can do with 3. Again, every bit of weight you can avoid will be greatly appreciated by your shoulders.

As for the shoes, of course, you will need good trekking shoes or boots. My personal preference is hiking boots because I like my ankles to be supported, but the trails are pretty clean and hiking shoes are probably enough if that’s your preference.

Packing Checklist

When packing for the Lost City Trek, keep in mind that you will have to carry everything you bring, so it’s best to pack as lightly as possible. 4 days is pretty short so I recommend trying to squeeze everything in a smaller backpack instead of carrying a big one. Here are some essential items to include:

• Lightweight, quick-drying clothing: The weather can be unpredictable, and it’s likely you’ll get wet either from sweat, rain, or river crossings. If you haven’t, read what I wrote above. Pack enough clothes! Your shirts and pants will NOT dry during the night.
• Good quality hiking boots: A pair that is already broken in will serve you best.
• Rain jacket or poncho: Rain can occur even in the dry season.
• Swimwear: You’ll have opportunities to swim in rivers and natural pools.
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen: Protect yourself from the tropical sun.
• Insect repellent: The jungle is home to a variety of insects.
• Water bottle: Hydration is crucial during the trek. Pick a reusable bottle to reduce plastic use.
• Personal first aid kit: Include items such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medication.
• Snacks: Though meals are provided, it’s a good idea to bring some extra energy bars or nuts for the trail.
• Torch or headlamp: This is essential for navigating the campsites at night.
• Cash: For buying snacks or drinks at some of the campsites along the way. Vital!

Remember, packing light is the key. Most tour operators provide a more comprehensive list of recommended items to bring, so ensure you check that out too.

What To Do With The Rest of Your Luggage?

Don’t worry, your agency will most probably have a dedicated, secure place to store your things while you are on the trek. So I was backpacking with my main, bigger backpack across Colombia and a smaller backpack where I usually put my electronics.

I simply used this smaller backpack for the trek and left my main backpack at the agency in Santa Marta.

Tips and Important Info for the Lost City Trek

The Lost City Trek is an adventurous undertaking that will reward you with lifetime memories. To make the most of this experience, here are some tips and important things to know:

• Fitness Level: Be aware of your fitness level. The trek is demanding, and being in good physical condition will significantly enhance your experience.
• Stay Hydrated: With the hot and humid conditions, it’s vital to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Respect the Environment: Remember, you are a guest in this ancient place. Always follow the ‘leave no trace’ principles – dispose of waste properly, stay on the trails, and respect wildlife.
• Respect the Indigenous Communities: The trek passes through indigenous territories. Respect their customs and privacy, and always ask before taking photos.
• Safety: Listen to your guide’s safety instructions, especially during river crossings. They are experts and know the terrain well.
• Pace Yourself: It’s not a race. Enjoy the journey, take in the views, and give yourself time to acclimatize to the heat and humidity.
• Bring a Sense of Adventure: Lastly, keep an open mind and a flexible attitude. Things might not always go as planned, but that’s all part of the adventure!

Dos and Don’ts for the Lost City Trek

Embarking on the Lost City Trek means journeying through ancient lands and indigenous territories. Therefore, it’s essential to approach the trek with the utmost respect and sensitivity. Here are some essential dos and don’ts to bear in mind:

Do

• Respect Indigenous Cultures: Understand that you’re passing through the ancestral lands of indigenous tribes like the Kogi and Wiwa. Greet them if you come across any, but allow them their space and privacy.
• Follow the Trail: Stay on marked paths to minimize the environmental impact and to respect the sacred sites.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Carry all your trash and dispose of it appropriately. Consider carrying a small bag for this purpose.
• Listen to Your Guide: Your guide knows the region, its customs, and safety precautions. Always heed their advice.
• Wear Appropriate Attire: When visiting indigenous villages, dress modestly out of respect for their customs.

Don’t

• Disturb Wildlife: Remember, it’s their home. Maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding or teasing any animals.
• Take Artifacts: It might be tempting, but taking stones or artifacts from the Lost City is not only disrespectful but also illegal.
• Photograph Without Permission: Always ask for consent before taking photos, especially of the indigenous people.
• Leave Behind Plastic: The Sierra Nevada’s ecosystems are sensitive. Avoid using single-use plastics, and if you must, ensure you pack them out with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts About The Lost City Trek

The Lost City Trek is more than just a hike; it’s a journey through time, offering a rare glimpse into the ancient civilizations that once flourished in the heart of the Sierra Nevada.

The breathtaking landscapes, the rich history, and the interactions with the indigenous tribes make this one of the most unique treks in the world. And you get to meet a lot of really cool people!

This trek is in my opinion a must-do in Colombia if you enjoy the outdoors, and one of the top treks in South America. The Ciudad Perdida may not have the beautiful stone houses and temples of Machu Picchu, but it is a really mysterious and fascinating archaeological site and totally deserves to be discovered.

However, with such privilege comes the responsibility to tread lightly, respecting both the land and its people. Approach this adventure with an open heart, a keen sense of respect, and a genuine curiosity. The Lost City awaits, not just as a destination but as a profound experience that stays with you long after your boots are off and you’re back in the comfort of your home.