Guide to the Lost City Trek in Colombia

The Lost City Trek, or Ciudad Perdida, is one of Colombia’s most iconic hikes in Colombia, leading adventurers deep into the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains. The trek spans four to six days, covering around 50 kilometers of rugged terrain, dense jungle, and steep inclines. Along the way, trekkers encounter Indigenous villages, landscapes, and a rewarding climb up 1,200 stone steps to reach the ancient ruins of the Tayrona civilization.

Unlike other well-known archaeological sites, the Lost City is difficult to access as it can only be reached by hiking, which helps preserve its remote feel. This makes it a unique experience for those willing to take on the challenge.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to embark on the Lost City Trek is during the dry seasons, which run from December to March and July to September. These months provide more stable weather conditions, with less rain and reduced humidity, making navigating the trails more straightforward. However, even in the dry season, expect some rain—this is the jungle.

The wet season, from April to June and October to November, brings heavy rainfall, making the trails muddier and river crossings more challenging. While the trek is still possible, hikers should be prepared for slower progress, increased difficulty, and the ever-present possibility of slipping in the mud. The lush green scenery is at its peak during this time, and fewer tourists are on the trail.

How to Get There

The trek begins in Santa Marta, a coastal city in northern Colombia. Santa Marta is well connected by flights from major cities like Bogotá and Medellín and by bus from Cartagena or Barranquilla. From Santa Marta, tour companies provide transport to the small village where the hike officially starts.

Choosing a Tour Company

To visit the Lost City, joining an authorized tour company is mandatory, as independent trekking is not permitted. A few certified operators offer guided treks to this archaeological site: Magic Tour Colombia, Wiwa Tours, Expotur, and Teyuna Tours.

Each company provides similar itineraries, accommodations, and services but may differ in group sizes, guide expertise, and additional amenities. It’s advisable to research each operator to determine which aligns best with your preferences and expectations for the trek. I ultimately decided to go with Expotur, as they were the only ones able to accommodate my schedule.

How Much Does It Cost?

The Lost City Trek costs between USD 350 and USD 500 per person, depending on the company and the tour length. The price includes transportation, food, accommodation (basic camps with hammocks or bunk beds), and a local guide.

While the trek is not cheap, it is an all-inclusive experience, with permits and logistical support necessary for such a remote journey. Some companies may offer discounts for cash payments, and it’s worth asking about group rates if traveling with friends.

Tips for a Great Experience

• Pack Light: Every extra kilogram feels heavier as the day progresses. Bring quick-drying clothes, a waterproof jacket, good hiking shoes, and minimal toiletries.
• Prepare for the Heat and Humidity: The jungle is hot and sticky. Bring electrolyte packets to stay hydrated, and apply insect repellent regularly to keep bugs at bay.
• Respect the Local Communities: The route passes through indigenous lands, and it’s essential to be mindful of their customs and privacy. Ask before taking photos and listen to the guides’ explanations.
• Take Care of Your Feet: Blisters can ruin the trek, and I learned this the hard way. It rained a few days during my trek, making the trails wet and increasing the chances of developing blisters. Proper foot care is essential—wear well-broken-in hiking shoes, bring blister protection such as moleskin or sports tape, and take every opportunity to dry your feet when possible.

My Experience at the Lost City Trek

I did a four-day trek to the Lost City, and while I met some great people along the way, I felt like I was rushing from point A to B every day. The intense heat made the hike even more exhausting. I never felt genuinely immersing myself in the experience or connecting with the landscape.

The Lost City was fascinating, with its ancient terraces and remnants of a civilization that once thrived there. The historical significance is undeniable, and it was a unique place to visit. However, I wouldn’t say it left a lasting impression on me. While I appreciated the history, I didn’t feel a deep emotional connection to the site, and the rushed nature of the trek made it hard to fully absorb the atmosphere.

Rather than detailing my day-by-day itinerary, this video captures the essence of the trek far better than words can. It provides a more vivid and immersive look at what the journey is really like.

Is It Worth It?

The Lost City Trek is not for everyone, and it ended up being one of my least favorite multi-day treks. Apart from the Lost City, the landscape was average and didn’t leave a strong impression. The experience felt rushed, with little time to immerse in the jungle or enjoy its natural beauty. Interactions with Indigenous communities, while present, felt shallow and lacked depth, leaving me wanting more cultural insight beyond surface-level exchanges. The guides, though knowledgeable, were primarily focused on logistics and safety rather than providing an enriching narrative about the region.

An Honest Review of the Lost City Trek

My honest review of the Lost City Trek in Colombia—rushed pace, limited cultural immersion, and a breathtaking destination. Find out if it's for you!

For those looking for an adventure where they can deeply engage with the environment and culture, this trek might not deliver what you’re hoping for. However, it could still be worthwhile if your main goal is to complete a physical challenge and see the ruins.