This destination is blocked
The lost city (treck)
The lost city (treck)
Recommended length of stay: 5 Days
Welcome to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta! Immerse yourself in the history of the indigenous peoples with this iconic trek for 4 to 5 days! You will cross the humid and wild jungle, plains cultivated for thousands of years, tumultuous rivers and venture on suspended bridges. A real adventure worthy of the first explorers of this incredible continent! The goal: The Lost City! Ancient city of the legendary Tayrona civilization whose descendants you can meet. The Wiwas, Kogis and Arhuacos welcome you in their traditional villages for the most beautiful stopovers and open the doors to their ancestral culture. A meeting that is very emotional and that will make you take a step back on our Western lifestyles. It is the perfect trek that combines archeology, history, culture and sumptuous landscapes!
+ Read more
- Reduce
The story of Ciudad Perdida in Colombia
Ciudad Perdida, or lost city, was founded by the Tayrona civilization, in the heart of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, in the 7th century. According to research, the city was inhabited by several thousand individuals until the 16th century. It is not clear exactly how the population fled or why they deserted the city. Due to its geographical position, lost at an altitude of 1200 meters, the city has been preserved from colonization. It was then assumed that the population of the city would gradually be decimated by the diseases that the Spaniards unwillingly brought to the continent.
- La Ciudad Perdida, discovered recently and still largely unexplored:
The Ciudad Perdida bears its name well, its existence was unknown until the early 1970s, when looters fell on its vestiges and the riches contained in the tombs. These treasures were found on the Santa Marta market stalls, which alerted the authorities who then set out to search for him in the Sierra Nevada. In 1976, the first archeological excavations were carried out. The various buildings have been restored and cleared and an inventory of the artifacts found on site has been made. Some gold sculptures are real works of art now exhibited in the Gold Museum of Bogotá.
According to the scientific community, only 10% of the city has been explored to date. It would have been the capital of a large network of more than a hundred Tayronas towns, spread over more than 2,000 miles. its size and the size of its buildings, which were to have an economic and political function.
- Indigenous peoples of Ciudad Perdida in Colombia:
The Lost City is now called Teyuna by the indigenous people descended from the Tayrona people, the Kogis, the Arhuacos, the Kankuamos and the Wiwas, who consider it a sacred site. For them, the Sierra Nevada is the "origin of the world", the birthplace of all life on earth. Therefore, these communities would have the mission to protect all living beings as divine creations, respected and themselves sacred. They consider themselves the grandbrothers of humanity and their customs are still very well preserved.
- The Ciudad Perdida is in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta park:
this multi-day hike takes you through one of the most beautiful natural parks in Colombia. The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Park is unique for its geological formation and its different ecosystems. Its peak is, with its 5000 meters of altitude, the highest coastal massif in the world, located close to the Caribbean Sea. You will discover on its slopes many living species throughout the 30 miles of trek. A beautiful and tiring crossing of the park because of its hot and humid climate and its sometimes unpredictable weather! A whole adventure in a protected lush nature.
Book excursion to Ciudad Perdida:
The entire territory of the Sierra Nevada is administered by the indigenous communities who have lived there since the beginning of their existence. It is therefore strictly forbidden to enter the park without authorization. You will not be able to make this trek by your own means, it would be very dangerous to venture on its paths without a guide.
We therefore advise you to go through an agency created at the initiative of the indigenous communities such as the agency Sierraventur Travel. These agencies all charge the same price for this excursion, whether you want to make it in 4 or 5 days. They advocate sharing and promoting indigenous cultures by connecting you with an indigenous guide who will teach you a lot about his relationship to nature, fauna and flora but also about the sacred places you will pass through. Book your trek in advance in an eco-tourism agency in Santa Marta, your adventure will be even richer!
Recommendations for preparing the treck of Ciudad Perdida:
as you can imagine, such a journey is being prepared. It is advisable to leave lightly so as not to be cluttered by unnecessary luggage which could slow you down and exhaust you. Prepare a small backpack with the essentials. You can leave the rest of your luggage in your accommodation in Santa Marta. However, we recommend that you bring plastic bags to protect your belongings from moisture, a headlamp, good hiking shoes, sun protection and above all a good mosquito repellent! Bring a bathing suit too: several stops are planned to swim during the trip to refresh you.
Planning of visits
Ciudad Perdida in Colombia | Length of stay: 4 to 5 days in the jungle
Whether you leave for 4 or 5 days, the agencies charge a single rate. The only difference between the two options is that the daily walking hours are lower over 5 days. You'll have more time to walk the way back.
Day 1: Adan camp, 1st stop of the Treck towards Ciudad Perdida
- 1st part of the day:
At dawn, the agency will pick you up at your hotel in Santa Marta by 4X4 and take you to the departure of the trek in the small indigenous village of Maguey or Machete Pelao (also called El Mamey).
You will then begin your formidable adventure towards the first camp: the Cabaña de Adan, 5 miles away. This day's walk is rather simple, no big difference in height to report. This allows you to get on your feet for the rest. Your first stop will be at a watchtower where a breathtaking view of the Sierra Nevada awaits you. This is where you will have a snack of exotic fruits. So fill up your energy before continuing your walk.
- 2nd part of the day:
The second part of the hike is a bit more challenging. You will descend a path in red earth on which the sun likes to make its presence felt. A hat will be welcome. Don't forget to get hydrated.
At the end of this first day, the Adan camp offers an excellent relaxation area in the natural pools formed by the river that crosses it. The water is clear, it is hot, do not hesitate to dive!
After a hearty meal, the sound of the forest will guide your sleep.
Day 2: On the way to Ciudad Perdida, meeting with the Wiwa
Today the alarm clock is at 5.30 in the morning! You have to leave early if you want to reach the next camp before dark. Only 3 miles separate you from the Wiwa community, your next stop, but it will take you almost as long as the day before, because of the difference in height.
The snack point of exotic fruits will be deserved: 1 hour climb before reaching it in the morning. The effort is more intense, but the landscapes are also more beautiful. You will meet an incredible fauna and flora. Do not hesitate to ask your guide, he will be happy to explain the virtues of each of the plants around you. In this luxuriant jungle, the change of scenery is complete! You will be true explorers!
Once you arrive at the camp, several rivers will allow you to cool off. We advise you to put your soaked sweat to dry (it will stay damp all the time) while you bask in the clear water.
Day 3: Paraiso Teyuna camp
On this third day, you will have to travel 9 kilometers to reach the Cabaña Paraíso Teyuna. The lush jungle will give way to tall grass. You will also cross a small indigenous village Wiwa, a perfect opportunity to discover their culture in the manner of Rendez-vous in Unknown Land!
- Wiwas's lifestyle:
They are characterized by a life they want in harmony with their "mother land", the nature they worship and consider the source of all life. They are usually dressed in white and their black hair is kept long. The houses of this community are made of dried earth and stones, and are topped by a straw roof that points to the sky. All around, they use the land to grow coca, and they are the only ones allowed to grow it. This has a very important place in the rituals of this community.
- The Poporo and the Wiwas culture:
If you meet the mamey, the village sage, he will tell you about the poporo, a curious object that all the men in the community have in their hands. Within this species of bilboquet, the Wiwas place shellfish powder and dried coca leaf powder that they grind with a stick. They constantly dip the stick into the container and then carry it to their mouth. This mix would allow them to have more energy, to work longer and even to be able to stay several days without eating. This poporo is offered by the mamey to all young boys who have spent their four-day initiation at his side. They keep their present as long as they behave in harmony. This is a very important sign of recognition and respect for this community.
As you travel through this village, you can learn more about their culture by talking to the locals through your guide. Don’t be surprised if they don’t look you in the eye when they talk to you. It is a sign of mistrust that makes them very uncomfortable.
- The Paraiso Teyuna camp:
Once you have arrived at the camp, you can once again enjoy a cool swim that will do your muscles some good.
Day 4: Ciudad Perdida
And here you are at the climax of your journey. Today you will join the Ciudad Perdida. You will leave your bags at the camp (you will find them in the evening) before starting the climb of the 1200 steps to the long awaited archeological site. In a 1 hour walk, you will cross the jungle again but also the river that you were following from the start.
Once you arrive, the visit of the Ciudad Perdida will last about 3 hours. Your guide will explain the symbolism of this place, make you discover all its nooks and crannies and tell you its history. A real journey back in time.
You will discover that to avoid the ravages caused by the settlers, the Tayronas have sunk into the jungle and founded this city far from the coasts. It was originally a place of sacrament and ritual celebrations, which then became an important place of life, and was home to thousands of people.
To finish the tour, you will take a little height to discover the iconic view of the site on the two highest terraces of the city. This exceptional panorama is crowned by the imposing Sierra Nevada mountains. An extraordinary landscape that will leave you speechless.
Then you have to walk again: 4 miles separate you from the camp the day before where you will spend the night.
Day 5: return
This fifth day is probably the most sporty day of the excursion. You will have to travel 12 kilometers in the opposite direction to the starting point. Along the way, there are several bathing spots where you can lower your body temperature and relax. Make the most of this exotic setting and the proximity to the Wiwas to get to know more about their culture. These beautiful encounters will be unforgettable.
In the late afternoon, it’s time to say goodbye to your guide. The 4×4 back will take you back to Santa Marta.
Places of interest
-
Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta:
it is one of the most beautiful natural parks in Colombia. Its exuberant nature and unique geological formation offer incredible landscapes and impressive biodiversity. Its mountain range is the highest coastal massif in the world, peaking at 5,000 meters above sea level in the Caribbean Sea. This park is also a place for the preservation of ancestral indigenous cultures that seek to promote their territory to promote ecotourism and respect for the environment.
-
Ciudad Perdida (the lost city):
an archeological site dating back to the 7th century and discovered in the 1970s, this lost city was once an extremely important refuge for the Tayrona civilization, as evidenced by its numerous monumental buildings. Ciudad Perdida is isolated in the middle of the jungle and combines majestic landscapes and rich history. It is also a symbolic and sacred place, considered the origin of the world, where it all began. It is a sanctuary of great beauty that is well worth the efforts of a trek to trek on its ground.
How to get there
How to get to Ciudad Perdida in Colombia?
By car/bus (to Santa Marta):
- from Bogota: 15:15
- from Medellin : 14h
- from Cali : 19h50
- from Bucaramanga: 9:20 am
- from Monteria : 7h45
- from Pereira : 17h45
- from Cartagena : 4h20
- from Barranquilla : 2h10
By plane (the closest airport is Santa Marta):
- from Bogota : 1h20
- from Medellin : 1h
- from Cali : 1h35
Ciudad Perdida in Colombia | Length of stay: 4 to 5 days in the jungle
Whether you leave for 4 or 5 days, the agencies charge a single rate. The only difference between the two options is that the daily walking hours are lower over 5 days. You'll have more time to walk the way back.
Day 1: Adan camp, 1st stop of the Treck towards Ciudad Perdida
- 1st part of the day:
At dawn, the agency will pick you up at your hotel in Santa Marta by 4X4 and take you to the departure of the trek in the small indigenous village of Maguey or Machete Pelao (also called El Mamey).
You will then begin your formidable adventure towards the first camp: the Cabaña de Adan, 5 miles away. This day's walk is rather simple, no big difference in height to report. This allows you to get on your feet for the rest. Your first stop will be at a watchtower where a breathtaking view of the Sierra Nevada awaits you. This is where you will have a snack of exotic fruits. So fill up your energy before continuing your walk.
- 2nd part of the day:
The second part of the hike is a bit more challenging. You will descend a path in red earth on which the sun likes to make its presence felt. A hat will be welcome. Don't forget to get hydrated.
At the end of this first day, the Adan camp offers an excellent relaxation area in the natural pools formed by the river that crosses it. The water is clear, it is hot, do not hesitate to dive!
After a hearty meal, the sound of the forest will guide your sleep.
Day 2: On the way to Ciudad Perdida, meeting with the Wiwa
Today the alarm clock is at 5.30 in the morning! You have to leave early if you want to reach the next camp before dark. Only 3 miles separate you from the Wiwa community, your next stop, but it will take you almost as long as the day before, because of the difference in height.
The snack point of exotic fruits will be deserved: 1 hour climb before reaching it in the morning. The effort is more intense, but the landscapes are also more beautiful. You will meet an incredible fauna and flora. Do not hesitate to ask your guide, he will be happy to explain the virtues of each of the plants around you. In this luxuriant jungle, the change of scenery is complete! You will be true explorers!
Once you arrive at the camp, several rivers will allow you to cool off. We advise you to put your soaked sweat to dry (it will stay damp all the time) while you bask in the clear water.
Day 3: Paraiso Teyuna camp
On this third day, you will have to travel 9 kilometers to reach the Cabaña Paraíso Teyuna. The lush jungle will give way to tall grass. You will also cross a small indigenous village Wiwa, a perfect opportunity to discover their culture in the manner of Rendez-vous in Unknown Land!
- Wiwas's lifestyle:
They are characterized by a life they want in harmony with their "mother land", the nature they worship and consider the source of all life. They are usually dressed in white and their black hair is kept long. The houses of this community are made of dried earth and stones, and are topped by a straw roof that points to the sky. All around, they use the land to grow coca, and they are the only ones allowed to grow it. This has a very important place in the rituals of this community.
- The Poporo and the Wiwas culture:
If you meet the mamey, the village sage, he will tell you about the poporo, a curious object that all the men in the community have in their hands. Within this species of bilboquet, the Wiwas place shellfish powder and dried coca leaf powder that they grind with a stick. They constantly dip the stick into the container and then carry it to their mouth. This mix would allow them to have more energy, to work longer and even to be able to stay several days without eating. This poporo is offered by the mamey to all young boys who have spent their four-day initiation at his side. They keep their present as long as they behave in harmony. This is a very important sign of recognition and respect for this community.
As you travel through this village, you can learn more about their culture by talking to the locals through your guide. Don’t be surprised if they don’t look you in the eye when they talk to you. It is a sign of mistrust that makes them very uncomfortable.
- The Paraiso Teyuna camp:
Once you have arrived at the camp, you can once again enjoy a cool swim that will do your muscles some good.
Day 4: Ciudad Perdida
And here you are at the climax of your journey. Today you will join the Ciudad Perdida. You will leave your bags at the camp (you will find them in the evening) before starting the climb of the 1200 steps to the long awaited archeological site. In a 1 hour walk, you will cross the jungle again but also the river that you were following from the start.
Once you arrive, the visit of the Ciudad Perdida will last about 3 hours. Your guide will explain the symbolism of this place, make you discover all its nooks and crannies and tell you its history. A real journey back in time.
You will discover that to avoid the ravages caused by the settlers, the Tayronas have sunk into the jungle and founded this city far from the coasts. It was originally a place of sacrament and ritual celebrations, which then became an important place of life, and was home to thousands of people.
To finish the tour, you will take a little height to discover the iconic view of the site on the two highest terraces of the city. This exceptional panorama is crowned by the imposing Sierra Nevada mountains. An extraordinary landscape that will leave you speechless.
Then you have to walk again: 4 miles separate you from the camp the day before where you will spend the night.
Day 5: return
This fifth day is probably the most sporty day of the excursion. You will have to travel 12 kilometers in the opposite direction to the starting point. Along the way, there are several bathing spots where you can lower your body temperature and relax. Make the most of this exotic setting and the proximity to the Wiwas to get to know more about their culture. These beautiful encounters will be unforgettable.
In the late afternoon, it’s time to say goodbye to your guide. The 4×4 back will take you back to Santa Marta.
-
Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta:
it is one of the most beautiful natural parks in Colombia. Its exuberant nature and unique geological formation offer incredible landscapes and impressive biodiversity. Its mountain range is the highest coastal massif in the world, peaking at 5,000 meters above sea level in the Caribbean Sea. This park is also a place for the preservation of ancestral indigenous cultures that seek to promote their territory to promote ecotourism and respect for the environment.
-
Ciudad Perdida (the lost city):
an archeological site dating back to the 7th century and discovered in the 1970s, this lost city was once an extremely important refuge for the Tayrona civilization, as evidenced by its numerous monumental buildings. Ciudad Perdida is isolated in the middle of the jungle and combines majestic landscapes and rich history. It is also a symbolic and sacred place, considered the origin of the world, where it all began. It is a sanctuary of great beauty that is well worth the efforts of a trek to trek on its ground.
How to get to Ciudad Perdida in Colombia?
By car/bus (to Santa Marta):
- from Bogota: 15:15
- from Medellin : 14h
- from Cali : 19h50
- from Bucaramanga: 9:20 am
- from Monteria : 7h45
- from Pereira : 17h45
- from Cartagena : 4h20
- from Barranquilla : 2h10
By plane (the closest airport is Santa Marta):
- from Bogota : 1h20
- from Medellin : 1h
- from Cali : 1h35
unmissable
Tourist interest
Tayrona National Park
This destination is blocked
This destination is blocked
Barichara
This destination is blocked
This destination is blocked
San Agustin
Villa de Leyva
This destination is blocked
The lost city (treck)
This destination is blocked
This destination is blocked
Inirida
This destination is blocked
This destination is blocked
This destination is blocked
This destination is blocked
Bogota
The lost city (treck)