The Lost City trek is one of Colombia’s most iconic hikes, leading you to the ancient ruins of Ciudad Perdida, built by the Tairona people over 1,000 years ago. This guided jungle trek is challenging but rewarding, taking you deep into the Sierra Nevada mountains, through indigenous villages, rivers, and lush jungle scenery.

Quick Stats

Distance: 49 km (30 mi) roundtrip

Elevation Gain: 2,650 m (8,700 ft)

Max Altitude: 1,190 m (3,900 ft)

Duration: 3–5 days (most do 4 days)

Difficulty: Hard

How to Get There

The trek starts near Santa Marta, northern Colombia. Daily flights connect Santa Marta with cities like Bogota, Medellin, and Pereira (about 1.5 hours). Most tour companies include van transfers from Santa Marta to the trailhead.

Where to Stay: Hotel Boutique Casa Chunuu is a great choice for the night before or after your trek.

What to Expect on the Trek

The Lost City trek is fully guided and all-inclusive, with lodging in jungle camps, 3 meals per day, and expert guides. Most people hike 4 days, though shorter or longer options exist. Each day involves 4–7 hours of trekking with plenty of breaks for swimming and resting.

Rivers are now crossed via bridges, making the hike safer and more manageable than older reports suggest.

Day-by-Day Experience

Day 1 – Starting the Trek: After a morning pickup in Santa Marta, you’ll drive to Machete town, meet your guides, and begin hiking. Day 1 includes about 9 km of trails, some muddy paths, and your first night at Camp Alfredo.

Day 2 – Villages & Culture: Hike deeper into the jungle (14 km) and visit the Kogi village of Mutanyi. Swim in rivers, enjoy lush scenery, and reach Camp Paraiso for the night.

Day 3 – Exploring Ciudad Perdida: Climb 1,200 stone steps to the Lost City. Explore terraces, learn about Tairona history, and enjoy panoramic mountain views. Return to Camp Mumake for your final night.

Day 4 – Return Journey: Hike back to Machete, enjoy clear views of the Sierra Nevada, and head to Santa Marta to conclude the trek.

Trekking Tips

Difficulty: The trek is tough but manageable. Guides support all hikers.

Camps: Comfortable with bunk beds, mosquito nets, showers, toilets, WiFi, and shops.

Safety: Low crime risk; main concerns are slips or minor injuries.

Food: Meals are fresh, but bottled water or purification tablets are recommended.

Packing Essentials: Backpack, spare clothes, swimsuit, sun protection, bug spray, waterproof bag cover, toiletries, cash, hiking boots, and sandals.

Best Time to Go: Dry season (December–April).

Trekking Companies

Magic Tour is highly recommended for bilingual guides and excellent service. Tours are all-inclusive, supporting local communities and sustainable trekking practices.

Is It Worth It?

At around $520 USD for 4 days, the trek may seem expensive, but it covers transport, meals, lodging, and guides. Considering its unique history, culture, and scenery, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

This guide gives everything you need to plan and enjoy the Lost City trek safely and comfortably while fully immersing yourself in Colombia’s rich history and jungle landscapes.