Ultimate Guide to the Lost City Trek in Colombia

The Lost City trek in Colombia offers an unforgettable hiking experience through lush jungles to ancient Tairona ruins.

Exploring the Lost City Trek in Colombia

The Lost City trek is a compelling hiking adventure in Colombia that leads travelers to the Ciudad Perdida, an ancient settlement established by the Tairona people more than 1,000 years ago. This guided jungle trek typically spans four days and encompasses food and accommodations at camps along the route. Despite the physical challenges, local guides offer exceptional support and knowledge throughout the journey.

Having recently undertaken the Lost City trek, I found it to be an enriching experience filled with camaraderie. We ventured deep into the Sierra Nevada mountains, visited indigenous villages, crossed rivers, swam daily, and hiked extensively while capturing breathtaking vistas.

In this article, I will detail everything you need to know about the Lost City trek and how to make the most of this adventure!

Quick Facts

• Distance: 49 kilometers (30 mi)
• Elevation Gain: 2,650 meters (8,700 ft)
• Max Altitude: 1,190 meters (3,900 ft)
• Duration: 3 – 5 days
• Difficulty: Hard

*These statistics pertain to the roundtrip trek.

How To Get There

The Lost City is nestled in the mountains near Santa Marta, in northern Colombia. Numerous direct flights are available daily from major airports such as Bogota, Medellin, and Pereira, with flight times averaging around 1.5 hours. Transportation from Santa Marta to the trailhead is included in trekking tours for your convenience.

If you need accommodation in Santa Marta prior to or following the trek, I suggest considering Hotel Boutique Casa Chunuu.

Lost City Trek: What To Expect

The Lost City trek is an all-inclusive and fully guided experience comprising lodging in camps equipped with beds and mosquito nets, along with three meals per day.

It functions as an out-and-back trek, requiring approximately 4-7 hours of hiking daily. While it can be completed in 3 to 6 days, the four-day trek is often regarded as ideal, offering sufficient time to absorb key sights and activities without feeling rushed.

Your day during the trek typically begins around 5 AM and concludes at 3-5 PM upon reaching the campsite. Although the hiking schedule may appear daunting, regular breaks are integrated for meals, swimming, and rest, ensuring a balanced experience.

There are river crossings daily, all of which now feature bridges, alleviating any past concerns about navigating the streams.

In the subsequent sections, I will elaborate on my experience during each day of the Lost City trek, highlighting sights, activities, accommodations, and challenges encountered along the way.

Day 1: Start Of The Trek

The journey began with a 7 AM pickup from my hotel in Santa Marta, accompanied by my cousin and his wife. We first proceeded to the tour company’s office for refreshments and an opportunity to meet our group comprising 12 participants: 10 hikers and 2 guides, representing diverse nationalities.

After a brief stop for a stretch, we completed a scenic mountain drive to Machete, where we met our Colombian guides who provided an informative briefing regarding the trek.

Our initial hiking day involved a considerable uphill stretch across approximately 9 kilometers (6 miles). While mostly paved, we experienced heavy rain that transformed the trail into muddy conditions, adding to the day’s challenge as we trekked downhill.

Upon arrival at Camp Alfredo, we enjoyed dinner and settled in for our first night.

Day 2: Villages & Culture

The second day proved to be one of the longest and most strenuous, but the weather cooperated beautifully. Waking up at 5 AM, we hiked from Camp Alfredo to Camp Paraiso, immersing ourselves deeper into the jungle over another 14 kilometers (8 miles).

This leg of the journey was strenuous due to numerous steep hills, but we were rewarded by glimpses of the Kogi indigenous village of Mutanyi along the way.

After stopping for lunch at Camp Mumake, we indulged in a refreshing swim in the river, the perfect antidote to the physical exertion. The rest of the afternoon unfolded near the river, and the rain only resumed after we had gone to bed, providing a calming backdrop to our sleep.

Day 3: Exploring The Lost City

On the third day, we finally arrived at the Lost City, requiring an ascent of approximately 1,200 stone steps which are steep and precarious, demanding careful navigation.

Upon reaching the Lost City, I was astonished by its size and historical significance, revealing a community that once thrived thousands of years ago. Established by the Tairona people in 800 AD, this ancient site predates Machu Picchu.

The Lost City was abandoned in the 16th century and rediscovered by treasure looters in 1972, earning its nickname ‘Ciudad Perdida,’ or Lost City. Our extensive exploration of the main ruins yielded insights into its vastness, although much of it remains closed to the public.

After a thorough guided tour and ample photo opportunities, we retraced our steps to Camp Paraiso for lunch, enjoyed another swim, and continued on to Camp Mumake, where we spent our final night of the trek.

Day 4: The Return Journey

The concluding day of the trek involved a 5 AM start and approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) back to the starting point. Fortunately, we were greeted by spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, a reward for our earlier exertion.

After a final group lunch in Machete town, we returned to Santa Marta for some much-needed relaxation before parting ways.

Map Of The Trail

Here’s a map from AllTrails that illustrates the hiking route and elevation profile. The locations of camps are marked according to your trekking itinerary, which may vary based on the guiding company.

Those who sign up for AllTrails Plus can download the map for offline navigation during the trek.

How Hard Is It?

The Lost City trek presents a substantial challenge, exceeding initial expectations. Daily hiking involves steep ascents and descents across rugged, muddy terrain within a humid environment, compounded by the fatigue of a four-day journey.

While the trek may appear daunting, the guides maintain a pace that accommodates all fitness levels, ensuring ample opportunities for rest and nourishment.

What Are The Camps Like?

The camps throughout the trek are relatively comfortable, albeit not luxurious. Facilities include showers, flush toilets, and bunk beds fitted with mosquito nets for nighttime safety.

Each camp features charging stations and Wi-Fi, although a nominal fee may apply. Electricity typically ceases at around 9 PM, necessitating planning for charging needs beforehand.

Additionally, camps provide shops selling snacks, beverages, and toiletries, offering a surprising variety of goods.

Is It Safe?

Although various regions in Colombia may present safety concerns, the Lost City trek has maintained a strong safety record for years. Overall, the hike is considered relatively secure, with the primary risk stemming from physical injuries such as twisting an ankle.

Read More: Safety On The Lost City Trek

Food Safety

Food and water safety protocols have significantly advanced, although there are still instances of travelers experiencing illness during the trek. Hygiene and meal preparation practices by camp staff are generally commendable, but challenges remain in maintaining cleanliness in remote settings.

Reported cases of sickness highlight the importance of having options for bottled water or carrying purification tablets for added safety. Meals typically consist of variety, including rice, vegetables, eggs, pasta, fruits, and meats, and food quality was satisfactory during my trek.

Best Trekking Company

With only a few licensed companies permitted to conduct treks to the Lost City, options are limited yet consistent in quality. I joined my trek with Magic Tour, which provided an exceptional experience, featuring bilingual and amiable guides who ensured a smooth journey.

Is It Worth It?

As of 2025, the cost for the Lost City trek typically runs around 2,150,000 Colombian pesos, approximately $520 USD—an increase from previous years. This figure includes transportation, lodging, guiding services, and meals, rendering it a valuable investment in an unforgettable experience.

Given the limitation on daily trekkers, prices are likely to continue rising, making this an opportune time to embark on the trek.

Can You Hike Independently?

Independent trekking is not permitted on the Lost City trail; a guide is mandatory for all hikers. While this may seem costly, it ultimately benefits the local community and sustains the environment.

What To Bring

• Backpack: A 30-liter backpack suffices for the journey.
• Spare Clothes: Bring spare changes without overpacking.
• Outerwear: Lightweight clothing is preferable; avoid bulky jackets.
• Swimsuit: Essential for swimming in rivers.
• Plastic Bags: For organizing wet and dry items.
• Toiletries: Basic hygiene supplies like soap and toothbrushes.
• Sun Protection: Hats and sunscreen are crucial for sun exposure.
• Bug Spray: To fend off mosquitoes.
• Ear Plugs: Handy for noise sensitivity during camp stays.
• Waterproof Cover: Protect your backpack from rain.
• Light: Useful for nighttime activities in camps.
• Water Tablets: For added safety regarding drinking water.
• Cash: Useful for purchasing camp supplies and services.
• Footwear: Pack quality hiking boots and sandals for camps.

Best Time To Go

The most recommended time to undertake the Lost City trek is during the dry season, from December to April. While trekking is feasible in the wetter months, conditions are not as favorable. I experienced heavy rain during my mid-December hike, so planning between January and March could provide a more pleasant experience.

Other Tips For The Trek

• Cell Service: Expect no service during the trek but Wi-Fi in camps.
• Porters: Mules are available for carrying extra luggage; inquire about pricing.
• Luggage Storage: Trekking companies often offer storage for extra bags during your hike.

Conclusion

Thank you for exploring my detailed guide on the Lost City trek in Colombia. For additional travel insights and tips, feel free to explore my comprehensive travel guides for South America.