Description
Explore the scenic backcountry of Colombia on a 4-day trek to Colombia’s legendary Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) hidden deep in the dense jungle. Have an adventure as you hike through the beautiful hinterlands, passing through unspoiled waterfalls and rivers along the way, eventually reaching this amazing archaeological site. Depending on the length of the trek you choose, you’ll have time to visit local indigenous villages along the way, swim in natural pools and camp each night among the lush wilderness of the Colombian Jungle.
Itinerary
Day 1: Santa Marta – Mamey – 1st Camp (Lunch, Dinner)
Your adventure begins bright and early as you meet between 8:00 am and 9:00 am in Santa Marta. From there, you'll embark on a picturesque 3-hour road trip to the quaint town of El Mamey. Upon arrival, you'll stop for a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of typical Colombian cuisine.
With your appetite satisfied, you'll commence your first trek of the journey. This invigorating 4-hour hike will lead you through stunning landscapes and natural beauty as you make your way to the first campsite. Covering a total distance of 7 km, this trek offers a perfect blend of challenge and reward.
Upon reaching the camp, you'll be greeted with a hearty dinner, providing the perfect end to your day of exploration. Afterward, you'll have the entire night to rest and rejuvenate, preparing yourself for the adventures that lie ahead.
Day 2: 1st Camp – Mutanzi – 3rd Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day two starts early with a quick breakfast before you set off around 6 am. Your first trek of the day is a 2-hour journey to the indigenous village of Mutanzi. This trek offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and learn about the traditions of the indigenous people.
After exploring Mutanzi, you'll continue with a 40-minute walk to the 2nd campsite, where a delicious lunch will be waiting for you. This meal is the perfect opportunity to recharge and prepare for the next leg of your journey.
Once you've rested, you'll embark on a final 4-hour trek to the 3rd camp. This part of the trek is both challenging and rewarding, offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment as you make your way to your destination. Upon arrival at the 3rd camp, you'll enjoy a well-deserved dinner and have the rest of the night to rest and recuperate from your 17 km trek.
Day 3: 3rd Camp – Ciudad Perdida – 2nd Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Your third day begins with an early breakfast before departing the 3rd camp at 6 am for a trek to the legendary Ciudad Perdida. After a rewarding climb up 1,200 stone steps, you’ll arrive at the ancient city around 7 am. Here, you’ll have two hours to explore the mysterious ruins nestled deep in the jungle. Your guide will provide insights into the history and significance of Ciudad Perdida, and you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Following your exploration, you’ll return to the 3rd camp for a well-earned lunch and a chance to rest. In the afternoon, you’ll set off on a 4-hour trek back to the 2nd camp. This return journey covers a total distance of 11 km, offering time to reflect on your adventure. Once back at the 2nd camp, you’ll enjoy a hearty dinner and spend the night, resting up for the next leg of your journey.
Day 4: 2nd camp – 1st camp – Ecological Hike (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Start your day with an early breakfast, preparing for a rewarding journey ahead. Depart around 6 am for a 4-hour trek back to the 1st camp, retracing your steps through the stunning natural scenery. This trek offers a unique perspective on the environment you've been exploring, allowing you to appreciate the diverse landscapes from a different vantage point.
Upon reaching the 1st camp, you'll enjoy a well-deserved dinner and settle in for the night. This evening at the camp provides a chance to relax and reflect on your journey through the captivating landscapes and experiences of the previous days.
Day 5: 1st Camp – Mamey – Santa Marta (Breakfast, Lunch)
Your final day begins with a hearty breakfast at the 2nd camp before embarking on the longest trek of your journey. This 7-hour hike, primarily downhill, will take you through lush landscapes back to El Mamey. Here, you’ll enjoy lunch at the same local restaurant where you dined on Day 1, offering a familiar taste as you near the end of your adventure.
Following lunch, you’ll make your way back to Santa Marta with your guide. Arriving in mid-afternoon, you’ll complete your journey having covered a total distance of 16 km on this day. This trek, while challenging, offers a rewarding conclusion to your immersive exploration of the region.
Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Knowledgeable guide in English or Spanish.
- Camp accommodation
- Meals (specified on the itinerary)
- Entry to visited attractions.
Important information
How do inclusions work?
Food:
4 Breakfasts 5 lunches, 4 dinners, and snacks during the hikes. Food will be prepared locally at the camping spots and snacks will be fruits.
Transportation:
To and From Santa Marta–Hiking start point
Lodging:
There will be beds and/or hammocks available at all campsites. Each with a mosquito net. You will be given either a bed or hammock depending on availability. We also offer bed sheets by request, because as you get up on the mountain it will get colder. If you have a medical condition that prohibits you from sleeping in a hammock, please let us know.
Read about what travel bloggers wrote about their trip to Ciudad Perdida:
- Anny's Adventures: A well-written blog post about the Lost City Trek.
- Travel Life Experiences: Includes detailed information about the trip, with photos and video.
Additional information
Things to bring:
- Hiking Shoes
- Water canteen
- Rain Jacket
- Sunscreen
- Hiking pants
- Small backpack
Cancellation policies
This experience can be cancelled up to one week in advance to receive a full refund
