Lost City Trek 4 Days – 3 Nights

The Lost City Trek offers adventurous travelers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Tayrona ruins of Ciudad Perdida in the heart of Colombia’s Santa Marta region. Spanning 4 days and 3 nights, this moderate-level trek showcases the area’s stunning natural beauty, from lush jungles to rugged mountains. Trekkers can look forward to high-quality meals, mule support, and travel insurance, all while experiencing the rich cultural heritage of local communities. With a perfect 5.0 rating, this trek promises an unforgettable journey for outdoor enthusiasts. But what makes this trek so captivating, and why is it a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly immersive adventure?

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Treks And Hiking Tours In Santa Marta.

Good To Know

1. A 4-day, 3-night trek to explore the ancient Tayrona city of Ciudad Perdida, built around 800 A.D. in the Santa Marta region of Colombia.

2. Challenging hikes through lush landscapes, including a 1,200-step climb, mountains, rivers, and opportunities for culture with local communities.

3. Guided trekking experience with exceptional guides, providing a rewarding adventure for moderately fit outdoor enthusiasts.

4. All-inclusive package with travel insurance, meals, mule support, and contributions to native and peasant communities, as well as the ICANH organization.

5. Highly rated 5.0 out of 7 reviews, known for its breathtaking scenery and exceptional customer experience.

Overview of the Trek

The Lost City Trek is a 4-day, 3-night journey through the lush jungles of Santa Marta, Colombia.

This trekking adventure leads adventurers to the ancient Tayrona city of Ciudad Perdida, constructed around 800 A.D., predating the famous Machu Picchu.

The trek involves climbing 1,200 stone steps, crossing mountains, rivers, and interacting with local communities.

Rated at a moderate fitness level, the trek offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers.

With a 5.0 rating from 7 reviews, the Lost City Trek is known for its exceptional guides, unique cultural interactions, and breathtaking scenery along the way.

Itinerary Details

The four-day, three-night itinerary of the Lost City Trek takes trekkers on an immersive journey through the lush landscapes of Colombia’s Santa Marta region.

On the first day, guests travel by 4WD van to El Mamey before embarking on a 4-hour hike to Camp 1.

The second day begins with a 2.5-hour trek to Mutanzi, followed by a 4-hour hike to Camp 3, or El Paraíso.

The third day is dedicated to exploring the archaeological site of Ciudad Perdida, with a return hike to Camp 2.

The final day involves a 3-hour trek back to Camp 1 and a 3-hour drive to Santa Marta.

Historical Significance

Steeped in history, Ciudad Perdida, or the "Lost City," stands as an ancient Tayrona settlement predating the renowned Machu Picchu by several centuries.

Built around 800 A.D., this archaeological marvel offers a glimpse into the sophisticated culture of the Tayrona people. The intricate stone steps and structures, nestled within the lush Colombian jungle, serve as a testament to the engineering prowess and vibrant past of this lost civilization.

Trekkers embarking on the Lost City Trek have the unique opportunity to explore this captivating historical site, seeing the rich heritage that has remained hidden for centuries.

Trekking Challenges

Trekking the Lost City in Colombia’s rugged terrain presents a formidable challenge, as adventurers must climb 1,200 stone steps winding through the lush jungle. The trek also involves crossing mountains, rivers, and interacting with local communities, testing hikers’ stamina and resilience. To tackle these obstacles, a moderate fitness level is required. The journey rewards trekkers with stunning vistas and a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Trekking Challenges	Details
Ascent	1,200 stone steps
Terrain	Mountains, rivers, jungles
Interaction	Local communities
Fitness Level	Moderate

Included Experiences

Embarking on the Lost City Trek promises a host of immersive experiences beyond the physical challenge.

The trek includes a contribution to the native and peasant communities, as well as the ICANH, the Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History, which helps preserve the cultural heritage of the region.

Travelers are also provided with travel insurance, ensuring peace of mind during the adventure. Meals are included, with 4 lunches and breakfast on the first day, catering to various dietary needs.

On top of that, mules are available to transport luggage, allowing hikers to focus on the journey. These inclusions enhance the overall experience, blending culture, safety, and comfort throughout the trek.

Additional Information

Confirmation at the time of booking is required for the Lost City Trek.

The trek isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate fitness level is necessary. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions or medical conditions in advance.

The tour includes travel insurance and a contribution to the native and peasant communities, as well as the ICANH (Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History).

Meals included are 4 lunches and breakfast on the first day. Mules are provided for luggage transport during the trek.

Early notification for special requests is advised to ensure a seamless experience.

Customer Feedback

Travelers who’ve experienced the Lost City Trek have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback, highlighting exceptional guides, unique interactions with indigenous communities, and the trek’s beautiful scenery and challenging nature.

Reviews emphasize the unforgettable experiences and strong recommendations for this adventure. Guests praise the high-quality food and accommodation, as well as the contributions made to native and peasant communities and the local heritage organization, ICANH.

With a 5.0 rating across 7 reviews, the Lost City Trek appears to deliver an exceptional trekking experience that leaves a lasting impression on those who undertake this journey into Colombia’s rich cultural and natural landscapes.

Booking and Pricing

The Lost City Trek is priced from $750.00, offering a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start time.

To book, travelers can check availability and select their preferred pickup points. Early notification for special requests, such as dietary restrictions or medical conditions, is advised.

The trek includes a contribution to native and peasant communities, travel insurance, meals, and mule support for luggage transport, making it a comprehensive and well-organized adventure.

With its stunning scenery, culture, and challenging hike, the Lost City Trek is a must-do experience for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Santa Marta, Colombia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Trek?

No, pets are not allowed on the Lost City Trek. The trek involves strenuous hiking over challenging terrain, and the presence of pets could jeopardize the safety and experience of the other trekkers.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

There’s typically no minimum group size requirement for this trek. However, the operator recommends booking early as smaller group sizes provide a more personalized experience. Group size may be limited based on availability and logistics.

What Is the Average Temperature During the Trek?

The average temperature during the trek ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 86°F (30°C), depending on the altitude and time of day. Daytime temperatures are generally warmer, while it can be cooler in the mornings and evenings.

Can I Rent Hiking Gear On-Site?

Hikers can rent basic hiking gear on-site, such as backpacks, trekking poles, and rain ponchos, to ensure they’re equipped for the challenging terrain. Advanced gear like hiking boots may need to be brought from home.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are generally no age restrictions for the Lost City Trek. However, participants must be able to complete the challenging hike through the jungle terrain. The tour operator can advise on any age-related considerations.

The Sum Up

The Lost City Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through Colombia’s stunning landscapes to the ancient Tayrona city. With its moderate difficulty, high-quality meals, and reliable support, this 4-day, 3-night trek provides an immersive cultural experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Customer reviews praise its exceptional value, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and memorable journey.