Lost City Trek [Ciudad Perdida Tour] From Santa Marta & Taganga

The Lost City Trek, also known as the Ciudad Perdida Tour, is a captivating four-night adventure through the lush Colombian jungle. Departing from Santa Marta and Taganga, this trek offers an immersive experience that combines breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and physical challenges. Participants will explore the ancient remnants of the Tayrona civilization while engaging with indigenous communities, all under the guidance of a professional tour leader. With a medium-high difficulty level, the trek is perfect for those with moderate fitness, featuring daily hikes of around six hours. Those seeking an unforgettable journey through the heart of Colombia’s wilderness won’t want to miss this opportunity.

This experience made our list of the 14 Best City Tours In Santa Marta.

Good To Know

• The Lost City Trek is a 4-night jungle journey in the Sierra Nevada of Colombia, suitable for moderately fit travelers.
• Trekkers can expect stunning natural landscapes, culture, and the chance to explore the ancient Tayrona settlement of Ciudad Perdida.
• The trek involves collaboration with indigenous communities, providing an enriching cultural exchange for participants.
• Proper health and safety considerations are necessary, as the trek is not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for certain medical conditions.
• The trek can be booked from Santa Marta or Taganga, with scheduled pickup times and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the trek.

Overview of the Lost City Trek

The Lost City Trek is a four-night journey through the Colombian jungle in the Sierra Nevada region.

This medium-high difficulty trek is suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels, with an average hiking time of 6 hours per day. The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 people, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

The trek includes all food and accommodation, as well as the entry fee to La Ciudad Perdida and the indigenous community fee.

Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the rainforest, visit local villages, and collaborate with native communities before returning to Mamey with the group.

Trekking Through the Colombian Rainforest

Trekking through the Colombian rainforest on the Lost City Trek offers travelers a captivating journey filled with scenic landscapes, culture, and the opportunity to uncover the mysteries of an ancient lost civilization.

The trek takes hikers on a challenging yet rewarding path, traversing through lush, verdant forests, and passing by remote indigenous villages.

Along the way, travelers can observe the diverse wildlife and learn about the traditional customs and practices of the local communities.

The physical demands of the trek are balanced by the stunning natural beauty and the sense of adventure that permeates the entire experience, making it a truly unforgettable exploration of Colombia’s rich cultural and environmental heritage.

Visiting Indigenous Communities

As part of the Lost City Trek, travelers have the opportunity to collaborate with native communities and gain insights into their traditional way of life.

The trek includes visits to indigenous villages, where travelers can interact with the locals, learn about their cultural practices, and gain a deeper understanding of the Sierra Nevada region.

This collaboration allows the communities to share their heritage and customs with visitors, fostering cultural exchange and respect.

The inclusion of these village visits in the itinerary provides a unique and enriching experience, giving travelers a more holistic understanding of the area’s history and its people.

Exploring the Mysterious Ciudad Perdida

Nestled deep within the lush Sierra Nevada mountains lies the mystical Ciudad Perdida, or "Lost City." This ancient pre-Columbian settlement, once home to the Tayrona civilization, has captured the imagination of adventurous travelers for decades.

During the trek to this legendary site, explorers can expect to:

• Marvel at the intricate stone terraces and structures that have withstood the test of time
• Uncover clues about the Tayrona’s advanced engineering and agricultural practices
• Immerse themselves in the serene natural beauty of the surrounding rainforest

The journey to this enigmatic lost city is as much a physical challenge as it’s a cultural and historical exploration, making it a truly unforgettable experience for those who dare to embark on this remarkable adventure.

Health and Safety Considerations

It’s crucial for prospective trekkers to carefully consider the health and safety requirements before embarking on the Lost City Trek.

The trek isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

However, the trek is located near public transportation, providing easy access for those who meet the fitness requirements.

Trekkers should confirm their booking details at the time of booking to ensure they’re physically capable of completing the challenging four-night journey through the Colombian jungle.

Booking and Pickup Details

For the Lost City Trek, pickup times are scheduled between 7:00 and 9:00 am from either Santa Marta or Taganga.

The tour starts at 9:00 am, so travelers should be ready to depart during the designated pickup window.

There’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, making it easy to adjust plans if needed.

The tour price starts from $579.23 per person, with a lowest price guarantee ensuring travelers get the best deal.

Booking information and confirmation are provided at the time of reservation.

• Pickup window: 7:00 – 9:00 am
• Start time: 9:00 am
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Lost City Trek tour includes all food and accommodation throughout the four-night journey in the Colombian jungle. Plus, the entry fee to La Ciudad Perdida and the indigenous community fee are covered. Travelers will be accompanied by a professional tour guide, and hotel pickup and 4×4 transfer are provided. The tour also includes 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners.

Inclusions	Exclusions
All food and accommodation	Flights
Entry fee to La Ciudad Perdida	Travel insurance
Indigenous community fee	Personal expenses
Professional tour guide	Tips

The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

Difficulty and Fitness Requirements

The Lost City Trek is a medium-high difficulty trek, suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels.

The trek involves approximately 6 hours of hiking per day through the lush Colombian jungle.

Prospective trekkers should be prepared for:

• Steep ascents and descents along the trails
• Extended periods of walking on uneven terrain
• Exposure to hot and humid tropical weather conditions

While the trek isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, the tour operator works closely with participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Confirmation of fitness level is required at the time of booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Extend the Trek Duration?

The overview does not mention an option to extend the trek duration. The trek is a set 4-night program, so there doesn’t appear to be a way to extend the experience beyond the standard itinerary provided.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Equipment?

Yes, travelers can bring their own hiking equipment for the trek. The tour provides basic gear, but allowing personal equipment gives hikers more comfort and flexibility during the multi-day journey through the Colombian jungle.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting Indigenous Communities?

When visiting indigenous communities, the dress code is typically casual and respectful. Travelers should wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers the shoulders and knees to show respect for the local customs and traditions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Trek?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. However, it’s recommended for travelers with moderate fitness levels as the trek involves hiking for up to 6 hours per day through the Colombian jungle.

Can I Purchase Additional Snacks During the Trek?

Hikers can purchase additional snacks during the trek. The tour includes regular meals, but travelers may want to bring their own extra snacks or purchase them from local vendors along the way to supplement the provided meals.

The Sum Up

The Lost City Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through the Colombian jungle. Participants will discover the ancient ruins of the Tayrona civilization, engage with indigenous communities, and face moderate physical challenges. With breathtaking scenery and cultural insights, this trek provides an immersive experience for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path exploration in the heart of the Colombian wilderness.