Ultimate Guide to Ciudad Perdida: Trekking to Colombia’s Lost City

Did you know, hidden deep in the Sierra Nevada mountains of northern Colombia lies one of South America’s most remarkable archaeological treasures? This is where you’ll find La Ciudad Perdida, or “The Lost City.” Apparently it’s no longer lost as it’s been found… and you can visit it. You just have to take a 4 day hike to get there.

The multi-day trek to this ancient Teyuna settlement takes you through jungle, across rivers, and into the indigenous Kogui territory. It’s definitely an experience, but it’s one you have to plan for.

If you’re considering this bucket-list adventure, here’s everything you need to know to plan your journey to one of the world’s most spectacular lost civilizations: The Lost City in Colombia!

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About La Ciudad Perdida, Colombia

The Lost City, known in Spanish as La Ciudad Perdida and in Indigenous languages as Teyuna, is one of Colombia’s most fascinating archaeological treasures. This ancient city was built by the Tairona civilization around 800 CE, making it more than 600 years older than Machu Picchu in Peru.

At its height, the city is believed to have been home to 2,000–4,000 people, serving as a major political and trade hub for the Tairona. The site covers an estimated 30 hectares (74 acres) and features over 250 terraces, stone staircases, plazas, and ceremonial structures. To reach it today, you have to travel 27 miles (44 kilometers) by foot through dense jungle, rivers, and steep climbs. The trek typically takes 4–6 days round trip, but I personally did it in 4 days.

What is the “Lost City” considered lost?

La Ciudad Perdida was abandoned during the Spanish conquest in the 16th century and eventually reclaimed by the rainforest. For centuries, it was only known to local Indigenous communities, who still regard it as a sacred site. It wasn’t until the 1970s, when looters stumbled upon it, that it became known to the outside world. This is what earned it the nickname “The Lost City.”

Why do people sometimes call it “Colombia’s Machu Picchu”?

Today, the Lost City is often compared to Machu Picchu in Peru and referred to as “Colombia’s Machu Picchu.” Both were forgotten to outsiders for centuries, both are sacred to Indigenous peoples, and both are truly incredible to visit with their ancient stone structures.

The difference? While Machu Picchu can be reached by train or a day hike, Ciudad Perdida requires a multi-day jungle trek to visit it. This makes it a less visited sight, less crowded, and really only visited by adventurous travelers.

Planning Your Trek

If you’re a hiker and want to visit The Lost City in Colombia, it’s completely within reach. You just need to book in advance and know what to expect. That’s what I’ll be going through. Not only have I done this trek, but I’ve also done the classic Inca Trail, the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek, the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park, and many other multi-day treks. I guess this makes me an experienced trekker!

Finding a Tour Group

First off, you need to know that La Ciudad Perdida can only be accessed through authorized tour operators. Independent trekking is not permitted. This regulation protects both the archaeological site and ensures your safety in this remote region.

Fortunately, several reputable companies operate from Santa Marta. I recommend taking either Expoture or Magic Tour Colombia.

• Expotur: Offers various trek lengths and comfort levels. This is who I chose to trek with.

• Magic Tour Colombia: One of the most established operators with experienced guides. This was my backup operator.

Book at least a few weeks in advance, especially during dry season (December-March). Most operators offer 4, 5, or 6-day options, with the 4-day trek being the most popular and physically demanding.

Ultimately, after doing my research, I ended up booking a 4-day Lost City trek with Expotur, about 4 days before it was set to leave. Believe it or not, sometimes I’m a “go with the flow” type of traveler. I don’t recommend cutting it this close for a few reasons:

1. It might not be available and you’ll miss out.
2. You don’t have time to plan or train for the hike.
3. You might not have the optimal items to pack or take on the trip.

Cost of Trekking to the Lost City

In 2025, expect to pay around $550 USD for a 4-day trek, with prices varying by season and group size. This typically includes:

• Transportation to/from Santa Marta
• All meals during the trek
• Accommodation in hammocks or basic beds
• Professional guide
• Entrance fees to indigenous territories

Additional costs to consider:

• Drinks along the way
• Tips for guides
• Travel insurance
• Personal gear rental, if needed
• Accommodation in Santa Marta before/after

The Trek Breakdown: What to Expect Each Day

As I mentioned, I completed this trek with Expotur in June, which happens to be rainy season in the area. Here’s the day-by-day reality of what you can expect when hiking to La Ciudad Perdida.

Day 1: Santa Marta to El Mamey to Camp 1

• Distance: 4.2 miles (6.8 km)
• Hiking Time: 4 hours
• Terrain: Mostly uphill with some downhill sections
• Start: 8:30 am with 2.5-hour 4WD drive to El Mamey

The adventure begins with a bumpy but scenic drive through the foothills to El Mamey, where you’ll have lunch before starting the trek. The first day is a relatively gentle introduction to the jungles of Colombia, ending at Camp 1 where you sleep in hammocks.

If weather permits, there’s usually time for a dip in the river. Take advantage of this while you can still feel somewhat clean!

Day 2: Camp 1 to Camp 3 via Kogui Village

• Distance: 9.1 miles (14.7 km)
• Hiking Time: 7 hours
• Terrain: Mostly uphill along Buritaca River
• Highlight: Passing through Mutanshi Kogui indigenous village

This is the longest day and where the jungle really makes you prove yourself. You’ll trek alongside the Buritaca River, passing through the Kogui village of Mutanshi. It’s a reminder that this isn’t just a tourist attraction… the indigenous people still live here.

By the time you reach Camp 3, you’ll be thoroughly exhausted but rewarded with the knowledge that you’re now close to your ultimate destination.

Day 3: The Lost City and Return to Camp 2

• Distance: 3.7 miles (6 km)
• Hiking Time: 7 hours total
• Key Feature: Climbing the famous 1,200 stone steps
• The Big Day: Early breakfast before ascending to Ciudad Perdida

After an early breakfast, you’ll tackle those legendary 1,200 steps built by the Tayrona people centuries ago. The climb is steep and can be slippery (particularly in rainy season!), but reaching the top and seeing those terraces emerge from the jungle mist is absolutely magical. If you can breathe and enjoy it. Seriously, the steps are brutal with the jungle’s humidity.

You’ll have several hours to explore the Lost City, under your guide’s supervision, learning about the site’s history and significance. The afternoon involves descending back to Camp 2 for the night.

Day 4: Camp 2 to El Mamey to Santa Marta

• Distance: 10.2 miles (16.5 km)
• Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
• Terrain: Some uphill, mostly downhill
• Finish: Back in Santa Marta between 3:00 – 5:00 pm

The final push back to civilization, a shower, and clean clothes! Your legs will be tired, but there are opportunities for refreshing breaks at rivers and waterfalls along the way. By the time you reach El Mamey for lunch, you’ll be ready for that 4WD ride back to Santa Marta… and probably dreaming of a hot shower.

Total Trek Stats

• Distance: Approximately 27.2 miles (44 km)
• Total Hiking Time: 25-26 hours over 4 days
• Elevation Range: Sea level to close to 4000 ft (1,200m) above sea level

What to Expect: Reality Check

Let me be honest about what you’re signing up for… this isn’t just a glamorous Instagram trek through the unspoiled Colombian jungle.

I completed this trek during rainy season, and it was simultaneously one of my most memorable and most challenging hiking experiences. This was a bucket-list adventure for me, similar to the Inca Trail, but the reality was grittier than I expected, especially after many wonderful mountain treks previously.

The Good about My Trek

The scenery is spectacular. The Lost City itself is absolutely worth the struggle, and the people, both fellow trekkers and local guides, made the experience special. Swimming in the river to cool off was lovely, and I’ll never forget passing a military outpost where soldiers had rigged a TV antenna up a tree to watch World Cup matches.

While these parts made it magical, there were also the downsides…

The Challenging about My Trek

You’re hiking through the jungle. This means everything, and I mean everything, stays damp the entire time. Your clothes, shoes, towel, pillow, everything. Nothing dries in the humid jungle environment. It’s not a great feeling, but hey, it’s only 4 days!

The trail was also incredibly muddy and slippery, making every step a conscious effort. It’s almost like walking up a sand dune. Going uphill: 2 feet forward, slide 1 foot back. Going downhill: Just sliding and praying. Granted, I did not pack hiking boots, just gym shoes. Don’t be me.

And did I mention the mosquitos? They absolutely love me, and the jungle was the perfect place to be their buffet. I was covered in bites and itchy for weeks afterward. Add to the fact that there is a risk for Yellow Fever and Dengue Fever from those bites and yikes. (Make sure to get your Yellow Fever vaccine before you go!) Mind you, I actually took strong mosquito spray… that melted my plastic phone case it was so strong (double yikes).

You could say these bits made the Lost City trek less lovely.

General Physical Demands

This trek is rated moderate to challenging, but don’t underestimate the mental component. While you don’t need to be an elite athlete, a reasonable fitness level will help. Daily hikes of 4-8 hours in oppressive humidity, often on muddy, uneven terrain, require both stamina and mental resilience.

I joined the trek just a week before departure and was paired with a group of 20 and 30-somethings. Having some base fitness (and some previous trekking experience) definitely helped me keep up! We had one couple that ended up renting a horse a couple of days as they could not complete the hiking required.

FYI: Do not rely on taking a horse to the Lost City. It is not actually an option or a straight ride. The horses are really for transporting materials, not people. The path is too steep and muddy for them to carry people all the way up.

Weather and Conditions

The Sierra Nevada is a rainforest/jungle. This means you need to expect:

• Crushing humidity (80-90%) year-round that makes everything feel damp
• Daily rain showers, even in “dry” season
• Temperatures ranging from 68-86°F (20-30°C)
• Muddy, slippery trails that require constant attention
• River crossings that may require removing boots – one place even had a pulley system to carry people across the river!
• Mosquitos that seem to have a personal vendetta against you

Where You’ll Stay & What You’ll Eat

Forget luxury. This is backpacker territory. Honestly, I was here for it. You’ll sleep in hammocks or basic beds in open-air shelters. Think shared dormitory-style spaces with other trekkers. You’ll have basic shared bathrooms and definitely no hot water (not that you’d want it anyway). Fortunately, there are mosquito nets around the bed, an absolute necessity in the area.

For meals, think simple but filling, featuring rice, beans, chicken, and tropical fruit. “Safe” water was available at our camps, but honestly, many people got sick from it. Take something to treat your own water (I use Aquatabs), or if you must, buy water. You do not want any kind of illness while you’re hiking… and away from a bathroom.

There are no porters. You will carry your own pack. Fortunately, you only need to take a daypack with a couple changes of clothes and a towel. Trust me, even that small amount of gear will feel soggy and heavy by day two going uphill.

Pro Tip: Waterproof your daypack with a trash bag on the inside to try and give your clothes at least some small hope of being dry! You can also put dry items, like your cell phone, in plastic zip lock bags to protect it from rain and humidity.

Wildlife and Nature

Despite the challenging jungle conditions, there are some perks… the wildlife! Keep your eyes open throughout the trek for some of the unexpected sights in the area:

• Howler monkeys who may wake you at dawn with their Jurassic Park like calls
• Hundreds of bird species, including toucans and parrots
• Butterflies, including the stunning blue morpho
• Various reptiles and amphibians
• Medicinal plants that indigenous guides will explain
• The occasional unexpected sight, like soldiers watching soccer in the jungle

Be Prepared for The Trek

After three days of challenging trekking, reaching Ciudad Perdida is incredible. It’s like discovering a secret world. Upon arrival you’ll see:

• Stone Terraces: Over 169 circular and oval platforms where houses once stood
• The Central Plaza: The largest terrace, likely used for ceremonies and gatherings
• Ancient Staircases: Remarkably preserved stone steps connecting different levels
• Panoramic Views: Breathtaking views across the Sierra Nevada’s cloud forest

This isn’t just an archaeological site or tourist attraction. To this day, it’s a sacred place for the Kogui, Wiwa, and Arhuaco peoples who still live in the region. Your indigenous guide will share stories about their ancestors and ongoing connection to this land which provides cultural context that brings life to the ruins.

Best Time to Trek

The sweet spot for hiking to Lost City in Colombia is late November or early April. This is when you’ll get a balance of reasonable weather and smaller crowds. I did this hike in June, and I have to say, I don’t recommend that time of year.

Dry Season (December-March)

• Pros: Less rain, easier river crossings, clearer views
• Cons: Higher prices, more crowded, still humid

Wet Season (April-November)

• Pros: Green scenery, fewer crowds, lower prices
• Cons: Daily rain, challenging river crossings, muddier trails

Packing List for the Lost City

Since you’ll be carrying all of your luggage. You want to pack light for La Ciudad Perdida Colombia. I took my 18L Osprey backpack, like this Hikelite one. It was big enough and light to carry.

Must-Have Items

• Quick-dry hiking clothes (2 pairs)
• Sturdy waterproof hiking shoes or boots
• River crossing shoes (sandals or water shoes)
• 4 days of underwear
• Swim suit
• Quick-dry towel
• Insect repellent (30% DEET minimum)
• 1 Liter refillable water bottle
• Water purification tablets (I recommend Aquatabs)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Personal first aid kit
• Camera/phone with waterproof protection
• Travel sized toiletries
• Prescriptions & other needed personal items

Optional but Recommended

• Power bank for devices
• Dry bags for electronics
• Trekking poles for river crossings
• Gaiters to keep mud out of boots
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing
• Waterproof rain jacket and pants (You’ll stay dry but die of heat)
• Sleeping bag liner (for hygiene)

Health and Safety Considerations

If you’re going to be trekking through the jungle for 4 days, there’s a few things to consider to stay healthy.

Vaccinations and Health Prep

Consult a travel medicine clinic at least 4-6 weeks before departure. Recommended vaccines include:

• Yellow fever (required)
• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Updated routine vaccinations

Safety in Numbers

The organized tour structure isn’t just bureaucracy. It’s actually an essential safety mechanism. The region has experienced past security issues, and traveling with authorized guides ensures you’re protected and respecting local communities.

Travel Insurance

Whenever traveling, I recommend insuring yourself and your trip to take away any stress. That being said, when going to remote locations, doing multi-day treks, or scuba diving, I review that fine print like a hawk. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation, just in case. The nearest hospital is hours away, and emergency helicopter evacuation may be necessary for serious injuries where you can’t hike yourself out.

Is La Ciudad Perdida worth it?

My honest answer? Yes, absolutely, but go in with realistic expectations.

Trekking to Ciudad Perdida was undoubtedly challenging and uncomfortable. I was muddy, sweaty, damp, and bug-bitten for four straight days. But standing on those ancient terraces, surrounded by the cloud forest and centuries of history, I understood why this ranks as one of life’s unforgettable experiences.

Would I do it again?

Probably not. The trail conditions and mosquito situation were genuinely unpleasant for someone like me who apparently has very appealing blood.

Am I glad I did it? 100%. This trek delivers something you can’t get elsewhere: the chance to walk in the footsteps of pre-Columbian civilizations while surrounded by some of the most biodiverse jungle on Earth. And, best of all? It’s not crowded. You get to visit somewhere few get to.

Who should do this trek?

Thinking of trekking to Colombia’s Lost City? Let’s see if you should do it. I recommend this trek for:

• Adventure travelers who prioritize experiences over comfort
• History and archaeology lovers
• People who thrive on authentic cultural immersion with indigenous communities
• Hikers who want to challenge themselves in a unique environment
• Anyone whose bucket list includes “epic multi-day jungle adventures”

Who might want to skip it?

If you don’t relate to the statements above… this trek might not be for you. Here’s who I recommend skip it and head to one of the more comfortable multi-day treks, like the Inca Trail:

• Anyone who can’t handle being damp and dirty for days
• People with serious bug phobia or strong reactions to mosquito bites
• Travelers who require luxury or even basic comfort amenities
• Those who prefer well-maintained, dry trail conditions

Unlike the crowded trails you find in most national parks, this journey offers genuine wilderness immersion, meaningful cultural exchange, and the privilege of exploring one of the Americas’ most important archaeological sites with relatively few other tourists.

However, the physical and mental demands are real. You’ll be tired, muddy, and possibly covered in insect bites. But you’ll also have stories and pictures that last a lifetime and the satisfaction of completing one of South America’s most challenging and rewarding adventures.

Explore More of Colombia

Ready to book your adventure to the Lost City? Remember to choose a reputable tour operator, like Expotur, prepare physically for the hike, and be ready for an adventure in the jungle!

While you’re in Colombia, you’ll need to check out some of the other incredible places available. Here’s my other articles to help you plan your time.

• Top 10 Tips for the Lost City Trek in Colombia
• Ultimate Guide to Ciudad Perdida: Trekking to Colombia’s Lost City
• Visiting Casa en el Agua in Colombia: A One of a Kind Hostel Experience

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