Lost City Trekking in Colombia

The ancient archaeological site, Teyuna or the Lost City, sits within the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountains and can only be reached by a guided multi-day trek. On this week-long active trip, you’ll do just that, with knowledgeable local guides to lead the way into Tayrona National Park. Starting in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cartagena, you’ll jump straight into local Colombian culture, explore the scenic port city of Santa Marta and then begin your trek to the Lost City. Meet local Indigenous leaders, sleep in mountain campsites away from the hustle and bustle of modern life and spend four days in the mountains, hiking through rainforest and jungle to this sacred Colombian site – a perfect adventure for any hiker and explorer!

Itinerary

Day 1: Cartagena

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Colombia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm in Cartagena – one of South America's most historic cities and a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you arrive early, maybe walk around the Old City within the walled town and explore some of the local churches, monasteries, plazas and heritage mansions. After the meeting, you’ll head out for an orientation walk with your leader to get a feel for the city. Tonight, maybe head out for dinner with your group – a great way to get to know your fellow travellers.

Day 2: Santa Marta

Today begins with a scenic private transfer to the historic coastal city of Santa Marta – your gateway to the Tayrona National Natural Park. When you arrive, join your leader on a walk through downtown Santa Marta, where you'll learn about the layered history and local culture. Stroll past the Santa Marta Cathedral, Parque de los Novios and Plaza de Bolivar. Then, as the sun sets, you'll have some free time to unwind or explore further. For dinner, maybe find a local restaurant – your local leader will have the best recommendations.

Day 3: Lost City Trek

This morning, hop in 4WDs and travel offroad to the small town of Machete Pelao (or Mamey), which sits at about 120 m above sea level in the mountains. After a couple hours of walking, you’ll stop in a local community to give back to the area you’re about to trek, by planting native trees. You’ll also get to name a tree yourself! Have lunch before continuing through the tropical forest and take in the amazing mountain views all around you. When you arrive at camp, have dinner with the group under the stars. You’ll spend the night here at an altitude of about 450 m.

Day 4: Lost City Trek

Hike through the rainforest on jungle trails and through river crossings to the great Lost City of Tayrona (or Teyuna). To get to this ancient archaeological site, you’ll cross the roaring waters of the Buritaca River and climb over 900 stone steps to reach the first stone rings. When you arrive at the Lost City of Tayrona this afternoon, take a tour with your local guides and learn about this important Colombian archaeological site, which is older than Machu Picchu! Make the most of your time here, with fewer travellers at the site in the afternoon.

Day 5: Lost City Trek

This morning, hike back to the WIWA Community Camp, along the way, you’ll pass river crossings. From here, the rest of the day is free to rest. If the weather is nice, maybe go for a swim in the natural pools and later, you’ll meet El Mamo – considered the sage and spiritual guide of this community. The Indigenous guide will share their way of living, the role that both women and men have within the community and and the spiritual importance of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

Day 6: Lost City Trek/ Santa Marta

It’s your last day in the mountains and time to return to Santa Marta. You’ll wake up bright and early this morning and walk back to Machete, stopping to rest and taking in the Sierra Nevada. Continue your descent, then have lunch, before hopping in your private transfer back to Santa Marta. When you arrive, you’ll have a free evening to rest. Maybe head for a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers to celebrate the end of an epic adventure.

Day 7: Santa Marta

After breakfast, your trip comes to an end and you’re free to leave at any time after check-out. Consider extending your stay in Santa Marta to relax in this paradisical port city, taking full advantage of the beautiful beaches. If you do decide to stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Departure Dates