Trek to Ciudad Perdida: 5 Days from Santa Marta

Planning an adventure that combines physical challenge with a glimpse into ancient history? This 5-day trek to Ciudad Perdida from Santa Marta offers just that. For around $1,038 per person, you’ll join a small group—limited to 11 travelers—for an immersive journey through Colombia’s wild Sierra Nevada mountains, culminating in the discovery of the legendary Lost City. Expect breathtaking waterfalls, river crossings, indigenous villages, and of course, the awe-inspiring ruins from the 9th century.

What we love about this experience is how it mixes the physical demands of a multi-day hike with authentic cultural encounters and stunning scenery. The personalized attention from knowledgeable guides really elevates the trip, making the challenging parts more manageable. Plus, the campsites and included meals help keep things balanced—no need to worry about roughing it too much.

A possible consideration? The trek is demanding—covering up to 29 miles (or more, depending on your pace)—so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness who are prepared for long days on foot. If you’re looking for a luxurious escape, this might not be for you. But if you’re eager for a real adventure that rewards effort with one of Colombia’s most unique sights, this tour fits the bill.

This journey suits those craving authentic cultural insights, outdoor adventure, and a chance to explore a UNESCO-level archaeological site. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to push their limits and enjoy the natural beauty and indigenous traditions of Colombia.

Key Points

• Authentic multi-day jungle trek through Sierra Nevada
• Visits indigenous villages and learns about local cultures
• Exploration of the ancient Ciudad Perdida ruins
• Small group size (limited to 11) for a more personal experience
• Includes all meals, accommodations at camps, and transport
• Challenging but rewarding for moderate fitness travelers

A Deep Dive into the 5-Day Trek to Ciudad Perdida

Getting a sense of what this adventure really involves helps you decide if it’s your kind of trip. We’ll walk through each day, highlighting what makes each stage special—and challenging.

The Starting Point: Santa Marta to El Mamey

The journey begins early, with hotel pickup in Santa Marta around 8-9 am. The 3-hour drive to El Mamey takes you through picturesque Colombian countryside, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Once in El Mamey, you’ll enjoy a hearty Colombian lunch—think arepas, fresh fruit, and local specialties—fuel for the miles ahead.

The first trek is about 4 hours, covering 7 km through lush landscapes, waterfalls, and jungle trails. We loved the way the trail balances effort and scenery, providing a gentle but invigorating start. Reaching the first campsite, you’ll settle into a basic yet comfortable camp with mosquito nets and blankets, ready for the next day’s adventures.

Day 2: Into Indigenous Territory and New Campsite

Early mornings are a common theme here, with breakfast at dawn before setting off around 6 am. The first part takes about 2 hours to Mutanzí—a traditional indigenous village where you can learn about local customs and daily life. This cultural stop is a highlight, offering a genuine connection with Colombia’s native communities.

After exploring Mutanzí, it’s a short walk to the second camp for lunch. Here, the guide’s insights into indigenous traditions add depth to the experience. The afternoon stretch is a longer 4-hour trek, taking you to the third campsite. Expect more stunning views, river crossings, and perhaps even a few waterfalls along the way.

Day 3: The Climax – Ciudad Perdida

This is the day many travelers look forward to. An early breakfast kicks off a climb of around 1,200 stone steps—a true test of stamina. The reward? Reaching Ciudad Perdida around 7 am, where you get approximately two hours to explore the ruins.

We loved the sense of stepping back in time and imagining what life was like for the ancient Tayrona culture. Your guide will share insights about the site’s significance before you wander through the plazas and terraces. The site’s lush jungle setting amplifies the feeling of discovery.

Afterward, it’s back to the third camp for lunch, then a 4-hour descent to the second camp. The return leg offers a different perspective on the landscape—more waterfalls, river crossings, and wildlife spotting opportunities. The walk can be tiring, but the sense of achievement makes it worthwhile.

Day 4: Retracing Steps and Reflection

Starting early again, you’ll trek 4 hours back up to the first camp. The scenery seems even more impressive in reverse, with a chance to notice details missed earlier. We found this part peaceful and reflective, a chance to appreciate how far you’ve come.

Enjoy a well-earned dinner at the camp, sharing stories with your group and guides, many of whom are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge and tips. It’s a good moment to process the journey and get some rest before the final day.

Day 5: The Long Descent and Return to Santa Marta

The trek back to El Mamey is the longest, about 7 hours downhill. It’s physically demanding, but also offers the best views of the surrounding landscapes. You’ll pass through familiar terrain, now seen from a different angle.

Lunch in El Mamey feels like a reward, with familiar Colombian flavors. The final drive back to Santa Marta wraps up your adventure, bringing you full circle from the wilds of the jungle to the city life.

What’s Included and What’s Not

All the logistics are thoughtfully organized: hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Marta, accommodations at campsites, entrance fees, and all meals are included. This all-in-one package simplifies planning and ensures you won’t have to worry about extra costs or logistics during your trek.

However, some extras like additional snacks, drinks outside of meals, tips, and gratuities are not included, so pack some small snacks for energy boosts. A good pair of hiking shoes, mosquito repellant, sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle are highly recommended. The tour also suggests bringing a flashlight, small snacks, and hand sanitizer.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 8 travelers, the group stays intimate. This means you’ll get more personalized attention, and our experience with guides was excellent—knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share their insights. As one reviewer noted, the guides made the experience memorable and fun.

The Challenge and Fitness Level

The trek is described as moderate, but with days involving 8 hours of walking, it requires good physical fitness. Several reviews mention how tough but rewarding the hike was—“Difficult but worth it!” is a common sentiment. If you’re relatively active and prepared for a long walk, you’ll find this adventure doable.

Safety and COVID-19 Measures

Access to Ciudad Perdida requires a negative PCR COVID test at least 72 hours before the tour. This is an essential consideration to ensure smooth entry. If your test is positive, a full refund applies. The tour also emphasizes the importance of respecting park rules—plastic isn’t allowed, and camping is with mosquito nets and blankets, adding to the authentic experience.

Authenticity, Value, and Who Will Love This Tour

This trek offers real value for those who appreciate a blend of adventure, culture, and history. While the price might seem steep, it covers transportation, accommodations, meals, and entrance fees, making it a convenient package for a multi-day trip. The experience is more than just hiking—it’s about connecting with Colombia’s indigenous communities and discovering one of its most iconic archaeological sites.

Travelers who enjoy challenging outdoor activities, small-group experiences, and cultural exchanges will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a trip that pushes your limits but also delivers a sense of accomplishment and authentic insight into Colombian heritage.

FAQs

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
The trek is rated as moderate, but it requires good physical fitness and stamina. Long days of walking and some challenging ascents mean it’s best for those with some experience or who are physically active.

What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes, mosquito repellant, sunscreen, a hat, a refillable water bottle, and a small backpack are essential. Quick-dry clothes, a towel, flashlight, small snacks, and hand sanitizer are also recommended.

How long are the daily hikes?
Most days involve 4 to 8 hours of walking, with the longest being the final day’s downhill trek back to El Mamey.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner on most days. The food is generally good and nutritious, designed to keep you energized.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 8 travelers, creating a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

Do I need a COVID test?
Yes, a negative PCR COVID test taken within 72 hours before the tour is required to access Ciudad Perdida.

What accommodations are provided?
Camping at basic campsites with mosquito nets and blankets—nothing fancy, but comfortable enough for this type of adventure.

Can I customize the trek length?
You can choose between the 4-day or 5-day options; the main difference is the overall pace and time spent at each site.

What’s the best way to prepare physically?
Train with regular walks or hikes, especially on uneven terrain, to build stamina for the multiple days of trekking.

Is tipping expected?
Tips are not included and are optional. If you appreciate your guide’s knowledge and support, leaving a gratuity is customary.

Final Thoughts

This trek to Ciudad Perdida offers an authentic and physically rewarding experience. You’ll love the way it combines the thrill of a jungle adventure with the thrill of uncovering ancient ruins, all shared with a small, friendly group. The knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious local food elevate the trip from just a hike to a memorable cultural journey.

While demanding, it’s perfect for active travelers eager to push themselves and gain a deeper appreciation of Colombia’s indigenous and archaeological heritage. If you’re looking for a meaningful adventure that’s a little off the beaten path but well-organized, this tour is a great choice. Just come prepared for the effort, and you’ll be rewarded with stories and sights you’ll cherish long after.

Note: Always check current travel advisories and health requirements before booking. This trip is a genuine outdoor adventure that delivers on authenticity, challenge, and discovery.