Hike for 4 days to the Lost City, Santa Marta

An In-Depth Look at the 4-Day Hike to the Lost City, Santa Marta

If you’re craving an adventure that combines stunning scenery, culture, and a good dose of physical challenge, this 4-day trek to Ciudad Perdida (the Lost City) in Santa Marta is hard to beat. For $525 per person, you’ll travel through lush jungles, indigenous villages, and arrive at one of Colombia’s most breathtaking archaeological sites. Guided by experienced professionals from the region—many instructed by SENA—this tour promises not just a walk through nature but a meaningful journey supporting local communities.

What we love most about this experience are the incredible vistas of rivers, waterfalls, and cliffs that make each day a visual feast and the genuine connection to indigenous cultures that the guides foster. The food, too, earns high praise—fresh, delicious meals that keep your energy up for the hikes. The only caveat is that the trek is demanding, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable with some discomfort and weather unpredictability.

If you’re someone who’s eager to see Colombia’s wild side while respecting its people, this is an adventure tailor-made for you. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a traveler looking for a rewarding challenge, the blend of nature, history, and authentic local life makes this a truly memorable experience.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural insights provided by guides experienced with indigenous communities.
• Stunning vistas of rivers, waterfalls, and jungle landscapes that make every step worthwhile.
• Physically demanding but rewarding, suited for travelers in moderate fitness.
• Support for local communities through partnerships with indigenous and peasant groups.
• Excellent food and accommodations in camps, with some surprises like real mattresses.
• Group size limited to 16, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Weather can be unpredictable, so packing appropriately is essential.

A Detailed Breakdown of the 4-Day Ciudad Perdida Trek

Starting Point: Santa Marta and the First Day’s Journey

The adventure kicks off around 9:30 am at the Expotur office in Santa Marta, from where you’ll hop into a 4×4 vehicle for about 2.5 hours to the Mamey region. This initial ride provides a taste of Colombian rural life and sets the tone for what’s to come. We loved the way the guides immediately brought the local culture into the experience, sharing stories and setting expectations.

Once in Mamey, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch before setting out on the first leg of the trek. That afternoon, the group heads to a campsite near rivers, waterfalls, and natural pools—perfect spots to relax after a day of travel. Here, you’ll settle into hammocks for the night, an experience some found surprisingly comfortable, even if it’s not the usual hotel luxury.

Day 2: Into the Sierra Nevada’s Heart

The second day is a full one, starting early with breakfast and then heading into the Sierra Nevada’s depths. The route takes you through the Buritaca river valley, where you’ll pass traditional indigenous Kogui villages, like Mutanshi. This gives a real sense of connection to the people who have lived sustainably in this environment for generations.

The 7-hour trek through jungle terrain is physically demanding, with lush vegetation and the constant sounds of nature. Many reviews highlight how beautiful and diverse the scenery is, with some noting the “exuberant vegetation” and “rushing rivers.” Guides are attentive, sharing insights into the flora, fauna, and indigenous ways of life. We appreciated their patience and knowledge, which added depth to the experience.

Arriving at Camp 3 in the late afternoon, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of nature, with options to swim or just relax. The accommodations are simple but functional, and the sense of connection to the environment is profound.

Day 3: Reaching Ciudad Perdida

The highlight of the trek—and for many, the entire reason for signing up—is the climb to Ciudad Perdida. Starting very early, you’ll scale approximately 1,200 steps built by the Tayronas themselves, each step revealing more of the surrounding jungle and revealing glimpses of the ancient city.

Once at the site, guides will explain the significance of the ruins, pointing out relics and sharing stories about the indigenous ancestors. Visitors consistently mention how the site is larger and more impressive than pictures suggest, with some describing it as “almost as good as Machu Picchu.” The morning here is filled with awe, photography, and reflection before heading back for lunch.

The return trek to Camp 2 in the afternoon is slightly easier but still physically taxing. Travelers note the “staggering cliffs and waterfalls” that frame the journey. The day ends with a well-earned dinner and overnight stay in the camp.

Day 4: The Return Journey

On the last day, after breakfast, the group retraces steps back through the Sierra Nevada. The route continues to showcase waterfalls, rivers, and jungle scenery, with a final lunch in Mamey. The journey back to Santa Marta typically concludes around 5 pm.

Many reviews emphasize how the scenic beauty persists until the very end, with some sharing how refreshing rivers and waterfalls provide welcome relief after days of hiking. While the trek is demanding, the sense of achievement and the breathtaking landscapes make it worthwhile.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers a good value for the price—$525 per person—covering most essentials. You’ll enjoy all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), snacks, and transfers, which removes much of the logistical hassle. Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, emphasizing cultural respect and environmental care.

Some reviewers highlight the delicious food, especially the fresh, well-prepared meals that fuel you for each day’s challenges. Camps are equipped with basic facilities, and some nights, like in the camps, feature more comfortable mattresses than expected.

However, drinks outside of water aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring a bit of extra cash. The tour doesn’t include help with luggage, so be prepared to carry your own pack during the hikes. If you have a suitcase you don’t want to bring along, Expotur offers to store it at their main office.

Transportation and Group Size

The experience starts and ends in Santa Marta, with pickup offered from the meeting point in Comuna 2. The group size is limited to 16 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience and plenty of interaction with guides. The tours operate with a focus on safety and environmental responsibility, often working directly with indigenous communities.

Physical Fitness and Packing Tips

This trek is not for the faint-hearted. Multiple reviewers emphasize the physically demanding nature—hot, humid, and sometimes muddy trails challenge even seasoned hikers. The terrain includes steep climbs, rocky steps, and river crossings. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, and packing light helps manage the weight during the hikes.

Weather can be unpredictable, with rain common, so waterproof clothing, quick-drying gear, and sturdy hiking shoes are must-haves. Some reports mention electrical outlets in the camps for device charging, but outlets are limited—bring extra batteries or portable chargers.

Authentic Experiences from Fellow Travelers

Many reviews speak to the authenticity of the experience. One traveler mentioned, “The guides answered our questions or needs and made us feel like part of the family,” highlighting the personal touch. Others appreciated the opportunity to learn about indigenous culture firsthand, with guides sharing stories that went beyond tourist clichés.

Several reviews also praise the support for local communities, as the tour cooperates directly with indigenous and peasant groups, making your adventure a way to contribute positively to the region.

A common sentiment is that while the trek is challenging, it’s more than worth the effort. Comments like “It’s a very hard trek needing lots of fitness but worth it for the views” and “If you’re reasonably fit and want a truly unique adventure, just do it,” reflect the consensus that the payoff exceeds the physical toll.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Ciudad Perdida trek is best suited for travelers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path experiences and are prepared for some physical effort. It’s perfect for those who want a meaningful connection to Colombia’s indigenous cultures, combined with awe-inspiring jungle scenery. If you’re comfortable with multi-day hikes, unpredictable weather, and sleeping in camps, you’ll find this to be one of the most rewarding adventures in the region.

Families with teenagers, seasoned hikers, or travelers looking to challenge themselves will all find something special here. But if you prefer luxury or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. Remember, the guides take great care of you, but the journey is rugged and raw.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The trek requires moderate to good physical fitness. It’s demanding because of the hot, humid conditions and the length of the hikes, but many reviews say it’s worth the effort if you’re prepared.

Does the tour include transportation from Santa Marta?
Yes, pickup is offered from a designated meeting point in Santa Marta, and the tour includes transportation by 4×4 to the starting area in Mamey.

What’s the accommodation like during the trek?
You’ll stay in camps with hammocks, and some nights have more comfortable mattresses than expected. Campsites are basic but functional, providing a true outdoor experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides four breakfasts, four lunches, and three dinners, along with snacks. The food is frequently praised for being fresh and delicious.

Can I leave my luggage somewhere during the trek?
Yes, you can leave luggage at the Expotur office at no extra cost, which is helpful if you don’t want to carry everything with you.

What should I pack for the trek?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, rain gear, quick-drying clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, and a small backpack for daily essentials. It’s wise to pack light—most travelers recommend leaving heavy items behind.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour relies on good weather for safety and enjoyment. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

In Closing

This 4-day journey to Ciudad Perdida offers more than just a hike; it’s a chance to connect with Colombia’s rich indigenous heritage while experiencing some of the most beautiful wilderness the country has to offer. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic cultural encounters make it a trip worth planning well in advance.

While physically demanding, those who prepare will find this adventure deeply rewarding—an experience that leaves lasting memories long after the jungle has fallen behind. If you’re looking for a meaningful, challenging, and visually spectacular journey, this tour is an excellent choice.

Final tip: Pack light, stay flexible, and embrace every step—it’s not just a walk in the jungle; it’s a journey to one of Colombia’s most treasured secrets.