How to get to the Lost City Colombia?
The Lost City in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta is one of the most beautiful touristic places in Colombia. It is an invitation to disconnect yourself from the noise
Lost City Hike Colombia 5 Days
You have the choice to change it to the four days, you have confirm it to the guide!
Lost City Trekking ideal for people willing to enjoy nature that accompanies this tour. Lost city trek 5 days offers relaxation and fun in the refreshing waters of the waterfalls and natural pools.
Itinerary of the Lost City Hike Colombia 5-days
DAY 1: SANTA MARTA – EL MAMEY – CAMP 1
This adventure to the Lost City Hike starts around 9:30 at our office; where a 4 WD car will take you in a 2 ½ drive to El Mamey, the place where we have lunch and then begin the search for the sacred place of Tayronas (antique
Lost City Colombia residents). At the end of the afternoon, we arrive at the first camp, and in its surroundings we´ll find rivers,
natural pools and waterfalls to have a relaxation moment, and then we have dinner and spend the night in hammocks.
DAY 2: CAMP 1 – CAMP 3
The day begins and we have breakfast early in the morning, then we start to walk by the riverside of Buritaca River where we will find plenty of houses that make part of a Kogui indigenous village called Mutanshi.
Our trek during the day will takes about 7 hours (14.7 km, mostly uphill, some downhill) going through the jungle of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and
enjoying the biodiversity to finally reach the third camp (equipped with hammocks and/or beds) where we’ll have a delicious dinner and rest after an adventurous day.
DAY 3: LOST CITY TEYUNA – CAMP 2
Early in the morning, we have breakfast to start climbing up 1.200 steps to our main destination, a trail constructed by Tayrona people to reach the stunning Lost City Colombia.
Once we get there, the guide will show us everything related to this magic place full of relics and ancestral stories. We will spend the morning enjoying the landscapes and having enough time to go around and take pictures (under guide´s supervision).
Finally, we will go back to have lunch at the third camp and then go back to the camp 2 for having dinner and spend the night. This a 7 hours day trek (6 km, uphill and downhill).
DAY 4: CAMP 2 – CAMP 1
We have an early breakfast to go back to the first camp we stayed first night, where we are able to rest and chilling out at this camp and spending the last night (Here you will see the difference between the 4 and the 5 days Lost City Trekking).
This is a 4 hours day trek (4.5 km some uphill, mostly downhill).
DAY 5: CAMP 1 – EL MAMEY – SANTA MARTA
The last day of this Lost City Hike Colombia begins with the breakfast at the camp 1 to then continue the way back to the point where all started. Finally, we reach El Mamey, place where we will have lunch and our 4WD car will pick us
up to go back to Santa Marta arriving from 3:00 to 5:00p.m. (Depending on weather conditions and your group). Tired and amazed of getting a new lifetime experience in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta. This a 4
hours trek (5 km some uphill, some downhill).
Recommendations for the trek to the Lost City
Traveler Responsibilities
Respect the privacy of indigenous and peasants. Not enter their houses and take pictures of them or their belongings without asking permission. Pack only the essentials, because the weight is an important factor. Make sure you are in good health. Return
all trash to Santa Marta. Caring and respect what you find. No harm natural or cultural property. There is no mobile phone signal in the park. Tell your family and friends that you can only communicate with them once you are again to Santa Marta.
Clothing and Equipment
During the day, the weather is hot and humid, so we recommend wearing comfortable clothing, shirts and shorts for walking. At night, the temperature is about 16°C and there is a high proportion of mosquitoes and other insects, so it is important to
wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts for sleeping and use insect repellent.
Please do not forget:
- A bottle of water (1 liter), insect repellent, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, walking shoes, and camera.
- Bring only the essentials things in your backpack, remember that the more light is, the walk will be more comfortable and enjoyable.
- Use sport or walking shoes for the trek, and wear sandals for your stay in the camps.
- You have to bring your personal care items, so do not forget your soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, foot powder, among others.
- Your personal medicines, if necessary bring them with you.
- If you feel it is necessary, you can bring your sleeping bag, but we offer blankets.
- Among your clothes, be sure to wear shorts, shirts, long pants, socks and swimwear.
- Two big plastic bags will be very useful to keep dry clothing separate from wet clothing.
- The insect repellent is essential to protect you against bites, like sunscreen to protect your skin.
- A bottle of 1 liter of water is sufficient for the first day, we will supply the water needed by the rest of the way with purification tablets.
- Finally, do not forget your camera so that you register the highlights of your trip.
Documentation
To book the Lost City Trek you must show in our offices your identification document (passport or identity card). To take the tour a copy of the document is enough. It is better not to take the original to prevent damage.
Vaccines
Our recommendation is to have the yellow fever vaccine as a preventive measure for Lost City Trek.
IF YOU GET A LOWER RATE AT ANY OTHER TOUR COMPANY, WE’LL OFFER YOU A SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER PRICE THAN THE OTHER ONE (subject of terms and conditions price 2025, Do not hesitate to ask us by whatsapp).
The tour includes
Transportation
Round trip transfers from the hotel or where you stay to the starting point of the tour (El Mamey) in 4WD vehicles.
Meals
- Three (3) breakfasts.
- Four (4) lunches.
- Three (3) dinners.
- Typical food prepared by local chefs.
- Fruits and snacks during walks.
Accommodation
The accommodation during the tour is in hammocks, beds or tents, depending on availability. We provide mosquito nets and blankets every night.
Guidance
Our guides are from the region trained by SENA, with years of experience. They are trained to provide cultural, historical and anthropological information of the indigenous communities and the area.
Travel Insurance
During the tour you will have a medical assistance insurance that cover accidents and illness occurred during the tour. It covers transportation from the place of the event to the medical center, medical assistance, hospitalization and surgeries when
it is necessary.
Contribution to the Communities
We work closely with indigenous and peasant communities. We are committed to support the development of the region through contributions that help to improve the life quality of the locals.
Entrance to the Archaeological Park
The Teyuna Archaeological Park is managed by the Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History (ICANH); an institution assigned the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Colombia. The entrance fee to the archaeological park is included
in the tour.
Related products
-
The Lost City Trek 3 Days Tour
$ 2.150.000/guest -
Lost City Trek Colombia 4 Days
$ 1.860.000/guest
TOTAL PRICE
$ 2.150.000/guest
Booking Form
-
The Lost City Trek 3 Days Tour
$ 2.150.000/guest -
Lost City Hike Colombia 5 Days
$ 2.150.000/guest -
Lost City Trek Colombia 4 Days
$ 1.860.000/guest
Tourism and Peace
The route to Lost City “Teyuna” in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is as model of Tourism, Peace and Coexistence region. In our agency,
-
The Lost City Trek 3 Days Tour
$ 2.150.000/guest -
Lost City Hike Colombia 5 Days
$ 2.150.000/guest -
Lost City Trek Colombia 4 Days
$ 1.860.000/guest
How to get to the Lost City Colombia?
The Lost City in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta is one of the most beautiful touristic places in Colombia. It is an invitation to disconnect yourself from the noise
Tourism and Peace
The route to Lost City “Teyuna” in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is as model of Tourism, Peace and Coexistence region. In our agency,
TRAVELERS FAQS
1. Where is the Lost City located?
The Lost City Santa Marta is situated high in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, in northern Colombia, at around 1,200 meters (3,940 ft) above sea level. It’s the final destination of the Lost City Tour, one of Colombia’s most iconic treks.
2. How far is the Lost City from Santa Marta?
The entire Lost City Trek Santa Marta covers roughly 100 kilometers (62 miles) round-trip:
About 70 km by 4×4 vehicle from Santa Marta.
Around 30 km of hiking from El Mamey (Machete Pelao) to the ancient terraces of Teyuna – The Lost City.
3. How long does the Lost City Tour take?
The Lost City Trek usually takes 3, 4, or 5 days, depending on your physical condition and the itinerary chosen by your tour operator.
4. Which is the best Lost City Tour option?
The 4-day Lost City Tour is the most popular and recommended. It offers a balanced experience — challenging yet enjoyable — ideal for most travelers.
5. Who can do the Lost City Trek?
Anyone over 12 years old with decent fitness and no major medical restrictions can join the Lost City Tour Santa Marta.
6. Which agencies operate the Lost City Tour?
There are currently 7 authorized tour operators for the Lost City Trek,
we are one of those.
7. Can I visit the Lost City without a guide?
No. The Lost City Santa Marta can only be visited with a certified operator and guide.
This ensures safety, cultural respect, and environmental protection throughout the Lost City Trek.
8. How much does the Lost City Tour cost?
As of 2025, average prices are:
4-day Lost City Tour: 1,860,000 COP
5-day Lost City Tour: 2,150,000 COP
Prices include meals, accommodation, transportation, guides, insurance, and entrance fees.
9. How do I book the Lost City Trek?
Most operators allow you to reserve your Lost City Tour Santa Marta with a 10% deposit. Booking early is highly recommended, especially during high season.
10. Can I pay by card or only cash?
The deposit can be made by credit card, but during the Lost City Trek, only cash (COP) is accepted in the camps for snacks or drinks.
11. How many hours do you walk per day on the Lost City Trek?
Each day of the Lost City Trek Santa Marta involves 6–8 hours of hiking, including river crossings, jungle trails, and mountain ascents.
12. How difficult is the Lost City Tour?
The Lost City Trek is rated moderate to challenging. You’ll need good physical condition and stamina to handle the humidity, altitude changes, and long walking days.
13. What is the terrain like?
During the Lost City Tour Santa Marta, expect steep climbs, muddy jungle paths, and multiple river crossings. In the rainy season, trails can become slippery but adventurous.
14. What should I pack for the Lost City Tour?
- For the Lost City Trek Santa Marta, bring:
- Trekking shoes or hiking boots
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
- Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and hat
- Headlamp, swimsuit, towel, and cash
15. What’s included in the Lost City Tour package?
The Lost City Tour Santa Marta includes:
4×4 transport, indigenous or local guides, meals, accommodation, insurance, and entrance to the Teyuna Archaeological Park.
16. What are the camps like during the Lost City Trek?
Camps along the Lost City Trek are basic but comfortable, with beds or hammocks with mosquito nets, bathrooms, showers, and communal dining areas.
17. Is there electricity or internet on the Lost City Tour?
Electricity is limited, and there is no cell signal or Wi-Fi during the Lost City Trek Santa Marta. Enjoy the digital detox!
18. Can part of the Lost City Trek be done by motorcycle or horse?
Only the first short section can be done by motorcycle. The rest of the Lost City Tour is entirely on foot.
19. Is the Lost City Santa Marta safe to visit?
Yes. The Lost City Tour Santa Marta is fully safe, regulated by licensed agencies, indigenous communities, and local authorities.
20. Do I need hiking experience for the Lost City Trek?
Not necessarily, but having some trekking experience makes the Lost City Tour easier and more enjoyable — especially on steep climbs.
21. Which indigenous communities live near the Lost City?
The Lost City Trek Santa Marta passes through lands inhabited by the Kogui, Wiwa, Arhuaco, and Kankuamo peoples, descendants of the Tayrona civilization.
22. Why is the Lost City considered sacred?
For indigenous communities, the Lost City Santa Marta is the spiritual heart of the world. It remains a sacred site where traditional rituals and offerings are still performed.
23. Can I take photos during the Lost City Tour?
Yes — except in restricted sacred areas. Always follow your guide’s instructions when taking photos during the Lost City Trek.
24. What is the altitude of the Lost City Santa Marta?
The Lost City of Colombia stands at around 1,200 meters (3,900 ft) above sea level, with temperatures between 20°C and 32°C (68°F–90°F) year-round.
25. What wildlife can I see on the Lost City Trek?
The Lost City Tour Santa Marta offers chances to spot monkeys, toucans, frogs, butterflies, and tropical plants like orchids and giant ceibas.
26. Can I swim during the Lost City Tour?
Yes, there are several natural pools and rivers along the Lost City Trek Santa Marta where travelers can cool off after long hikes.
27. What’s the weather like on the Lost City Trek?
The Lost City Tour has a warm, humid tropical climate. From August to November, rains are heavier, making trails muddier but the jungle greener.
28. Is there medical assistance during the Lost City Trek?
Guides on the Lost City Trek Santa Marta are trained in first aid and carry basic medical kits. However, there are no hospitals nearby — travel insurance is highly advised.
29. Can children join the Lost City Tour?
Yes, children over 12 years old can join the Lost City Tour Santa Marta, as long as they’re in good physical shape and accompanied by an adult.
30. What are the top tips for the Lost City Trek Santa Marta?
Stay hydrated and pace yourself.
Don’t litter — protect the ecosystem.
Respect indigenous customs.
Enjoy every step of the Lost City Trek, a journey that connects you with nature and ancient history.
