Lost City (Ciudad Perdida)

The basics

Lost City tour options abound, with journeys lasting anywhere from three to five days. Private and small-group excursions typically include round-trip transportation and certified guides—the latter is mandatory if you wish to do the hike. Don’t worry about lodging, food, or water either—these are usually also included.

Things to know before you go

• Wear sturdy shoes and take plenty of socks and bug repellent before embarking on your hike.
• The hike to the Lost City isn’t for the fainthearted—make sure you have a reasonable level of fitness.
• Before beginning the hike, you need to store the bulk of your belongings in Santa Marta, a service many tours provide.
• The Lost City isn’t accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.

How to get there

Situated in the Sierra Nevada, the Lost City is neither easy nor possible to access independently. Hikes normally depart from Santa Marta.

When to get there

While you can get to the Lost City year-round, it’s best to attempt the trek during Colombia’s dry season (October to April). The weather is still hot and humid, but downpours are less likely, and the experience will be much more enjoyable.

Archaeological Ruins in Colombia

If you’re looking for easier-to-access archaeological ruins, Colombia has several options. Venture belowground at Cauca’s Tierradentro ruins; admire anthropomorphic sculptures at San Agustín in Huila; or stick to the Colombian Caribbean and explore the Tairona ruins of Pueblito in Tayrona National Park.

How many days do you need for Lost City trek?

You generally need at least four days to complete the Lost City Trek from the nearest city of Santa Marta. The 4-day route to the Lost City is the most common one that tourists take and includes travel to and from Santa Marta, but there are also longer treks that take six days to get there.

Can you do the Lost City trek without a guide?

No, you cannot visit or do the Lost City Trek without a guide. Permits to enter the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Natural Park are required for all visitors to the Lost City and can only be obtained through a licensed tour operator. This leaves you no option but to visit with a tour guide.

Is the Lost City trek harder than the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail and Lost City Trek are considered challenging and strenuous treks. Many people consider the Lost City Trek harder than the Inca Trail because of the heat and humidity you experience hiking through the Colombian jungle, even though you don’t need to cope with the effects of hiking at altitude.

Is the Lost City trek worth it?

Yes, even though it’s a reasonably arduous trek, the Lost City is worth doing if you get the opportunity. Not only will you get to spend days in the mountains and jungle of northern Colombia, but you’ll also be rewarded with seeing the remote ruins of the Lost City that were only rediscovered in 1975.

What should I pack for a Lost City trek?

Besides packing your hiking boots, you will want to bring items that help you stay comfortable and safe while exploring and staying in the jungle and mountains. Sunscreen, insect repellant, a hat, and lightweight clothes will help you cope with sweat, the sun, and bugs, while bringing a bathing suit will let you take advantage of streams and waterfalls where you can cool off.

What type of accommodations are available during the Lost City trek?

During your Lost City trek, you’ll stay overnight at remote campsites. Facilities at these campsites are basic, with limited electricity and no potable water, and you’ll be sleeping in bunk beds in a shared space or hammocks if no beds are available. A mosquito net covers each bed and comes with linen provided.