Trekking Ciudad Perdida - Colombia
Many of the world's secrets are still hidden, but time will always uncover them. The Lost City in Colombia is one of them, the mystery hidden in the thick Amazon jungle was revealed to the world less than a century ago, in 1972. Many hikers have come here to learn about a culture that was kept in the shadows for centuries. Do you want to know how to get to the Lost City? Come with us!
You may be interested in: The best trekking routes in South America".
Year after year, trekking has become one of the world's favourite activities. Not only does it allow you to visit amazing places and explore the planet. It also provides health benefits. Traversing mountains, hidden paths, valleys, rivers, jungles and natural scenery is a task that demands a lot of effort.
It represents a physical and mental challenge, and we are convinced that trekking it will change your life, strengthen your soul and your body.You will experience an incredible connection with nature. Are you ready to start the challenge? For the adventure is just beginning Get ready to discover the Lost City!
Get to know the Lost City Trek circuit
Nestled deep in the jungle of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the Lost City of Tayrona has been lost for centuries. It was not until 1972 that it was discovered by a group of grave robbers. Although it was kept isolated for decades by guerrilla and paramilitary groups, today it is completely safe to travel.
Before we begin, it is very important that you know that it is not possible to go on this route independently, as it is nowadays snly 5 tourism companies are authorised to explore the area.. We recommend you do your research and choose the one that best suits your interests. However, any of them will give you the chance to experience the jungle and reach the ancient ruins of the Lost City of Tayrona.
The distance between the start of the hike and the ruins is 20 kilometres. approximately. The route starts in El Mamey and there are only two options to complete the trip: 4 days or 5 days.. During this period of time you will walk to the ruins of the Lost City and return in the same way.
The circuit is by no means easy, in fact it is one of the most challenging.. It is full of steep climbs and several river crossings. The weather is often a differentiating factor as, if you decide to go during the rainy season, the water level of the rivers is usually higher and the road is often muddy, making the challenge to the Lost City even more difficult.
The humidity will be with you throughout the entire trek. As you know, water is present in all forms in the jungle, so you will be sweating all day long. The good news is that you will have the opportunity to swim in any of the many rivers along the way, so you will always be able to cool off.
There is no other way to get to the ruins but through the 23-kilometre trail through the jungle.It is therefore very important that you do not stray from the path. During the tour you will have the opportunity to meet members of the Kogi tribe. This indigenous group is one of the direct descendants of the Tayronas and is the only one that preserves the customs and traditions of their ancestors. In this sense, you can see their wooden houses and appreciate their traditional white clothes.. Many of them speak Spanish, so you will be able to make friends with some of them.
La Ciudad Perdida is one of the best routes for trekking. Therefore, we recommend you to take the necessary precautions and adjust your budget to hire one of the companies in the area to undertake the trip, which as you know, has a duration of 4 days or 5 days depending on your pocket. The best time to go is between December and April, when rainfall is scarce..
What you need for trekking in the Lost City
The difference with trekking independently is that the adventure is much wilder, so you have to bring your own stuff. This is not the case here, as you will be going with a private tour group. In this sense, You only have to bring your personal belongings.
- Food, drink, camping tent, kitchen, security: everything you normally have to carry is covered by the company you choose to hire. In this sense, you will have the opportunity to go light on luggage because the mules will carry everything.
- Small mountain bag: Although you won't be carrying your usual equipment, you can take a small hiking bag to carry your things in, so we recommend a waterproof and resistant bag.
- Clothing and footwear: On this occasion it is important to wear light but waterproof clothing. Footwear should be comfortable so that you can walk for hours.
- Insect repellentThe climate of the Lost City is very humid and prone to mosquitoes, so we recommend using sunscreen and repellent to avoid unwanted bites.
- AccessoriesThis is one of the best routes in the world, so it is very important that you take a camera with you. We also recommend that you bring a long-sleeved shirt and extra clothes to change into for the entire route.
Tips for trekking in Santa Cruz like an expert
- Check different prices before hiring a company to visit this route.
- Take a few days to acclimatise if you are not used to the heat of the area.
- Make a checklist to make sure you have everything what you need
- On the road, remember to stay hydrated at all times.
- Use insect repellent
- If your socks are wet, don't hesitate to change them.
- Consult with the tour guide and take 10-minute breaks. in case you feel exhausted
- Don't deviate from the route
- Don't feed wild animals
This route is unique in the whole region of Colombia.So, enjoy the experience no matter what and keep this amazing place in your memory. Are you ready, come on, adventure awaits!
