Frequent Asked Question
about The Lost City Trek
FAQ´s
We are aware about what you need to know to enjoy your next vacation in Colombia.
Take some time to read the most frequently asked questions from our customers and if you didn’t find the information you need, do not hesitate to contact us for further information.
1. What is the Lost City Trek?
A guided, multi‑day hike through the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to Teyuna (the “Lost City”), an archaeological site of 240+ stone terraces, stairways and platforms built around 600 – 800 AD. You’ll trek jungle trails, cross rivers, sleep in riverside camps and learn from indigenous Arhuaco, Kogui and Wiwa guides.
2. Where does The Lost City Trek start and end?
We offer convenient pick-up directly from your accommodation in Santa Marta between 8 – 9 AM. Additionally, we have various pick-up locations available in other areas such as Minca, Rodadero, Taganga, Tayrona, Guachaca, etc. Please inquire about the specific pick-up location for where you will be staying.
On the final day, we will return you to Santa Marta (historic center or your lodging in Rodadero/Taganga) between 4 – 6 PM.
Please note that we will take you back to Santa Marta, but return transportation directly to Minca is not included.
For Palomino we gonna drop you off at the Bus station where you can take the bus to go there after this trek.
3. How many days can I choose for The Lost City Trek?
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3 Days Express: For the fit hiker seeking a fast-paced challenge, covering 14+ km per day.
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4 Days Classic: Enjoy a balanced pace averaging 12–14 km per day, ideal for most active individuals.
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5 Days Relaxed + Sacred Waterfalls: Experience a more leisurely trek with 8–10 km per day, including ample rest and exploration of sacred waterfalls.
4. What are the prices for The Lost City Trek?
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3-Day Express Trek: COP 2,150,000
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4-Day Classic Trek: COP 1,860,000
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5-Day Relaxed Trek + Sacred Waterfalls: COP 2,150,000
5. In what languages is The Lost City Trek offered?
Our knowledgeable local and indigenous guides primarily lead the tours in Spanish, sharing their deep connection to the land and culture directly. To ensure all our guests can fully appreciate this experience, we also have experienced English and French translators available to accompany the groups. For tours specifically in French, we kindly ask that you make your request in advance so we can best accommodate your needs and ensure a seamless and enriching journey. This way, language will be no barrier to your exploration of the fascinating Lost City.
6. Are there any bathrooms in the camps for The Lost City?
Yes, absolutely! All of our campsites are well-equipped with bathroom facilities to ensure your comfort throughout the trek.
You'll find dedicated areas with showers, toilets, and sinks available at each location. We strive to provide a good level of service in all our accommodations, so you can look forward to taking comfortable showers and freshening up after your rewarding days of hiking.
7. Where is the Lost City located in Colombia?
The Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) is located deep within the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range in northern Colombia. This impressive mountain range is situated near the Caribbean coast and spans across three departments: Magdalena, La Guajira, and Cesar. The archaeological site itself is within the department of Magdalena.
8. When is the best time to visit The Lost City Trek?
Lost City Trek all year round! While the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta does experience rainy seasons, typically from April to May and September to November, even these periods offer a unique and lush perspective on the jungle.
Think of it this way: the occasional tropical rain is truly part of the Sierra Nevada's vibrant ecosystem and can even add to the adventure! The landscapes become even greener, and the waterfalls can be more dramatic.
Of course, the dry seasons (December to March and June to August) generally offer drier trails and clearer skies, which many trekkers prefer.
However, if your travel dates fall outside these times, don't let the possibility of rain deter you. With the right gear and a flexible attitude, trekking during the wetter months can be a rewarding and less crowded experience. Just be prepared for some mud and embrace the tropical climate – it's all part of this amazing adventure!
9. What is the difficulty level of the Lost City Trek?
The Lost City Trek offers an adventure for almost everyone, but choosing the right duration is key to an enjoyable experience!
While the standard 4 days trek is often considered the best balance for most people, allowing for a good pace and immersion, other options cater to different fitness levels.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, particularly older travelers, the 5 days trek provides more time to enjoy the journey. Ultimately, the perfect trek depends on your individual fitness level and how you'd like to experience this incredible destination.
10. How to get to The Lost City Trek?
The only way to experience the wonders of the Lost City is through a guided trekking tour booked with the official tour agencies. This isn't a journey you can undertake independently.
Our tours depart from Santa Marta in the Magdalena department, from where we'll transport you by 4x4 to Machete Pelao (also known as El Mamey), the starting point of your trek.
Our experienced local guides will lead you through breathtaking landscapes of mountains, rivers, and lush tropical rainforest, as well as introduce you to the fascinating indigenous communities along the route. This trek requires a good level of fitness, and our guides ensure both your safety and a respectful engagement with the local culture, making it an enriching and unforgettable adventure you can only have with us.
11. Can your company storage my luggage during the Trek?
YES!
You can leave your extra luggage securely at our office in before we begin the trek. Alternatively, a really handy option is to store it at the restaurant in El Mamey (the trailhead).
These restaurants are well-equipped with secure storage rooms. This is especially ideal if you're not returning directly to Santa Marta after the trek but heading to another destination, as you can easily retrieve your belongings during our final lunch stop in El Mamey.
So, rest assured, storing your luggage will be a breeze!