The Lost City – Sierra Nevada.

Day 1

Day Summary:

The first day begins with a jeep transfer from Santa Marta to the village of El Mamey, a journey of about three hours. Upon arrival, lunch is served before beginning the hike to the first cabin, “Adán” or “Alfredo”. This route, approximately four hours long, includes a stop at natural pools for a refreshing swim, surrounded by the lush nature of the Sierra Nevada.

The first night is spent at the camp, which is equipped with electricity, bathrooms, and showers.

Camp 1 Facilities:

• Electricity

• Bathrooms and showers

Day 2

Day Summary:

After breakfast, the hike to the second camp begins, where travelers officially enter the indigenous reserve. This stretch, about three hours long, offers the opportunity to interact with the Wiwa and Kogui communities, learning about their customs and traditions.

Upon arrival at the camp, travelers can enjoy the Buritaca River and a moment of rest. The night is spent at this camp, which offers basic services including electricity and showers.

Camp 2 Facilities:

• Electricity

• Showers

Day 3

Day Summary:

The day starts with a hike into the Buritaca River valley after breakfast. Along the way, travelers pass through the village of Mutanyi, home to the Kogui indigenous community. From there, the hike continues to the third camp, “Paraíso Teyuna”.

During this five-hour trek, travelers enjoy unique landscapes and a river swim before arriving at the camp. In the evening, guides share stories and legends about the region and its ancestral history.

Camp 3 Facilities:

• Bathrooms and showers

• Electricity from generator (at specific hours)

Day 4

Day Summary:

The day begins early with the ascent to the Lost City, climbing 1,200 stone steps to reach this impressive ancestral site. Once at the ruins, visitors explore terraces, stone paths, and ceremonial platforms, while the guide shares the story of the Tayrona civilization.

After about three to four hours of exploration, the group returns to “Paraíso Teyuna” camp for lunch, and then continues the descent to the second camp, where the night is spent.

Camp 4 Facilities:

• Electricity

• Bathrooms and showers

Day 5

Day Summary:

Breakfast marks the start of the return hike through the Sierra Nevada jungle. This stretch is designed for travelers to enjoy the natural environment, listen to the sounds of the forest, and refresh themselves in rivers and waterfalls.

The day unfolds at a relaxed pace, with stops to rest, take photos, and savor the final moments of the experience.

Camp 5 Facilities (last night):

• Electricity

• Bathrooms and showers

Day 6

Day Summary:

The final day begins with breakfast and the last leg of the hike back to El Mamey. Along the way, travelers cross rivers and pass waterfalls, with opportunities to stop and cool off before reaching the final destination.

At El Mamey, lunch is served and the jeep returns to Santa Marta, bringing this unforgettable adventure in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to a close.

✅ Round-trip transportation (Santa Marta – Mamey – Santa Marta).

✅ All meals included (from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 6).

✅ Accommodation in rustic campsites (beds or hammocks depending on availability, with mosquito nets).

✅ Entrance to the Teyuna – Ciudad Perdida Archaeological Park (ICANH).

✅ Accident insurance.

✅ Contributions to local campesino and indigenous communities.

✅ Professional guide service.

✅ Cook service.

✅ English-speaking interpreter service (upon request).

✅ Luggage storage service at our office or in El Mamey.

Note

Transportation to and from Simón Bolívar International Airport in Santa Marta is included when aligned with the start and end times of the tour; these services are considered additional if scheduled outside of the tour dates or hours.

Transportation from or to Minca (but not both) is included: as a courtesy, eConnection Colombia offers to start or end the tour in Minca at no extra cost, from or to the church. This service may be operated by eConnection Colombia or the authorized company Cootransminca. Starting and ending the tour in Minca (both directions) carries an additional cost of $80,000 COP for the extra leg (up to 8 passengers).

Transportation is included from and to the urban area of Santa Marta, including Bello Horizonte, Pozos Colorados, Rodadero, Historic Center, Taganga, among others, as well as the Troncal del Caribe up to the sector of La Aguacatera.

If you are staying in Palomino, or wish to end the tour there: you may meet our guides at the Aguacatera sector at the beginning of the tour; or take a bus to Palomino from that same area at the end. Alternatively, we can coordinate a transportation service (not included in the tour price) to or from Aguacatera and Palomino.

❌ Activities and services not expressly included.

❌ Additional food and beverages.

❌ Mule service for riding or carrying backpacks.

❌ Visits or meetings with indigenous spiritual leaders (Mamos).

❌ Handicrafts, local product purchases, tips.

❌ Guiding in languages other than Spanish and English.

👟 Clothing and Footwear

• Comfortable, non-slip shoes and/or trekking boots.
• Sandals or resting shoes.
• T-shirts (preferably synthetic).
• Shorts or bermudas.
• Sweatpants or long trousers.
• Long-sleeve clothing for cooler afternoons.
• Swimsuit.
• Socks.
• Towel (ideally microfiber).

☔ Weather and Environmental Protection

• Waterproof or plastic bags to protect belongings in case of rain.
• Eco-friendly sunscreen.
• Eco-friendly insect repellent (preferably with Icaridin or Citronella).
• Antihistamines if you’re sensitive to insect bites.

🎒 Personal Items

• Personal hygiene products.
• Personal medication.
• Reusable water bottle (minimum 1L; refillable with purified water at all campsites from the afternoon of Day 1).
• Flashlight.

📸 Useful Accessories

• Camera and charger.
• Binoculars (optional).

💰 Other

• Cash for extra expenses: handicrafts, drinks, tips, etc.

🥾 Get Ready for the Adventure

This is a demanding jungle trek. Be prepared to climb, descend, sweat, and be amazed.

Temperature: Hot and humid during the day (26 °C – 32 °C), with cool nights (down to 18 °C).
Tropical Rain: Expect heavy afternoon showers that can turn the trail muddy. Embrace the challenge!
River Crossings: You will get wet. Rivers and streams are part of the route.

🦟 Protection and Hygiene

Mosquitoes, sandflies, and other insects will be present. Use eco-friendly repellent with Icaridin or Citronella.
Wear long sleeves in the afternoon and consider bringing antihistamines if you’re sensitive to bites.

🧭 Culture and Respect

Indigenous communities are the guardians of this land. Everything you enjoy (meals, lodging, logistics) is operated by local communities. The experience is authentic and collaborative—come with an open mind and adventurous spirit.

Be respectful:

• Don’t take photos without permission.

• Avoid intrusive behavior.

• Listen to and follow your guide’s instructions.

🧳 Smart Packing

Many travelers prefer to pack light:

• One outfit for hiking

• One for sleeping

• One for swimming in rivers

Quick-dry clothing is your best friend.
Nights can be chilly—bring one warm, lightweight long-sleeve garment.

💧 Essential Hydration

Bring a 1 to 2-liter reusable water bottle.
You can refill with purified water at all campsites.
Recommended: a camelbak or hydration pack for added convenience during the trek.

💵 Cash and Extras

Bring cash for:

• Buying extra drinks, snacks, or local crafts

• Tipping guides or local community members

⚠️ Safety and Belongings

This is an adventure trip—there are inherent risks (slips, falls, bites…). You’re covered by accident insurance.
eConnection Colombia is not responsible for lost items. Keep your belongings secure and with you at all times.

The Lost City of Colombia, also known as Teyuna or Buritaca-200, is one of South America’s most stunning archaeological wonders. Nestled deep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, this ancient city is a sacred and cultural heartland for the Arhuaco, Kogui, Kankuamo and Wiwa people — direct descendants of the Tairona civilization.

If you’re looking for a unique jungle adventure that blends nature, history, and indigenous culture, the Lost City trek is an unforgettable journey.

What is the Lost City?

Officially discovered in 1976 by Colombian archaeologists, the Lost City is an ancient site composed of over 240 stone terraces, stairways, ceremonial platforms, and stone-paved roads, built between 600 and 800 AD. It served as a major political and manufacturing hub for the Tairona people, with an estimated population of 2,000 to 8,000 before it was abandoned during the Spanish conquest.

Today, it’s protected as the Teyuna Lost City Archaeological Park and can only be visited via guided treks through the jungle.

How to reach the Lost City?

The only way to reach the Lost City is by joining a multi-day guided trek that starts from Santa Marta, a coastal city in northern Colombia. From Santa Marta, a 4×4 vehicle takes you to Machete Pelao (also known as El Mamey), the trek’s trailhead.

From there, you’ll hike through dense rainforest, cross rivers, climb mountains, and pass by Indigenous villages — a physically challenging but deeply rewarding route.

How long does the Lost City trek last?

The Lost City trek typically takes between 3 to 6 days, depending on your tour operator and pace. Here’s a general breakdown:

• 3-day trek: Very fast pace, for very experienced hikers.

• 4-day trek: Fast pace, for experienced hikers.

• 5-day trek: A moderate option, with a balanced pace and time to rest.

• 6-day trek: Slower pace, ideal for those who want to take their time.

Each day involves 6–8 hours of hiking, with overnight stays at rural campsites run by local families and Indigenous communities.

How much does it cost to get to the Lost City?

As of 2025, the Lost City trek costs between $1.860.000 COP and $2.150.000 COP for the shared options of 4 and 5 days. The options for 3 and 6 days are private tours, which cost depend on the number of participants. The price includes:

• Transportation from and back to Santa Marta

• Professional, certified local guide (often from Indigenous communities)

• Accommodation in jungle camps (hammocks or beds)

• All meals during the trek

• Entry fees to the archaeological park

• Contributions to local and Indigenous communities

Only certified agencies can operate this tour, such as eConnection Colombia, working directly with local communities.

What to pack for the Lost City trek

Here’s a quick checklist of essentials:

• Lightweight, quick-dry clothing

• Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes

• Insect repellent and sunscreen

• Swimsuit and microfiber towel

• Water bottle or hydration pack

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Personal medicines and some cash

Tips to enjoy the Lost City trek to the fullest

• Respect Indigenous traditions and sacred sites.

• Leave no trace — help preserve the environment.

• Train or hike regularly beforehand to build endurance.

• Listen to your guide — they offer amazing insights, especially since they belong to the farming and to the Indigenous communities.

Is the Lost City trek worth it?

Absolutely. The Lost City trek is a transformational experience — not just a hike, but a journey into Colombia’s living history, surrounded by lush jungle and rich culture. It’s one of the most authentic adventures you can have in South America.

Ready to discover one of Colombia’s greatest secrets with eConnection? Embark on the Lost City trek and follow the ancient paths of the Tairona to a mystical city hidden in the heart of the Sierra Nevada