Lost City Trek · Ciudad PerdidaThe Classic Tour 4 days
Three nights in the jungle, river crossings and the early-morning climb up the 1,200 stone steps. It is the route chosen by 75% of our travellers.
Classic: the balanced route
It’s for you if
- It is your first time at the Lost City
- You are in good general shape
- You want a challenge and time to enjoy it
Day-by-day itinerary
Teyuna · Lost City
About 1,200 stone steps lead you to more than 200 terraces built by the Tayrona around AD 600–800. It remains a sacred site for the peoples of the Sierra.
A fact: it was built some 650 years before Machu Picchu.
From Santa Marta to the first campPickup 7:30–8:30 am · 4x4 ≈ 2 h · afternoon hike
We pick you up at your accommodation. Drive to El Mamey with a stop at La Aguacatera, lunch and a first hike through the jungle.
Into the jungle, through Kogui and Wiwa territoryFull day of hiking · river crossings
You walk past indigenous villages, swim in the Buritaca river and reach the camp closest to the city.
Today you cross inhabited territory. Ask permission before taking photos.
Teyuna, the Lost City≈ 1,200 steps · 3–4 h visit
An early climb up the stone steps to the terraces. After the visit, the way back begins.
On the terraces, your guide tells the story of the Tayrona and of the peoples who look after the place today.
Return to Santa MartaArrival between 3:00 and 6:00 pm
Last hike to El Mamey, lunch and the drive back. You can get off at Tayrona, Costeño, Buritaca or Palomino.
Kilometres and hours for each day to be confirmed
What’s included
Included
- Return transport from your accommodation
- All meals, from lunch on day 1 to lunch on the last day
- Vegetarian, vegan or allergy-friendly menu on request
- Camps with bed or hammock, mosquito net and blankets
- Filtered water at the camps
- Entrance to Teyuna Archaeological Park
- Travel insurance
- Expert local guides
- Contribution to the communities of the Sierra
Not included
- Breakfast on day 1
- Mule for your luggage
- Alcoholic drinks and personal expenses
Your extra luggage is stored free of charge at our office while you hike.
Pickup
Tap your starting point to see the route.
- At the door of your accommodation. Historic centre, Bello Horizonte and surroundings.
- ≈ 2 h to El Mamey, with a stop at La Aguacatera.
- The afternoon before, we confirm your exact time by WhatsApp.
- The 3-day tour leaves at 4:30 am.
On the way back
You arrive in Santa Marta between 3:00 and 6:00 pm. If you are travelling on, we can drop you off along the way at Tayrona, Playa Los Ángeles, Costeño, Buritaca or Palomino.
What to bring
Payment methods
Online deposit
Secure payment with Bold. Prices are in Colombian pesos.
Changes and cancellation
Questions about this tour
Is it suitable for beginners?
It is the route most people choose. With good general fitness and motivation, you can do it.
How far do we walk each day?
Between 12 and 14 km a day, with climbs and descents.
How long do we spend at Teyuna?
Between 3 and 4 hours on the terraces, with your guide.
How do I pay?
You pay 10% online by card, PSE or Nequi. The balance is paid on departure day, in cash in Colombian pesos or by card (+4%).
Can I change or cancel?
Yes, free of charge up to 7 days before departure. Within the last 72 hours, the 10% is retained. If you do not show up or you leave the tour, there is no refund.
What are the camps like?
They have beds or hammocks with mosquito nets and blankets, cold showers, toilets, a small shop and filtered water.
Does the guide speak English?
The guides speak Spanish and an English translator walks with you. A French translator is also available if you let us know in advance.
Where do I leave my luggage?
We store it free of charge while you hike. You only take a 20–30 litre backpack up the mountain.