Lost City Trek Tour Guides

Ancient stone terraces of Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) in the Colombian jungle — Photo: William Neuheisel · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

What can you explore at Lost City (Ciudad Perdida)?

Ciudad Perdida, or Teyuna in the Kogi language, was built around 800 CE by the Tairona civilization — over 650 years before Machu Picchu. Rediscovered by looters in 1972 and subsequently excavated by archaeologists, the site consists of 169 stone terraces carved into a mountainside at 1,200 meters in the Sierra Nevada jungle, connected by a network of stone paths and stairways. Reaching it requires a 4 to 5-day trek through dense rainforest, crossing rivers, climbing steep mud trails, and sleeping in hammocks at jungle camps. The trek is only possible with licensed tour operators, and the route passes through territory of the Kogi and Wiwa Indigenous peoples, who consider the site sacred.

Excavation History

The 1,200 stone steps — The final ascent through jungle mist to the ancient terraces is unforgettable. Sunrise at the ruins — Morning light filtering through the canopy onto moss-covered stone platforms. Indigenous encounters — Kogi and Wiwa communities living along the trail in traditional settlements. Jungle immersion — Swimming in rivers, spotting toucans, and falling asleep to forest sounds

When to Visit

Trek duration: 4 days (standard) or 5–6 days (extended). Departure: Daily from Santa Marta, early morning. Best months: December–March and July–August (drier conditions). Rainy season: April–June and September–November — trails are muddier and rivers higher but fewer trekkers

Admission and Costs

4-day trek (all-inclusive): COP 1,200,000–1,500,000 ($300–375) per person. 5-6 day trek: COP 1,500,000–1,800,000 ($375–450) per person. Includes: Guide, food, hammock accommodation, permits, transport to/from trailhead. Not included: Snacks, tips, personal gear. Tipping: COP 50,000–100,000 ($12–25) per guide for the full trek is standard

Tips for Visitors

Book 1–2 weeks ahead: Permits are limited — peak season (December–January) fills up fast. Physical fitness: Expect 6–8 hours of hiking daily through humid jungle with elevation changes of 500m+. Pack essentials: Quick-dry clothes, sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, waterproof bag for electronics. Licensed operators only: Only 4 companies have permits — Expotur, Magic Tour, Wiwa Tour, and Turcol. Respect Indigenous customs: Don't photograph Kogi or Wiwa people without permission; follow guide instructions in sacred areas

Frequently Asked Questions

When should hikers plan the Lost City trek?

December through March offers the driest trail conditions, with fewer river crossings at dangerous levels and firmer footing on the muddy jungle paths. July and August provide a secondary dry window, though permits fill fast during both peak periods. The rainy months from April through June and September through November bring muddier, more challenging conditions but significantly fewer trekkers on the four-day route.

How long does the Lost City trek take and when does it depart?

Trek duration: 4 days (standard) or 5–6 days (extended). Departure: Daily from Santa Marta, early morning. Best months: December–March and July–August (drier conditions).

What is the entrance fee for Lost City (Ciudad Perdida)?

4-day trek (all-inclusive): COP 1,200,000–1,500,000 ($300–375) per person. 5-6 day trek: COP 1,500,000–1,800,000 ($375–450) per person. Includes: Guide, food, hammock accommodation, permits, transport to/from trailhead.

🏺 Lost City (Ciudad Perdida)