Santa Marta

COLOMBIA EXPEDITION: LOST CITY TREK & TAYRONA

Hiking

What you'll do

This 10-day expedition takes you deep into its heart, combining challenge, history, and reward in one journey. Begin in Minca, with cool mountain air and coffee highlands, before setting off on the legendary Lost City Trek. Over four demanding days, you’ll hike nearly 60 kilometers of jungle trails, cross rivers, and climb the 1,200 ancient steps to Teyuna, the sacred heart of the Tayrona civilization. From the humid jungle, the adventure flows naturally to the Caribbean coast. Recover as you float down the Río Don Diego, visit the archaeological site of Taironaka, and trek through Tayrona National Park along the Calabazo route to the iconic Cabo San Juan beaches. This is a rare immersion into extraordinary landscapes and enduring cultures.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in the Sierra Nevada & Minca’s Magic

Our private partners greet you at Santa Marta Airport (SMR) where we recommend arriving by 3 PM. You’ll be driven (∼30 min) straight into the lush, cool Sierra Nevada foothills. After checking into accommodation, your Tour Leader hosts a welcome briefing and dinner to prepare you for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Coffee Highlands & Ascent to the Clouds

You’ll start the day with a scenic 4x4 drive up to the historic Finca La Victoria, where you’ll dive into the fascinating world of Colombian coffee during an authentic guided tour. The journey continues toward La Tagua (1,600 m a.s.l.), from where a challenging 2.5-hour ascent through lush cloud forests leads to Finca Altos de la Sierra (2,440 m a.s.l.). Here, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch, take in a spectacular sunset, and join an intimate cultural workshop celebrating the Santandereana heritage before dinner. Distance: ∼6 km (3.7 mi) | Elevation gain: +840 m (+2,755 ft) −0 m (-0 ft) | Time: 2.5 hours

Day 3: Cerro Kennedy’s Summit Views & Descent to the Caribbean

You’ll rise before dawn to catch a breathtaking sunrise over Pico Bolívar and Pico Colón, the highest peaks of the Sierra Nevada. After breakfast, you’ll set off on the Cerro Kennedy loop, a 6-hour trek that climbs up to around 3,000 m a.s.l. before descending through lush mountain landscapes toward 1,500 m a.s.l. In the afternoon, a private vehicle will transfer you from the mountains to the Tayrona Park area, where you’ll settle into your accommodation and receive a briefing for the Lost City Trek. Dinner follows at your accommodation by the Caribbean coast. Distance: ∼17 km (10.5 mi) | Elevation gain: +560 m (+1,837 ft) −1,500 m (−4,921 ft) | Time: 6 hours

Day 4: Into the Jungle: The Lost City Trek Begins!

The adventure begins as you’re picked up from your accommodation and driven by 4x4 towards El Mamey, the gateway to the Lost City. After a hearty lunch, the 4.5-hour trek officially begins. The trail winds through lush tropical landscapes, rivers, and dense jungle, offering the first glimpse of life in the Sierra Nevada. By late afternoon, you’ll reach Camp 1 (Adán or Alfredo), where you’ll settle into your bunk bed and enjoy dinner surrounded by the sounds of the forest. Distance: ∼10 km (6.2 mi) | Elevation gain: +500 m (+1,640 ft) −150 m (−492 ft) | Time: 4.5 hours

Day 5: River Crossings & The Heart of the Sierra

Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek — around 7–8 hours of hiking deep into the jungle. The trail winds through dense emerald canopy, rolling terrain, and several river crossings, with refreshing breaks to taste tropical fruits and enjoy a swim in the Buritaca River. After lunch, the path climbs steadily toward the higher camps of Paraíso or Lorenzo, where you’ll rest for the night. The camp, located just over a kilometer from the ancient steps of the Lost City, offers bunk beds, refreshing showers, and the chance to buy cold drinks before dinner. Distance: ∼18.0 km (11.1 mi) | Elevation gain: +950 m (+3,116 ft) −620 m (−2,034 ft) | Time: 7–8 hours

Day 6: Teyuna, The Lost City Summit!

The day begins early with a hearty breakfast before tackling the 1,200 ancient stone steps leading to Teyuna, The Lost City. As you climb through the misty jungle, you’ll reach the sacred terraces built by the Tayrona people — one of the most important archaeological sites in Colombia. You’ll spend around four hours exploring the ruins, learning about the city’s fascinating history and the living traditions of the local indigenous communities. After lunch, the descent begins, retracing the steps back through the forest toward Mumake or Wiwa Camp, where you can unwind by the Buritaca River and share dinner under the stars. Distance: ∼16 km (8.7 mi) | Elevation gain: +420 m (+1,378 ft) −740 m (−2,427 ft) | Time: 8 hours (incl. exploration)

Day 7: Homeward Trails & Return to the Coast

The final day along the Lost City Trek begins at dawn with a nourishing breakfast at Mumake or Wiwa Camp, fueling you for the journey ahead. You’ll retrace your steps through the lush jungle, hiking for about 3.5 hours toward Adán or Alfredo Camp. This stretch offers one last chance to absorb the sounds of rushing streams and the vivid green canopy that has defined your adventure. After a well-deserved 30-minute rest with fresh juice and snacks, you’ll continue the descent — a demanding 3.5-hour hike that winds down to the lively town of El Mamey, where the Lost City trek officially concludes. Here, a celebratory lunch awaits, marking the completion of an unforgettable expedition. From El Mamey, private 4x4 vehicles or vans will take you to your comfortable accommodation near Tayrona National Park, where dinner rounds off the day. Distance: ∼18 km (10.5 mi) | Elevation gain/loss: +20 m (+65 ft) / −710 m (−2,329 ft) | Time: 6–7 hours

Day 8: History & River Relaxation

The day begins with a leisurely breakfast before setting out toward the nearby town of Don Diego. A short, scenic walk along the river brings you to Taironaka, where you’ll enjoy a guided visit through the museum, botanical gardens, and ancient Tayrona terraces. After this cultural immersion, it’s time to unwind with a tubing adventure down the tranquil Río Don Diego, floating through lush jungle scenery until reaching the beach estuary where river meets sea. Following a satisfying lunch in Don Diego, you’ll return to your accommodation near Tayrona National Park for an easy afternoon and dinner.

Day 9: The Big Tayrona Hike & Farewell Dinner

An early start takes you from your hostel to the Calabazo entrance of Tayrona National Park for the grand finale — a challenging full-day trek through the park’s tropical dry forest. The route leads you up and down rolling terrain toward the iconic Cabo San Juan del Guía, where the turquoise sea meets lush jungle. After a rewarding morning hike, you’ll pause for lunch and a swim at the tranquil beach of La Piscina, a perfect place to unwind and reflect on your journey. In the afternoon, continue walking toward Cañaveral, where private transport will be waiting to return you to your accommodation near Tayrona. The day closes with a well-earned farewell dinner, celebrating the completion of an unforgettable expedition. Distance: ∼16.15 km (10.04 mi) | Elevation gain/loss: +388 m (+1,273 ft) / −510 m (−1,673 ft) | Time: ∼9.5 hours (including stops, lunch & swimming)

Day 10: Farewell to the Colombian Caribbean

Enjoy a final traditional Colombian breakfast at your hostel, taking time to reflect on the memories made and say your goodbyes to the group and Tour Leader. When ready, a private transfer will take you directly to Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR) in Santa Marta, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through the Sierra Nevada and the Caribbean coast.

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

see more on How it works

What's included

Accident insurance

Medical and luggage insurance

Travel cancellation insurance

Hiking Guide

Transport from airport

Transport to airport

Local transport

All meals

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Extra food and drinks

Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”

Expenditure of personal nature

Accomodations

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Private Shared Dormitory in an hostel - Day 1

You’ll stay in a cozy mountain hostel overlooking the lush Sierra Nevada (at Masaya Casas Viejas Minca / Costeño River Minca o La Veranda Hotel & Restaurant). These charming eco-lodges offer shared dorm-style rooms, open-air lounges, and hammocks to relax surrounded by tropical forest and coffee plantations.

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Mountain Lodge - Day 2

A peaceful mountain retreat set high in the Sierra Nevada, with panoramic views, simple yet comfortable rooms, and hearty homemade meals. Perfect for resting before starting the trek into the jungle.

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Private Shared Dormitory in an hostel - Days 3-7-8-9

Relax in beachfront hostels (Masaya Tayrona Beach & Club / The Journey Hostel / Viajero Tayrona) featuring shared dorms, tropical gardens, swimming pools, and chill communal areas. A great place to unwind by the Caribbean Sea after your trek, surrounded by nature and good vibes.

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Jungle camps - Days 4-5-6

Rustic jungle camps deep in the forest, used by local indigenous families (Adán or Alfredo Camp, Paraíso or Lorenzo Camp, Mumake or Wiwa Camp). Expect basic wooden huts with shared facilities, mosquito nets, and simple meals. These camps offer an authentic immersion in the wild environment of the Lost City Trek.

Guides

Jeremy for Ciudad Perdida

Jeremy is your Tour Leader for The Lost City Expedition. A certified guide and seasoned trek leader with over seven years of experience in northern Colombia, Jeremy knows every corner of the Ciudad Perdida trail. Trained at SENA and officially accredited by the Colombian Ministry of Tourism, he combines professionalism with a genuine passion for the jungle. Fluent in English, Spanish and German, he ensures a safe, smooth, and inspiring journey—helping you connect deeply with nature, the group, and the spirit of adventure itself.