Trek to the Lost City, Ciudad Perdida

Overview
The trek to Colombia's Ciudad Perdida, or the Lost City, is nothing short of extraordinary. Nestled deep within the lush, mist-laden jungles of the Sierra Nevada mountains, this ancient site is a spectacular reminder of a civilization that predates the more widely known Machu Picchu by centuries. Journeying with G Adventures to this captivating archaeological treasure is not just a trek, it's an immersive experience into the soul of the Colombian wilderness, history, and culture.

The Journey Begins
From start to finish we were welcomed to Colombia by one and all, keen to share their amazing country with us and grateful that we had seen past the narrative formed by a chequered history. Our adventure kicked off with an overnight stay in Bogota before our onward journey to the vibrant Caribbean coastal town of Santa Marta where we stayed at the Hilton hotel. After meeting our amazing G Adventure guides, Jairo and Maria, we set off on a journey that promised to test our endurance, deepen our connection with nature, and reward us with moments of breathtaking beauty.

The journey from our hotel in Santa Marta was by 4x4 jeep, we clambered into the back with equal measures of excitement and trepidation about what was to come.
The trek is approximately 37 miles in total, we did it over 5 days, although a 4-day itinerary is available. While the distance doesn’t sound too daunting the terrain is hard going in places and the heat and humidity also add to the challenge. G Adventures class it as 5 out of 5 on their difficulty scale, on a par with their hikes to Everest base camp or Trekking Mont Blanc, as G Adventures say, be prepared to sweat a bit. The trail winds through verdant jungles, river crossings, steep climbs, and awe-inspiring vistas. It is physically demanding but, as we quickly learned, also profoundly rewarding.

Once we arrived at the foot of the trek, we were welcomed by the Wiwa tribe who provided us with our allocated local guide for the duration of our time in the Sierra Nevada National Park.

Into the Heart of the Jungle
The initial part of the hike on day one was up a steep dusty track exposed to the sun and the blistering heat, which was around 35 degrees C. Once that initial part was completed it felt as though we had stepped into the Sierra Nevada's embrace. It was as if we were transported to another world. Towering trees formed a dense canopy overhead, shielding us from the tropical sun while the sounds of chirping birds and other unseen wildlife serenaded us along the way. Our guides shared their deep knowledge of the land, its flora and fauna, and its cultural significance.
We rose early every morning to take advantage of the coolest part of the day before the sun had fully risen. Each day was a balance of challenge and wonder. The inclines tested our determination, but the sight of cascading waterfalls, hidden swimming holes, and vibrant flora and fauna made every step worthwhile. Evenings were spent at rustic campsites, where camaraderie flourished over excellent, freshly prepared, hearty meals and stories shared under a sky blanketed with stars. The sleeping arrangements and campsites were basic with mosquito netted bunks lined up in ranks in touching distance of the people on either side. Something which I would have considered my worst nightmare prior to embarking on the journey, but which didn’t matter a jot. We were all in the same boat and all so tired by the end of each day’s trekking that we were just happy to have somewhere to put our heads down for the night.

Reaching the Lost City, Ciudad Perdida
On the final day, the anticipation was palpable. The ascent to Ciudad Perdida involves a steep climb up 1,200 stone steps, an exhilarating finish to an already unforgettable trek. And then, suddenly, there it was—a sprawling expanse of ancient terraces, plazas, and stairways carved into the mountainside, shrouded in mist and mystery.
Ciudad Perdida, believed to have been built by the Tairona people around 800 CE, is a testament to their architectural ingenuity and deep connection to nature. As we stood amidst its ruins, gazing out at the sweeping jungle panorama, the sense of awe was overwhelming. Our guide shared the stories of the Tairona civilization, their harmonious way of life, and the efforts to protect and preserve this sacred site.
On completion of our trek we made our way back to Santa Marta where we stayed in the Hilton hotel and enjoyed a day at leisure, exploring, visiting museums, shopping and eating.

A Journey Worth Every Step
The trek to the Lost City is more than a physical challenge; it's a spiritual and cultural journey. Traveling with G Adventures added layers of depth to the experience, as their commitment to sustainable tourism ensured that our presence supported the local communities and respected the environment.
For those seeking an adventure that combines rugged exploration with profound cultural and historical insights, the Lost City trek is a must. It’s a journey that will leave you with sore muscles, destroyed hiking boots, a full heart, and stories to cherish for a lifetime.