Colombia's Lost City to the Caribbean - Colombia

One of the unique pleasures of travelling is getting to a place before everyone else. When you make the trek to Colombia’s Ciudad Perdida, that pleasure is all yours. Bunk up for the night in hammocks in small local communities before braving the jungles in search of Teyuna, a lost city that predates Machu Picchu. Later, explore the northern coast in Cartagena, visit rural villages near Taganga, and explore Tayrona National Park. It’s the Great Outdoors, with a Caribbean twist.

Day 1 Santa Marta
Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Santa Marta/Ricardito Camp
Transfer to Machete Pelao, where the trek to the Lost City of Teyuna begins. Trek for 4-5 hrs each day through farmland, steamy jungle, and rural Kogi communities. Get a glimpse into the local way of life in the remote river valleys of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Day 3 Ricardito Camp/ Wiwa Camp
The route starts along the Buritaca River, taking you further into the vivid green jungle past small villages en route to the camp for the evening. After a long day of trekking, enjoy a refreshing dip in one of the natural swimming pools.

Day 4 Wiwa Camp /Teyuna Paraiso Camp
Continue trekking along the route to the Ciudad Perdida. Today is a tough portion of the trek with a lot of steep inclines, make sure to rest and take in the beautiful views.

Day 5 Teyuna Paraiso Camp/ Wiwa Camp
Get started early to climb the 1,200 steps up to the Lost City. The view of the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains makes it well worth the hike. Explore the Lost City and learn what is known of its origins from the indigenous guide, before making the descent back to Wiwa Camp for the night.

Day 6 Wiwa Camp /Santa Marta
In the morning, take in your last views of the jungle as you trek back to Machete Pelao. Transfer to Santa Marta where the rest of the day is yours to relax.

Day 7 Santa Marta/Cartagena
Drive down the coast to Cartagena and start exploring this charming city.

Day 8 Cartagena
Enjoy a free day exploring all Cartagena has to offer. Opt to enjoy the beautiful coast or explore the charming colonial city.

Day 9 Cartagena
Enjoy a city tour, visiting the colonial walled city and fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy free time to take in the Caribbean vibe of the city and beach.

Day 10 Cartagena/Santa Marta
Travel by bus to Santa Marta with free time to explore this beautiful coastal city.

Day 11 Santa Marta/Taganga
Journey into the hills around Minca and hike to a beautiful waterfall. Take a tour of a coffee farm and indulge in a local lunch. Continue to Taganga, a perfect base for exploring nearby Tayrona National Park.

Day 12 Taganga
Spend the day exploring Taganga. Opt for more active options like snorkelling or hiking or hit one of the beaches and relax in a hammock.

Day 13 Tayrona National Park Area / Taganga
Head into Tayrona National Park for a moderate hike with a local guide. This is a perfect opportunity to experience nature and learn a little more about the rich, natural diversity of northern Colombia. Stay in a lodge close to the park.

Day 14 Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona/Santa Marta
Return to Santa Marta for an optional evening out on the town.

Day 15 Santa Marta
Depart at any time.