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Santa Marta Colombia Trip Summary
Day 1 – Santa Marta
Day 2 – Santa Marta – Lost City Trek
Day 3 – Lost City Trek
Day 4 – Lost City Trek
Day 5 – Lost City Trek – Los Naranjos
Day 6 – Las Naranjas – Santa Marta
Planned Places/Cities
Santa Marta
Santa Marta is the capital of the department of Magdalena and is located on the Caribbean coast at just 5 meters (16 feet) above sea level. Therefore, temperatures here range between 21°C and 33 °C (70 – 91°F). The city spreads over a large area and is flanked by mountains from different sides. The immediate Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is mostly inhabited by indigenous communities and not only reaches the highest point in Colombia with the Pico Cristóbal Colón – at a height of 5,700 meters (18,700 feet)- but is also the highest coastal mountain in the world. Santa Marta is the perfect starting point for many leisure and holiday activities. Along the coast to the east, you will find Tayrona National Park, the most famous national park in Colombia. There are also wonderful beaches. Another highlight is the Lost City hidden in the Sierra, which can be visited in a 4-day trek.
Ciudad Perdia (Lost City)
The Lost City, locally known as “Ciudad Perdida,” is an ancient archaeological site located in the lush jungles of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range in Colombia. This pre-Columbian city is a remarkable testament to the indigenous Tayrona civilization and represents one of the most significant archaeological treasures in the country.
The Lost City is an ancient city that was built by the Tayrona civilization, an indigenous culture that thrived in the region centuries before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. The site dates back over a thousand years, making it one of the oldest and most well-preserved archaeological sites in Colombia.
The Lost City remained hidden in the dense jungle for centuries, known only to the indigenous communities in the area. It was rediscovered in the early 20th century by looters searching for archaeological artifacts. It was not until the 1970s that official archaeological excavations and research began at the site.
Reaching the Lost City involves embarking on the challenging and adventurous “Lost City Trek.” This multi-day hike takes trekkers through dense jungles, crossing rivers, and ascending steep mountains to finally arrive at the ancient ruins. The journey itself is an unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking vistas and encounters with unique flora and fauna.
Upon reaching the Lost City, trekkers are rewarded with the sight of well-preserved archaeological ruins. The ancient city features stone terraces, plazas, staircases, and ceremonial sites, offering a glimpse into the architectural and engineering prowess of the Tayrona civilization.
The Lost City holds immense cultural significance for the indigenous communities of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The site is considered sacred and plays a role in the spiritual beliefs and traditions of the local Kogi and Wiwa tribes, who are the modern descendants of the Tayrona civilization.
In recognition of its cultural and historical value, the Lost City was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further highlighting its significance as a unique and invaluable archaeological treasure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Santa Marta
Arrival to Santa Marta
You will be picked up at the airport in Santa Marta and driven to your hotel.
The bilingual guide will be waiting for you at the exit of the airport.
Accommodation
Here you will find the best hotel recommendations in Colombia.
Half Day Santa Marta City tour
In the Santa Marta City Tour you will enjoy an exciting tour of approximately 3 hours through the most beautiful bay of America, in which you will visit the following places: La Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the Historic Center of Santa Marta, declared a National Monument in 1963; the Monument that honors the native soccer star of the Pearl of America, Carlos “El Pibe” Valderrama, and Taganga, a typical fishing village. In the Gold Museum you can appreciate the exhibition of the Anthropological and Ethnological Museum of the Tayrona Culture, their beliefs, mythologies, crafts and goldsmith pieces are exposed in this place, to know and explore the legacy of the milenary culture of the Tayrona.
Day 2: Santa Marta – Lost City Trek
Lost City Tour Day 1
Ciudad Perdida was built in A.D. 800 by the “Tayronas”, who inhabited this territory long before the arrival of the Spanish conquerors. Ciudad Perdida is a former Indian village and actual archaeological site that was plundered by treasure hunters in the beginning, something which eventually helped its discovery and later protection by the state.
You will be picked up at your hotel and drive directly to El Mamey in a 4×4. There you will start your hike. The first part is around 8 Kilometers long.
Distance: 8 Km
Minimum elevation: 145 m
Maximum elevation: 640 m
Day 3: Lost City Trek
Lost City Tour Day 2
After breakfast you will leave early morning and walk all day. You will pass rivers and might also have a refreshing bath. As you entered indigenous territory you also will spot locals in their traditional outfit. The route is the goal and you will experience a great day of hiking. Also be prepared for mosquitos and muddy trails and heavy rain from time to time.
Distance: 16 Km
Minimum elevation: 360 m
Maximum elevation: 865 m
Day 4: Lost City Trek
Lost City Tour Day 3
After an early breakfast you will walk around 2 kilometers until the stairs that will lead you up to the lost city. Climbing them can be tricky, especially if you have slippery shoes and big feet. Arrived on top you will be given a spectacular view and with a bit of luck you also will meet the Mamo, the spiritual leader of the local community.
After a short tour you will descend and hike back towards the coast to a camp for the night.
Distance: 13 Km
Minimum elevation: 435 m
Maximum elevation: 1200 m
Day 5: Lost City Trek – Los Naranjos
Lost City Tour Day 4
After an early breakfast you will walk approximately 6 hours before getting back to El Mamey. After having lunch and recovering, a 4×4 truck will bring you back to Santa Marta.
Accommodation
Here you will find the Best beach hotels in Colombia
Day 6: Los Naranjos – Santa Marta
Departure Santa Marta
You will be picked up at the hotel and driven to the airport in Santa Marta.
Travel Map
Very Important Info to Know Visiting Colombia
Santa Marta Colombia Travel Guide
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Medical advice and recommendations for travelers visiting Colombia
Climate and weather overview for Colombia
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