Experience the Lost City Trek with Chaska Tours: Discover Ciudad Perdida with Local Tips for 2026 & 2027
- 8 hours ago
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Ciudad Perdida is Colombia’s most iconic trek – and at the same time a sacred site within the territory of Indigenous communities. Here are the key tips for 2026/2027.
Ciudad Perdida – also known as Teyuna – can be reached through a multi-day jungle hike. The site is believed to have been built after 700 AD, making it several centuries older than Machu Picchu. To truly enjoy your trek in 2026 or 2027, you’ll need: a realistic fitness level, the right season – and a packing list that works.
The Most Important Facts About Ciudad Perdida
The archaeological park lies in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta at approximately 900–1,200 meters above sea level, within the Río Buritaca basin. The area belongs to the territory of the Iku (Arhuaco), Kággaba (Kogui), Wiwa, and Kankuamo peoples.
And the setting is spectacular: Guinness World Records lists the Sierra Nevada as the highest coastal mountain range in the world (up to 5,775 m), just about 42 km from the Caribbean coast.
How the Trek Usually Works
Duration, Difficulty & Accommodation
We normally offer the tour as a four- or five-day trek (group or private). On average, expect at least five hours of hiking per day, often more – with ascents, descents, and river crossings.
Overnight stays are in simple, communal camps (hammock/bed/tent depending on availability). Exact camps and daily stages may vary slightly depending on occupancy. There is no hot water; electricity and mobile reception are usually very limited.
Meals & Luggage
Meals are fixed menus – most supplies are transported from Santa Marta into the mountains. Please inform us in advance of allergies or intolerances; vegetarian options are generally available with prior notice.
For the trek, we recommend a backpack under 10 kg; a mule luggage service can be booked on-site in cash, subject to availability. By participating, you also support local families along the route; if you wish, you can meaningfully contribute with school supplies or hygiene items.
At the Ruins: The Grand Staircase
The moment everyone anticipates:
climbing nearly 1,200 stone steps up to the terraces.
Why You Can Only Visit with a Guide
The trail is not clearly marked – authorities and Indigenous leaders therefore require visitors to be accompanied by a guide. Park tickets are also only sold through authorized operators.
Planning Your Trip: Season & Closure Period
Best Time to Travel
The drier periods are usually from January to late March and July/August; heavier rains often begin from mid-September to late December. For many travelers, February/March or July/August are ideal: less mud, easier river crossings.
Closure: Plan for Late September to Late October
Ciudad Perdida is regularly closed temporarily at the request of local communities (ceremonies, regeneration). For 2026, a closure during October is generally expected (often 01–31 October). In practice, dates may vary slightly – currently we anticipate approximately 29 September–29 October; please plan these weeks carefully and let us double-check the exact dates.
Packing List & Health
Must-Haves
broken-in hiking boots + sandals
quick-dry clothing, swimwear, rain jacket
headlamp, water bottle, dry bag/plastic bags
strong mosquito repellent + sun protection
personal medication + small travel first-aid kit
cash in small bills (no ATMs along the way) – best leave jewelry and valuables at the hotel
Vaccinations, Insurance & Accessibility
Official yellow fever risk zones in Colombia include the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. For our trek, we therefore ask for valid yellow fever vaccination proof (currently not actively checked); accident insurance is included in the tour, but additional international health insurance is strongly recommended.
Access is not barrier-free (multi-day trek, no stable pathways).
FAQ
Four or five days – which is better?
Four days are more physically demanding. Five days are more relaxed if you prefer additional breaks and a slower pace.
Can I leave my main luggage in Santa Marta?
Yes – you only take what you need for the trek; the rest of your luggage is usually safely stored at your hotel or at our local partner’s office.
Is there mobile reception or Wi-Fi?
Mostly not. Plan to be intentionally “offline.”
Ciudad Perdida is a trek for people who take nature, history, and cultural respect seriously. If you like, we can advise you briefly on the best season, the right pace (four or five days), and your preparation. We are happy to organize the trek for you in different languages.
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