Lost City Tour Colombia 5 Days Waterfalls
Description of the Lost City Tour Colombia 5 Days Waterfalls
The 5 day Lost City Tour Colombia is designed for travelers who enjoy long mountain hikes and a deep connection with nature. This excursion offers a calmer and more complete experience compared to the 4 day trek, as it includes the Cascadas Route, a special section on the return journey where participants can cool off in natural pools and waterfalls that appear in the jungle like hidden treasures of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
Thanks to this additional component, the 5 day Lost City Tour Colombia excursion becomes an ideal option for travelers who want to explore the territory at a slower pace, appreciate the natural surroundings, and experience a more enriching journey in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
This adventure feels authentic from the very first day. Each hiking stage reveals a different landscape and creates a unique sensation. The effort of reaching the terraces of the Lost City, the stories shared by the guide about the native Indigenous communities, and finally, the reward of arriving at the waterfalls hidden deep within the Sierra Nevada jungle all come together to create an unforgettable experience.
If you are ready for a more complete adventure, the 5 day Lost City Tour is the perfect plan for you. Reserve your spot and get ready to discover unique natural landscapes, learn about the Indigenous history of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, and enjoy the waterfalls that make this route truly memorable.
Reserve with only 7% of the total tour price: $2,150,000 COP
What’s included in the tour?
Transportation
Our modern 4×4 vehicles are fully equipped for the route and operated by experienced drivers who have spent nearly 20 years navigating the trail to Ciudad Perdida (Teyuna). Their knowledge of the terrain ensures a safe, reliable, and comfortable journey during your Lost City Tour Colombia.
Meals
Each camp along the route offers freshly prepared meals inspired by traditional Colombian cuisine. Travelers enjoy homemade dishes, tropical fruits, energizing snacks, and regional flavors. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, our cooking team will gladly adapt your meals to meet your needs.
Accommodation
Throughout the trek, you will stay in simple yet comfortable shelters built and managed by local residents. These accommodations provide beds or hammocks equipped with blankets and mosquito nets, ensuring a restful and quiet night surrounded by nature.
Professional Guide
Our guides are certified by public and private institutions and are trained to lead trekking activities with a strong focus on safety, environmental respect, and cultural awareness. Their mission is to ensure your visit to the Lost City is secure, informative, and memorable.
Travel Insurance
All our tours include travel insurance, offering peace of mind as you explore the ancient terraces and landscapes of Ciudad Perdida. Our sales team will explain the full coverage included in your plan.
Community Support
We work closely with Indigenous and rural communities, supporting local development through contributions that help improve the quality of life in the region. By choosing this tour, you contribute to responsible and sustainable tourism.
Archaeological Park Entrance
The entrance fee to the Teyuna Archaeological Park, managed by the Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History (ICANH) under the Ministry of Culture, is included in the tour price.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 – Santa Marta → El Mamey → Adán Camp
The 5 day Lost City Tour Colombia begins around 9:00 a.m. in Santa Marta, where the group meets at the main office to start the journey toward El Mamey. The transfer takes about two and a half hours in 4×4 vehicles that navigate the rural roads of the Sierra Nevada with ease.
Upon arrival, travelers enjoy a typical lunch to recharge before starting the hike. Afterward, the guide assists the group in organizing their bags and preparing for the first trekking section.
The walk covers approximately 6.8 km, taking about four hours through rural farmlands surrounded by lush vegetation. The trail features constant uphill sections mixed with softer, more relaxed terrain, an ideal introduction to the atmosphere of the Sierra Nevada.
By late afternoon, the group reaches Adán Camp, where they can rest, shower, and have dinner. This first night offers an authentic immersion into the jungle environment and sets the tone for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 – Adán Camp → Mutanzhi → Zhulezhi Camp
Day two begins early with a full breakfast designed to fuel roughly eight hours of trekking. The route crosses the beautiful Buriticá River Valley, one of the most scenic landscapes in the Sierra Nevada.
The trail alternates between long ascents and softer descents as it enters a humid rainforest filled with the sounds of running water, birds, and wind. Along the way, the group passes the Kogui village of Mutanzhi, where travelers can observe how this Indigenous community preserves its ancestral traditions. Asking permission before taking photos is essential as a sign of respect.
As the hike continues, the forest grows denser and quieter, giving trekkers a deeper connection to the territory. The guide shares stories about local culture, spiritual beliefs, and the relationship between the Indigenous communities and the natural environment.
The day ends at Zhulezhi Camp, a peaceful lodge surrounded by jungle, equipped with beds and mosquito nets. It’s an ideal place to recover and prepare for the long-awaited approach to the Lost City.
Day 3 – Zhulezhi Camp → Lost City → Mumake Camp
On day three, after an early breakfast, the group continues along a humid path by the Buriticá River before reaching the ancient 1,200 stone steps built centuries ago by the Tayrona people the entrance to the Lost City.
As travelers climb, the jungle slowly reveals the archaeological terraces of Teyuna. At the top, the guide explains the history, cultural significance, and ongoing archaeological discoveries that give insight into this ancient civilization.
There is plenty of time to explore, take photos, and appreciate the sacred atmosphere of this site. Snacks or fresh fruit are provided to help restore energy.
After the visit, the group descends back to Zhulezhi Camp for lunch and then continues on to Mumake Camp, where they will spend the night.
Day 4 – Mumake Camp → Cascadas Route → Cascadas Camp
Day four begins with breakfast before trekking approximately 8 km. At a certain point on the trail, the group taking the 4 day tour returns directly toward El Mamey, while the 5 day tour continues onto the exclusive Cascadas Route.
This section is mostly flat and surrounded by a more open jungle landscape. Travelers visit three beautiful waterfalls Pablo, Abanico, and La Negra, where they can swim, refresh, and enjoy the peaceful environment of the Sierra Nevada.
After the waterfall circuit, the group heads to Cascadas Camp to have dinner and rest before the final day.
Day 5 — Cascadas Camp → El Mamey → Santa Marta
The final day begins with breakfast and the peaceful sound of the Buriticá River. The group walks approximately 6 km around four hours surrounded by lush vegetation until reaching El Mamey once again.
A traditional lunch awaits before boarding the 4×4 vehicles back to Santa Marta, officially closing the 5 day Lost City Tour Colombia journey.
Tour Location
Tour Tips and Recommendations
- Choose the tour duration and intensity that best matches your available time and physical condition.
- To complete the hike comfortably and safely, it is essential to wear appropriate footwear such as hiking boots, shoes with rugged soles, or durable athletic sneakers, as the trail can be challenging.
- Pack only what you truly need, as you will be carrying your own belongings.
- Bring at least 1.5 liters of water for the first day of hiking; you can refill your bottle with potable water at every camp at no additional cost.
- Stay hydrated, drink small amounts regularly, and avoid talking excessively while walking.
- Always remain with your group and do not wander off or leave the marked trails. Protect your skin from the sun by applying sunscreen or wearing a hat or cap.
- Avoid bringing plastic and manage your waste responsibly.
- Leave everything you find in its place and respect wildlife as well as local customs.
- Do not photograph Indigenous people without their permission and do not enter their traditional dwellings.
- Follow all instructions given by your guide.
What to bring to the tour
- Small o medium backpack
- Personal medication
- Trekking boots or walking shoes
- Sleeping bag (optional) we offer blankets
- Two plastic bags
- Shorts and t-shirts
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Four pairs of socks
- Toiletries
- Long sleeve shirt and trousers
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Big bottle of water for the firts day
- Camera
- Flashlight
Traveler Tips
Responsibilities of the Traveler
- One of the most important aspects to keep in mind is respecting the privacy of Indigenous and rural communities.
- Do not enter their homes, photograph them, or touch their belongings without permission.
- Pack lightly; carrying less will make your experience significantly more comfortable.
- Maintaining good personal health is essential during the trek.
Since you are visiting an archaeological destination, take care of everything you encounter along the trail and avoid damaging any natural or cultural property. - Consider the trek an opportunity to disconnect and connect with nature, as there is no mobile phone service in the area.
- Make sure to inform family and friends that you will be out of contact for four to five days.
Clothing and Equipment
- The climate is warm and humid, so it is important to bring comfortable clothing such as T-shirts and shorts for walking.
- Since temperatures drop in the evening, we recommend packing long pants and long-sleeved shirts to protect yourself from mosquitoes and the cooler nights.
- Bring a water bottle (1.5 liters is sufficient); once at the camps, you can refill it with filtered water or purchase a new one.
- Essential items include insect repellent, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, hiking shoes or boots, a swimsuit, two plastic bags to separate wet and dry clothes, and a camera.
- Personal hygiene items are not provided in the camps, so be sure to bring your own, including soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, deodorant, and other essentials.
- Although our guides are trained in first aid, they are not authorized to administer medication, so please bring any necessary personal medication.
- Campsites offer hammocks and beds with blankets and mosquito nets. Bringing a sleeping bag is optional.
Documentation
- You must present your original passport (for foreigners) or national ID card (for Colombians) at the Expotur office to reserve your tour.
- Carrying a photocopy during the trek is sufficient.
- We do not recommend bringing the original document on the tour to avoid loss or damage.
Vaccinations
- A yellow fever vaccine is recommended as a preventive measure, since you will be visiting a tropical forest.
Authenticity
- We are a travel agency based in Santa Marta specializing in the Ciudad Perdida Tayrona tour, also known as the Lost City Trek Colombia.
- With more than 10 years of experience as an authorized operator, we stand out for offering high-quality excursions in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta that highlight the natural environment, culture, and spirituality of this unique destination.
- Our Ciudad Perdida tour is ideal for trekking enthusiasts seeking authentic and meaningful experiences.
We offer multiple tour options—3 days, 4 days, and 5 days—designed for different types of travelers. - With us, you will enjoy a comfortable, safe, and enriching experience, backed by our reputation as the best agency according to TripAdvisor.
- We own one of the camps closest to the archaeological terraces of Teyuna, ensuring that our travelers always have access to beds and shared areas for cultural exchange.
Tour Price
$ 2.150.000 COP/PAX
Lost City tour Colombia leaves every day from the main Expotur office in Santa Marta.*
*All rates are in Colombian Pesos.
IF YOU GET A LOWER PRICE WITH ANOTHER COMPANY, DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT US. WE WILL OFFER YOU A PRICE SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER THAN THE OTHER AGENCY. (Subject to conditions, do not hesitate to ask us for more).
Ways to pay for the tour
Payment Methods
- To confirm your reservation, a deposit is required. You can make this payment through PayPal, PayU, or Epayco, using the links available on our official websites.
- If you prefer to pay in cash, you may do so at our sales offices, where our staff will gladly assist you.
- We also accept Visa and MasterCard debit or credit cards.
Payment Policies
- As mentioned above, the required deposit corresponds to 7% of the total cost of the tour.
- The remaining balance can be paid on the day of departure; however, we recommend completing the payment at least one day in advance to ensure a faster check-in process.
Cancellation Policies – Right of Withdrawal
- You may cancel or reschedule your tour after it has been confirmed, but certain conditions apply.
- Cancellations or changes made at least one business day before departure (until 6:00 PM local time) will not incur penalties.
- Changes made after this deadline will incur a fee equal to 20% of the total tour cost.
Refunds
- No refunds apply once the tour has begun, and no reimbursement will be granted for any services that the traveler chooses not to use.
Tour Video
FAQs
1. Where is the Lost City located?
The Lost City is located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, in the Magdalena department of Colombia, at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters above sea level. This archaeological site is the final destination of the Lost City Tour, a multi-day jungle trekking experience.
2. What is the difference between the 4-day and 5 day Lost City Tours?
Both options follow the same trail to the Lost City, but the pace and itinerary vary. The 4-day tour has longer hiking days, including a final stretch of around seven hours. The 5-day version is more relaxed, adding an extra day with an alternative waterfall route and a more comfortable pace on the return.
3. Can I visit the Lost City on my own, without a guide or agency?
No. Access is only permitted through authorized tour operators and certified guides. This ensures traveler safety, protection of the archaeological site, and respect for Indigenous communities.
4. How often do tours depart?
Tours depart daily throughout the year, except during temporary closures, which typically occur in September or October.
5. What are the meals like? Do you offer vegetarian or special options?
All meals are included and prepared by the camp cooks. You will enjoy homemade Colombian dishes such as rice, pasta, chicken, beef, lentils, vegetables, fruits, and snacks. Most agencies offer vegetarian, vegan, or special dietary options when requested in advance.
6. Where do travelers sleep during the tour?
Accommodation is basic but comfortable given the jungle setting. Each night is spent in established camps along the route, operated by local communities or partner agencies. Camps offer bunk beds or hammocks with mosquito nets in open, roofed structures.
7. Are there bathrooms and showers at the camps?
Yes. All camps provide basic bathrooms and cold-water showers. Facilities are simple and often use water from the river, but they allow travelers to wash and refresh daily. Do not expect hot water or luxury amenities.
8. Is there electricity or cell signal during the tour?
There is no cell phone signal or internet access during the trek. Once the hike begins, you will be completely offline. Some camps have limited electricity from solar panels or generators, allowing you to charge small devices during the evening.
9. What languages do the guides speak?
Each tour includes a professional Spanish-speaking guide and, when there are foreign travelers, an English interpreter or translator.
10. What type of backpack should I bring, and do I have to carry my own gear?
A medium-sized trekking backpack with good shoulder and waist support is recommended. Each traveler carries their own bag throughout the entire hike, so packing light is essential.
11. How difficult is the Lost City trek?
The hike is considered moderately difficult to challenging. It does not require technical climbing or special mountaineering equipment, but it does demand physical endurance. Expect long hiking days in tropical weather, with steep ascents and descents.
Description of the Lost City Tour Colombia 5 Days Waterfalls
The 5 day Lost City Tour Colombia is designed for travelers who enjoy long mountain hikes and a deep connection with nature. This excursion offers a calmer and more complete experience compared to the 4 day trek, as it includes the Cascadas Route, a special section on the return journey where participants can cool off in natural pools and waterfalls that appear in the jungle like hidden treasures of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
Thanks to this additional component, the 5 day Lost City Tour Colombia excursion becomes an ideal option for travelers who want to explore the territory at a slower pace, appreciate the natural surroundings, and experience a more enriching journey in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
This adventure feels authentic from the very first day. Each hiking stage reveals a different landscape and creates a unique sensation. The effort of reaching the terraces of the Lost City, the stories shared by the guide about the native Indigenous communities, and finally, the reward of arriving at the waterfalls hidden deep within the Sierra Nevada jungle all come together to create an unforgettable experience.
If you are ready for a more complete adventure, the 5 day Lost City Tour is the perfect plan for you. Reserve your spot and get ready to discover unique natural landscapes, learn about the Indigenous history of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, and enjoy the waterfalls that make this route truly memorable.
Reserve with only 7% of the total tour price: $2,150,000 COP
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE TOUR
Transportation
Our modern 4×4 vehicles are fully equipped for the route and operated by experienced drivers who have spent nearly 20 years navigating the trail to Ciudad Perdida (Teyuna). Their knowledge of the terrain ensures a safe, reliable, and comfortable journey during your Lost City Tour Colombia.
Meals
Each camp along the route offers freshly prepared meals inspired by traditional Colombian cuisine. Travelers enjoy homemade dishes, tropical fruits, energizing snacks, and regional flavors. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, our cooking team will gladly adapt your meals to meet your needs.
Accommodation
Throughout the trek, you will stay in simple yet comfortable shelters built and managed by local residents. These accommodations provide beds or hammocks equipped with blankets and mosquito nets, ensuring a restful and quiet night surrounded by nature.
Professional Guide
Our guides are certified by public and private institutions and are trained to lead trekking activities with a strong focus on safety, environmental respect, and cultural awareness. Their mission is to ensure your visit to the Lost City is secure, informative, and memorable.
Travel Insurance
All our tours include travel insurance, offering peace of mind as you explore the ancient terraces and landscapes of Ciudad Perdida. Our sales team will explain the full coverage included in your plan.
Community Support
We work closely with Indigenous and rural communities, supporting local development through contributions that help improve the quality of life in the region. By choosing this tour, you contribute to responsible and sustainable tourism.
Archaeological Park Entrance
The entrance fee to the Teyuna Archaeological Park, managed by the Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History (ICANH) under the Ministry of Culture, is included in the tour price.
TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1 – Santa Marta → El Mamey → Adán Camp
The 5 day Lost City Tour Colombia begins around 9:00 a.m. in Santa Marta, where the group meets at the main office to start the journey toward El Mamey. The transfer takes about two and a half hours in 4×4 vehicles that navigate the rural roads of the Sierra Nevada with ease.
Upon arrival, travelers enjoy a typical lunch to recharge before starting the hike. Afterward, the guide assists the group in organizing their bags and preparing for the first trekking section.
The walk covers approximately 6.8 km, taking about four hours through rural farmlands surrounded by lush vegetation. The trail features constant uphill sections mixed with softer, more relaxed terrain, an ideal introduction to the atmosphere of the Sierra Nevada.
By late afternoon, the group reaches Adán Camp, where they can rest, shower, and have dinner. This first night offers an authentic immersion into the jungle environment and sets the tone for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 – Adán Camp → Mutanzhi → Zhulezhi Camp
Day two begins early with a full breakfast designed to fuel roughly eight hours of trekking. The route crosses the beautiful Buriticá River Valley, one of the most scenic landscapes in the Sierra Nevada.
The trail alternates between long ascents and softer descents as it enters a humid rainforest filled with the sounds of running water, birds, and wind. Along the way, the group passes the Kogui village of Mutanzhi, where travelers can observe how this Indigenous community preserves its ancestral traditions. Asking permission before taking photos is essential as a sign of respect.
As the hike continues, the forest grows denser and quieter, giving trekkers a deeper connection to the territory. The guide shares stories about local culture, spiritual beliefs, and the relationship between the Indigenous communities and the natural environment.
The day ends at Zhulezhi Camp, a peaceful lodge surrounded by jungle, equipped with beds and mosquito nets. It’s an ideal place to recover and prepare for the long-awaited approach to the Lost City.
Day 3 – Zhulezhi Camp → Lost City → Mumake Camp
On day three, after an early breakfast, the group continues along a humid path by the Buriticá River before reaching the ancient 1,200 stone steps built centuries ago by the Tayrona people the entrance to the Lost City.
As travelers climb, the jungle slowly reveals the archaeological terraces of Teyuna. At the top, the guide explains the history, cultural significance, and ongoing archaeological discoveries that give insight into this ancient civilization.
There is plenty of time to explore, take photos, and appreciate the sacred atmosphere of this site. Snacks or fresh fruit are provided to help restore energy.
After the visit, the group descends back to Zhulezhi Camp for lunch and then continues on to Mumake Camp, where they will spend the night.
Day 4 – Mumake Camp → Cascadas Route → Cascadas Camp
Day four begins with breakfast before trekking approximately 8 km. At a certain point on the trail, the group taking the 4 day tour returns directly toward El Mamey, while the 5 day tour continues onto the exclusive Cascadas Route.
This section is mostly flat and surrounded by a more open jungle landscape. Travelers visit three beautiful waterfalls Pablo, Abanico, and La Negra, where they can swim, refresh, and enjoy the peaceful environment of the Sierra Nevada.
After the waterfall circuit, the group heads to Cascadas Camp to have dinner and rest before the final day.
Day 5 — Cascadas Camp → El Mamey → Santa Marta
The final day begins with breakfast and the peaceful sound of the Buriticá River. The group walks approximately 6 km around four hours surrounded by lush vegetation until reaching El Mamey once again.
A traditional lunch awaits before boarding the 4×4 vehicles back to Santa Marta, officially closing the 5 day Lost City Tour Colombia journey.
Tour Location
Tour Tips and Recommendations
- Choose the tour duration and intensity that best matches your available time and physical condition.
- To complete the hike comfortably and safely, it is essential to wear appropriate footwear such as hiking boots, shoes with rugged soles, or durable athletic sneakers, as the trail can be challenging.
- Pack only what you truly need, as you will be carrying your own belongings.
- Bring at least 1.5 liters of water for the first day of hiking; you can refill your bottle with potable water at every camp at no additional cost.
- Stay hydrated, drink small amounts regularly, and avoid talking excessively while walking.
- Always remain with your group and do not wander off or leave the marked trails. Protect your skin from the sun by applying sunscreen or wearing a hat or cap.
- Avoid bringing plastic and manage your waste responsibly.
- Leave everything you find in its place and respect wildlife as well as local customs.
- Do not photograph Indigenous people without their permission and do not enter their traditional dwellings.
- Follow all instructions given by your guide.
What to bring to the tour
- Small o medium backpack
- Personal medication
- Trekking boots or walking shoes
- Sleeping bag (optional) we offer blankets
- Two plastic bags
- Shorts and t-shirts
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Four pairs of socks
- Toiletries
- Long sleeve shirt and trousers
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Big bottle of water for the firts day
- Camera
- Flashlight
Traveler Tips
Responsibilities of the Traveler
- One of the most important aspects to keep in mind is respecting the privacy of Indigenous and rural communities.
- Do not enter their homes, photograph them, or touch their belongings without permission.
- Pack lightly; carrying less will make your experience significantly more comfortable.
- Maintaining good personal health is essential during the trek.
Since you are visiting an archaeological destination, take care of everything you encounter along the trail and avoid damaging any natural or cultural property. - Consider the trek an opportunity to disconnect and connect with nature, as there is no mobile phone service in the area.
- Make sure to inform family and friends that you will be out of contact for four to five days.
Clothing and Equipment
- The climate is warm and humid, so it is important to bring comfortable clothing such as T-shirts and shorts for walking.
- Since temperatures drop in the evening, we recommend packing long pants and long-sleeved shirts to protect yourself from mosquitoes and the cooler nights.
- Bring a water bottle (1.5 liters is sufficient); once at the camps, you can refill it with filtered water or purchase a new one.
- Essential items include insect repellent, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, hiking shoes or boots, a swimsuit, two plastic bags to separate wet and dry clothes, and a camera.
- Personal hygiene items are not provided in the camps, so be sure to bring your own, including soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, deodorant, and other essentials.
- Although our guides are trained in first aid, they are not authorized to administer medication, so please bring any necessary personal medication.
- Campsites offer hammocks and beds with blankets and mosquito nets. Bringing a sleeping bag is optional.
Documentation
- You must present your original passport (for foreigners) or national ID card (for Colombians) at the Expotur office to reserve your tour.
- Carrying a photocopy during the trek is sufficient.
- We do not recommend bringing the original document on the tour to avoid loss or damage.
Vaccinations
- A yellow fever vaccine is recommended as a preventive measure, since you will be visiting a tropical forest.
Authenticity
- We are a travel agency based in Santa Marta specializing in the Ciudad Perdida Tayrona tour, also known as the Lost City Trek Colombia.
- With more than 10 years of experience as an authorized operator, we stand out for offering high-quality excursions in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta that highlight the natural environment, culture, and spirituality of this unique destination.
- Our Ciudad Perdida tour is ideal for trekking enthusiasts seeking authentic and meaningful experiences.
We offer multiple tour options—3 days, 4 days, and 5 days—designed for different types of travelers. - With us, you will enjoy a comfortable, safe, and enriching experience, backed by our reputation as the best agency according to TripAdvisor.
- We own one of the camps closest to the archaeological terraces of Teyuna, ensuring that our travelers always have access to beds and shared areas for cultural exchange.
Tour Price
$ 2.150.000 COP/PAX
Lost City tour Colombia leaves every day from the main Expotur office in Santa Marta.*
*All rates are in Colombian Pesos.
IF YOU GET A LOWER PRICE WITH ANOTHER COMPANY, DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT US. WE WILL OFFER YOU A PRICE SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER THAN THE OTHER AGENCY. (Subject to conditions, do not hesitate to ask us for more).
Ways to pay for the tour
Payment Methods
- To confirm your reservation, a deposit is required. You can make this payment through PayPal, PayU, or Epayco, using the links available on our official websites.
- If you prefer to pay in cash, you may do so at our sales offices, where our staff will gladly assist you.
- We also accept Visa and MasterCard debit or credit cards.
Payment Policies
- As mentioned above, the required deposit corresponds to 7% of the total cost of the tour.
- The remaining balance can be paid on the day of departure; however, we recommend completing the payment at least one day in advance to ensure a faster check-in process.
Cancellation Policies – Right of Withdrawal
- You may cancel or reschedule your tour after it has been confirmed, but certain conditions apply.
- Cancellations or changes made at least one business day before departure (until 6:00 PM local time) will not incur penalties.
- Changes made after this deadline will incur a fee equal to 20% of the total tour cost.
Refunds
- No refunds apply once the tour has begun, and no reimbursement will be granted for any services that the traveler chooses not to use.
Tour Video
FAQs
1. Where is the Lost City located?
The Lost City is located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, in the Magdalena department of Colombia, at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters above sea level. This archaeological site is the final destination of the Lost City Tour, a multi-day jungle trekking experience.
2. What is the difference between the 4-day and 5 day Lost City Tours?
Both options follow the same trail to the Lost City, but the pace and itinerary vary. The 4-day tour has longer hiking days, including a final stretch of around seven hours. The 5-day version is more relaxed, adding an extra day with an alternative waterfall route and a more comfortable pace on the return.
3. Can I visit the Lost City on my own, without a guide or agency?
No. Access is only permitted through authorized tour operators and certified guides. This ensures traveler safety, protection of the archaeological site, and respect for Indigenous communities.
4. How often do tours depart?
Tours depart daily throughout the year, except during temporary closures, which typically occur in September or October.
5. What are the meals like? Do you offer vegetarian or special options?
All meals are included and prepared by the camp cooks. You will enjoy homemade Colombian dishes such as rice, pasta, chicken, beef, lentils, vegetables, fruits, and snacks. Most agencies offer vegetarian, vegan, or special dietary options when requested in advance.
6. Where do travelers sleep during the tour?
Accommodation is basic but comfortable given the jungle setting. Each night is spent in established camps along the route, operated by local communities or partner agencies. Camps offer bunk beds or hammocks with mosquito nets in open, roofed structures.
7. Are there bathrooms and showers at the camps?
Yes. All camps provide basic bathrooms and cold-water showers. Facilities are simple and often use water from the river, but they allow travelers to wash and refresh daily. Do not expect hot water or luxury amenities.
8. Is there electricity or cell signal during the tour?
There is no cell phone signal or internet access during the trek. Once the hike begins, you will be completely offline. Some camps have limited electricity from solar panels or generators, allowing you to charge small devices during the evening.
9. What languages do the guides speak?
Each tour includes a professional Spanish-speaking guide and, when there are foreign travelers, an English interpreter or translator.
10. What type of backpack should I bring, and do I have to carry my own gear?
A medium-sized trekking backpack with good shoulder and waist support is recommended. Each traveler carries their own bag throughout the entire hike, so packing light is essential.
11. How difficult is the Lost City trek?
The hike is considered moderately difficult to challenging. It does not require technical climbing or special mountaineering equipment, but it does demand physical endurance. Expect long hiking days in tropical weather, with steep ascents and descents.
67 reviews for Lost City Tour Colombia 5 Days Waterfalls
Customer Images
marcofurrer
It was amazing, good staff and amazing experience. Delicious food and nice baths in the river. Taff days in the mountain but the hole trip was amazing
marcofurrer
It was amazing, good staff and amazing experience. Delicious food and nice baths in the river. Taff days in the mountain but the hole trip was amazing
marcofurrer
It was amazing, good staff and amazing experience. Delicious food and nice baths in the river. Taff days in the mountain but the hole trip was amazing
Rosalie
We did the track, which was harder than expected, but incredibly fun! Our guide, Eusario, and our translator, Carlos, were truly the best we could have. They took everything into account! I would highly recommend this tour, especially with them!
Tamara P
I found this hike to be a truly adventurous experience. It offers the chance to see the remarkable lost city. Everything is very well-organized and well-maintained. We encountered unusual weather conditions, but the guides handled them very professionally. Special thanks to our guide, Carlos, who kept us motivated until the very last minute.
Tamara P
I found this hike to be a truly adventurous experience. It offers the chance to see the remarkable lost city. Everything is very well-organized and well-maintained. We encountered unusual weather conditions, but the guides handled them very professionally. Special thanks to our guide, Carlos, who kept us motivated until the very last minute.
Tamara P
I found this hike to be a truly adventurous experience. It offers the chance to see the remarkable lost city. Everything is very well-organized and well-maintained. We encountered unusual weather conditions, but the guides handled them very professionally. Special thanks to our guide, Carlos, who kept us motivated until the very last minute.
Gemma M
We had an amazing time, the hike was challenging due to the heat and humidity but the views along the way and the Lost City itself was well worth it. Our guide Sara was amazing, she explained everything really clearly, and helped us navigate through the muddy and steep sections of the trial so we didn't fall which was appreciated! Isi was a brilliant translator and a fun personaility, as a group, we had a lot of laughs along the way which created a nice atmosphere. We were really well looked after, especially well fed! We had delicious fruit snacks and treats along the way, and at each camp we had a delicious meal cooked for us by Ledys. I would highly recommend Expotour to anyone considering doing the Lost City Trek, we couldn't have been happier with our agency choice. Thank you!
Gemma M
We had an amazing time, the hike was challenging due to the heat and humidity but the views along the way and the Lost City itself was well worth it. Our guide Sara was amazing, she explained everything really clearly, and helped us navigate through the muddy and steep sections of the trial so we didn't fall which was appreciated! Isi was a brilliant translator and a fun personaility, as a group, we had a lot of laughs along the way which created a nice atmosphere. We were really well looked after, especially well fed! We had delicious fruit snacks and treats along the way, and at each camp we had a delicious meal cooked for us by Ledys. I would highly recommend Expotour to anyone considering doing the Lost City Trek, we couldn't have been happier with our agency choice. Thank you!
Gemma M
We had an amazing time, the hike was challenging due to the heat and humidity but the views along the way and the Lost City itself was well worth it. Our guide Sara was amazing, she explained everything really clearly, and helped us navigate through the muddy and steep sections of the trial so we didn't fall which was appreciated! Isi was a brilliant translator and a fun personaility, as a group, we had a lot of laughs along the way which created a nice atmosphere. We were really well looked after, especially well fed! We had delicious fruit snacks and treats along the way, and at each camp we had a delicious meal cooked for us by Ledys. I would highly recommend Expotour to anyone considering doing the Lost City Trek, we couldn't have been happier with our agency choice. Thank you!
It was amazing, good staff and amazing experience. Delicious food and nice baths in the river. Taff days in the mountain but the hole trip was amazing
My husband and I had an amazing experience in this magical place thanks to our Fantastic team of guides from expotour. Dennis, Alda, Jose and Luz help us all the way to the lost city, teaching us and making us laugh! We were very loved and well fed! Muchas Gracias!!:
We did the track, which was harder than expected, but incredibly fun! Our guide, Eusario, and our translator, Carlos, were truly the best we could have. They took everything into account! I would highly recommend this tour, especially with them!
One of the most rewarding and physically challenging experiences I’ve ever had. Our outstanding team—Ida, our primary guide; Santiago, the auxiliary guide; Danilo, the translator; and Sancocho, the chef—truly made the journey exceptional. Their knowledge, enthusiasm, and support helped us through every step, making it both fun and fulfilling. I wholeheartedly recommend this trip and specifically suggest requesting these remarkable individuals.
I found this hike to be a truly adventurous experience. It offers the chance to see the remarkable lost city. Everything is very well-organized and well-maintained. We encountered unusual weather conditions, but the guides handled them very professionally. Special thanks to our guide, Carlos, who kept us motivated until the very last minute.