Visiting the Lost City: Essential Guide for an Unforgettable Experience
Preparation before the adventure
Anyone planning to visit the Lost City should understand that this is not a conventional outing, but rather a journey that combines history, spirituality, and physical exertion. The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is a territory of great cultural and natural value, considered by indigenous communities to be the heart of the world. Entering this region implies accepting a commitment to respect and care for an environment that has been preserved for centuries.
Proper preparation begins long before setting out on the trail. It is essential to find out about the weather, walking times, and rules for coexisting with the communities that live there. Expotur, with years of experience in the area, provides practical recommendations so that every traveler can fully enjoy the journey.
Traveler’s responsibility
The experience of visiting the Lost City is not only measured in kilometers traveled, but also in the attitude one adopts towards the territory. Visitors must remember that they are passing through a sacred place, guarded by indigenous peoples who have kept the traditions of their ancestors alive.
Maintaining harmony with the environment means leaving no trace of trash, not disturbing the flora and fauna, and respecting cultural spaces. Expotur insists that adventure should not jeopardize the balance of the Sierra Nevada, which is why every action taken by travelers is important in caring for the ecosystem.
Clothing and luggage
Weather conditions in the Sierra Nevada are varied. During the day, the humid heat can be intense, while at night, the temperature drops, especially in camps located at higher altitudes. For this reason, choosing the right clothing is essential.
Expotur recommends breathable clothing, long-sleeved shirts that protect against insects, comfortable pants, and sturdy shoes. It also suggests bringing a hat or cap, personal hygiene items, sunscreen, and a good quality insect repellent. Luggage should be light, as every extra pound becomes a challenge during the hike.
Communication and connectivity
One of the aspects that most surprises those who decide to visit the Lost City is the digital disconnect. There is no cell phone signal throughout the tour, forcing visitors to leave their technological routines behind. For many, this becomes an opportunity to connect deeply with nature, with the group of travelers, and with themselves.
Expotur recomienda informar previamente a familiares y amigos sobre la duración del viaje y los días de ausencia de comunicación. De esta manera, el visitante puede concentrarse en la experiencia sin preocupaciones externas.
Documents and health precautions
Accessing the tour is simple in terms of paperwork: you just need to present a valid ID at the time of booking. However, there are preventive health measures that should be taken into account. These include the yellow fever vaccine, which is recommended for those venturing into jungle areas. Taking out travel insurance may also be a good idea to cover any eventualities during the hike.
The journey to the Lost City
The journey to the Lost City is not a short one. On average, the hike takes between four and six days, depending on the plan selected. Along the way, travelers encounter changing landscapes: mountains covered by dense jungle, rivers that must be crossed on foot, community camps, and viewpoints offering spectacular views.
Each day of the trek involves several hours of walking, with sections that require stamina and determination. However, the effort is rewarded by the natural and cultural riches offered by the Sierra Nevada. For many, the most eagerly awaited moment is the arrival at the stone terraces that make up the Lost City, a picture-postcard scene that encapsulates centuries of history in the middle of the rainforest.
Encounter with indigenous culture
Along the way, travelers have the opportunity to interact with members of communities such as the Kogui and Wiwa. These cultures keep their traditions, rituals, and spiritual worldview alive. Local guides, endorsed by National Parks and indigenous authorities, share stories, explain the symbolism of the Lost City, and convey the profound meaning this place has for their peoples.
For those who decide to visit the Lost City, this human contact becomes one of the most enriching aspects of the experience. Understanding how the descendants of the Tayrona continue to defend the Sierra Nevada as a sacred space is a lesson in respect and learning.
Tour options and costs
Expotur offers different alternatives for those who want to experience this adventure. The shortest tour, lasting four days, costs from COP 1,860,000. There are also five- and six-day plans that allow you to enjoy the journey at a more leisurely pace, rest more in the camps, and have more prolonged contact with the landscapes and communities of the Sierra Nevada.
Each plan includes meals, accommodation in basic camps, expert guides, and the necessary logistics so that travelers can focus solely on the experience. Choosing the length of the tour depends on the time available and the level of immersion you want to achieve in the adventure.
