What You Need to Know Before Taking on the Colombia’s Lost City Challenge

It’s not very often that you get to explore a place that was once lost to mankind. Thought to be about 650 years older than Machu Picchu, and ‘lost’ for around 300 years, La Ciudad Perdida was rediscovered in the 1970s. But because of its awkward location, visitor numbers are still low. Making the trek to Colombia’s Lost City a unique opportunity to experience an incredible phenomenon that unites both natural and manmade history, while walking a path less travelled. But because of its isolation, a trek to La Ciudad Perdida is not to be undertaken lightly.

These are the things we think you need to know before booking a trek to Colombia’s Lost City.

Five Things You Need to Know Before on the Colombia’s Lost City Trek

The trek to Colombia’s Lost City is one of the most difficult challenges we operate

Now, there’s a good chance that you’ll scoff at that statement. Knowing that we also operate treks to the Everest and K2 base camps. But La Ciudad Perdida is a different proposition. It’s not just a long walk. In fact, it’s not even the longest trek route that we offer. But that conditions can be genuinely challenging. The humidity can be hard to handle. And while breath-taking, the terrain is strewn with obstacles. You’ll literally be trekking through a jungle. With all its attendant creepy crawlies, flora, and other fauna. And while the trek doesn’t reach any difficult degree of altitude, some of the ascent is steep. If you are truly up for a challenge, it is worth every bead of sweat (and there will be many). But it’s important that you understand what you are undertaking before you begin.

You can only visit the Lost City with an approved tour company

A surprising number of tourists set off to the Lost City, thinking that they can do it alone. They can’t. Quite aside from the fact that the route takes you through thick jungle. The local authorities insist that all tourists only visit with a guide. This is in part to prevent visitors from becoming lost or injured in the jungle. And partly to ensure that the site is treated with respect and not damaged by too many tourists.

Trekking is the only way to reach the Lost City

Unlike other tourist attractions, where you can find yourself overtaken by buses and cars, La Ciudad Perdida is only accessible by foot (and mule for luggage). So, there are no short cuts. For the most part, this is a positive thing, reducing visitor numbers. But it does mean that if you change your mind, the only way back is the way you came.

The trek is not a loop

You can find the full details in our trek itinerary, but it’s important to know that the trek to Lost City is not a loop. So, you’ll see the same sights each way. But honestly, they’re worth seeing. Overall, you will be trekking for five days. Which will take you from Santa Marta to La Ciudad Perdida and back again. With time to explore the Lost City in the middle.

You will encounter many, many insects

Trekking through a jungle is simply an amazing experience. But it’s probably not recommended for those who have a problem with creepy crawlies. Because you will encounter a lot of them. A lot! And the mosquitoes and other biting insects aren’t shy. Of course, insect repellent will help with the latter issue. But if you can’t handle moths, beetles, spiders, centipedes, or anything else that crawls, climbs, or flutters, you may be better off choosing one of our other challenges.  

The Choose a Challenge trek to Colombia’s Lost City is a truly unforgettable experience. It’s something that not that many people have done or will do. It’s unlike any other trek you will probably ever undertake. The scenery in unspoilt and outstanding. And the Lost City itself is beyond atmospheric. But. It’s not a trek for everyone. So, be prepared. Understand what you’re taking on. And then get ready for an experience of a lifetime.

Find out more about trekking to Colombia’s Lost City with Choose a Challenge.