Colombian Lost City Santa Marta

Colombian Lost City Santa Marta

The Lost City of Santa Marta, Colombia, is one of the most fascinating and mysterious archaeological sites in the world. It is believed that this ancient city was founded by the Tayrona people around 800 AD. The Lost City was abandoned during the Spanish conquest in the 16th century and remained hidden in the jungle until it was rediscovered in the 20th century. Nowadays, the Lost City is a popular tourist destination in Colombia and one of the most important archaeological sites in South America.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lost City in Santa Marta houses an ancient civilization. It’s an incredible place to explore, with its ancient ruins, breathtaking views, and rich history.

Reasons to visit the Lost City

Botanical Paradise

Explore an enchanting realm of diverse flora and rare botanical treasures within the lush jungle of the Lost City, offering a unique haven for nature enthusiasts and botanical explorers.

Access to paradise beaches

Besides its historical value, the Lost City is close to some lovely beaches. Enjoy a well-deserved rest in these beautiful coastal spots.

Cultural immersion

Connect with local indigenous communities. Learn about their rich culture, history, and traditions. Interact with the inhabitants to better understand their way of life.

Thrilling hiking

Embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure. Explore the trails winding through the jungle and reach this mysterious place full of history and mysticism.

Natural magic

Immerse yourself in the natural richness of the area. Enjoy the lush tropical jungle surrounding the Lost City and connect with the pure essence of nature.

Unique souvenirs

Collect a special memory of your trip. Purchase unique crafts and souvenirs at local markets to take a piece of the essence of the Lost City with you.

Live archaeology

The Lost City is a window to the past. Explore the fascinating archaeological ruins and marvel at the ancient civilization that once inhabited these lands.

Birdwatching

For birdwatching enthusiasts, the Lost City is a paradise. You can spot various bird species in their natural habitat and you can see many species.

Tour to the Colombian Lost City

A visit to the Lost City Colombia is a must. This mystical place is sacred to indigenous people and is said to be brimming with positive energy. Whether you seek to purify your mind, body, and spirit or simply want to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, the Lost City is the perfect place to find the peace and tranquility you need.

During the journey to the Lost City, we’ll fluctuate between 900 and 1200 meters above sea level on the northern slope. From this height, you can appreciate the wonderful wealth of fauna and flora that the majestic Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta possesses. Thanks to the extensive knowledge of our Indigenous guides, who preserve their traditions and hold ancient knowledge, you’ll observe and appreciate nature and its surroundings in a different way.

As a travel agency in Santa Marta, we offer different tours for you to explore this beautiful place. We have three different ways to undertake this excursion; choose the best option for you

Incredible Experiences

Great Adventures

Amazing Campfire

Bird Watching

Exciting Hike

Incredible Stories

Unforgettable Memories

Some tips before going to Colombia Lost City

The Lost City in Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is one of Colombia’s most popular tourist destinations. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to this incredible place:

  • Plan your route in advance: Several companies offer tours to Lost City in Santa Marta – Colombia. Before booking a tour, it’s important to research if the company or travel agency you’re hiring meets the requirements. Some companies are better than others in terms of their environmental practices and their interaction with the indigenous people living in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Choose a recognized travel agency in the City of Santa Marta, legally established, reliable, and providing all the guarantees for a safe excursion to Lost City. Discover and support indigenous tourism; no one knows the Lost City better than its own inhabitants. If you want to take the Lost City tour through indigenous tourism, book your tour immediately with just 10%! Book here.
  • Start your journey early: The Lost City is located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, which means the uphill journey can be a bit difficult and slow. It’s best to start the hike early in the morning to avoid the daytime heat and enjoy the beautiful landscapes without much heat.
  • Pack lightly: You’ll be walking a lot during your visit to the Lost City, so it’s important to pack lightly. Bring only the essentials and leave unnecessary items at your hotel.
  • Stay hydrated: The climate in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta can be quite hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated during your visit. Bring plenty of water and make sure to drink regularly.
bird lost city colombia

History of the Lost City Santa Marta

The Lost City of Colombia is a set of ancient ruins located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, in northern Colombia. It is believed that the city was founded by the Tayrona people around 800 AD and was the largest city in the region at that time.

The city was abandoned around 1600 AD and remained undiscovered by the outside world until 1972, when it was rediscovered by a group of treasure seekers. However, it wasn’t until 1976 that it was properly investigated by archaeologists. In 1977, the Colombian government declared the area a reserve, and in 1979, it was designated as a biosphere reserve. Several indigenous communities, descendants of the Lost City Tayrona, such as the Kogui, Wiwa, Arhuacos, and Kankuanos, currently protect and live in great harmony in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

The Lost City site consists of a series of terraces and buildings connected by paved paths and communication walls. It is believed that at its peak, it was home to about 1,000 people. Since its rediscovery, the Lost City has become a popular tourist destination and an important part of Colombian history and heritage. The site is a fascinating example of pre-Columbian architecture and allows insight into the lives of its founders, “the Tayrona.” Today, the Lost City in Santa Marta is a popular tourist destination and is protected as a national archaeological park and biosphere reserve.

Although it is now better known as the Lost City or Teyuna Archaeological Park, this city has received different names such as Green Hell, Teyuna, Buritaca 200, and Hulepia. These different names reflect the city’s long and varied history. Here are some reasons behind its names:

Lost City: This name originated from the description by the first white men who discovered it. They referred to it as the “Lost City of the Indians” when they reported their discovery.

Green Hell: This was the nickname given by explorers to the Amazon rainforest. The area was visited by treasure hunters searching for gold and archaeological artifacts, and it was very challenging to reach. It was a true hell for explorers due to its dense vegetation, making it a very dangerous place because of the animals inhabiting it, hence considered a perilous journey for those daring to seek gold.

Teyuna Archaeological Park: The national government has protected archaeological sites since 1940. Later, in 1950, the Colombian Institute of Anthropology recognized the need to protect these places. In 2007, a new law came into effect defining them as protected areas. This place was named Teyuna Archaeological Park.

Lost City Teyuna: In the Kogui dialect (Tayrona), this word means “Sacred Site.” Natives used to perform their ceremonies here to pay tribute to Mother Nature.

Buritaca 200: The name Buritaca 200 comes from being the 200th site archaeologically discovered along the Buritaca River.

Hulepia: The first treasure hunters to arrive named it this due to its proximity to a stream with the same name.

How to get to Ciudad Perdida (the Lost City) in Santa Marta?

The best way to visit the Lost City in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is to book a tour. There are many travel agencies in Santa Marta that offer excursions to the Lost City in Colombia. However, you should hire a recognized and certified travel agency, like ours. Visiting the Lost City of Santa Marta is not an easy excursion, and it’s important to be prepared with the right equipment and a good guide. Therefore, our travel agency in Santa Marta provides all the guarantees for your tour to the Lost City to be an unforgettable and enriching journey for you, your family, or friends. Remember, there are many different trails leading to the Lost City, and each has its own challenges.

Make sure to research and hire a travel agency in Santa Marta that meets all the required standards before booking a tour. Our travel agency is legally established and has years of experience to provide you with the best quality and price. Reserve your tour with us and get ready for an incredible adventure.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The Lost City is an ancient city situated in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia. It is believed that the city was founded by the Tayrona people around 800 AD. The Lost City is surrounded by lush tropical jungle and can only be accessed by a several-day trek through the mountains. The hike is challenging, but the views of the Lost City and the surrounding jungle are truly breathtaking.

The cost of visiting Ciudad Perdida varies depending on the travel agency you use. There are different tour options available, ranging from 4-day tours to 5-day tours. The tour cost may vary depending on whether it includes transportation, a tour guide, accommodation, and meals. If you prefer not to include accommodation and meals, there are other options available. If you wish to book any of our tours to Ciudad Perdida, you can do so right now! Choose the one that suits you best and reserve with only a 10% deposit.

To make a reservation to go to Ciudad Perdida in Santa Marta, you can do it immediately. We are a certified travel agency and can assist you in completing all the necessary procedures to visit this beautiful place. Book here!

If you want to explore Ciudad Perdida, there are several things to consider. Firstly, it’s essential to be respectful towards the indigenous communities living in or near the area. Secondly, trekking or hiking can be challenging, so you should come prepared with appropriate clothing and equipment. Thirdly, remember to take care of yourself during the trek; drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks, and always listen to your tour guide, who knows the area well. Avoid taking shortcuts and straying from the group.

The best time to visit Ciudad Perdida is during the dry season. This is because the weather is more stable with fewer chances of rain. Although rain isn’t an obstacle for the trek to Ciudad Perdida, dry terrain facilitates the journey. On the other hand, if you’re uncomfortable with crowds, avoid traveling during peak vacation seasons such as Easter, June, or December when visitor numbers are higher, and the city might be more crowded. Additionally, prices may be slightly higher during these peak times.

No, it’s not possible to go to Ciudad Perdida without a guide. The eco-trail in the midst of nature necessitates a tour guide. Additionally, as the site is protected by the government, only certified tourist agencies have authorization to access it.

Our travel agency in Santa Marta is the best choice for touring Ciudad Perdida. We have years of experience organizing these tours and possess all the necessary legal certifications. Furthermore, our guides are natives of the area and can offer you a unique perspective on the city’s history and culture.

Yes, our indigenous guides are natives who have learned both Spanish and English. They can communicate with tourist groups in both languages, enabling everyone to enjoy the experience of learning about local culture and history.

Santa Marta is a beautiful city located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, with many natural reserves and archaeological parks to explore. The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is particularly impressive, and the Lost City is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The city also boasts beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing day under the sun. If you’re interested in knowing what to do in Santa Marta, we have an article providing much more information.

To determine if a travel agency in Santa Marta is legal, several factors should be considered. Check if they have a valid certificate of legality as an agency. Find out how many years of experience the agency has in organizing tours in the city. You can also confirm if the agency is recognized in the sector. These factors can help confirm if the travel agency is legal and trustworthy.

This region is home to several indigenous communities, including descendants of the Tayrona people, such as the Kogui, Wiwa, Arhuacos, and Kankuanos, each with its own culture and history. These communities have traditionally been subsistence farmers, living off the land and relying on natural resources for sustenance. However, in recent years, they have also begun engaging in tourism, offering visitors insight into their traditional way of life, origins, and history.

The Lost City is located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and is situated at a maximum altitude of 1,200 meters above sea level.

It’s not possible to go to the Lost City alone; you need a tour guide to find the correct path through the mountains. Additionally, only those who have contracted tourist services with a certified travel agency are authorized to enter the trail leading to the Lost City. This is done to ensure the traveler’s safety and the preservation of the historical site. The tour guide will provide information and answer any questions you may have about the Lost City.

The animals living in the mountains on the way to the Lost City are wild animals in their natural habitat and should not be disturbed. The trek must be undertaken only through the route established by tour guides, where the presence of potentially dangerous animals is minimal. Additionally, one should adhere to the trek’s schedule.

The Lost City is located at 1,200 meters above sea level, meaning the temperature is cooler than in lower areas. The average temperature in the Lost City is around 15 degrees Celsius, but it can vary between 10 and 20 degrees.

A trek to the Lost City typically requires 4 to 5 hours of hiking per day, spread over 4 or 5 days. This can vary based on the tourist’s physical condition, the terrain, daily activities, and the type of tour acquired. We offer 4-day and 5-day tours; learn more about each one.