Teyuna, the Tayrona Lost City, was founded centuries before Machu Picchu and is only reachable on foot: 4 to 6 days of jungle, rivers and 1,200 stone steps. Here's what to know before booking.

The essentials in 30 seconds

  • Duration: 4, 5 or 6 days (out and back on the same trail).
  • Distance: about 44–47 km total, with demanding climbs and river crossings.
  • Authorized operator only: going with a certified agency and guide is mandatory (many include Kogui, Arhuaco or Wiwa indigenous guides).
  • Indicative 2026 price: usually around $1,800,000–$2,500,000 COP per person all-inclusive (transport, meals, hammocks/beds, entries and guide). Always confirm with the operator.
  • Includes: Santa Marta–Mamey–Santa Marta transport, all meals, camp lodging (hammock or bed), entry and guide.

Difficulty: can I do it?

It's a demanding but non-technical trek: no climbing, just walking. Days of 4 to 8 hours with mud, heat and humidity. Good fitness is enough; not advised with knee injuries or heart conditions. Minimum age is usually 7–8 depending on the operator.

The final stretch — the famous 1,200 steps — is climbed slowly with stops. The reward: Teyuna's stone terraces with the Sierra behind.

4, 5 or 6 days: which to choose

  • 4 days: the classic. Strong pace, ideal with good fitness and little time.
  • 5 days: the balance: an extra night for river swims and unhurried community visits.
  • 6 days: easy pace, more time at camps and with the indigenous communities.

Best season and closures

The dry season (December–March) is most comfortable: less mud and lower rivers. July–August (veranillo) also works well. In rainy season (September–November) the trek runs, but expect more mud and swollen rivers.

Note: indigenous communities close access during part of September for spiritual rituals. Confirm exact dates with your operator before buying flights. More in when to visit Santa Marta.

Packing checklist

  • 30–40 L backpack (the rest of your luggage stays in Santa Marta).
  • Broken-in trekking boots or shoes + sandals for rivers and camp.
  • Quick-dry light clothing (3 changes), swimsuit, rain jacket.
  • Repellent, biodegradable sunscreen, headlamp, reusable bottle.
  • Cash: no card readers on the route (crafts, drinks, tips).
  • Dry bags for electronics and a dry change of clothes.

General trip list in what to pack for Santa Marta.

Operators and booking

Only agencies authorized by the Parks authority and the communities operate. Book days ahead in high season (December–January, Easter, mid-year): groups have limited spots. Compare what's included (some offer beds instead of hammocks) and confirm the assistance policy.

See listing: Lost City Trek ⭐4.9.

Key fact: the Lost City takes no independent visitors: without an authorized operator there is no entry. Distrust offers far below the reference price or without a certified guide.