Lost City
Colombia · Magdalena · 1100 m
Description
The “Lost City” (Ciudad Perdida), known as “Teyuna” by the indigenous communities, is a pre-Columbian ruined city deep in the jungle of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia. Built around 800 AD by the Tairona culture, the settlement is about 650 years older than Machu Picchu and is one of the most significant archaeological sites in South America. The 169 stone terraces rising from the rainforest, the paved paths, and the 1,200 stone steps carved into the mountainside bear witness to the highly advanced architectural skills of its builders. The city is accessible only via a 4–6-day guided trek from Santa Marta, which passes through the territories of the indigenous Kogi, Arhuaco, Wiwa, and Kankuamo peoples. These communities still live in the Sierra Nevada today and regard Teyuna as a sacred place. The combination of spectacular natural scenery, a challenging hike, and a vibrant indigenous cultural heritage makes Ciudad Perdida one of the most impressive archaeological experiences in South America.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 4 to 6 days (optimal 5 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – February
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Ciudad Perdida (Teyuna) Archaeological Site
- Multi-Day Lost City Jungle Trek
- Ancient Tayrona Terraces & Circular Plazas
- Stone Stairways, Paths & Water Channels
- Final Stone Stairway to Teyuna
- Indigenous Heritage of the Sierra Nevada
- Kogi & Wiwa Communities along the Trek
- Sierra Nevada Tropical Forest
- Buritaca River & Jungle River Crossings
- Jungle Camps & Overnight Trek Experience
- Waterfalls & Natural Swimming Spots
- Sierra Nevada Wildlife on the Trek
- Tropical Birdwatching
- Tayrona Stone Engineering & Drainage System
- Sacred Landscape of the Sierra Nevada
Getting there
- Airports:
- SMR