DISCOVER THE LOST CITY OF COLOMBIA

Peru has Machu Picchu , Chichen Itza in Mexico and Colombia have The Lost City . It is ancient city of the village Tayrona in the Colombian Caribbean was built 800 years DC ( so it is about 650 years older than Machu Picchu ) which was discovered only recently in 1972. The beauty of this fascinating part of Colombian history is that still only be accessed via a walk through one of the most diverse and spectacular scenery in Colombia , which is why no crowds and retains a truly authentic atmosphere . No busloads of tourists vying for that picture of the perfect vacation !.

The walk itself is an essential part of any trip in Colombia, and is fast becoming a «must-see» destination in Latin America, due to the less touristy atmosphere. To get here you can from anywhere in Colombia although it is more appropriate to organize a trip from Santa Marta or Taganga, since you can negotiate directly with tourism companies and meet the guides who will make the trip. The hike can be done in 5 days and 4 nights or super athletes who have among you four days and three nights. I do part of the category of those who are in great shape (too long sitting in this chair writing about Colombia!), So take the option of five days. Perhaps this is the recommended setting, unless you’re short of time because you’ll have more time to appreciate the changes in the scenery and greenery around you, while enjoying a relaxing afternoon swimming in one of the rivers You find along the way.

The hike is of medium difficulty, but includes some long stretches uphill, crossing rivers and muddy places, so a good pair of hiking boots and some stamina are essential. Accommodation is basically comfortable, but sleep in hammocks the first and last night while the rest of the time I do a kind of cabin (although all come with mosquito nets).

The first day begins with a tour by jeep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Eat a quick lunch before departure, then it is time to begin the walk. The first day begins so soft enough, with a winding road through a forest of low altitude, spend a peaceful natural pool in the river, where you have time to stop and cool off with a dip surrounded by thousands of little fish. Then it gets a little harder with a long winding road uphill you leave even the most qualified quite swollen hikers. Although there is a nice shop at the top as a reward and from there on it is gently undulating and spectacular viewpoints to dinner and the hammock on the first night.

The second and third day, the walk starts to get into a dense forest and crossing rivers becomes more common and a bit more demanding. During the rainy season the rivers can be at the waist, but in the dry season is a simple walk through. But do not get too cocky in my path someone managed to fall in the river, with suitcase and all. No injuries were reported hurt just a little pride. The route also passes through several villages Kogi Indians, giving a unique opportunity to experience some of their traditional lifestyles. There are many stops for swimming in those days and two nights accommodation in a river is near, so be sure to pack a bathing suit. I forget and then had to endure some pretty inconsiderate jokes of my fellow hikers about my tight and wet boxers (No pictures included!)

Early in the morning of the fourth day you got up in the morning ready to discover the Lost City for yourself. But not before negotiating with 1,800 first slippery steps of stone. Once this obstacle is overcome, you will have several hours to enjoy strolling through the amazing site of one of the oldest known archaeological sites in South America, enjoy the breathtaking views and wonder how can a place as charming as this was not discovered for years. Then it’s time to get going and the last two days used retracing your steps until you get sweaty, tired and excited to return to the starting point on the fifth day. Money well spent!

In conclusion, the tour of the Lost City to be classified as one of the first travel experiences in Colombia and a must for those who enjoy walking, history, culture and nature. This tour combines all these things and more, and its place as one of the most outstanding adventures in South America for many people deserve.