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Colombia: Trekking Ancient Trails to the Lost City

Highlights

  • Trek to the Lost City through jungle trails and ancient Tayrona paths
  • Step through the neighbourhoods that shaped a new Medellín.
  • Stay in wild luxury at remote lodges in Colombia’s savannahs.
  • Connect with local culture through coffee, flowers and indigenous encounters.

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What you'll do

Overview

Discover a side of Colombia few travellers reach on this deeply immersive, 14-day experiential adventure. Journey from the vibrant capital of Bogotá into the verdant heartlands, where coffee culture meets pristine rainforest. Wander remote highland trails, share stories with indigenous communities, and immerse yourself in the land’s enduring rhythm—from the Llanos plains to the legendary Lost City.

Discover a side of Colombia few travellers reach on this deeply immersive, 14-day experiential adventure. Journey from the vibrant capital of Bogotá into the verdant heartlands, where coffee culture meets pristine rainforest. Wander remote highland trails, share stories with indigenous communities, and immerse yourself in the land’s enduring rhythm—from the Llanos plains to the legendary Lost City.

Tour Summary
Day 1–2: Arrival in Bogotá 
Day 3–5: Savanna Orinoquia Lodge 
Day 6–7: Cannúa Ecolodge 
Day 8–9: Medellín 
Day 10–13: Lost City Trek 
Day 14: Departure from Santa Marta

Your trip starts gently, with a sensory introduction to Colombia’s world-renowned coffee craft and a stay in Bogotá’s chic northern zone. Then, step into the wilderness of Casanare, where the Savanna Orinoquia Lodge offers a luxury eco-escape surrounded by wild flora, elusive fauna, and uninterrupted skies. Drift down jungle rivers, walk in the footsteps of capybaras, and fall asleep to the call of howler monkeys.

In Antioquia, pause at a serene ecolodge in Marinilla for forest walks and local connections before moving into Medellín’s urban rebirth story—an inspiring transformation from turmoil to innovation. From vibrant barrios to leafy hilltops, witness how art, infrastructure, and community reshape futures.

The journeys highlight is a multi-day jungle trek through the Sierra Nevada, culminating in the awe-inspiring Lost City—an ancient Tayrona site hidden for centuries. It’s a physically challenging but soul-stirring finale, rich in nature, culture, and purpose. This is Colombia seen from the inside—raw, warm, and unforgettable.

Trekking Notes: This trek isn’t reserved for seasoned athletes, but a reasonable level of fitness is essential. We recommend building up your stamina with regular physical activity in the weeks leading up to departure to ensure you’re well prepared and can enjoy the experience in comfort. Altitude Climb: Between 900m and 1,200m

Please note:
This is a private itinerary but on some experiences throughout the tour you may join a small group.
Accommodation will be reserved at time of booking. Depending on availability there may be changes to similar accommodation.

*From price based on travel for up to 4 people, travelling in 2025. For larger groups or solo travellers please enquire directly to hello@nitgb.com

Arrival in Bogotá

Today you will be picked up on arrival at El Dorado International Airport in Colombia’s capital, Bogota, and transferred to your hotel in the capital’s fashionable Zona T district. Settle in and enjoy the first taste of Colombia’s energy, with time to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

Hotel: Bioxury Hotel (or similar) – Standard Room
Meals: – / – / –

Coffee Plantation Experience in Cachipay

This morning you will be collected and driven into the lush hills outside Bogotá, towards Cachipay (approx. 2hr journey each way). At La Palma y El Tucán, a celebrated coffee farm, you’ll learn about Colombia’s coffee legacy from seed to cup. Explore the nursery, processing station, and drying area before enjoying a fresh farm-to-table lunch and a unique guided tasting of specialty coffees. Return to Bogotá in the late afternoon.

Hotel: Bioxury Hotel (or similar) – Standard Room
Meals: B / L / –

Onto Yopal & Transfer to the Orinoquía region

Today you will be transferred to Bogotá airport for your flight to Yopal (1hr).

From there, a scenic drive (2hrs 30min) takes you into the Orinoquía region spanning the eastern plains of Colombia, bordering Venezuela and the Orinoco River basin. It includes  wide-open grasslands, winding rivers, gallery forests, and floodplains rich in biodiversity. It’s Colombia’s answer to the African savanna or the Pantanal in Brazil—just far less explored. A hidden gem of wild beauty, cultural authenticity, and untouched landscapes.

You will stay at the remote Savanna Orinoquia Lodge, surrounded by jungle, rivers, and wide-open plains. After check-in, enjoy your first taste of this wild natural setting.

Hotel: Savanna Orinoquia Lodge (or similar) – Private Bungalow
Meals: B / – / D

Wildlife & River Exploration in the Llanos

Over the next two days, you will explore the diverse landscapes of the Llanos through a range of included experiences. You will experience Colombia’s cowboy country — rugged, remote, and incredibly rich in wildlife and culture. Head out on guided nature walks along forest trails to spot native species such as capybaras, howler monkeys, and tropical birds. Take a traditional wooden boat or canoe trip along the Cravo Sur River or Caño Canacavare, where the sounds of the jungle and birdlife surround you. During the dry season (November–April), enjoy a magical evening around the bonfire on the sandy river bank.

Hotel: Savanna Orinoquia Lodge (or similar)  – Private Bungalow
Meals: B / L / D

Onto Medellín & Transfer to Marinilla

Today you will be driven back to Yopal airport and fly to Medellín (1hr), Colombia’s second city.

Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred into a landscape of mystical mountains and cool forests to reach Cannúa Ecolodge (1hr), an award-winning eco-retreat set within a reforested conservation area in the hills above Marinilla. Built on permaculture principles and community collaboration, Cannúa offers sweeping views of the San Nicolás Valley and a genuine connection to the surrounding environment. After check-in, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the fresh mountain air.

Hotel: Cannúa Ecolodge – Standard Room
Meals: B / – / –

Nature, Culture & Sustainability in the Andes

Today you will have the full day to enjoy Cannúa’s immersive, nature-based experiences. Take part in a guided ecological walk through cloud forest trails that are being carefully rewilded with native species. Join a permaculture tour to learn about the lodge’s sustainable architecture, regenerative farming practices, and community-driven ethos.

Optional experiences such as birdwatching, coffee and rum tastings, or local cooking classes can also be arranged on request. In between, savour fresh, seasonal meals from Cannúa’s organic kitchen and unwind in one of Colombia’s most thoughtful and tranquil settings.

 

Hotel: Cannúa Ecolodge – Standard Room
Meals: B / – / –

Santa Elena Flower Culture & Transfer to Medellín

Today you will head into the hills above Medellín to visit Santa Elena, home of the silleteros flower farmers. It will feel like stepping into a vibrant, living tradition tucked in the misty mountains. Silleteros are traditional flower growers and artisans who craft massive, intricate flower arrangements called silletas, which they carry on their backs during the Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) in August — one of Colombia’s most iconic cultural events. You’ll walk through lush flower fields, learn how silletas are made, and hear stories passed down for generations.  In the afternoon, transfer to your boutique hotel in the city.

Hotel: Patio del Mundo (or similar) – Standard Room
Meals: B / – / –

Medellín Social Transformation Tour & onto Santa Marta

This morning you will take a guided journey through Medellín’s most symbolic areas, on a powerful journey through transformation, resilience, and vibrant culture. This isn’t just sightseeing — it’s a story of how a city once known for violence has reinvented itself with art, innovation, and heart. —from Comuna 13 and its graffiti-lined electric stairways to Botero’s Plaza and the innovative metrocable system. Discover how this once-troubled city has become a global model for social and urban regeneration.

Later, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your one hour flight to  Santa Marta, and on arrival be collected and driven to your boutique hotel in the colonial centre.

Hotel: Hotel Boutique Don Pepe (or similar) – Standard Room
Meals: B / L / –

Begin Lost City Trek – Machete to Camp 1

Today you will be transferred from Santa Marta to the village of Machete (2hrs), the starting point of the Lost City trek. After a short briefing and a riverside lunch beside the Mamey River and a cooling dip , depending on the season, you’ll get your boots on and begin the first leg of your journey. The trail winds through thick forest and past small farms, passing banana plantations, cattle, and local campesino homes. The trail is mostly dirt paths,  and you will climb gradually into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. This is where you’ll feel the heat and the jungle humidity kick in, and you will be rewarded by incredible views. After approximately 3.5 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Camp 1, where you’ll settle in for the night and enjoy a well-earned dinner.

Accommodation: Trekking Camp 1 – Hammock or Bunk Bed
Meals: B / L / D

Trek Through Indigenous Lands – Camp 1 to Camp 3

You’ll wake up early — usually around 5:30–6:00 am — with the sound of birds and jungle life around you and after a simple but filling breakfast of fresh fruit, eggs, arepas or toast, and coffee, the hike begins just after sunrise.

You will continue your ascent deeper into the jungle, trekking around 6–7 hours throughout the day. Along the way, walls of green vegetation surround the trail, early morning mist clings to the canopy and tiny orchids, butterflies, and colourful birds appear unexpectedly. You’ll pass through the traditional lands of the Kogui and Wiwa peoples, descendants of the Tayrona civilisation, and stop to visit indigenous villages or cool off with a swim in the river. After a brief stop at Camp 2 you will push on to camp 3 for your final night before you discover the lost city.

Accommodation: Trekking Camp  3  – Hammock or Bunk Bed
Meals: B / L / D

Lost City Exploration

Today is the highlight of the trek. After breakfast, you will cross a river and climb 1,200 moss-covered stone steps through dense jungle to reach Ciudad Perdida—the Lost City. Spread across terraces and stone paths carved into the mountainside, this ancient Tayrona site dates back to the 9th century and predates Machu Picchu. Your guide will walk you through its ceremonial areas, aqueducts, and elevated platforms, all still revered by the region’s indigenous communities. After a deeply memorable visit, you’ll descend to Camp 3 for dinner and a final night in the jungle.

Accommodation: Trekking Camp 3 – Hammock or Bunk Bed
Meals: B / L / D

Return Trek & Transfer to Santa Marta

This morning you will begin the return hike, retracing your steps along the now-familiar jungle paths. After a midday stop at Camp 2 for lunch, you’ll continue on to Machete, completing around 6–7 hours of walking in total. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred back to Santa Marta, where a comfortable bed and hot shower await after four exhilarating days in the wild.

Hotel: Hotel Boutique Don Pepe (or similar) – Standard Room
Meals: B / L / –

Departure from Santa Marta

Today you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Santa Marta airport for your onward flight. After two weeks of immersive travel—through mountains, jungle, rivers, cities and ancient trails—you’ll depart with lasting memories of Colombia’s wild beauty and living culture.

Meals: B / – / –

Panama, Palomino or Cartagena

Panama City – 3-Night Extension
Cross into Central America and discover Panama’s striking mix of modern skyline, colonial heritage, and canal culture.

Palomino – 3-Night Coastal Retreat 
Extend your stay in northern Colombia with a relaxing escape to Palomino, a bohemian beach town just north of Tayrona.

Cartagena – 3-Night City Stay
Soak up more of Cartagena’s magic with time to explore at your own pace or book additional activities.

What's included

Included

  • 2 nights in Bogotá – BB
  • 3 nights in Yopal – FB
  • 7 nights at Marinilla – FB
  • 1 night in Medellín - BB
  • 3 nights on Trek to Lost City - FB
  • 2 nights in Santa Marta - BB
  • *BB: Bed & Breakfast, L: Lunch, FB: Full Board
  • Return Airport Transfers
  • Private transfers and ground transportation throughout the itinerary
  • Guided tours: Coffee plantation, Medellín social transformation, Santa Elena flower farm
  • Full Lost City trek including: Park entrance fees, Local guides, cook, and porters, Mule for luggage (camps 1 & 2)
  • Travel insurance for the duration of the Lost City trek
  • Savanna Orinoquia Lodge: Wildlife Walks through the Tropical Trails
  • Traditional Boat Tour on the Cravo Sur River or Caño Canacavare
  • Bonfire on the River (Available during dry season: approx. Nov–April)
  • Entrance fees to attractions and parks
  • Bilingual local guides throughout all excursions

Accommodation

Bioxury Hotel (or similar) – Bogotá

An urban oasis in Bogotá’s upscale Zona T, Bioxury blends eco-conscious elegance with sleek modern comfort. Perfectly located for discovering the city’s dining and culture.

Room Type - Standard Room

Savanna Orinoquia Lodge (or similar) – Casanare

Nestled deep in the Orinoquía savannahs, this nature-rich lodge offers rustic-luxury bungalows beside a winding river. Ideal for wildlife lovers and off-grid comfort seekers.

Room Type - Private Bungalow

Cannúa Ecolodge (or similar) – Marinilla

A secluded retreat designed on permaculture principles, Cannúa is set within conservation forest. It champions sustainability and serenity with panoramic views and organic dining.

Room Type - Superior Room

Patio del Mundo (or similar) – Medellín

A restored French-owned villa in Provenza, offering garden calm amidst Medellín’s buzzy bar and café scene. Artistic flair meets boutique charm.

Room Type - Standard (All rooms are uniquely themed)

Hotel Boutique Don Pepe (or similar) – Santa Marta

Set in a 400-year-old colonial house in Santa Marta’s historic centre, this intimate hotel combines heritage charm with Caribbean warmth and elegant service.

Room Type - Standard

Trekking Camps 1, 2 & 3 – Sierra Nevada

Scattered along the remote jungle trail to the Lost City, these simple trekking camps offer a back-to-basics experience in truly wild surroundings. Each night brings a new setting—from riverbanks to mountain slopes—with shared spaces, hammock sleeping, and the sounds of the forest all around. Though facilities are rustic, the atmosphere is rich with camaraderie, nature, and purpose.

Standard Accommodation Features:
- Hammock or bunk bed with mosquito net
-Shared cold-water showers and basic toilet facilities
-Open-air communal dining areas with home-cooked meals

Varying settings:
– Camp 1: Riverside location with swimming spot
– Camp 2: Shaded forest site near indigenous villages
– Camp 3 (Mamo Rumualdo): High jungle camp, close to the Lost City

Your local host

Guillermo

With over 20 years of experience in travel, Guillermo’s journey began in the airline world before he found his calling in creating meaningful, on-the-ground experiences across Colombia. Today, he leads a passionate team that brings Colombia’s heart and soul to life for travellers, local communities, and partners alike.

We’ve worked closely with Guillermo and his team to carefully curate these experiences—drawing on their local insight, connections, and genuine love for the country. Their commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism is reflected in everything they do, with certifications such as Travelife and Colombia Destinos de Paz h... Read All

With over 20 years of experience in travel, Guillermo’s journey began in the airline world before he found his calling in creating meaningful, on-the-ground experiences across Colombia. Today, he leads a passionate team that brings Colombia’s heart and soul to life for travellers, local communities, and partners alike.

We’ve worked closely with Guillermo and his team to carefully curate these experiences—drawing on their local insight, connections, and genuine love for the country. Their commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism is reflected in everything they do, with certifications such as Travelife and Colombia Destinos de Paz highlighting their role in supporting peace-building through tourism.

Above all, Guillermo’s focus is on people—sharing stories, building bridges, and showing you Colombia through the eyes of those who call it home.

Guillermo image

Location

Colombia is a country of striking contrasts—Andean peaks, tropical coastlines, rich traditions, and resilient communities. From its complex history has emerged a vibrant culture, full of creativity and warmth.

This journey takes you through Colombia’s diverse landscapes— from highland coffee farms and wild savannahs to vibrant cities and ancient jungle trails—culminating in the awe-inspiring Lost City trek, a truly once in a lifetime experience.

FAQs

Is the tour private or part of a group?

This tour is primarily arranged as a private experience, offering a personalised journey through Colombia’s diverse regions. Your transfers, guided city tours, and cultural excursions—such as the coffee plantation visit in Bogotá, the transformation tour in Medellín, and the flower farm experience in Santa Elena—are conducted privately for your travel party. Accommodation is also individually booked, ensuring a more exclusive and comfortable stay throughout.

At Savanna Orinoquia Lodge, daily excursions such as river tours, wildlife walks, and cultural experiences are hosted by the lodge itself. These may occasionally be shared with other guests staying at the property, depending on availability and group size on the day.

The Lost City Trek is the only group element of the trip. This four-day expedition is operated with small group departures for safety, logistical coordination, and to comply with national park regulations. You’ll join a group of around 6–14 trekkers, guided by an experienced local team including a certified guide, cook, and porters. Accommodation is in shared, rustic jungle camps with either hammocks or bunk beds.

This combination allows for an intimate, tailored journey with a chance to connect with other like-minded travellers during the trek—balancing privacy with shared adventure

What should I expect from the camps on the Lost City trek?

The camps along the Lost City trail are simple and rustic, designed to offer a practical and comfortable base in the middle of the jungle. You’ll stay in a mix of hammocks or bunk beds, each equipped with a mosquito net. Bedding is provided, but it’s a good idea to bring a light sleeping bag liner for added comfort.

Facilities are basic but sufficient, with cold-water showers, shared toilets, and communal dining areas where freshly prepared meals are served. Camps are open to the forest, offering an immersive experience—expect natural sounds, early starts, and a sense of community with fellow trekkers.

While there’s no luxury, the experience is safe, sociable and rewarding—part of the journey into Colombia’s remote Sierra Nevada mountains. You’ll fall asleep to the hum of the jungle and wake with the sun, ready to continue the adventure.

When is the best time to travel?

The ideal time to travel is January to March, when dry conditions make the Lost City trek more accessible and wildlife viewing in the Llanos is at its best.

However, Colombia is a year-round destination. April to June and September to November bring lush green landscapes and quieter trails—perfect for nature lovers seeking a more tranquil experience. While October is the rainiest month, it adds a wilder, more dramatic edge to the trek, with fuller rivers and rich jungle atmosphere.

August is a great option for cultural travellers, with Medellín’s Flower Festival adding vibrant local flavour to the itinerary.

Each season offers a unique perspective—whether it’s clearer skies, vivid greenery or cultural energy.

Are there any seasons in Colombia?

Colombia has no traditional seasons—just dry and rainy periods, which vary by region. This tour crosses several climates, each with its own rhythm.

Bogotá is mild year-round, with occasional rain, especially in April–May and October–November, but this rarely affects city activities. In the Llanos (Casanare), the dry season (Dec–Mar) is best for wildlife and river excursions, while the rainy season brings lush landscapes but may limit access in some areas.

Medellín and Marinilla enjoy a spring-like climate all year. Rain showers in April–May and Oct–Nov are usually brief. August stands out for the colourful Flower Festival.

The Lost City trek is most accessible in the dry months (Jan–Mar, Jul–Sep). It's still possible in wetter months, but October is particularly challenging due to heavy rain and muddy trails.

Each season offers something unique—whether it’s clearer paths or richer, greener scenery.

Can flights be added to itinerary?

Flights are not included in the itinerary but yes, please speak to our team about adding International and domestic flights to this package.

How difficult is the Lost City trek?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging, with daily hikes ranging from 4 to 7 hours over rugged terrain, jungle paths, river crossings, and steep ascents—including a climb up 1,200 stone steps to reach the Lost City itself. A good level of physical fitness is required.

Do I need to be an experienced trekker?

No prior trekking experience is necessary, but you should be in good health and used to regular exercise. The pace is steady and the route is manageable with preparation, determination, and a willingness to rough it a little.

What’s the altitude of the trek?

The route ranges between 900m and 1,200m, so altitude-related issues are not a concern.

Is food provided during the trek?

Yes, all meals during the trek are included and freshly prepared by the support team. Meals are simple, hearty, and designed to keep your energy up. Fruit and drinking water are also provided daily.

Will I need to carry my own luggage?

Only a small daypack is required during the walk. A mule will carry up to 6kg of your main luggage between camps 1 and 2. For the section to camp 3, you’ll carry only essentials in your daypack.

Will a guide be with us for the whole trek?

Yes, an experienced local guide will accompany you throughout the trek, along with a cook and porters. They’ll ensure your safety, share insights into the landscape and Tayrona culture, and help manage the logistics.

Do I need any vaccinations?

A Yellow Fever vaccination is strongly recommended.

What should I pack for the trekking?

Light, quick-drying clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent (high DEET), sunscreen, a torch, a whistle, a dry bag for clothes, and a refillable water bottle. A full recommended packing list will be provided.

Can children join the Lost City trek?

The Lost City trek is not recommended for young children due to the physical demands and remote conditions. The trail involves long days of hiking (4–7 hours), steep ascents, river crossings, and basic jungle accommodation with hammocks or bunks and cold-water showers.

That said, older teenagers (aged 14+) who are fit, active, and used to walking long distances may be able to join with parental supervision. It’s important that they are comfortable with the outdoors, group trekking, and being offline for several days.

If you're travelling as a family and considering this trek, we recommend discussing the suitability with one of our team to ensure it’s the right fit for everyone involved.

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