'La Ciudad Perdida de los Tayrona' is an archaelogical site of an ancient city deep in the Sierra Nevada, the north-east region of Colombia. Found as recently as 1972, and dating 650 years older than Machu Picchu; this ancient home of the Taironas truly is one of the greatest lost treasures of the world.
The only way to reach the Lost City is a gruelling 4 or 5 day hike through the deep jungle. The journey is not for the faint hearted; slippery steep climbs, river crossings and venomous creepy crawlies line the way. At times you may wonder why you have paid to battle your way up a mountain. However, despite being a ball of sweat and keeping on your toes to avoid snakes, this really is an experience you will never forget. Winding your way through the jungle past indigenous villages makes for some stunning scenery, and there are plenty of stops along the way to jump in a river to cool off and take in your surroundings.
What makes the trek truly amazing is what it culminates in. I was blown away by the Lost City. This is partly due to the fact that you don't really have much idea what to expect. Steps appear out of the jungle and then disappear steeply up into the mountains, and you feel like your climbing into the unknown. Once you reach the top and the site opens out it truly is a sight to behold. I would rather not give everything away as to leave something for the imagination, but I can assure you that the Lost City does not disappoint. It throughly exceeded my expectations and more, and a certain mysteriousness seems to lie over the whole thing.
I honestly believe that this hidden gem could in the near future be the next Machu Picchu. For us it was deserted, left completely to ourselves. Soon the path will be evened out and sanitised for safety and the site will be covered in signposts. So get there now while you can and before its mysteriousness and sense of adventure are lost.
The trip in total costs around £200, and although the price doesn't change depending on the amount of days, I would recommend doing it in 4. 4 days was a good challenge and you really felt a sense of achievement; without the hanging around. However if you don't trust your fitness and like to take your time or are a slow walker then do it in 5. This price includes everything apart from snacks (take your own for energy) and any gear you want to take. Everything will get wet and sweaty so pack spare clothes and take plastic bags (but remember you'll be carrying it yourself!). Mosquitos are also out to get you so pack long sleeves and trousers to cover up on an evening and take plenty of repellent. The tour can be booked from any of the nearby towns of Santa Marta or Taganga and english-speaking guides are available, enjoy!
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