Caribbean Adventure: the Lost City trek & Medellín
Tour Overview
Embark on an exhilarating journey through Colombia with the "Caribbean Adventure: the Lost City trek & Medellín" tour. Begin your adventure in the historic city of Cartagena, where you can explore its charming walled streets. Venture into the lush jungles of the Sierra Nevada Mountains on a challenging trek to the ancient Lost City of Teyuna, guided by indigenous experts. Experience the vibrant culture of Medellín, a city transformed, and delve into its dynamic neighborhoods. This small group tour is perfect for 18-to-thirtysomethings seeking an authentic adventure, with accommodations ranging from simple hotels to rustic campsites. Travel by 4x4, local bus, and plane, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow travelers while supporting local communities through the Planeterra Project. With a mix of guided activities and free time, this tour offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural immersion. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Cartagena
Location: Cartagena
Accommodation: Hotel Villa Colonial
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Colonial
Arrive at any time. Tonight, check out the local flavor of bustling Plaza Trinidad and head to a local bar to get to know your fellow travellers. Get to know the group over a few drinks and get excited for the adventure of a lifetime.
ACTIVITY: Begin your adventure today. There are no planned activities so feel free to explore or rest up for the excitement ahead.
ACTIVITY: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Day 2: Cartagena
Location: Cartagena
Accommodation: Hotel Villa Colonial
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Colonial
Meals Included: Breakfast
The day is yours to explore this coastal colonial city. Wander through the streets of historic old town, check out the San Felipe fortress, or take a break from the heat in one of the city's many plazas to watch the world go by.
FREE TIME: Choose your own adventure today!
Day 3: Cartagena/Santa Marta
Location: Cartagena, Santa Marta
Accommodation: Hotel Tayromar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tayromar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel in comfort by private bus to the port town of Santa Marta. Take advantage of your free time with a visit to the Gold Museum, go shopping for any last minute necessities (You probably forgot something, right?) or chill out on the beach.
Additional Information: Please note hot water is uncommon in the Caribbean region of Colombia. Showers are likely to only have cold water while visiting this area.
FREE TIME: Get out and explore.
ACTIVITY: Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials, or hanging out by the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 4: Santa Marta/Ricardito Camp
Location: Santa Marta, Sierra Nevada Mountains
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake up and hit the road to the village of El Mamey where your trek to the Lost City of Teyuna begins. Trek through farmland, steamy jungle, and rural Kogi communities. Enjoy and let it all soak in – this is your opportunity to get a glimpse into the local way of life in the remote river valleys of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The group will have lunch at the village and hike about 4 hours to the first basecamp.
TRANSPORT: Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.
ACTIVITY: Leave Machete Pelao and start trekking through the jungle along the Buritaca River. Pass by farmland and get a glimpse into daily life in the small communities en route to the campsite. This first day of trekking is relatively straightforward and a good way to ease yourself into it. There is a combination of uphill and flat sections that lead the way to the first campsite. Continue uphill to reach Ricardito Camp, known locally as vista hermosa or beautiful view, sit back and soak them in. If the weather is right, sunsets and sunrises here are not to be missed.
Total distance: 7.6 km.
Day 5: Ricardito Camp/Teyuna Paraiso Camp
Location: Ciudad Perdida
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Venture further into the lush jungle en route to Ciudad Perdida. Be prepared – today is a tough portion of the trek with a lot of steep views. Arrive at the campsite in the afternoon for some much needed relaxation by the river.
ACTIVITY: Begin trekking alongside the Buritaca River early in the morning. Pass through more farmland used for growing coffee or raising cattle. Climbing on this part of the trek can be challenging as the route progresses uphill from the riverbed and through the humid jungle. Take a look at the unique, circular huts that make up some of the Kogi villages in the area.
Total distance: 14.7 km
Day 6: Paraiso Camp to Mumake Camp
Location: Ciudad Perdida
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake up early feeling refreshed, recharged (hopefully!) and start your trek to La Ciudad Perdida. Climb the 1200 ancient steps and explore the different sacred sites of Lost City. Later, continue trekking through the deep jungle today on winding paths through banana trees and cacao plants as you make your way to Mumake Camp. The total hiking time today is 8 hours with about 3 hours to explore the Lost City.
ACTIVITY: The once-forgotten city is only an hour away and to get there you must climb the 1,200 steps built by the ancient Tayrona people. This is a very steep climb, but the rewards of the climb are more than worth it. Once at the site, the guide will explain the history of the Lost City and what is known of its origins. It is estimated that only 10% of the site has been discovered. Head back to the campsite for lunch and a swim before beginning the trek back the way you came to Mumake Camp. Most of the trek today is downhill which can be hard on the knees, a walking stick might be useful.
Total Distance: 8.6 km
Day 7: Mumake Camp to Las Cascadas Camp
Location: Santa Marta
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The group will have an early departure from Mumake Camp. Hike past the village of El Mamey and arrive to Las Cascadas Camp where you'll have lunch and rest for the remainder of the day.
ACTIVITY: Head back along the same path through dense green jungle, pass by banana trees, Kogi communities, and grasslands. Continue uphill to reach Las Cascadas Camp, known locally as vista hermosa or beautiful view, sit back and soak them in. If the weather is right, sunsets and sunrises here are not to be missed.
Total distance: 8.6 km
Day 8: Las Cascadas Camp to Taganga
Location: Taganga
Accommodation: Ocean Taganga
Accommodation Name: Ocean Taganga
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Take in your last views of the jungle this morning as you trek back to Machete Pelao. Transfer to Tangaga where the rest for the day is yours to relax. (You've earned a few drinks after that trek!)
ACTIVITY: Continue the hike back down to Machete Pelao following the same route that you took in. The farmland will look familiar, but the scenery remains spectacular. Take in your last views of the jungle and local village life before heading back on the grid.
Total distance: 7.6 km
Day 9: Taganga/Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona
Location: Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona
Accommodation: Ocean Taganga
Accommodation Name: Ocean Taganga
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Head into Tayrona National Park for a moderate hike with a local guide. Experience the incredible nature that surrounds you while learning more about the rich, natural diversity of northern Colombia.
Additional Information: Please note that Tayrona National Park will be closed certain dates in February, June, October, and November. See the Important Notes section of your tour to view exact dates for 2023. The indigenous groups in the area believe that mother nature needs a month of rest, and maintenance to the park is done during this time. If your trip falls during these dates, you will visit Taironaka Park, to learn more about the local Kogi people and their cultural practices.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Get outside with a hike into this beautiful park! Learn more about the rich diversity of Tayrona's natural heritage and explore Tayrona's gorgeous scenery with a local guide. Spend the night surrounded by nature in a lodge close to the park.
Day 10: Taganga/Medellín
Location: Taganga, Medellín
Accommodation: Viajero Medellin
Accommodation Name: Viajero Medellin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wheels up! In the afternoon, fly inland to Medellín. A once infamous city, vibrant Medellín has transformed into one of Latin America’s safest destinations. Upon arrival, enjoy an optional night out with the group.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Day 11: Medellín
Location: Medellín
Accommodation: Viajero Medellin
Accommodation Name: Viajero Medellin
Meals Included: Lunch
Explore Medellín today and visit the Comuna 13 neighbourhood—a community transformed. Embark on a walking tour and enjoy a delicious lunch provided by the community organization Berracas de la 13, a G Adventures–supported project. After, free time to visit museums or take a historical tour.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
FREE TIME: Get out and explore this vibrant city.
ACTIVITY: Explore dynamic communities and support women–owned social enterprises on a tour led by residents of the Comuna 13 of Medellin. A G Adventures,–supported project, Berracas de la 13 is a nonprofit organization who have developed a new Comuna tour and meal service, benefitting women and youth from the community. Travellers have the opportunity to learn from local guides, visit small shops, try local food and purchase unique handicrafts.
Day 12: Medellín
Location: Medellín
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Simple hotels (7 nts, some multi-share) , camping (4 nts in hammocks or rustic bunks). -
Meals
9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 4 dinners -
G for Good Moment
Experience the Berracas de la 13 Visit with Lunch in Medellín.
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First Night Out Moment
Connect with new friends on your first night out.
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Big Night Out Moment
Enjoy a night out in Santa Marta.
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Trek to the Lost City
Embark on a 5-day trek to the Lost City with an Indigenous guide.
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Guided Tour of the Lost City
Participate in a guided tour of the Lost City.
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Internal Flight
Includes an internal flight as part of the tour.
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Transport
Transport between destinations and to/from included activities is provided.
What's Not Included
Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour price.
Accommodation
Experience simple hotels for 7 nights, with some multi-share options, and enjoy camping for 4 nights in hammocks or rustic bunks, providing a unique and authentic adventure experience.
Transport
4x4, walking, plane, local bus.
Meals Included
9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 4 dinners
Group Size
Max 16, Avg 10
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel through Colombia using a mix of 4x4 vehicles, walking, planes, and local buses, ensuring a diverse and immersive journey through the country's stunning landscapes.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Important Notes
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. Some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour after your trip concludes.
Tayrona National Park
In 2023, Tayrona Park is closed February 01- 15, June 01-15, and October 02 - November 02. On departures during these dates we will visit Mina, the small town and ecological capital of Colombia, and Tayronaka, where we will go tubing on the Don Diego River. The park is known for its beautiful terraces and indigenous community. Visit a museum about the local Kogi people, meet members of the community, and relax while enjoying an included lunch.
Lost City Trek
Please Note: The Lost City Trek is closed for the month of September each year in order to preserve the trail and complete general maintenance and upkeep.
Hiking days are between 4-6 hours a day, and the highest altitude reached is 1,200 m (3,937 ft) at the Lost City itself. The humidity and the heat makes the trek challenging. Throughout the year the temperature is generally between 35-45 degrees, and there can be heavy rain and muddy conditions.
Along the trek, you will be required to carry your own gear. We recommend not carrying more than is necessary for the route. One or two changes of clothes is enough to give you a change for each day on the trek. Please bring a bag that is sufficient in size to carry what you might need. It is possible to hire a mule to carry equipment for the trek, at a cost of 40-50 USD per day.
Dry season (December - March), the trail can be dry and dusty. When the rains arrive (April - November), the trail can be muddy and slippery underfoot. This also affects the numerous river crossings, as the rainy season brings higher rivers. This can mean that river crossings can be as high as waist height, so we recommend that you bring a dry bag or a plastic bag to cover your daypack as you might need to carry this above your head to keep it out of the river.
As the majority of this trek is through the jungle, please be aware of the presence of mosquitos and other bugs. We highly recommend bringing some form of insect repellent. While the campsites have mosquito nets over the beds and hammocks, mosquitos can be unavoidable at times. A sleep sheet can help to prevent bug bites at night as well.
Drinking water: The water comes directly from the rivers, and you can refill your bottles at every camp. It is well treated with filters and uv light, but still, sometimes when we have heavy rain, the water comes through a bit dirty after the treating process. Even without the presence of micro organisms, sometimes the presence of minerals can upset a sensitive stomach. Normally the water is not an issue, but in case you don't feel like drinking that water, there are shops at the camps and at many checkpoints on the road where you can buy it.
Please note that electricity is available in each camp between 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
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Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEOs), a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
About Accommodation
A variety of styles of hotels/guesthouses are used on this trip. In many instances, they might not be like what you are used to back home as service and efficiency can vary.
Some nights on this tour will be multi-share. This may involve 4-6 group members sharing a room. The majority of accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
Where we use multi-share hostels, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic Travel Style.
Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Ecuador (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.
Lost City Trek: In the campsites, the majority of the accommodation is in hammocks or bunks, with a mosquito net for cover. In the campsites, there are cold showers, flushing toilets and seating areas. Some of the campsites have lighting and power sockets, although these are not always guaranteed to be available. Because of the humidity, we do not suggest bringing a sleeping bag, as it would be too hot. Recommended is a sleeping sheet or a sleeping bag liner that can provide a level of comfort at higher temperatures.
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What to Take
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. It’s best to layer clothes rather than bring a heavy parka so that you can take layers off.
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items and for the Lost City Trek. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.
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Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation can I expect during the trek to the Lost City?
During the trek to the Lost City, accommodation is in campsites where you will sleep in hammocks or rustic bunks with mosquito nets. The campsites have cold showers, flushing toilets, and seating areas. Some campsites may have lighting and power sockets, but these are not always guaranteed. ...more ...less
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What should I bring for the Lost City trek?
For the Lost City trek, it is recommended to bring a backpack or a medium-sized suitcase, and a daypack for carrying everyday items. You should pack light, with one or two changes of clothes, as you will be required to carry your own gear. A sleeping sheet or sleeping bag liner is suggested instead of a sleeping bag due to the humidity. Insect repellent is also highly recommended. ...more ...less
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Are there any specific challenges during the Lost City trek?
The Lost City trek involves hiking days of 4-6 hours, with the highest altitude reaching 1,200 meters at the Lost City. The trek is challenging due to the heat and humidity, and the trail can be muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season. There are also numerous river crossings, which can be as high as waist height. ...more ...less
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What is the water situation during the trek?
Drinking water during the trek comes directly from the rivers and is treated with filters and UV light. However, during heavy rain, the water may appear dirty due to minerals, which can upset sensitive stomachs. If you prefer, bottled water is available for purchase at camps and checkpoints. ...more ...less
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What is the group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 16, with an average of 10 participants.
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What is the minimum age requirement for this tour?
The minimum age requirement for this tour is 18 years.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 4 dinners.
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What happens if Tayrona National Park is closed during my visit?
If Tayrona National Park is closed during your visit, you will instead visit Taironaka Park, where you can learn about the local Kogi people and their cultural practices, and enjoy activities such as tubing on the Don Diego River.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Sunday - Thursday
Apr 13, 2025 - Apr 24, 2025Sunday - Thursday
Jun 22, 2025 - Jul 03, 2025Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Caribbean Adventure: the Lost City trek & Medellín
12 Days Starting in Cartagena, Colombia and ending in Medellín, Colombia
Visiting: Cartagena, Santa Marta, Sierra Nevada Mountains, Ciudad Perdida, Taganga, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, Medellín ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25002
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
18-39
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
