Experience Overview
Colombia has a certain kind of magic that you won’t find anywhere else in the Caribbean. On this trip, you’ll experience it first-hand via visits to rural regions, treks through Tayrona National Park’s picturesque trails and (of course), downtime on the beach. Spend time with village communities to learn about Indigenous traditions before heading deep into the jungle to Teyuna — the fabled Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) older than Machu Picchu — a place crowded with history and free of crowds. Colombia is mysterious. Come figure out the riddle.
Highlights
- Wander the old walled city of Cartagena
- Encounter the rich biodiversity of Tayrona National Park
- Learn about indigenous traditions on a village visit
- Hike through the lush jungle to the Lost City
Trip Details
Product Code: 2835
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Budget
Transport: Private van, public bus, 4x4, walking.
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles: Classic
Supplier Code: SMCS
Starts: Cartagena, Colombia
Finishes: Santa Marta, Colombia
Duration: 14 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating: Demanding
Includes
Activities
- Your G for Good Moment: Katanzama Community Visit, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
- City tour in Cartagena
- Tayrona National Park hike with local guide (5hrs)
- Taganga Orientation Walk
- Trek to the Lost City with indigenous guide (5 days)
- Guided tour of the Lost City
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Accommodation
- Hotels/guesthouses (9 nts), camping (4 nts in hammocks or rustic bunks).
- 13 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 4 dinners
Transport
- Private van, public bus, 4x4, walking.
Group Leader
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, indigenous local guides.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3263 (CAD $233 /day)
Itinerary
Day 1: Cartagena
Arrive at any time.
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Accommodation - Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia
Day 2: Cartagena
Enjoy a city tour, visiting the colonial walled city and fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy free time to take in the Caribbean vibe of the city and beach.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Learn more about Cartagena’s history from a bilingual guide on a tour of this lively city. Travel between sights by private transport and visit the clock tower, Plaza Bolivar, and the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. Take in sweeping views of the city from the hilltop Convento De La Popa and enjoy a walking tour from San Pedro Claver Church to Santo Domingo Church. Free_time - Get out and explore this vibrant colonial town. Refuel with some local fare—"patacones" or fried plantains are a must!Accommodation - Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia
Day 3: Cartagena/Minca
Travel to the small town of Minca, breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy free time to explore.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy free time to explore the lovely town of Minca. Go looking for unique birds, explore the area on foot or hang out at a local café by the river. Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Hotel Minca La Casona
Day 4: Minca to Tayrona National Park Area
Leave Minca behind as the group heads into the Tayrona National Park area to spend the day visiting a nearby indigenous community. Gain insights into the rich traditional cultures of this region, and the Arhuacos. Enjoy a textile weaving demonstration by members of local families in the Katanzama community. Afterwards, transfer to your accommodations just outside Tayrona National Park, where you will have free time to enjoy the property and its amenities. Relax in a nearby hammock, find a local restaurant for dinner, and enjoy the cool ocean breeze.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Visit the Katanzama community, located 30 minutes from Tayrona National Park, near Buritaca. Made up of approximately 80 Arhuaco indigenous families, this unique experience invites you to connect with one of Colombia’s most resilient indigenous groups, who have preserved their customs and spiritual beliefs for decades. Upon arrival you will be welcomed into the ceremonial center to learn about the community’s spiritual connection to nature, their history of resistance, and their ongoing efforts to restore their ancestral land, and the area where coca and cacao are cultivated. Then, gather around for a traditional textile weaving demonstration which showcases an ancestral craft that carries deep cultural significance here. Your experience will be led by a local Arhuaco guide and after the community visit the group will sit down together for an included lunch. Your time here fosters cross-cultural understanding but also directly supports the economic and social development of the Katanzama community, ensuring that their traditions continue to thrive for generations to come.Transport - Sit back and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle from the nearby Indigenous community to the group's accommodations just 5-10 minutes away.Free_time - Lounge in a hammock on the hotel property or wander through the grounds admiring the thick green foliage and fragrant plants. The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy as you please.Accommodation - Posada Villa Margarita
Day 5: Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona
Head into Tayrona National Park for a moderate hike with a local guide. This is a perfect opportunity to experience nature and learn a little more about the rich, natural diversity of northern Colombia. Lunch is included during your hike. Afterwards, the group will travel the short distance to our nearby accommodations and spend free time unwinding after a full day of exploring this stunning national park.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch
Exclusive inclusions: 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.Transport - Lace up your hiking boots and get to the next stop under your own power.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - This evening, enjoy the tranquil setting by walking toward the ocean, or relaxing on the property of the hotel.Accommodation - Posada Villa Margarita
Day 6: Tayrona National Park Area / Taganga
In the afternoon, travel from Tayrona to Taganga. Orientation walk with CEO upon arrival.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Take a CEO-led orientation walk of this traditional fishing village and get acquainted with the main sites.Free_time - Soak up the Caribbean feel of this coastal town with some free time. Be sure to indulge in the area's fantastic fresh seafood or hang out in one of the many cafés along the beachAccommodation - Ocean Taganga
Day 7: Taganga/Santa Marta
With a free day at leisure, tour Taganga by foot or don a snorkel and mask and explore the water. This evening, travel to Santa Marta and join your group for an optional evening out on the town.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Take advantage of free time in this coastal town by relaxing on the beach or exploring the waters with a snorkel.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Hotel Tayromar
Day 8: Santa Marta
Relax on the beautiful Caribbean coast in Santa Marta or go further afield to explore.
Use the day to soak up some sun or make any last minute purchases before starting the big trek.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Get out and explore.Accommodation - Hotel Tayromar
Day 9: Santa Marta/Ricardito Camp
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.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: 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 10: Ricardito Camp/Teyuna Paraiso Camp
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.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: 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 11: Paraiso Camp to Mumake Camp
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.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: 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 12: Mumake Camp to Las Cascadas Camp
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.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: 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 13: Santa Marta
In the morning, take in your last views of the jungle as you trek back to Machete Pelao. Transfer to Santa Marta where the rest of the day is yours to relax.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.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 kmAccommodation - Hotel Tayromar
Day 14: Santa Marta
Depart at any time.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Similar Experiences
Tour Operator
G Adventures
G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.
In Business Since 1990
Reviews
Alissa N. - Traveled, July 2024
The Ciudad Perdida Trek was the trip of a lifetime. It's my favorite hike I've done and it is wonderful to show up somewhere so remote and untouched by tourism.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/14/2024
Pauline K. - Traveled, June 2024
Great mix of seeing a lot of places and be active - Lost city trek was definately the highlight
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/06/2024
Andrea H. - Traveled, May 2024
A fun tour, lost city was a real highlight of the trip but it’s hard - heat and humidity play a massive role even if people are physically fit and experienced hikers.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/27/2024
Ronja M. - Traveled, May 2024
First of many more tours to come!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/21/2024
Marianne T. - Traveled, May 2024
It was truly incredible and unforgettable. The people & the experience made me fall in love with Colombia. The encouragement by the CEO & his help truly made it possible for me to complete the trek- especially when I was getting down on myself.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/19/2024
Urs K. - Traveled, April 2024
Hiking was good experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/10/2024
Nicholas B. - Traveled, April 2024
As always, a great way to discover these countries that had not been travelled.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/05/2024
Selina B. - Traveled, March 2024
Very happy with this trip. I felt I received genuine insights into the culture of Colombia. I achieved what I wanted to in the time I had and cannot fault the way Andres lead out tour. Thank you!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/08/2024
Renee E. - Traveled, March 2024
Great Cultural experience, will definitely recommend this tour
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/25/2024
Vicki S. - Traveled, March 2024
Loved my entire adventure! Excellent CEO's who "looked after us" all day, every day. The itinerary was well planned and varied, suited to a variety of personal interests & abilities. Questions and concerns were addressed promptly and efficiently.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/18/2024
Rachel O. - Traveled, February 2024
Great trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/11/2024
Logan Z. - Traveled, February 2024
I’m glad I booked the Columbia and Lost city tour. It was an incredible experience with great people, including an amazing CEO in Rafa. Very glad and grateful I was able to do this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/07/2024
Susan A. - Traveled, February 2024
Colombia is gorgeous. Hugo made it even better. Made me want to go back so much
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/12/2024
Michael L. - Traveled, January 2024
Great guides, amazing sights and experience, good mixture in group, everything of good standard and matched the promise.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/28/2024
Wayne B. - Traveled, January 2024
Relaxing coastal experience. Jungle adventure was great, abundance of food and great variety.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/25/2024
Melanie K. - Traveled, January 2024
Great way to experience and get to know Colombias Carebean Coast
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/21/2024
Laura C. - Traveled, January 2024
Memorable tour with a good mixture of indigenous culture, history, adventure, nature and city sights. I would definitely recommend
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/20/2024
Marco R. - Traveled, January 2024
Amazing experience! A great adventure in a fascinating country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/15/2024
Federica O. - Traveled, January 2024
An amazing tour, great pace a good balance between beach, activities and trek. Definitely recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/14/2024
Karen A. - Traveled, December 2023
Excellent two week trip with another week we added on ourselves. The trek was fantastic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/04/2024
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