Destination Management Company (DMC) in Colombia and Ecuador
  • NATURE & CULTURE
    • COLOMBIA
      • ROUNDTRIPS
        • Best of Colombia / 9 days
        • Colombia’s Luxury Trip / 12 days
        • Colombia’s Highlights & Beyond / 13 days
        • Colombia Family Trip / 14 days
        • Soft Adventure in Colombia / 12 days
      • MULTIPLE COUNTRIES
        • Peru & the Colombian Caribbean Coast / 14 days
      • ADD-ONS (+)
        • Amazonas
        • Caño Cristales (+) / 3 days
        • Caribbean Beaches (+) / 4 days
        • Communitarian Tourism Tours
        • Jardín & Santafe de Antioquía / 4 days
        • La Guajira / 4 days
        • Los Llanos (+) / 4 days
        • Lost City Trek / 6 days
        • Trek to the Ancient City / 6 days
        • Mompox – 3 days
        • Pacific Coast (+) / 4-5 days
        • San Agustín & Popayan / 4 days
        • Santander / 4 days
        • Southern Colombia / 8 days
    • ECUADOR
      • ROUNDTRIPS
        • Best of Ecuador / 9 day
        • Ecuador & Galapagos Family Trip / 15 day
        • Ecuador’s Nature Highlights / 14 day
        • Peru, Ecuador & Galapagos Trip
        • Soft Adventure in Ecuador / 12 days
      • GALAPAGOS ISLAND HOPPING
        • Galapagos: Santa Cruz / 5 day
        • Galapagos: San Cristobal & Santa Cruz / 6 day
        • Galapagos: Santa Cruz & Isabela / 7 day
      • GALAPAGOS CRUISES
        • Galapagos Cruises
      • MULTIPLE COUNTRIES
        • Peru, Ecuador & Galapagos Trip
      • ADD-ONS (+) RAINFOREST
        • Amazon River Cruises (+)
        • Cuyabeno Reserve (+) / 4-5 day
    • PERU
      • ROUNDTRIPS
        • Best of Peru / 8 day
        • Peru’s Luxury Trip / 9 days
        • Peru Family Trip / 15 day
        • Peru for Active Travellers / 19 day
      • MULTIPLE COUNTRIES
        • Peru & Bolivia / 15 days
        • Peru, Ecuador & Galapagos Trip
        • Peru & the Colombian Caribbean Coast / 14 days
      • ADD-ONS (+)
        • Inca Trail / 4 day
        • Jungle tours in Peru / 3 or 4 days
        • Lares Trek / 4 day
        • Machu Picchu, Cusco & Sacred Valley (+) / 5 day
        • Titicaca / 4 day
        • Titicaca – Far from the Crowds / 4 days
        • Tomacaya & Inca Trail / 6 days
        • Uyuni Salt Flats from Peru – Luxury Trip / 4 days
        • Uyuni Salt Flats from Peru / 6 days
        • Salkantay Trek / 5 day
        • Santa Cruz Classic Trek / 6 days
  • SUMMITS
    • COLOMBIA
      • S.N. COCUY
        • Sierra Nevada del Cocuy is currently closed
      • LOS NEVADOS
        • Nevado Santa Isabel Volcano 4965 m / 7 days
        • Tolima Volcano by the Anzoategüi Valley / 11 days
        • Tolima Volcano by Quindio River Valley / 5 days
        • Trek & Climb In The Heart Of Colombia / 16 days
      • ROUNDTRIPS
        • Tropical Snow Peaks Climb & Lost City Trek / 16 days
        • Colombia & Ecuador’s Snowcapped Volcanoes / 16 days
    • ECUADOR
      • VOLCANO SUMMITS
        • Cotopaxi 5897 m / 5 days
        • Chimborazo 6268 m / 7 days
        • Cayambe 5790 m / 5 days
        • South Iliniza 5263 m / 5 days
        • Antisana 5704 m / 7 days
      • ROUNDTRIPS
        • Angamarca Trek & Cotopaxi Volcano / 12 days
        • Highest Summits / 14 days
        • Ecuador’s Tropical Volcanoes / 9 days
        • The Andean Condor’s Trek & Cotopaxi / 10 days
        • Colombia & Ecuador’s Snowcapped Volcanoes / 16 days
        • Ecuador’s Volcanoes / 12 days
    • PERU
      • CORDILLERA BLANCA
        • Classic Summits: Ishinca, Urus & Tocllaraju / 12 days
        • Santa Cruz Trek, Pisco & Chopicalqui / 15 days
      • STAND-ALONE/ADD-ONS
        • Alpamayo 5947 m / 8 days
        • Huascaran 6768 m / 8 days
    • ARGENTINA
      • ACONCAGUA
        • Aconcagua & Vallecitos / 21 days
      • CATAMARCA
        • Ojos del Salado 6893 m / 15 days

      • VENEZUELA
        • GRAN SABANA
          • Angel Falls Tour – Rappel & Trek / 14 days
  • TREKKING
    • COLOMBIA
      • S.N. COCUY
        • Cocuy’s Classic Western Trails / 7 days
      • S.N. SANTA MARTA
        • Lost City Trek / 6 days
        • Trek to the Ancient City / 6 days
      • LOS NEVADOS
        • Trek in Colombia’s Coffee Region / 14 days
        • Coffee Land Traverse / 5 days
        • Echoes of the Andes’ Trek / 4 days
      • LIGHT TREKKING
        • Soft Adventure in Colombia / 12 days
        • Highlight’s hikes in Colombia / 8 days
        • Exploring the Colombian Caribbean / 10 days
        • Walking in Colombia / 17 days
        • Colombia Off-Road / 21 days
    • ECUADOR
      • TREKKING
        • The Andean Condor’s Trek / 10 days
      • LIGHT TREKKING
        • Soft Adventure in Ecuador / 12 days
        • Highlight’s hikes in Ecuador / 9 days
        • Best Hikes in Ecuador / 14 days
        • Off The Beaten Trails in Ecuador / 12 days
    • PERU
      • INCA TRAILS
        • Inca Trail / 4 days
        • Salkantay Trek / 5 days
        • Lares Trek / 4 days
        • Tomacaya & Inca Trail / 6 days
      • CORDILLERA BLANCA
        • Santa Cruz Classic Trek / 6 days
      • CORDILLERA HUAYHUASH
        • Huayhuash Circuit Trek / 17 days
      • COR. VICANOTA-CUSCO
        • Best Trek in the Cuzco area / 15 days
        • Secrets of the Andes: Tomacaya and Inca Trail / 11 days
        • Highlight’s hikes in Peru / 8 days
        • Alternative Inca Trail & Ausangate Trek / 17 days
        • Ausangate Circuit Trek & The Rainbow Mtn / 6 days
      • LIGHT TREKKING
        • Peru for Active Travellers / 19 days
    • ARGENTINA
      • PATAGONIA
        • Patagonia’s Ice Field Trek / 11 days
  • ABOUT
    • OUR SERVICES
    • SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
    • OUR TEAM
    • OUR GUIDES
    • DESTINATIONS MAP
    • WHEN TO TRAVEL
    • FAQ
    • MOUNTANEERING GRADES
    • TREKKING GRADES
  • CONTACT
  • Login
  • Click to open the search input field Click to open the search input field Search
  • Menu Menu
You are here: Home1 / TREKKING2 / TREKKING COLOMBIA3 / Colombia Off-Road

Colombia Off-Road

COL-26 LT / 21-day trip / Grade: T3

Culture: Bogotá, Salento, Cocora Valley, Riohacha, La Guajira, Buritaca & Cartagena
Light Trekking: Los Nevados National Park & Trek to the Lost City

Colombia Off-Road 2
OVERVIEW

Colombia Off-road is one of the most complete active programs we have on our portfolio. It combines both, adventure and culture, while visiting place on and off-the-beaten track. This itinerary takes through different ecosystems: from a trek in the Andean highlands at the foot of the snowcapped volcanoes, down to 4-Wheel drive over the dry deserts of the Guajira peninsula, to the humid jungles of the Lost City trek. Covering also the cultural icon like the coffee area, Caribbean beaches and ending at the historical city of Cartagena de Indias.

Trip’s highlights:

– 5-day trek in Los Nevados National Park on the central Andes range. In addition to the trek, the coffee culture enriches the experience and can be enjoyed in the town of Salento, right in the heart of Colombia’s traditional coffee area.

– 3-day trip to the northernmost point in South America: Punta Gallinas located in the Guajira peninsula, where the amazing sand dunes beaches meet the sea. On top of that, the cultural experience to see the Wayuu indigenous group’s way of life.

– 4-day trek to La Ciudad Perdida of the Tayronas, known as “The Lost City”, one of the best restored and preserved archeological sites in the country. It is located in the Buritaca valley in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the highest costal range in the world.

– Tayrona National Park: Visit to the famous Tayrona park with an alternative program visiting the Kogi settlement of Tayku and learning about an ancient way of life, before hiking down to Cabo San Juan and follow the coastline trail enjoying some of Colombia’s best beaches.

– Cartagena de Indias. To end this amazing program, a cultural visit to the historical fortified city of Cartagena de Indias.

– All services are in private basis and of the best available quality, according to the area and possibilities.

Do not miss it!


Day 1Arrival in Bogotá
Day 2Bogotá – City tour
Day 3Trekking: Chingaza National Park – Trek to Siecha Lakes (3620 m)
Day 4Bogotá – Ibague – Anzoategüi – Palomar (2900 m)
Day 5Trekking: “Vancouver” farm (3630 m)
Day 6Trekking: “Cañon” campsite & Hot springs (3964 m)
Day 7Trekking: “Primavera/La Playa” farm (3769 m)
Day 8Trekking: Salento (1919 m) by the Cardenas valley
Day 9Salento (1919 m) – Coffee tour
Day 10Flight: Armenia/Pereira – Riohacha via Bogotá
Day 11Punta Gallinas – the Northernmost point of South America
Day 12Cabo de la Vela
Day 13Cabo de la Vela – Tayrona National Park
Day 14Tayrona National Park: Tayku Kogi settlement & hike along the park’s coastline
Day 15Lost City – Trekking: “Donde Adan” lodge (480 m)
Day 16Trekking: “Paso Lorenzo” lodge (806 m)
Day 17Trekking: Lost City (1175 m)
Day 18Trekking: El Mamey (150 m) – Santa Marta
Day 19Santa Marta – Cartagena
Day 20Cartagena – Half-day city tour
Day 21Cartagena – Bogotá Airport

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR VISITING LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL PARK:

In accordance with park regulations, Los Nevados National Park closes to visitors four times a year during the following periods:

* Easter Week: The week immediately after Easter, from Monday to Friday.
* May: From the third Monday of May until that Friday.
* September: From the fourth Monday of September until that Friday.
* November: From the fourth Monday of November until that Friday.

If you are planning your trip around these dates, please check with us in advance, as the exact closure dates may vary each year.


IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE LOST CITY TREK:

Yearly closures:

– The Lost City trek closes once a year for Indigenous religious ceremonies. This usually occurs in September and typically lasts for the entire month.

If you are planning your trip around this time of year, please contact us to confirm the exact restricted dates, as they may vary slightly from one year to the next.

– This itinerary reflects the standard program but may be subject to change due to weather conditions and/or force majeure events.


IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE VISIT TO TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK:

Due to regulations established by local Indigenous communities, Tayrona National Park will be closed three times a year during the following periods:

* February 1st to 15th
* June 1st to 15th
* October 19th to November 2nd 

If you are planning your trip around these dates, please check with us to confirm the park closure, as the exact dates may vary from year to year

ITINERARY
Day 1

Arrival in Bogotá
Arrival at Bogotá Airport and private transport to your hotel.

Day 2

Bogotá City tour: Historical downtown, Gold Museum & Monserrate
Full-day private city tour to the historic part of Bogotá. After breakfast, enjoy the historic center of the city on foot. You are right in the middle of the charming colonial area known as La Candelaria, and you will visit the world famous gold museum, the Plaza Bolivar and go by cable car to the Monserrate Sanctuary, at an altitude of 3152 m, overlooking the city. A quick visit to the museum of the famous Colombian artist Botero is also an option. Duration 6-7 hours.
Included meals: Breakfast

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR BOGOTÁ CITY TOUR:

– The Gold Museum is closed every Monday, including Mondays that fall on a holiday.

– The Botero Museum is closed every Tuesday.

Day 3

Trekking: Chingaza National Park – Trek to Siecha Lakes (3620 m)
An early drive to the entrance of the National Park in Guasca (3150 m), which will take roughly 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Upon registration, the team will commence the hike to the Siecha Lakes. The hike ascends through the Andean highland, known as the “paramo,” with its characteristic flora and fauna. First, we will pass by the National Park’s Paso Hondo Refuge, then ascend to the first of the lakes known as De Los Patos Lake. Next is Guasca Lake, and finally, the sacred Siecha Lake (3620 m). This last lake is where the Muisca indigenous ancestors practiced the legend of El Dorado, covering their bodies with gold dust to bathe and offer it to the lake and Mother Earth.

After the hike, we will drive back to Bogotá.

Ascent: 470 m / Descent: 470 m / Highest Altitude: 3620 m / Distance: 5.18 km one-way / Activity duration: 5-6 hours
Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic

LOS NEVADOS TREK
Day 4

Bogotá – Ibague – Anzoategüi – Palomar (2900 m)
Departure from Bogota early in the morning for a road trip descending from the Eastern Andes Cordillera into the Magdalena River Valley. It’s a very scenic mountain road where we can experience the change in vegetation and temperature as we descend in altitude. The Magdalena River is the country’s main river and historically served as the most important fluvial connection between the Caribbean coast and the Andes.

We’ll drive southwards, following the western margin of the river until reaching the city of Ibague, the capital of Tolima state. From here, it’s an 80 km transfer to the town of Anzoategüi via a paved road, followed by a 24 km stretch on a dirt road to El Palomar (2900 m). The entire journey takes approximately 6 hours. The team will stay at El Palomar rural Posada in shared dormitories for the night.
Night in shared dormitories.
Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner

Day 5

Trekking: “Vancouver” farm (3630 m)
Departure from “El Palomar”, taking a well-marked trail that starts at a place called: La Punta and it progressively gains altitude through the Andean highlands (Paramos). After 3,5 hours we’ll reach La Bombona Lake, very nice spot where we’ll have our lunch and a good break before the last section up to Vancouver Farm.

The second part of the hike continues over the humid “Paramo” vegetation until “Vancouver” farm (3630 m). Located in a shallow valley and a great view to Tolima volcano, it offers a nice dry place to stay.
Night in shared dormitories.
Ascent: 767 m / Descend: 286 m / Highest altitude: 3700 m / Distance: 10 Km / Activity duration: 6-7 h
Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR VISITING LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL PARK:

In accordance with park regulations, Los Nevados National Park closes to visitors four times a year during the following periods:

* Easter Week: The week immediately after Easter, from Monday to Friday.
* May: From the third Monday of May until that Friday.
* September: From the fourth Monday of September until that Friday.
* November: From the fourth Monday of November until that Friday.

If you are planning your trip around these dates, please check with us in advance, as the exact closure dates may vary each year.

Day 6

Trekking: “Cañon” campsite & Hot springs (3964 m)
Today’s hike is not as long as the one the day before, but it is though in acclimatization terms, to have a moderate altitude gain and boost the acclimatization before moving to the high camp.

The hike continues over the “Paramo”, moving westwards, heading towards the eastern flank of the volcano. It takes about 5 hours to cover the distance and the idea, is to reach the next camp “Cañon” (4000 m) around noon. Lunch will be served and the campsite setup.
This campsite has its own hot springs, which can be enjoyed and, if the weather is clear, a panoramic view to the Tolima Volcano.

For the active hiker, an additional short hike that can be done before leaving “Vancouver” farm and it is an ascent to Cerro Gabillo peak (3978 m), located close to the farm. The ascent will take about 2 hours depending on client’s physical shape and acclimatization.

Night in tents.
Ascent 411 m / Descend: 77 m / Highest Altitude: 3964 m / Distance: 8 Km / Activity duration: 5 h (With Cerro Gabillo Peak it will be 7 hours in all and 2,6 Km. more)

Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner

Day 7

Trekking: “La Primavera” farm (3769 m)
The group will leave in the morning, hiking up El Placer valley, which presents a gentle ascent and offers a very pleasant hike with enjoyable landscapes and views of both the volcanoes and the valleys below. After a few hours, they will reach “El Encanto Lake” (4026 m), a perfect spot for a lunch break. Then, the trail will start descending towards the wide valley that leads to the next destination, “La Primavera” farm (3769 m), where the team will stay.
Night in shared dormitories.
Ascent: 64 m / Descend: 257 m / Highest Altitude: 4026 m / Distance: 13,25 Km / Activity duration: 6-7 h
Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner

Day 8

Trekking: Salento (1919 m) by the Cardenas valley
Last day in the mountains! Leaving after breakfast back up to “La Linea” mountain pass (4019 m) and descending to the Quindio river (3804 m), after crossing a short ascent to the abandoned “Buenos Aires” farm. After about an hours, the “La Argentina” farm will come into view. Descent through beautiful landscapes and rainforest, making a semi-circular ascent ending the trail at the famous Cocora Valley, an spectacular valley located at 2425 meters adorn with Colombia’s national tree: The Wax Palm. Once in the Cocora Valley, the group will be picked up and transferred to the lovely town of Salento, by the traditional Willies jeeps (25 min.) that are a symbol of the coffee area´s coffee culture. Upon arrival in Salento, the group will be taken to a hotel located in the colonial part of the town. There will be good time to enjoy the town and drink some of Colombia’s best coffee!
Night in hotel.
Ascent: 250 m / Descent: 1594 m / Highest Altitude: 4019 m / Distance 16,5 Km / Activity duration: 6-8 h
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9

Salento (1919 m) – Coffee tour
After a well-deserved rest and an easygoing morning, the group will have a coffee tour in one of the traditional coffee farms of the area. The coffee tour shows the entire coffee production from the seed to the final product. It also includes a very pedagogic coffee tasting to learn about the different types and qualities of the local coffee. Lunch will be at one of Salento’s typical restaurants and then there will be some free time to enjoy this lay back town and the wide offer of handy-crafts and local products.
For the active traveller, there are plenty of extra tours options like “La Kasa” botanical tour guided by experts in the fauna and flora, horse back riding itineraries, mountain biking routes, between so many others.
Night in hotel.
Included meals: Breakfast

LA GUAJIRA
Day 10

Flight: Armenia/Pereira – Riohacha via Bogotá
After breakfast, pick-up and transfer (1 h) to Armenia/Pereira’s airport. Domestic flight to Riohacha (3 h) via Bogotá. Transfer to the hotel in Riohacha, and in the afternoon, enjoy a pleasant walk along the seaside promenade, where many Wayuu Indigenous people will be working on their handicrafts while you take in the Caribbean sunset.
Included meals: Breakfast

Day 11

Punta Gallinas – the Northernmost point of South America
With a name that does relate much to the place (Chicken point), it is definitely one of the most unique spots in the country. Located in the upper most point of Colombia and the South American continent, Punta Gallinas offer some of the most amazing beaches to be found along the Caribbean coast. Punta Gallinas, originally a lighthouse, now in ruins is 3-4 hours drive Riohacha. To get there, first a good road “Cuatro Caminos” a 4 roads intersection in the middle of nowhere and then north by the main road, passing in the distance Uribia, the Wayuu capital and also named the Indigenous capital of Colombia. After about 1,5 hours drive, the tour goes into the Colombian “outback” driving over a desert with only 4-wheel drive’s tracks to the followed. The landscapes get wilder and, the indigenous families living out there, have a hard daily life. During the roadtrip two bays will be passed: the Bahia Ondita y Bahia Onda, with amazing landscapes, open skies and colorful sand beaches. After 2 hours drive in this remote land, the sand dunes of Taroa will be reached. This is the highlight of this area, a place just our of a story, nothing to relate Colombia a tropical country with. The yellow sands falling down the hill into the roaring sea. Sunset here is a must and an experience of a life time.
Punta Gallinas, where the ruins are, has a nice beach with an incredible turquoise sea and the view into an endless ocean! By the way….you are not very likely to be surrounded by many people, if any at all!
The night will be spend in a local home-stay build and run by the local Wayuus, also part of the trip’s experience.
Night in rustic lodge
Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner

Day 12

Cabo la Vela
Morning visit to enjoy the beautiful beach of “Punta Aguja”, there is the optional boat ride to Hondita Bay to spot pink flamingos (this tour is not included, but can be ordered the night before). After lunch, departure from Punta Gallina crossing once again La Alta Guajira’s deserts, until the Cerrejon Railroad (Cerrejon is the biggest open sky coal mine in the country), from where the road to Cabo la Vela starts. The last section, is more inhabited that the desert up North, and here lies one of the only windmill parks in the country.
A 2-3 hours desert road trip from Punta Gallinas is what it takes to get down to El Cabo de la Vela, located on the Wester coast of the Guajira peninsula, South from Punta Gallinas. It has a some best beaches, very little visited, only crowded during the Colombian holidays. Otherwise, an idyllic spot to relax and enjoy the nature. The place is great to get lost in the many bays, desert trails and also exploring the local cuisine and traditions. The place is inhabited by the Wayuu indigenous group and it is possible to sea the traditional fishermen work, bringing the sea harvest a shore in the early mornings.
El Cabo is also very popular for those into kite surfing, its permanent wind currents make it ideal for this sport. For those interested, it is possible to take a short course or rent the gear (not included).
Again taking a walk up to “El Cabo” lighthouse to enjoy the sunset, it is a must.
Night in rustic lodge.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13

Cabo de la Vela – Tayrona National Park
After breakfast, a short trip to visit the beautiful and famous beaches “Pilon de Azucar” or “Ojo del Agua”. There will be time to enjoy the water and landscapes, before starting the trip back down to Riohacha after a nice local lunch. The road trip follows the desert, if dry, over a salt flat and then close to the railroad until cuatro Caminos, from there a short 1,5-2 hours to Riohacha and then ” La troncal del Caribe” highway will cross the Souther Guajira and down to Magdalena State. The Tayrona National Park lies about 2 hour from the state border, where the lodge is located. Afternoon free to enjoy the lodge.
Night at lodge.
Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic

Day 14

Tayrona National Park: Tayku Kogi settlement & hike along the park’s coastline
Full-day tour to the Tayrona National Park. This is one of the most famous natural parks in Colombia with some of the most beautiful beaches of the Colombian Caribbean coast, right at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world´s highest coastal mountain range. The park has a protected area of 150 km2 of land and 30 Km2 of sea, being the second most visited park in the country. Due to its privilege location, there is a huge biodiversity and also archeological ruins scattered around.

Early pick up and drive to the town of Calabazo (145 m), our entry point to the park. Our trail immerses us in the tropical forest, offering glimpses of the local fauna and flora. After approximately an hour and a half, we reach the village of Tayku, a small settlement inhabited by Kogui families, one of the four indigenous groups residing in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Upon arrival, we engage in a tour led by an Indigenous Kogi member, exploring their community, including the ceremonial house, observing their crops, and witnessing the traditional process of obtaining fique for crafting their backpacks. Subsequently, the MAMO (Highest Authority of the community) welcomes us to share insights into their customs and engage in a brief cultural exchange.
Once our interaction in the village concludes, we trek back to Cabo San Juan beach, an approximately two-and-a-half-hour walk, passing through the Boca del Saco area before reaching the beach. Here, we have the option to enjoy lunch and relax on the beach for a while.
Continuing our journey along the coastal paths of the Park, we visit La Piscina Natural, named for its coral barrier that allows us to observe the area’s marine life and take a dip. We proceed to a beach known as Arenillas and finally reach the Arrecifes. After approximately two hours, we arrive at the Canaveral sector, where our vehicle awaits to transport us back to our hotel.
Ascend: 388 m / Descend: 443 m / Distance: 14,87 Km / Activity duration: 7-8 h
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE VISIT TO TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK:

Due to regulations established by local Indigenous communities, Tayrona National Park will be closed three times a year during the following periods:

* February 1st to 15th
* June 1st to 15th
* October 19th to November 2nd 

If you are planning your trip around these dates, please check with us to confirm the park closure, as the exact dates may vary from year to year

LOST CITY TREK
Day 15

Lost City – Trekking: “Donde Adan” lodge (480 m)
The Lost City Trek is one of Colombia’s most iconic and unforgettable adventures. Nestled deep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains, this multi-day hike takes travelers through lush rainforests, pristine rivers, and remote Indigenous villages to reach Ciudad Perdida—an ancient archaeological site older than Machu Picchu. Built by the Tayrona civilization around the 9th century, the Lost City features stone terraces, ceremonial plazas, and breathtaking views.

Morning pick-up at the hotel and transfer in 4WD vehicles, driving northeast along the Caribbean coast. After 1 to 1.5 hours, we leave the paved road—and this is where the adventure begins! After approximately a 1-hour drive on a dirt road through a beautiful landscape, we reach the village of El Mamey (150 m), also known as Machete Pelado. Lunch will be served upon arrival, and then the hike to Ciudad Perdida begins.

This day’s hike is exposed to the sun or rain, so it is important to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Tropical fruits will be offered along the trek. The group will follow the river trail, which is a more pleasant walk than the main road. This path follows the Quebrada del Alto Mamey river valley for about one hour and then ascends steeply (1.5 hours) to El Mirador pass (640 m), which offers a fantastic view over the town of Mamey and the Buritaca River.

From this point, the trail descends steadily (1.5 hours) to the Quebrada Honduras river, where Donde Adán lodge is located. It is possible to take a refreshing swim in a beautiful natural river pool near the lodge. Dinner will be served in this rustic accommodation.

Overnight in hammocks or bunk beds.

Ascent: 490 m / Descend: 160 m / Highest altitude: 640 m / Distance: 8,9 Km / Activity duration: 4 h
Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE LOST CITY TREK:

Yearly closures:

– The Lost City trek closes once a year for Indigenous religious ceremonies. This usually occurs in September and typically lasts for the entire month.

If you are planning your trip around this time of year, please contact us to confirm the exact restricted dates, as they may vary slightly from one year to the next.

– This itinerary reflects the standard program but may be subject to change due to weather conditions and/or force majeure events.

Day 16

Trekking: “Paso Lorenzo” lodge (806 m)
This is the longest day of the Lost City trek. After an early breakfast, the ascent begins immediately, following a well-marked trail that gently gains elevation up to the Mumake Pass (680 m). Before reaching the pass, hikers will cross an invisible border between the lands of the Colonos (peasants not originally from the area) and the territory of the Kogi (an Indigenous people). From this point onward, the trek continues through an area protected and governed by this tribe.

The region is also home to Wiwa communities—Indigenous people originally from another part of the Sierra—who have since settled in these valleys and now operate some of the local lodges. A noticeable shift occurs here: expansive farmland gives way to a more pristine and less exploited environment.

From the pass, the trail descends quickly into the Buritaca River valley (430 m), where the trek’s only Kogi settlement, Montangi, is located. This is a great opportunity to observe and appreciate local traditions and ways of life.

After about an hour, a hanging bridge crosses the river, leading to a second ascent (approx. 2 hours) up to Koskunguena Pass (824 m), before descending again to the Buritaca River (743 m), and finally reaching the rustic lodge Paso Lorenzo (806 m), where you’ll spend the night. This lodge, located beside the river, is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a refreshing swim.

Overnight in hammocks or bunk beds.

To Mumake pass: Ascent: 200 m / Descend: 250 m / Highest altitude: 680 m
To Koskunguena pass: Ascent: 394 m / Descend to Buritaca River: 77 m / Highest altitude: 824 m / Distance in all: 12.94 Km / Activity duration: 6 h
Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner

Day 17

Trekking: Lost City (1175 m)
We depart very early, continuing along the same trail, crossing and following the banks of the Buritaca River for about 40 minutes until we reach a second crossing. Once on the other side, the ascent begins along a steep stone path, leading to the first terraces of the Lost City (1,175 m).

From this point, a journey through time begins, taking us to one of the most fascinating archaeological sites from Colombia’s pre-Hispanic era. The Lost City of the Tayronas—originally known as Teyuna—is internationally renowned and is one of the three great citadels of the vanished Tayrona civilization. Teyuna is the only one discovered so far, and thus the only one partially restored.

The Tayrona cities were connected through an intricate network of roads, linking the Caribbean coast with the high mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The Tayrona had a highly developed social structure and an efficient system for exchanging products and goods among settlements.

Although there is no definitive information about the specific role of Teyuna in Tayrona society, it is believed to have been both a religious sanctuary and a political center. During the 3-hour visit to the archaeological complex, you will explore different types of terraces and how their placement reflected social hierarchy and designated functions.

During the visit, it is also possible to see the house of a Mamo Kogi (shaman), who continues to preserve his people’s traditions and cosmology.

After the visit, the hike continues to the “El Paraíso” lodge for lunch, and then resumes (4 hours), following the same trail as the previous day but continuing further. You’ll cross a suspension bridge and descend through the Buritaca River valley, passing once again through the Kogui settlement of “Montangi” before reaching the “Mumake” lodge (389 m), located at the foot of the Mumake Pass. Overnight in hammocks.

Overnight in hammocks or bunk beds.

To Lost City: Ascent: 369 m / Descend back to lodge: 369 m / Highest altitude: 1175 m / Distance one-way: 2,4 Km / Activity duration: 5 hours including a 2 hours visit.
Ascent to Koskunguena pass: 77 m / Descend to “Mumake” lodge: 481 m / Highest altitude: 870 m / Distance one-way: 7,64 Km / Activity duration: 4 h
Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner

Day 18

Trekking: El Mamey (150 m) – Santa Marta
Last trekking day! From “Mumake” lodge (389 m), the ascent being right from the front step, leading up to “Mumake” pass (680 M) and after descending to “Quebrada Honduras” river to ascent (1,5 h) to the last pass: “EL Mirador” (640 m) and then to the final destination “El Mamey” town (150 m). Upon arrival there will be lunch and then a transfer to hotel in Santa Marta (2-2,5 h).
Night in hotel.
Ascent to Mumake pass: 291 m / Descend to “Donde Adan” lodge: 200 m / Ascent to El Mirador pass: 160 m / Descend: 490 m / Highest altitude: 680 m / Distance: 14,2 Km / Activity duration: 4-5 h
Included meals: Breakfast, Picnic

Day 19

Santa Marta – Cartagena
Morning transfer (5-6) to Cartagena, by the Troncal del Caribe (Caribbean Highway), passing by the city of Barranquilla and the impressing Salamanca National Park. Upon arrival in Cartagena, transfer to a hotel located in side the historical city. In the late afternoon or early evening, enjoy a city walk in the old town of Cartagena with private guide. During this walk you will get familiar with the architecture and the history of the old town and you will visit the main squares and buildings. There will be plenty of photo opportunities and you will also appreciate the beautiful evening illumination of this romantic city.
Night in hotel.
Included meals: Breakfast

Day 20

Cartagena & city tour
In the morning, you will continue to explore historic Cartagena by visiting the San Felipe Fortress, the most technically advanced military building during Spanish colonial times, as well as the old “Popa” Monastery where you will have a wonderful view of the city. Between these two places, visit the popular marketplace of Bazurto, where fruits, vegetables and fish are traded by the locals, most of them descendants of the slaves of the colonial times. Cartagena is perhaps Colombia’s most beautiful and interesting town. It was founded in 1533 and during the colonial period, was the main Spanish port on the Caribbean coast and primary gateway to South America to receive slaves and to send treasures to Europe.
In the evening there will be free time for shopping, and perhaps to enjoy a drink on the old fortress walls, overlooking the sunset on the Caribbean. 
Activity duration: City tour – 4 h
Included meals: Breakfast

Day 21

Cartagena – Bogotá Airport
Transfer from  Cartagena to Bogotá Airport for international connection (1 hr).
Included meals: Breakfast

PRICING
COL-26-LT – To request prices, please click on the BOOK TRIP bottom on the right sidebar and fill the information.


INCLUDED

  • Local English speaking mountain guide from day 4 to 8 from 2 to 6 PAX
  • Local English speaking AWT mountain guide from day 4 to 8 from 7 PAX on
  • Local assistant mountain guide from 4 people
  • Local English speaking AWT mountain/cultural guide during the entire program from 7 PAX
  • Local Spanish speaking cultural guide in la Guajira from day 11 to 13 from 2 to 6 PAX
  • Local Spanish speaking (basic English) trekking guide from day 15 to 18 from 2 to 6 PAX
  • Private transport during the entire program
  • Los Nevados National Park entrance fee
  • City tour in Bogota with English speaking and entrance fees
  • Chingaza National Park tour with English speaking guide and entrance fees
  • La Guajira tour on SHARED basis from day 11 to 13
  • Tayrona National Park tour and visit to Tayku settlement with English speaking guide
  • City tour in Cartagena with English speaking guide and entrance fees
  • 3 nights in shared double room in Bogotá
  • 2 nights in shared double room in Salento
  • 1 night in shared double room in Riohacha
  • 1 night in shared double room in rustic lodge in Punta Gallinas
  • 1 night in shared double room in rustic lodge in Cabo de la Vela
  • 2 nights in shared double room at Tayrona’s Lodge
  • 1 night in shared double room in Santa Marta
  • 2 nights in shared double room in Cartagena
  • 3 nights in hammocks or mattresses for the Lost City trek (mattresses according to availability)
  • 3 nights in shared dormitories at mountain farms in Los Nevados
  • 1 night in shared tents at campsites in Los Nevados
  • Quality mountain tents – 2 pax per tent
  • Group common campsite equipment
  • Mules for group/personal campsite equipment in Los Nevados, food and pax personal gear (Packing and weight allowance – Information will be sent)
  • Pack animal during the Lost City trek for groups from 7 PAX
  • Meals as specified in the day to day itinerary

NOT INCLUDED

  • Domestic and international flights
  • Separate airport transfers in case of multiple arrival/departures
  • English speaking guide during La Guajira tour for groups between 2 to 6 PAX
  • Pack animal during Lost City trek for groups between 2 to 6 PAX
  • Personal gear
  • Camping gear
  • Insurance
  • Tips
  • Everything not mentioned in the “Included” list
HOTEL LIST

BOGOTÁ: Hotel Opera  or similar

PARQUE NACIONAL LOS NEVADOS:

Finca La Cabaña – Palomar or similar
Finca Vancouver (no website) or similar
Cañon Camping site (no website) or similar
Finca La Primavera/La Playa (no website) or similar

SALENTO: Hotel Salento Plaza or similar

RIOHACHA: Hotel Gimaura or similar

LA GUAJIRA PENINSULA:

Lodge in Punta Gallinas: Hospedaje Alexandra or similar
Lodge in Cabo de la Vela: Rancheria Utta or Rancheria Apalanchii or similar

TAYRONA N.P. – LODGE: Yachay Eco Hotel or similar

SIERRA NEVADA DE SANTA MARTA – LOST CITY TREK:

Lodge: Donde Adan (no website) or similar
Lodge: Paso Lorenzo (no website) or similar
Lodge: Mumake (no website) or similar

SANTA MARTA: Hotel Casa Carolina or similar

CARTAGENA: Hotel Casa del Curato or similar

MAPS

Overview:


Los Nevados:


La Guajira:


Lost City Trek:

GALLERY
Panoramic view from Monserrate sanctuary down to Bogota's downtown (photo: Christian Frimodt-Møller)
Vancouver Lakes (photo: Cristian Alarcon)
Cañon Campsite & Ruiz Volcano in the background (photo: Cristian Alarcon)
Tolima volcano from Finca La Primavera (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
Hiker on the highlands before starting to descend by Estrella de Agua trail (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
Tara beach's sand dunes in Alta Guajira (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
Bahia Honda in Alta Guajira (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
Wayuu family (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
Sunset in Cabo de La Vela (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
Tayrona National Park (photo: Mette)
Sunset at Arrecife in Tayrona National Park (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
Visitor on Lost CIty's main terraces (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
Lost City's main terraces (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
Busy Cartagena's historical fortified city (photo: Christian Frimodt-Møller)
Modern Cartagena's Boca Grande area seen from San Felipe fortress (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
Tags: Colombia, Light Trekking, Cartagena, Coffee Area, Lost City, Bogotá, Los Nevados, Cocora, Salento, T3, Punta Gallinas, Cabo de la Vela, La Guajira, Buritaca, National Park, Lost City Trek, Ibague, Anzoategüi, Tayku

BOOK TRIP

COLOMBIA TREKS


COCUY

  • SN Cocuy: Classic Western trails
    Cocuy’s Classic Western TrailsJuly 24, 2018 - 10:16 am

    COL-83 / 7 days / T2-3


SN SANTA MARTA

  • Panoramic view of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta' Snow-capped Summits (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
    Trek to the Ancient City – Into the Heart of the SierraJune 25, 2025 - 11:16 am

    COL-06 / 6 days / T2

  • Lost City Trek 1
    Lost City Trek – Indigenous Culture in the Sierra NevadaMay 26, 2015 - 3:57 pm

    COL-80a-LT / 6 days / T2


LOS NEVADOS

  • Wax palm forest at La Carbonera (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
    Trek in Colombia’s Coffee RegionDecember 11, 2025 - 7:00 am

    COL-39 / 14 days / T2-3

  • Gallegos´Ridge and Tochecito Valley below (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
    Coffee Land TraverseApril 1, 2025 - 9:23 am

    COL-89b / 5 days / T2-3

  • Coffee Land Traverse 2
    Echoes of the Andes TrekMarch 19, 2025 - 4:48 am

    COL-89a / 4 days / T2


LIGHT TREKKING

  • Siecha Lake (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
    Highlight’s hikes in ColombiaJune 3, 2025 - 6:27 am

    COL-51 / 8 days / T2

  • COL RCC SNSM CiudadPerdida JCG 529 crop 1748615545
    Soft Adventure in ColombiaMay 29, 2025 - 12:28 pm

    COL-49 / 12 days / T2

  • Colombia Off-Road 2
    Colombia Off-RoadDecember 15, 2023 - 10:29 am

    COL-26-LT / 21 days / T3

  • Alta Guajira (photo: Juan Carlos Gonzalez)
    Exploring the Colombian CaribbeanMay 26, 2015 - 2:34 pm

    COL-50-LT / 10 days / T2

  • Walking in Colombia 2
    Walking in ColombiaMay 21, 2015 - 10:05 am

    COL-24-LT / 16 days / T2


WHEN TO TRAVEL

Best period: Nov. 15 to end March
Changeable: March to April & June to mid-Sept.
Not recommended: April to May & mid-Sept. to mid-Nov.
Note:The Lost City Trek can be done all year, but there is a month closed for maintenance, please check with us the exact dates


    BOOK THIS TRIP


    WRITE US:info@andesworldtravel.com

    CALL US:+57-3173658546 (WhatsApp available)

    ABOUT

    • OUR SERVICES
    • SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
    • OUR TEAM
    • OUR GUIDES
    • DESTINATIONS MAP
    • WHEN TO TRAVEL
    • FAQ
    • CONTACT

    PROGRAMS

    • NATURE & CULTURE
    • SUMMITS
    • TREKKING

    FOLLOW US

    Copyright © 2025 Andes World Travel is a Destination Management Company (DMC) in Colombia, DMC Ecuador & DMC Peru - Tour operator and travel agency for Trekking, Hiking and Climbing in Colombia, Galapagos Island tours, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, & Venezuela. - SEO by Diseño tiendas virtuales
    • Link to Facebook
    Link to: Trek & Climb In The Heart Of Colombia Link to: Trek & Climb In The Heart Of Colombia Trek & Climb In The Heart Of ColombiaTrek & Climb in Los Nevados 3Link to: Ecuador’s Volcanoes Link to: Ecuador’s Volcanoes Ecuador's VolcanoesEcuador’s Volcanoes
    Scroll to top Scroll to top Scroll to top

    This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

    OK

    Cookie and Privacy Settings



    How we use cookies

    We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.

    Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.

    Essential Website Cookies

    These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.

    Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.

    We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.

    We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.

    Google Analytics Cookies

    These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.

    If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:

    Other external services

    We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.

    Google Webfont Settings:

    Google Map Settings:

    Google reCaptcha Settings:

    Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:

    Other cookies

    The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:

    Accept settingsHide notification only
    WhatsApp
    Hello
    How can we help you? / Hola ¿cómo podemos ayudarte?
    Open chat
    Powered by Joinchat