The Lost City Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that attracts trekkers worldwide to explore the ancient ruins of Teyuna, hidden deep within the Sierra Nevada mountains of Colombia. While the trek is an incredible adventure, safety is often a primary concern for potential travelers.
This guide will explore the key safety factors you should know about the Lost City Trek. From understanding the historical context of violence in the area to practical advice on trail conditions, wildlife encounters, and personal safety, this article will help you prepare for a safe and memorable trek.
Background: The Lost City Trek
Ready for an incredible adventure? Trekking to the Lost City isn’t just a regular hike. We’re going to discover the ancient ruins of Teyuna. This city was built around 800 AD! The first people to make it were the Tayrona tribe. They had an advanced civilization in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The Lost City was hidden in the jungle for hundreds of years. It wasn’t rediscovered until 1972. The guys who found it? They were bird hunting! From then on, many people got curious about the history of this mysterious city.
For the indigenous tribes who still live around here (the Kogui, Wiwa, Arhuaco, and Kankuamo), the Lost City is a sacred place. They believe it’s the heart of the earth. So, besides seeing the ruins, we can also learn a lot about their unique culture that’s still preserved today. This trek combines history, culture, and Colombia’s exceptional natural beauty!
Safety on the Trek: What to Know
Violence: The Past and Present
Back in the day, trekking to the Lost City had some worries about safety. In the early 2000s, there were incidents of tourist kidnappings. But don’t worry! The situation is much different now.
Colombia has worked hard to make tourist spots safe, including the Lost City trail. Since 2005, there have been a lot of positive changes. Now, there are soldiers constantly patrolling the entire trail. They’re ready to help if anything happens. The government also has special emergency response teams.
Even though the past had some rough stories, it’s much safer for us to trek now. But still, we need to keep updated on the latest safety info and follow advice from our home countries. Staying in touch with your tour operator is also important to get the freshest information.
Theft: How to Protect Your Valuables
Besides the violence issue, sometimes there are small things like petty theft, especially when staying overnight at campsites. The risk is small, but we still need to be careful, especially since we’re in a place far from everything.
Here are some tips to keep our belongings safe during the trek:
Lock your bags: Use backpacks that can be locked. Keep your valuables inside and always locked.
Bring only essentials: Don’t bring expensive jewelry or unnecessary items. Just leave them at your accommodation before the trek.
Use a money belt: To store money and important documents, use a money belt that you keep under your clothes. It’s safer!
Stay alert: Pay attention to your surroundings. Don’t leave your things unattended.
Simple, right? If we follow these tips, God willing, our trek will be safe and peaceful. precautions can minimize the risk of theft and allow you to enjoy your trek with peace of mind.
Trail Conditions: Navigating the Terrain
Trekking to the Lost City isn’t like a leisurely walk in the park, okay? The trails are often muddy, rocky, and uneven. So, the risk of sprains or slips is there. The terrain is also pretty challenging, especially during the rainy season.
To keep us safe on the trail, follow these tips:
Wear the right shoes: Strong hiking boots that cover your ankles are necessary! So you don’t get injured easily.
Go with a guide: Never walk alone! Guides are experienced, know the terrain, and can help with difficulties.
Watch your step: Pay attention to every step. Especially near rivers or steep and slippery paths.
Keep drinking: Trekking causes dehydration. Bring enough water and keep drinking so your body stays fit.
Food Safety: Staying Healthy on the Trek
Sometimes we worry about food when we’re in a remote place like this. When trekking to the Lost City, the tour operator usually prepares meals. But we also need to be careful. Hygiene standards can vary depending on the cooking facilities.
To keep our stomachs safe during the trek, follow these tips:
Eat cooked food: Avoid raw fruits or vegetables unless you can peel them yourself.
Bring snacks: Prepare your snacks like nuts or protein bars to add energy on the way.
Bring water purification tablets: If you doubt the water quality, it’s better to use purification tablets to avoid stomach problems.
Maintaining food hygiene is essential to staying healthy and enjoying the trek.
Animals: Wildlife on the Trek
The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta area is rich in wildlife. Sometimes we can see jaguars, ocelots, or venomous snakes. It’s rare to encounter them, but we must still be careful when walking in the jungle.
To stay safe from wild animals:
Stay on the trail: Don’t go off the marked trails to avoid accidentally running into wild animals.
Be aware of snakes: Watch out for snakes on the path, especially in the morning and evening when they are most active.
Respect wildlife: Don’t get close, let alone feed them.
Most animals aren’t aggressive but can be dangerous if we disturb or startle them.
Bugs: Protecting Yourself from Diseases
Mosquitoes are everywhere on the Lost City trail. They can carry diseases like malaria and dengue fever. So, we need to protect ourselves from insect bites during the trek.
How to avoid mosquito bites:
Use insect repellent: Apply an intense lotion containing DEET on skin that isn’t covered by clothing.
Wear long sleeves and pants: Less skin is exposed, and it’s harder to get bitten.
Sleep with a mosquito net: Bring your own for extra protection if the lodging doesn’t provide one.
Besides that, ensure we’ve gotten the recommended vaccinations, like the Yellow Fever vaccine, before starting the trek.
Wrap-up: Safety on the Lost City Trek
Trekking to the Lost City is an experience you’ll never forget. We need to pay attention to a few things regarding safety, but we can manage the risks with good preparation. By staying updated on information, following safety tips, and respecting advice from locals, our trek will be safe and enjoyable.
Don’t let worries about safety stop us from enjoying one of Colombia’s most incredible trekking trails. Prepare ourselves well, stay alert, and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime!
FAQ’s
Is the Lost City Trek safe for beginners? Trekking to the Lost City is quite challenging for those trekking for the first time. The terrain is complex, and the weather can change. But if we train beforehand, bring the right equipment, and have trekked before, we can do it. To be safer, it’s better to go with an experienced guide.
Are there any specific safety measures on the Lost City Trek? Yes, there are many safety steps in place. Soldiers patrol this trek, so the environment is safe. Guides are also trained in first aid and know how to handle emergencies. We also need to follow the recommended safety rules, like wearing the right shoes, bringing a first aid kit, and securing our valuables.
How safe is the Lost City Trek in terms of wildlife? Wild animals like venomous snakes and insects exist in the Sierra Nevada area, but we rarely encounter them. To stay safe from wild animals, stay on the marked trails, wear clothing that covers your body, and follow the guides’ advice on animal behavior.
What should I do if I get sick during the trek? If we feel unwell or ill, tell the guide immediately, okay? Usually, tour groups have emergency evacuation plans. To avoid stomach problems, we must bring personal medications, drink enough water, and eat clean food.
Are there medical facilities available on the Lost City Trek? There are no clinics or hospitals on the trek route. However, guides are trained in first aid, and emergency evacuation can be done if needed. Before leaving, we should bring personal medications and the necessary vaccines, like Yellow Fever.
How dangerous is the Lost City Trek in terms of theft? Trekking to the Lost City is generally safe, but sometimes there are incidents of petty theft, especially in camping areas or rest stops. To be safe, leave valuables at home or store them well in a safe place. Just bring enough cash, and keep your passport and essential cards in a hidden spot.
Can I do the Lost City Trek alone? Never try trekking alone! The terrain is rugged, there are potential safety risks, and it’s easy to get lost. It’s better to join a guided tour. Besides being safer, we can also get much information from experienced guides. Trekking with a group is also more fun and supportive.
How long does it take to complete the Lost City Trek? Usually, this trek lasts 4 to 6 days, depending on the route and our walking speed. Be prepared to walk long distances daily in the middle of the forest and on different terrains, okay?
What are the risks of mosquito-borne diseases on the trek? Mosquitoes are plentiful in this area and carry diseases like malaria and dengue fever. To avoid getting bitten, we must wear long sleeves and pants, use insect repellent, and sleep under mosquito nets if available. Vaccines like Yellow Fever are also highly recommended before trekking.
Can I hike the Lost City Trek during the rainy season? The rainy season (usually May to November) makes trekking more difficult and dangerous because the paths are slippery and can flood. The best time to trek is during the dry season, from December to March.
Perla Bickerstaff is a passionate travel and pop culture journalist who loves storytelling. She explores new places with curiosity and a keen eye for detail. Her work captures the heart of every destination, from bustling cities to hidden gems. Readers love how she blends culture, history, and personal insight into every piece.
