Into the Heart of the Sierra Nevada

The anticipation was palpable as I embarked on the Lost City Trek in Santa Marta. As someone who has spent years immersed in the Amazon, the allure of the Sierra Nevada’s dense jungles and the promise of discovering the ancient Lost City was irresistible. Our journey began in the historic heart of Santa Marta, where we were whisked away in a rugged 4x4 to the Mamey region. The drive itself was a prelude to the adventure, with the landscape gradually transforming from urban sprawl to lush greenery.

Upon arrival, we were greeted with a hearty lunch, a necessary fuel for the trek ahead. The path to Camp 1 was a tapestry of vibrant flora and fauna, each step revealing a new layer of the jungle’s intricate ecosystem. The air was thick with the scent of earth and foliage, a reminder of the delicate balance of life that thrives here. Our guides, Sara and Aldair, were not just leaders but storytellers, weaving tales of the indigenous Tayrona people and their sacred lands. Their passion for the region was infectious, and their knowledge added depth to every vista we encountered.

The Journey Through Time

The trek from Camp 1 to Camp 3 was a journey through time itself. As we traversed the Buritaca river valley, the landscape shifted dramatically, from dense jungle to open clearings where the indigenous Kogui community of Mutanshi resides. Here, the connection between people and nature was palpable, a living testament to sustainable coexistence. The Kogui’s simple yet profound way of life was a humbling reminder of the importance of preserving these cultures and their environments.

Our arrival at Camp 3 was a welcome respite. Unlike other camps, this one felt like a sanctuary, with amenities that provided a touch of comfort amidst the wilderness. The camaraderie among our group, affectionately dubbed the “Huracanes,” was a highlight of the experience. As a solo traveler, the shared laughter, music, and stories around the campfire created a sense of belonging that transcended language and background.

The Lost City Revealed

The final ascent to the Lost City was a test of endurance and spirit. Climbing the 1,200 ancient steps, carved by the Tayronas themselves, was a pilgrimage to a forgotten world. The city, much larger than any photograph could capture, unfolded before us like a hidden jewel. The air was thick with history, each stone whispering tales of a civilization long past. For a precious hour, we had the city to ourselves, a rare privilege that allowed us to absorb its majesty in solitude.

Our guides enriched the experience with stories of the city’s significance, its role as a hub of trade and spirituality for the Tayrona people. As a biologist, I was particularly fascinated by the intricate relationship between the city’s architecture and the surrounding environment, a testament to the Tayronas’ advanced understanding of ecology.

The trek back to El Mamey was a reflective journey, each step a reminder of the incredible landscapes and cultures we had encountered. The rivers and waterfalls along the way offered moments of refreshment and contemplation, a chance to absorb the beauty of the Sierra Nevada one last time. As we returned to Santa Marta, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such a remarkable part of our planet, and a renewed commitment to preserving these precious ecosystems for future generations.