In a moment of weakness (or perhaps sheer boldness or stupidity?), I signed up for a five-day trek through Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains to visit Lost City (Ciudad Perdida). Offered by G-Adventures, this ~42-mile trek was a physically demanding (rated 5 out of 5 for difficulty) yet rewarding journey to see ancient ruins, believed to predate Machu Picchu. Accessible only by foot, the trail promised trekkers a rich culture of the indigenous communities (Wiwa people) who call the mountains home.
Our group of 13 trekkers was accompanied by a main guide, two auxiliary guides, and a cook. The terrain was nothing short of daunting—steep hills, rocky paths, and relentless heat. Temperatures were into the 90s, and the air was humid. As someone who grew up in AND lives in a hot and humid climate, I thought I was prepared for the heat. I wasn’t. By Day 2, I was sweating more than I ever thought was possible, and I could not feel my thighs anymore. We carried all our belongings and water (about 10-12 lbs) and stayed in camps with bunk beds, primitive showers (think cold water shooting from a pipe), and sit-down toilets.
I consider myself relatively fit (it was a month before I ran my first half-marathon), but this trek tested every ounce of my physical and mental strength.
The climax of the trek came after 2.5 days of relentless up-and-down hiking. To reach the Lost City, we climbed 1,200 ancient stone steps built by the Tayrona people. Perhaps I shouldn’t say that I climbed the steps. Let’s be honest, I crawled. The steps were TINY and steep. Since I didn’t feel my legs anymore, it was a feat that I continued to climb. At 5’3”, I towered over the present-day Indigenous peoples, whose smaller frames hinted at the history of the size of the structures their ancestors had built.
Standing on top of those ancient steps, looking at the ruins before me, I was overwhelmed with emotions: wonder, awe, and sheer exhaustion from the trek. The sight of the Lost City, hidden deep within the lush jungle, was breathtaking, a reward that made every grueling mile worthwhile. But the journey wasn’t over for Day 3. We had to descend those very same steep, uneven steps. With legs trembling from fatigue, each step down was a challenge. The guides and the other group members gave me a literal hand when I felt like giving up, and for that, I was thankful. After lunch, we hiked for FOUR more hours. Up and down, up and down. In the middle of the night of Day 3, I finally gave in and cried while listening to the soothing Buritaca River. It was a release I needed.
On Day 4, we crossed dozens of creeks and streams and even a major river. Thankfully, the weather was on our side, with dry conditions throughout. Not a drop of rain while we were hiking for the first three-and-a-half days. However, when we reached a camp for lunch on Day 4, it started POURING. Rain in the rainforest! Fortunately, the second half of the day was dedicated to a much-needed rest.
By the end of the journey, I was proud beyond measure. I fell only once while crossing a stream on Day 4, and everyone in the group finished the trek on foot (we had the option to ride a mule if needed). The Lost City trek was the most physically and emotionally demanding experience of my life, but it taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of pushing beyond perceived limits.
After the trek, I treated myself to a stark contrast: a luxurious stay in Cartagena. I spent three nights at a lovely Hyatt property. The comfort and indulgence felt like a dream after five days in the jungle.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the trip, mainly paid by using Chase credit card points (Ultimate Rewards UR).
- Flights: 76,000 UR points (booked through the Chase portal) + $0, round trip Atlanta – Miami – Cartagena on American Airlines. I chose AA for its convenient daytime arrival and single connection.
- Hotels:
- Oz Hotel Luxury, Cartagena (1 night): 3,000 UR points + $52.
- Movich Hotels de Cartagena (3 nights): 36,000 UR points transferred to Hyatt + $0. Highly recommend this property!
- Trek with G-Adventures: $823 (7 days)
- Total for 11 Days: $1,285 (including food, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses).
This trek wasn’t just a physical challenge but a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Within just a few days, it pushed me to my physical and emotional limits. From the raw beauty of the humid jungle to the cultural richness of the indigenous communities and finally the serene luxury of Cartagena, I will cherish this trip as one of the best I have had so far.
