If you enjoy hiking through imposing mountains and natural landscapes filled with animals and hundreds of species of plants, the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta is the place for you.
It has an ecosystem full of natural beauty and a unique culture that will your trip truly unforgettable. This mountain range, whose snowy peaks look like a set of dazzling pearls, is a gorgeous location where locals and tourists alike love hiking.
One of the most notable routes is the trail to Cerro Kennedy, which is elevated over 10,170 feet above sea level and is home to hundreds of native and migratory birds you can discover during your trip.
It takes a lot of effort to get to the top of the mountain, but don't worry! It'll be worth it when you see the stunning snowy peaks of Cristóbal Colón and Simón Bolívar, two of the tallest mountains in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta.
On your trip up the mountain, you'll find hidden treasures like the village of Minca. This beautiful village, which is full of birds and waterfalls, is only a preface to the abundant natural wealth that will characterize the rest of your journey.
As you enjoy your visit in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta, keep in mind that this majestic mountain range was once home to the Tayrona indigenous group. Today, the Kogui, Arhuaco, Wiwa, and Kankuamo ethnic communities have made it theirs. For that reason, we urge you take care and be respectful as you explore and enjoy this scenic paradise, which was declared a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site by Unesco.
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Visiting the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta, an activity you won't want to miss out on
If you really want to immerse yourself in the area's indigenous culture, you should hike to Ciudad Perdida (Lost City), the archeological site of an ancient Tayrona city hidden deep in the lush greenery of the Sierra Nevada. So well hidden, in fact, that although the site is almost 400 years old, it was only recently found in the 20th century.
It takes about 4 to 6 days to get to Ciudad Perdida. We recommend you make the trip with the authorized companies that manage the route and will take care of everything you need.
That way, you'll only have to worry about enjoying your trip to one of the most beautiful places in South America. Take time to appreciate the breathtaking sunrises and striking trails before reaching the 1,200-step staircase that will take you into the heart of Ciudad Perdida.
Once you arrive, you'll find several circular platforms, which are the last remnants of the homes inhabited by the indigenous Tayrona thousands of years ago. Near these platforms is a series of paths and channels of water that show what life was like the Ciudad Perdida.
Come explore the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta. Refuel your batteries with the energy that only mother nature can offer.
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