Is the Trek to Colombia’s Lost City Safe?

Most people who take on a Choose a Challenge trek do so looking for adventure. Beach holidays and city breaks are not for them. They want an experience to remember. But there is a major difference between memorable adventure and danger. And Colombia hasn’t always had the best safety record. Which is why one of the most commonly asked questions we have about the Colombia’s Lost City challenge is, ‘is it safe?’ In this blog, we’re going to talk you through everything you need to know.

Safety and the Trek to Colombia’s Lost City

Is the area safe for tourists?

For many years, Colombia was known for its drug cartels. And the area around La Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta – which is where La Ciudad Perdida (the Lost City) is situated – had a shocking reputation for illegal drug cultivation and trafficking. This has since been taken in hand. As with any international travel, it’s a sensible precaution to keep track of your belongings and to check your luggage before you depart. But you have no greater reason to be concerned about safety in Colombia than anywhere else.

How much crime is there?

Crime levels are still quite high in some parts of Colombia. Although the government is making strides in this area. Being so remote, the Lost City trek is generally much safer – there’s even a military unit assigned to monitor the jungle because the area is such an important tourist asset.  The greatest threat visitors to the area really face is becoming lost in the jungle – and that’s why you always travel with a professional tour group, such as Choose a Challenge.  

What about health?

Before you embark on a Lost City trek, it’s a good idea to take some precautions. All travellers should ensure that their tetanus and hepatitis A vaccinations are up to date. Having a yellow fever vaccination is also recommended. You may also want to consider vaccinations for diphtheria, hepatitis B, rabies, and typhoid. Speak to your doctor to find out which vaccinations are recommended for your personal circumstances. And leave plenty of time for them to take effect. The yellow fever vaccine, for example, takes 10 days to provide protection.  

Malaria is also common in Colombia. And as you will be trekking through the rain forest, you will be well advised to speak to your GP about obtaining some antimalarials before you depart.

What happens if I have an accident on the trek?

La Ciudad Perdida is remote. To access it, you will need to trek through dense rain forest. Which means that medical attention will not be immediately on hand. However, all of our guides have first aid training. A first aid kit is carried on every trek. And if you somehow receive injuries that can not be treated by basic first aid, there are evacuation protocols in place. This may involve transportation via mule or motorbike until you can reach a road suited to cars. Or, in the worst-case scenario, a helicopter will transfer you to the nearest hospital.

At Choose a Challenge, our aim is to create travel and trekking experiences that are extraordinary. We want our clients to feel as if they’ve really achieved something when they reach their destination… And if you’re trekking to La Ciudad Perdida, you really will have! But safety is our utmost priority. And although there are dangers associated with all forms of trekking, if we had the slightest concerns about the safety of taking groups to Colombia, then we wouldn’t do it.

So, book your vaccinations, pack your bags, and get ready for your next great adventure!

Find out more about trekking to Colombia’s Lost City with Choose a Challenge.