Once word got out to the Colombian Government that a lost, ancient city was being battled over in the Sierra Nevadas, troops and researchers were sent to investigate. Story goes that the helicopter sent to find the area called into local villagers asking for directions to a, "lost city."
Putting the history to the side, it was well worth the three-day hike with my friend Ruth to get to the fascinating Lost City!
The Sierra Nevadas de Santa Marta is a mountain range in Colombia that is separated from the Andes (the mountain range in Bogotá). It's one of the highest coastal ranges, with the highest point being either Pico Cristóbal Colón or Pico Simón Bolívar which are both about 18,700 ft. The Sierra Nevadas also serves multiple rivers, 36 to be exact! It falls in the departments of Magdalena, Cesar and La Guajira.
Have you ever gone on a ride in an amusement park that changes as you go? Well, journeying through the Sierra Nevadas is like riding a roller-coaster that is rainforest, river and mountain themed! One minute you'll be strolling through a humid, green rainforest with birds chirping melodies you've never heard. Next, you're huffing away as you climb a steep, rocky, muddy, hill that seems never-ending. Finally, you'll end the day with a refreshing dip in a nearby river or stream.
Today the Sierra Nevadas is home to many indigenous tribes, such as los Wiwas, Arhuacos and Kogis. In fact, many of these groups share their cultures, including their unique languages and customs, with tourists who hike to Ciudad Perdida.
