When it comes to the archaeological highlight of a tour of South America, most people might assume Peru's Machu Picchu is the best site on the continent. While certainly an awe-inspiring formation, Machu Picchu is predated by Colombia's Ciudad Perdida by at least six centuries, making it one of the oldest and most compelling locations in South America.
Ciudad Perdida is located in the northeast corner of Colombia and is nestled within the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Built by the Tairona civilization in 800 A.D., Ciudad Perdida was home to an estimated 10,000 people during its peak. Despite being more than 1,200 years old, today you can still see remnants of nearly 200 terraces and tiled roads.
The site itself is not the only appealing aspect of Ciudad Perdida. Much like Machu Picchu, you have to hike through the South American jungle to get there, which is an experience all its own.
The trip back and forth typically takes several days, but the payoff is well worth it. With the Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop, there are continually impressive views as you cross the Buritaca River.
