20 Unforgettable Bucket List Adventures That Will Define Your Lifetime

11. Trekking to the Lost City of Colombia

Deep in the dense, emerald-green jungles of northern Colombia lies Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City), an ancient archaeological wonder that predates Machu Picchu by more than 600 years. Unlike other famous ruins, this hidden city can only be reached by foot, making it one of the most exclusive and rewarding treks in the world. The journey is an intense 4-6 day expedition through lush rainforests, raging rivers, steep mountain passes, and humid valleys teeming with life. Each day brings new challenges—steep climbs, slippery trails, and sweltering heat—but also jaw-dropping scenery, from waterfalls cascading through dense vegetation to misty peaks that feel like a lost world. Along the way, you’ll encounter indigenous Kogi communities, descendants of the ancient Tayrona civilization, who have lived in harmony with this land for centuries. Their spiritual connection to the Lost City adds a layer of mystique and reverence to the journey. The final stretch is 1,200 ancient stone steps leading up to Ciudad Perdida’s terraces, where you’ll stand amidst history, surrounded by stone platforms and staircases once used by an ancient civilization. With no roads, no crowds, and only the sounds of the jungle, it’s a journey back in time, a true Indiana Jones-style adventure that rewards both body and soul.