Two hours from the picturesque coastline of Tayrona national park lies the pre-Hispanic ruins of a town known as “Pueblito”, where visitors can get away from the crowds and relax in peace.
The ancient town of Pueblito sits high up in the mountains of Tayrona, where it is slightly cooler than by the busy, tourist-filled beaches. On arriving at the ruins, visitors can enjoy the tranquil surroundings without being disturbed, as generally very few people attempt the difficult path through the jungle.
Most of the old town is now buried beneath the jungle, but enough remains visible for visitors to imagine how it may once have looked and wonder what life was like over 500 years earlier.
Although much smaller and less impressive than the famous ruins of the Lost City, Pueblito appeals to tourists on a budget. While visiting the lost city costs around $300, a visit to Pueblito is included in the national park entry fee, which is approximately $20 non-Colombian citizens.
For some travelers, the steep trek through streams and past giant boulders is as much of an attraction as the ancient destination. Hikers are likely to spot multicolored land crabs, bright blue and green reptiles and butterflies of a variety of colors and sizes, and the lucky few could see the endangered cotton-top tamarin monkey, recognized by its fluffy white mane.
The trek to Pueblito is not a three-day commitment like the journey to the Lost City; the scenic route to Pueblito leads visitors through the jungle and takes only two hours. Within just one more hour, tourists can be back on the beach taking a dip in the sea to cool off.
The uphill trek is bound to leave visitors feeling invigorated and make for a fantastic night’s sleep in a tent or hammock at one of Tayrona’s campsites. Tourists should bear in mind that sun cream, insect repellent and plenty of water are absolute essentials for the half-day excursion.
Tayrona national park
Sources
- Pueblito Tayrona (Unique Colombia)
- Visit to Pueblito