Colombia Coral Mini-Workshop

What is included:

This excursion will introduce the participants to the coffee-producing region of Santa Marta, Colombia, in addition to several days of coral conservation and exploration training. In addition to visiting places like coffee and honey farms, participants will have the chance to take part in Remote Ecologist’s coral conservation and restoration efforts in northern Colombia, along with an introduction to Santa Marta proper, the gateway for coffee cultivation in Latin America. Santa Marta is nestled between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Caribbean Sea, making for a unique opportunity to experience multiple biomes in one place.

Participants will take part in cultural activities that include a trip up the mountains for tours of organic coffee farms, along with partaking in bird watching and the chance to bathe in many of the local waterfalls. Participants will be inundated in the nature surrounding the Pearl City. Part of that experience will include an introduction to fragmentation and microfragmentation of corals, and taking a look via snorkel at the restoration area.

Tentative Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Santa Marta, Colombia. Welcome reception and a detailed workshop on coral ecology, threats facing reefs, and restoration techniques.

Day 2: Direct Conservation: Fragmentation of corals and outplanting/transplantation. Snorkeling the coral nursery in Inca Inca. Diving for those certified. Spend the afternoon reviewing the dive experiences and discussing further restoration techniques. Breaks in between for rest and meals.

Day 3: Direct Conservation: Fragmentation of corals and outplanting/transplantation. Snorkeling the coral nursery in Inca Inca. Diving for those certified. Spend the afternoon reviewing the dive experiences and discussing further restoration techniques. Breaks in between for rest and meals.

Day 4: Direct Conservation: Fragmentation of corals and outplanting/transplantation. Snorkeling the coral nursery in Inca Inca. Diving for those certified. Spend the afternoon reviewing the dive experiences and discussing further restoration techniques. Breaks in between for rest and meals.

Day 5: Day trip to Minca. Morning birding in Minca, followed by explporation of the scenic mountain town known for its coffee plantations and waterfalls.

Day 6: Morning review session of the expedition over breakfast, followed by departure from Santa Marta.

Cost: $2900 USD (high season), includes activities, transportation, hotel, and food. Additional activities are available. Airfare is not included. Please coordinate with the excursion coordinator on all travel into/out of the country.

Required: Passport (U.S. citizens do not need pre-approved visa), Travel Health Insurance (a provider will be recommended). If diving, proof of DAN Insurance and SCUBA certification.

Recommended: All appropriate regional travel vaccinations

Contact: Email info@remoteecologist.org for more information.