We design and run conservation expeditions and research projects in Guatemala. Currently; our principal focus is investigating how we can use regenerative agriculture in the form of food forests to not only benefit Mayan communities; but also to recreate cloud forests for amphibian and reptile conservation.
Our conservation expeditions run for 10 days and are open to anyone with an interest in wildlife conservation and a willingness to get involved. During your time with Indigo; you will experience life in the cloud forests; receive all necessary training and supervision and contribute to the long-term conservation of endemic and endangered amphibians and reptiles.
We work in the Central Highlands of Guatemala; close to the city of Coban. We collaborate closely with an NGO that runs an education and conservation center focused on teaching regenerative farming techniques and conservation to members of the local Q’eqch’i Maya communities so that they can not only live more sustainably but also provide a nutritious and varied diet for their families. In addition to the health benefits; these farming techniques also help to reverse negative cycles of habitat loss; soil erosion; draught; and debt. This region of Guatemala is a hotspot of amphibian and reptile diversity. So far; we have encountered 57 species of amphibians and reptiles on the farm where the project is located; over 50% of these are endemic to Guatemala; and only occur in 2 or 3 mountain ranges within the country.
You will be involved in collecting data that helps to understand how these endangered species recolonize areas of regenerative agriculture. We use this data to better understand the effectiveness of these techniques from a conservation perspective and can offer insights into how to make improvements to cloud forest conservation efforts.
You will be part of a small team staying in a highly sustainable building. Three full meals and fresh drinking water will be provided along with mid-morning and afternoon snacks. The diet is predominantly vegetarian (vegan diets are easily catered for) and most food is organically grown on site. Accommodation is shared dorm style rooms; each with their own private bathroom.
Due to the behaviour of most amphibian and reptile species; most of our work will be conducted during the night and early morning. There will also be plenty of time to relax and enjoy your surroundings in the spectacular cloud forests.
Further information about our conservation expeditions can be found on our website and by emailing rowland@explorewithindigo.com.
We will pick you up from your hotel in Guatemala City on day 1 of your expedition and return on the last day. Be sure to arrive in Guatemala City the day before your expedition is due start as we will leave the city before most international flights arrive. For your return flight; make sure you book it for at least the day after your expedition ends. We will provide you with details of how to prepare for your expedition; including a suggested kit list of things to bring; and how to arrange your international travel. International travel; visas; travel insurance; hotels in Guatemala City are not included in the cost of your expedition.
Alta Verapaz
3rd – 13th July and 18th to 28th September
10 Days
Adults of both sexes 18+
The project is open to anyone with an interest in wildlife conservation and a willingness to get involved.
From GBP1099 which includes return transport from Guatemala City to project location; food; accommodation; training; and full in-field supervision.
