2023 expedition calendar

Image of the Ecuadorian morph of the golden eyelash viper

Search for the golden eyelash viper in the Chocó rainforest of Ecuador
July 24, 2023

Search for the golden eyelash viper in the Chocó rainforest of Ecuador

The goal of this expedition is to sample, photograph, and film the yellow morph of the Eyelash Palm-Pitviper (Bothriechis schlegelii) in an isolated rainforest near the Pacific coast of Ecuador. We will stay at a research station and spend most nights walking along forest trails.

Expedition map
Photo of target species

Expedition details

Cost per participant: $980.

Entire expedition cost: $4,900.

Expedition leader: Alejandro Arteaga.

Starting date: August 7, 2023.

Duration: 5 nights.

Team size: 4–10 people.

Project: Eyelash Viper Systematics Project.

How to reserve your spot?

1. Read our booking policy below.

2. Make payment using our online form.

3. Review and sign our release of liability form.

Booking policy: If you are unable to attend this expedition, you are welcome to send someone in your place, join another expedition, or request a total refund less a handling fee of 10% or $100, whichever is more. We can accept credit or refund requests, but only less than 30 business days prior to the start of the event. After that, if you cannot join the expedition, you can allocate 100% of the deposit towards another expedition.

What is included?

Basic accommodation in cabins.

All meals and water.

All project-related road transfers.

Field equipment related to surveys.

What is not included?

Lodging in Quito.

Alcoholic beverages, bottled water and snacks.

Health insurance.

International and domestic airfares.

Laundry.

Photo equipment.

Personal expenses in Ecuador.

or call +1-786-753-7899

Booking form

Frequently asked questions

How do I reserve my spot?

The first thing you need to do to reserve your spot is make a deposit to confirm your booking. Second, you will need to review and approve the release of liability we will send you.

Can you get rubber boots for me?

We suggest you bring your own rubber boots as you should test whether they fit comfortably before arriving in Ecuador, where you will use them every night.

Is there any chance to borrow a snake hook?

Yes, we can provide you with a snake hook that you can use during the expedition.

What herping gear do you recommend I bring?

We recommend that you bring a durable waterproof headlamp, a rain poncho, and a DSLR camera, ideally one with a macro lens and off-camera flash.

What kind of trouser is needed?

You can bring any durable but lightweight trousers that are easy to dry.

Which vaccination certificates do I need?

The three most important vaccines to get before visiting the tropics are against yellow fever, tetanus, and hepatitis.

Will you pick us up at the airport upon arrival?

The expeditions starts at Khamai Foundation’s office in Quito. This will be the meeting place, not at the airport. However, we can arrange to have a transport waiting for you at the airport.

Will there be laundry service, electricity, and wifi at all?

Only in cities, but not in the field localities.