Scientific Expeditions in the Jungle

Do you dream of stepping into the very heart of the tropical jungle, discovering its incredible biodiversity and, at the same time, contributing to science and conservation? Our expeditions offer you a unique and immersive opportunity to experience nature in a completely different way.

Immerse yourself in the lush beauty of the jungles of Panama and Ecuador, two of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. This isn't your typical tourist trip. We invite you to join us on a week-long adventure in a private nature reserve with a first-rate scientific station. Led by an entomologist and taxonomist specialising in stick insects (Phasmatodea), you'll have the privilege not only of exploring a pristine environment with expert guides, but also of actively participating in a cutting-edge research and conservation project.

This is your chance to:

Experience the tropical jungle in its purest state.
Learn about entomology, taxonomy and fieldwork directly from a specialist.
Perfect your nature photography skills.
Be part of the first applied conservation project for stick insects in Latin America.
Contribute to the knowledge of the diversity of phasmids in Ecuador and Panama.
Share a week of unique and enjoyable experiences with a small group of people with interests and concerns similar to your own. In many cases, lasting bonds are formed after the expedition.

Who are these expeditions for?

This experience is designed for:

Nature Lovers: People fascinated by tropical biodiversity, interested in a deep immersion experience in the jungle, beyond conventional tourism.
Future Taxonomists: People interested in getting started in entomological taxonomy but unsure where to begin. Despite taxonomy being one of the fundamental pillars of applied biology, it is a branch of knowledge that is often overlooked in university studies related to natural sciences.
Science Enthusiasts: Students, amateurs or professionals of biology, entomology or related fields, who wish to acquire practical experience in fieldwork and contribute to research.
Nature Photographers: The jungle offers unparalleled photographic opportunities; the diversity of fauna and flora can be overwhelming.
People Interested in Conservation: Those who seek to actively support conservation projects and see the direct impact of their participation.
The Curious and Adventurous: Individuals with an open mind, willing to step out of their comfort zone and live a transformative experience in contact with nature.

What makes our expeditions unique?

Exclusive access: A stay in a private nature reserve with a scientific station, a privileged environment generally reserved for researchers.
Comprehensive Experience: We combine science with activities typical of a high-quality nature expedition (hiking, wildlife observation, photography, river recreation, clay therapy, etc.).
Scientific Immersion: Direct involvement in a real research project, learning field methodologies and contributing to data collection.
Small Groups: Our expeditions have a maximum of 11 participants, ensuring a personalised experience and a minimal impact on the environment.
Focus on Applied Conservation: Contributing to pioneering projects with a tangible impact on the conservation of phasmids and their habitats.

Forthcoming Expeditions

Panama Expedition 2026

We will be exploring a private nature reserve in central Panama, situated in the transitional zone between the Isthmian Atlantic moist forests and Chocó-Darién moist forests ecoregions. A unique opportunity to discover phasmids and other insects in a relatively unstudied environment.

Dates and detailed information to follow shortly.

Coming Soon

Ecuador Expedition 2026 (Registration is open!)

A scientific expedition within a private nature reserve located in the montane forests ecoregion of the Eastern Cordillera Real, to the west of Pastaza. Expect entomology, applied taxonomy and unparalleled experiences in one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet.

From April 11 to April 19, 2026.

Information PDF

The Expedition Team

Your Lead Guide: Pablo Valero Riquelme

You will be guided on this adventure by Pablo Valero Riquelme, a professional entomologist and taxonomist specialising in the fascinating world of phasmids (stick insects), with a particular focus on the species found in Europe and the Americas.

With over a decade of experience dedicated to insect research, Pablo combines in-depth academic knowledge (as a research associate of the Zoologische Staatssammlung München and a collaborator with the University of Murcia) with extensive fieldwork experience across diverse ecosystems, including the jungles of the regions we will be visiting.

His work has made significant contributions to the taxonomy of phasmids, including participation in the description of numerous genera and species new to science. This direct experience in the discovery and classification of biodiversity is what he will share with you, teaching you the fundamentals of entomological and taxonomic fieldwork in a practical and engaging manner.

As the founder of New World Phasmids, Pablo is committed to bringing science and the importance of taxonomy to a broader audience, training future naturalists and highlighting the urgent need to conserve tropical biodiversity. On each expedition, his aim is not only to show you the jungle and its inhabitants, but to actively involve you in the scientific process and instil in you a passion for discovery and conservation.

The Reserve Teams

In addition to Pablo's expert guidance, you will benefit from the invaluable support of the resident team of biologists and local guides at each nature reserve. These experts possess a deep understanding of the specific ecosystem we will be exploring, including its flora, fauna, and unique characteristics. Their on-the-ground experience is crucial for safety, logistics, and for enriching your comprehension of the environment. You will work closely with them during field excursions and project activities, benefiting from their local knowledge and their experience in managing the reserve.

Interested in an Expedition?

Please fill out the form on our contact page or drop us a line directly at info@newworldphasmids.com to discuss any queries you may have or to reserve your spot.

Go to the Contact Form

The Phasmid Research and Conservation Project

Stick insects (Phasmatodea) are masters of camouflage and a fundamental part of tropical ecosystems. Despite their importance, there is still much to discover about their diversity, distribution and ecology, and specific conservation efforts for this group are scarce.

Our project has two main objectives:

Document Diversity: To conduct sampling in the reserves to catalogue the species of phasmids present, including the potential identification of new species for science.
Initiate Applied Conservation: To gather crucial data to understand the needs of these species and develop effective and applied conservation strategies in the field, setting a precedent for Latin America.

By joining our expedition, you are not merely an observer; you become an active collaborator in this project. You will participate in nocturnal sampling activities (the time of greatest phasmid activity), learn ethical and responsible collection techniques, and contribute directly to the collection of data that will be used in scientific publications and reserve management plans.

We operate under strict scientific and conservation permits and protocols, guaranteeing a responsible and legal visit to this valuable ecosystem.