Rainforest Foray Series
Ecuador 2024
Join mycologists Alan Rockefeller and Mandie Quark on a journey to explore and photograph fungal biodiversity in the Ecuadorian Amazon
Stay at Finca Heimatlos
Stay at Finca Heimatlos
We are partnering with Finca Heimatlos
Finca Heimatlos is an eco resort and biodiversity hotspot on 50 hectares in the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest
Known as a utopia for nature lovers, lush accommodations at the resort include world-class dining, wifi, and infinity pool
All meals are included in the cost of your stay, including after-dinner desserts
Forays depart directly from the property each morning and night
We will be photographing specimens in the field, without removing them from the property, in accordance with Ecuador’s natural resource regulations. Identification will be conducted on site, at the ID tables. The owner of the eco resort Finca Heimatlos is named Ferhat, and he is an expert mushroom identifier, particularly for Amazonian species.
“Many fungi in Pastaza have the potential to be new species, undescribed by taxonomists”
- Alan Rockefeller
Live Music by Nathan Hayes
The musical achievements of Nathan Hayes span over 2 decades. Under the moniker Atlantic Connection he has released a prolific catalog of electronic music on the most iconic record labels in history. Today Nathan continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, as evidenced by his collaboration with Mycena Media. Together they are pioneering original music to accompany mycology content, starting with their first official album Illuminate, released in November 2023.
His typical day finds Nathan at Paramount Global Studios as an in-house composer/producer writing original content for stations such as MTV, VH1, CBS, BET, Showtime and Comedy Central. Nathan also works as a studio producer, supporting a range of artists, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, where he showcases sounds like Reggaeton, House and Future Hip Hop.
What People Are Saying…
“Exceptional, invaluable, and relevant foray in Ecuador. From the incredible amalgamation of attendees to the information gained, shared, and exchanged, this was by far a lifetime highlight for me. Alan took us on a deep dive into his master world of fungal photography, microscopy, and identification, also treating us to a collection of mind-expanding lectures. His partner Mandie spearheading logistics for the foray exuded such a level of organizational cool for being in the middle of the jungle I could barely believe it. She shared her knowledge of chemistry and Cordyceps, guiding us smoothly through the week and managing to sprinkle in a Cacao ceremony, guest lecturers, and off-site adventures. An incredible team to share an incredible experience with and I definitely “found my tribe!” I’ll be Back! 12/10 Highly recommend!
— Rainforest Foray Series 2023 Attendee
Click HERE to see what we found in 2023!
Explore biodiversity in the lungs of Earth, the Amazon rainforest
Explore biodiversity in the lungs of Earth, the Amazon rainforest
Experience South American food and culture
Experience South American food and culture
Make new friendships and connections
Make new friendships and connections
