November 6 - 19th 2025
Join us on this extraordinary journey to uncover Ecuador’s treasures—from high mountain magic to Amazon rainforest wonders. This all-inclusive event will feature field workshops and discovery walks led by mycologists, a botanist, a herpetologist, guest experts, and local cultural icons. Enjoy comfortable accommodations at different locations across Ecuador, each close to the natural ecosystems we will be exploring. Participants can choose to experience the full two-week long trip, or opt for a single-week. Join an engaging, hands-on adventure where you can take part in fascinating discoveries, revealing Ecuador’s incredible ecology. Tag along with your amazing peers on this fun scientific foray to a biodiversity hotspot.
Scroll down to check out our questionnaire - it has all the juicy details you'll need for this trip!
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ARE YOU READY TO SEE RARE SPECIES?
Elevations 3,000 - 10,500 ft a.s.l.
Alan Rockefeller and Mandie Quark, founders of Mycena LLC, will bring deep fungal expertise and field experience. Renowned mushroom photographers, together they inspire interest in mycology.
Joey Santore of Crime Pays But Botany Doesn't, irreverent superstar of plant ecology, will bring his signature blend of deep botanical knowledge, insolent humor, and streetwise storytelling.
Participants will be hosted by Waska Amazonia, a tour business based in Mera, Pastaza run by a herpetologist named Alex and local spiritual leader Dione. They offer immersive local experiences, including guided jungle excursions and cultural activities.
Join us on an adventure to explore biodiversity in both the upper Amazon and Andean páramo.
The Ecuador Adventure Foray is happening this November at the start of rainy season- a perfect time to find fungi, reptiles, amphibians, plants, and insects!
Participants will stay at three eco-resorts and one remote research station during their travels across two of Ecuador's most stunning Provinces.
Event Details
Stay in Remote Locations
Experience the remarkable Llanganates-Sangay Ecological Corridor, a mega-diverse region recognized by the World Wildlife Fund as “a gift to the Earth.” Guests will enjoy guided hikes along scenic trails that traverse captivating landscapes, teeming with unique flora and fauna.
This adventure includes ground transportation and delicious meals; airfare must be arranged separately. After our daily adventures, you can relax in comfortable accommodations to support your rest.
Hands-on Field Work
Take part in immersive fieldwork alongside visiting scientists and local researchers dedicated to exploring and preserving Ecuador’s extraordinary biodiversity. Guided excursions into diverse Andean habitats will provide opportunities to learn techniques from foray leaders who are making an impact in this vital region.
Participate in an ecological survey on iNaturalist, learn at your own pace while contributing valuable community observation data on plants, fungi, and and more!
Enjoy Ecuador's Fresh, Authentic Cuisine
Guests will savor the authentic meals crafted from fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, highlighting the vibrant flavors of Ecuador. Dishes will be prepared using traditional recipes, offering a true taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Meals are designed to energize and nourish participants for long days of forest exploration. Please let us know of any dietary restrictions in your questionnaire so we can accommodate your needs.
Visit During the Rainy Season
November marks the start of rainy season, when the forests come alive with lush, vibrant growth and are teeming wildlife. Be prepared for misty mornings and afternoon showers. We recommend packing comfy outdoor clothing and reliable rain gear.
In Ecuador’s Andean mountains, the rainy season transforms the landscape into a lush, living tapestry. Crystal-clear streams cut through emerald valleys, colorful fungi and flowers bloom at your feet, and the air resonates with the soothing sounds of nature.
Explore Networks of Private Caves
Explore the hidden networks of private caves nestled deep within the jungle. The caves harbor unique ecosystems, and provide a home for rare species that our team studies.
These intricate formations and delicate habitats offer a rare glimpse into an underground world teeming with life. Each cave expedition will offer insights into this unique, under-explored, and fascinating ecosystem.
Experience the Páramo
We will explore the biodiverse Andean páramo. Sandwiched between treeline and snowline, the neotropical páramo is a singular environment found only in the mountains of Central America and the Andes.
These rugged, glacially-shaped landscapes contain a mosaic of grasslands, wetlands, and shrublands with a confluence of extremely interesting plants, and fungi that are virtually unknown.
Local Biodiversity
iNaturalist Project
Thank you sooooo much for all the work you do in conversation and sharing your knowledge with all of us. Not only was the trip amazing, but I think the community you were able to build will result in lasting friendships. This was the trip of a lifetime - I am so grateful I found the advertisement and signed up!
- Anonymous participant, Ecuador Adventure Foray, February 2025
This trip [to Colombia] exceeded every expectation I had. Cannot recommend Alan and Mandie enough! The guides and all the other attendees on the trip were equally amazing. I hope to attend many more Mycena forays in the future!
- Plum, Colombia Foray, November 2024
I cried when we got home. The entire group connectedness and flow of our trip was quite unique and special. I did not expect to have such a deep and enriching experience, especially since I'm not a scientist. But your group experience is what I aspire toward.
- Miranda, Ecuador Adventure Foray, February 2025
Join Us!
Secure your spot for authentic adventures and expert-led explorations. Experience Ecuador from the Andes to the Amazon!
