International Fieldwork Course in the Amazon Rainforest

5/5 stars. The Igapó Institute’s international fieldwork course offers a rare opportunity for immersive, hands-on training in species monitoring, guided by leading experts in the Brazilian Amazon. When I came across this course on Instagram, I was hopeful. The eight-day course promised immersive field training and the chance to explore the Brazilian Amazon with scientists specialising in specific taxonomic groups. A respected ecologist I’d met in India had signed up—further validating my interest. My previous Amazon experience had leaned more toward jungle-themed tourism than true ecological study. This, I sensed, would be different. I was right. The expedition was based at the Adolfo Ducke Forest Reserve, a 10,000 hectare area just a 40 minute drive from Manaus, Brazil’s gateway to the forest. The field station is administered by INPA (National Institute of Amazon Research), and is equipped with laboratory, lecture theatre, kitchen/dining, and comfortable sleeping accommodation. Ana and Sam are the dynamic duo behind Igapó Institute, an Amazon Rainforest Conservation Association. The pair has cleverly combined conservation, science, and community engagement, and in doing so have developed genuine ecotourism and educational programme for those seeking a deeper understanding the Amazonian biodiversity, and the challenges faced in preserving its richness. I had the privilege to join the inaugural field course along with five other participants from the UK and Brazil. We were a diverse group of ecologists, biology students, photographers, and myself. With a previous career as a communications professional, I had recently decided to take my interest in wildlife to a new place, and went back to university to complete a BSc in Animal Management, Behaviour and Welfare. As a relative novice to ecology, I had little to bring to the group; however, the experts and the participants had so much knowledge to share. Each day was dedicated to a specific taxonomic group. We were guided by scientists working in herpetology (amphibians and reptiles), entomology (insects), ornithology (birds), ichthyology (fish), mammalogy (mammals), botany (plants), and a specialist in chiropterology (bats). A typical day would include expeditions into the forest to learn practical surveying methods. We assembled and monitored mist nets to survey bats and birds, set up insect traps, camera traps to monitor mammal activities, and sifted through pristine streams to survey fish and other aquatic life. We learned from each scientist about their particular area of expertise, and spent time in the lab preparing insect specimens and preserving plant samples. Our days were punctuated with appetising meals in the open-air kitchen, where we sat under dry shelter and often experienced the iconic Amazon rain shower—a deafening spectacle. We tasted delicacies including local fruits, cheese, juices, and pirarucu, one of the Amazon’s iconic freshwater fish. And we were spoiled by the amazing kitchen team with scrumptious cakes and puddings. Each day brought new adventures and discoveries. Observing the cordyceps fungus—the infamous ‘zombi fungi’ that infects insects—was particularly fascinating. As an amphibian enthusiast, I was also delighted by the diversity of frogs and toads we encountered. One unforgettable moment involved nearly stepping within a metre of a well-camouflaged, deadly fer-de-lance viper. It was exhilarating—but once was enough. The green vine snake was stunningly beautiful, and as its venom isn’t deadly to humans, I was happy to admire its activity in a tree. As well as exploring the flora and fauna, we had a round-table discussion about conservation challenges in the rainforest. Guided by directors of NGOs, we came to better understand the complicated conflict between supporting human development and managing a sustainable Amazon. On the last evening, we gathered beneath the forest canopy to sit in its splendour. Lights out, sitting quietly, we were entranced by the charming entomologist ‘Chico’ who shared the magic and mystery of the forest. We were gripped! After experiencing the moment, the flashlights were switched back on, and immediately someone spotted a group of tiny opossums scampering through the trees—truly a perfect ending to a wonderful trip. I’ve come away with a renewed appreciation for the Amazon, and a deeper understanding of the intricate balance between conservation and community. Whether you’re a fledgling biologist, seasoned ecologist, photographer, life-long learner, or curious adventurer, this course offers a rare and meaningful way to engage with one of the world’s most vital ecosystems.