Panama 2019
Panama #6: Gratitude
Selena Martineau ’19, Elsa Marrian ’21, and Kristine Yang ’21 share a final reflection of a “phenomenal” time in Panama.
March 18, 2019
Panama
Research, Communities, and Conservation
This program challenges students to engage with the complexity of research, communities, and conservation in the unique ecosystems of Panama. From the coral reefs to the rainforest, students will explore a range of ecosystems and grapple with diverse and divergent worldviews and approaches to how humans should interact with the natural environment. Students learn the basics of ecological and anthropological research, interact with a variety of communities, and consider their own views on conservation and the impact they make on the natural world.
Throughout the trip, students will be challenged to lean into the discomfort of being in new and unfamiliar environments, consider the role of research and conservation in different environments, and reflect on the ways in which they want to make a meaningful impact on the communities they will return to at the conclusion of the trip.
Program Notes
- This is an “unplugged” trip, so students will not have access to cell phones or the internet during their time in Panama.
- Students and faculty leaders will update families and friends at home through our Notes from the Field. Check out previous year’s posts below to better understand the travel experience.
- During this trip, students will stay in hotels and open-air bunkhouses. They will eat at restaurants prepared by Mamoni (which offers a diverse selection of foods, fruits, and vegetables) and pack lunches.
- This trip conflicts with the March 8 SAT test date.
Program Dates
March 8 – March 15, 2025
Program Eligibility
This program is open to all students, with a preference for those interested in conservation and biodiversity. Financial Aid is available to all qualifying students.
faculty trip leaders
- Heidi Valk
- Liz Washburn
estimated cost: $5,250
This price is subject to change depending on enrollment numbers and flight costs. The final price will be set before initial deposits and enrollment paperwork are due.
2025 Preliminary Itinerary
*This itinerary is subject to change.
March 8: Travel Day – Flight to Panama City from Boston Logan airport
March 9 – 11: San Blas Islands
We will travel from Panama City to San Blas Islands via buses and boat. Students will immerse themselves and the culture of the Guna people and the ecosystems of this unique set of islands. From snorkeling at the vibrant coral reefs and learning more about the biodiversity present to speaking with community leaders about the history of the Guna people and their connection to the land and sea, students will begin to develop more nuanced understandings of research, communities, and conservation. Students will sleep in rustic cabins by the beach and try local food.
March 11 – March 13: Centro Mamoní
After traveling by boat and bus from San Blas, students will complete the final leg of the trip to the Mamoní Valley Preserve on foot as they hike deep into the rainforest. During their time at this rustic field station, students will engage in environmental science research projects led by local researchers and will spend time with community members of Las Margaritas and Chepo, two of the rural towns next to the reserve.
Our day-to-day activities on-site will combine field research, community interaction, and exploration of the surroundings. We’ll hike around the area, swim in the crystal-clear rivers, learn about the different ecosystems, and grapple with the challenges of biodiversity conservation in the context of climate change and human impacts on the land.
San Blas and Mamoní provide two unique ecosystems and approaches to conservation and community for students to explore.
March 14: Panama City
We travel back to Panama City and explore the Casco Viejo neighborhood, getting a taste of Panama’s past and present in a location that contrasts with the previous locations of the trip.
March 15: Travel home from Panama City to Boston Logan Airport**
** Families are responsible for transportation from Boston Logan Airport to the student’s destination for the remainder of the March break.
Notes from Abroad
Panama 2019
Panama #5: Vibrancy in Panama City
Abby Fernald (’22), Sam Bronckers (’20), & Grace Honos (’22) describe the energy of Panama City after spending the last 5 days in the rain forest.
March 16, 2019
Panama 2018
Panama #8: Farewell!
Claire Quan (’20) and Nafi Sall (’20) describe their last day of the trip and celebrate the sense of community that they have developed while traveling.
March 19, 2018
Panama 2018
Panama #7: Leaving the Panamanian Jungle
Claire Quan (’20) and Steph Martinez (’20) describe their last day at the Mamoni Valley Preserve.
March 19, 2018