Volunteer experience: reintroduction of the tití cabeciblanco in tropical dry forest · 35 km from Cartagena
Volunteer experience: the return of the tití cabeciblanco to the tropical dry forest.
The tití cabeciblanco (Saguinus oedipus) is endemic to the Colombian Caribbean and one of the most threatened primate species in the world. Spending a day as a volunteer in its reintroduction process means getting close to the real work of conservation: food preparation, behavioral observation, monitoring of semi-free-ranging groups, and data recording for the foundation's scientific protocols.
The day starts with a traditional breakfast by the lake and a technical talk on the wildlife management model: rehabilitation, semi-freedom, soft release, and post-release monitoring. Then you join the team's actual tasks — always with minimal handling, always respecting the individual animal's autonomy. You walk through the tropical dry forest restoration zones, help plant native trees from the tití's habitat, and visit the forest nursery.
Why this work matters: 35 km from Cartagena.
The tití cabeciblanco depends on the tropical dry forest, one of Colombia's most threatened ecosystems. Fundación Loros's reserve in Villanueva, Bolívar protects 1,300 acres of the habitat to which the foundation returns not only psittacines but also other native species of the shared forest. Your participation is one hour of real work inside an auditable protocol.
The full value of your experience is reinvested in the foundation's mission: rehabilitation, post-release monitoring, shared habitat restoration, and partnerships with farming families who protect the territory.
"We also got to see the cotton-top tamarins, which was another incredible highlight. Honestly, the foundation is doing amazing things." — Wander, Tripadvisor (mayo 2025)
A glimpse of the reserve
Frequently asked questions
What's included in the price?+
Round-trip transport from Cartagena, breakfast and lunch made with ingredients from our farm, bilingual guide español/inglés, all program activities, and the conservation contribution.
Do you offer discounts for children or groups?+
Children up to 16 pay 50%. For groups of more than 6 or special inquiries, use the inquiry button and we'll send you a custom quote.
What is the minimum and maximum age?+
The minimum age is 7 years. There is no maximum age — the experience suits people in good general physical condition. If you have questions about the level of exertion for your group, contact us.
What size are the groups?+
We work with small groups: a maximum of 5 people per bilingual guide. This lets us offer a personalized experience, respect the wildlife, and keep a comfortable pace for everyone.
What should I bring?+
Comfortable, light clothing, closed-toe shoes with good grip (no sandals), a cap or hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, and water (we provide reusable bottles). For birdwatching and hiking, long trousers are better.
Where do we get picked up, and at what time?+
We pick you up at your hotel, accommodation, or an agreed meeting point in Cartagena, in private door-to-door transport. Two shifts are available: morning (pickup 7:00 AM, return ~1:00 PM) and afternoon (pickup 12:00 PM, return ~6:00 PM). The exact point and time are confirmed 24 hours in advance by WhatsApp.
What is the cancellation policy?+
Cancellations more than 72 hours in advance: full refund. Between 72 and 24 hours: 50% refund. Less than 24 hours or no-show: no refund. If we cancel due to weather or safety reasons: full refund or rescheduling.
Is it suitable for people with reduced mobility?+
Some experiences involve hiking on uneven terrain. For guests with limited mobility, we have adapted options (UTV tours, observation from the farm). Tell us your situation through the inquiry option and we'll put together something that works for you.
What languages is the experience offered in?+
All our guides are bilingual in Spanish and English. If your group needs another language, write to us in advance and we'll see what we can arrange.