a one-time expedition
We invite you to join a journey through the Samaná watershed: 10 days of remote exploration, guided by people at the forefront of protecting this extraordinary river. This fully immersive experience is designed for nature lovers and professionals who want to spend their time off contributing to one of the most inspiring river conservation stories—where science, adventure, and community come together.
The Samaná is the last free-flowing river in the Antioquia region. Born at 3,000 meters in the cloud forest, it descends along the eastern flank of the Central Cordillera before joining the Magdalena River. Along its course, it connects five of Colombia’s ecosystems and is shaped by a striking climate of hot, sunny days and intense nighttime rains.
Despite years of community-led efforts to protect it, the river continues to face pressure from proposed hydropower projects that threaten its flow, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of local communities.
Shortly after this journey, the River Collective will host the next Students for Rivers Camp on the Samaná, bringing together 14 university students to work on its long-term protection.
This trip is designed to directly support that initiative. By following key parts of the camp’s route and connecting with the same communities and landscapes, it offers a deeper focus on the river’s future than a typical commercial expedition. Participants will gain insight into the social and ecological dynamics of the watershed, while contributing to the broader momentum around its protection.
The trip will take place from 20–29 August 2026.
You can download the full brochure below, and for any questions, feel free to reach out to vera@rivercollective.org.
Join the fundraiser
Being part of this trip is a chance to experience the last free-flowing river of Antioquia in all its diversity. Together with your co-travellers, you commit to raising funds for the Students for Rivers Camp, helping 14 students (10 from Colombia) to follow in your footsteps. These students will be trained and guided towards contributing their knowledge to the protection of the river, with the aim to keep the Samaná free-flowing for generations to come.
Go the the fundrraising page here!
Book now
Don’t miss out on being part of this unique trip, specifically designed for river lovers who want to spend their holidays being part of a conservation story, sharing with likeminded adventurers. The trip is run by Expedition Colombia, in collabation with the River Collective, guided by Jules, Vera and Renske.
