Contact the Team
Reach out anytime - we're here for you
Email us
Get in touch
We love to chat about your travel plans and are happy to talk if you have any questions.
Opening hours
October – March
Monday through Friday:
7 AM – 5 PM, PST
April – September
Monday through Friday:
6 AM – 6 PM, PST
Saturday and Sunday:
7 AM – 5 PM, PST
Head Office
Togo Travel Group Limited. 351 Humberto Plaza, West Ashtynstead, Ohio – 12551, Canada
Frequently asked questions
Have more questions? Contact us.
ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE
Who are these expeditions for
All adults are welcome, regardless of gender or religion. Personal customs are respected as long as they do not impact the group’s safety or the flow of the experience. Do let us know before you travel if you have any special requirements.
What does “collective connection” mean
A group-based nature experience focused on observation, learning, and respectful engagement with ecosystems and local communities.
How is this different from a regular nature tour
Not trekking or sightseeing. We explore small ecosystems slowly and intentionally. We are about connection, you will enjoy the birds, bugs, mammals and landscapes as in every other tour, but with the premise of connecting and falling more in love with this earth we inhabit.
Do we participate actively
Yes. You’ll observe, learn, ask questions, and engage with the group.
Is this meant to change how we see nature
Many people gain new perspective, but the focus is connection, safety, and understanding.
Is the experience only about nature
No, we want to show you part of the history and culture of the places you will visit. As humans we have forgotten that we too are part of nature and our expeditions all show you a glimpse of the life of those who protect our environment and host our visits.
What language are the expeditions held in
While La Vega Travel guides are capable of providing basic assistance and directions in French, Portuguese, Italian and German, the official languages of the tour are English and Spanish. Simultaneous translation and interpretation will be provided solely in those two languages.
NATURE, WILDLIFE & LEARNING
How do we explore the tiny world
We move slowly, observe closely, and learn simple techniques for identifying insects, plants, fungi, and micro habitats. We have a handful of binoculars and microscopes for you, but let us know if you will your own photo/observation equipment. We are professional photographers and are very excited to help if you want to capture nature through your own lens.
Will we learn to notice more
Yes. Absolutely yes! Guides teach easy methods to help you see details you might normally miss.
What if someone fears insects
Fear is normal, and our goal is to transform fear into respect. We will not be touching any animal whatsoever and have a doctor in place in case of any mosquito bites, among others. Although we do not expect everyone to be as comfortable around wild animals as others, we do need to make sure before you book, that your purpose is to connect, as we cannot make the rest of the group fall behind or change activities because of the fear a particular individual might be experiencing.
Do we observe or interact
We only observe. No touching or disturbing wildlife.
Will we learn ecology together
Yes. Guides explain basic ecological concepts.
Do you teach species identification
Yes. We cover simple identification of insects, plants, and other small organisms, and we will learn to use citizen science apps such as iNaturalist, eBird, Merlin.
Is this suitable for kids
Our expeditioners must be at least 18 years old or accompanied by a legal guardian. Acceptance of minors is at tour operator’s sole discretion. Any minors must have proof of ID, and proof of relationship to minor (i.e. birth certificate that includes the names of the parent(s)).
Can I use my photos for projects
Yes, following ethical guidelines.
SAFETY, COMFORT & PREPARATION
Do I need cash in local currency
Your meals, accommodation, non-alcoholic beverages and transportation are covered. Upon request, we can exchange up to 300 USD upon your arrival, so long as we have proper notice before you arrive. You are welcome to use this cash for tips for the locals and shopping where we travel. We will be traveling to rural areas where we will not find ATMs and many times there will be no other means of payment but local currency.
How long are field sessions
Most sessions last 2–4 hours.
Is this physically demanding
No. We walk short distances at a slow pace. Our expeditions are NOT about hiking or trekking, but observing.
What if it rains
We continue if conditions are safe; otherwise we adjust or reschedule.
I have special food requirements
We will accommodate to your specific meal requirements with the limitations each land has to offer, and will let you know beforehand upon discussing this important topic together. You are mandated to inform if you have any allergies or specific needs when you book your trip, as we will be held harmless 100% if you do not let us know in time to prepare.
How big are the groups
Groups of up to 20 people, with a dedicated guide approximately for each 5 people, for clarity and safety.
Who guides the experience
Trained naturalists, guides, photographers with field and safety experience.
How do you manage risks
Yes. We are fortunate, and have not experienced any incidents in the past, but we want everyone to feel safe and taken care of in case of any medical emergency, so we travel with an adventurous physician at all times.We demand you let us know if you have any medical condition/food requirements/allergies before you fully book your trip, as we are NOT liable for any of these requirements if you have not stated them early on. See Sections 2 and 7 in the Terms and Conditions. We choose safe locations, monitor conditions, and follow strict wildlife respect guidelines, and we travel with a registered physician at all times.
Is first aid available
Yes. We are fortunate, and have not experienced any incidents in the past, but we want everyone to feel safe and taken care of in case of any medical emergency, so we travel with an adventurous physician at all times.
What should I bring
Comfortable clothing, be mindful that you will need fresh long sleeved shirts and pants to protect yourself from the sun and mosquito bites. We will also strongly encourage for you to travel with knee height boots, to protect you from ant colonies, snakes, and other possible encounters.
Do you provide repellent or sunscreen
An all-natural repellent, and sunscreen will be provided; bringing your own is recommended, if you have special requirements.
Can I bring scientific tools
Yes, if they are non invasive. There are certain harmful lights and we will let you know what can/cannot be used out in the field, before you pack.
COMMUNITIES, CONSERVATION & BOOKING
How do you protect ecosystems
Strict non interference and careful movement.
What is your Leave No Trace approach
We leave sites exactly as found.
Do you collaborate with communities
Yes. Communities contribute knowledge and context. We are big fans of the communities we visit and protect their needs and land as a priority.
How does participation support conservation
Yes. Communities contribute knowledge and context. We are big fans of the communities we visit and protect their needs and land as a priority.
Will we meet local guardians
When appropriate and available.
What’s included
Airport transfers in Colombia, accomodation (double occupancy), transportation to and from our destinations, meals, non-alcoholic beverages, physician at hand, and accident insurance; guidance, materials when needed, and access to designated areas.
What’s your cancellation policy
- A non refundable 30% deposit is required to secure your reservation.
- An additional 20% payment (bringing the total to 50%) is due 75 days before the start of the trip.
- Full payment is required 45 days before the trip begins.
- Cancellations made more than 60 days before departure will receive a refund of all payments except the deposit.
- • Cancellations made 59 days or less before departure are non refundable.
- Travel insurance with cancellation coverage is recommended.
- All deadlines close at 11:59 PM EST.
Do you offer private experiences
Yes. Please contact us at explore@bugparche.com for any special requests.
Do you offer transportation
We will take care of your transportation from the moment you step on Colombian soil until you are checked into your flight back home. This includes airport to accommodation and back, and all transportation for our expedition destinations.
Will I be able to wander by myself
Zero tolerance policy
We have a zero tolerance policy for illegal or harmful behavior, including trafficking, exploitation, drug activity, prostitution, harassment, and property or environmental damage. Violations result in removal without refund and may be reported to authorities. Travelers must stay with the group at all times.
Every explorer starts somewhere
Let’s find your expedition.
Let's Chat
Whatever you’re wondering — a detail, a doubt, or a spark of curiosity — send it our way. We’re here to chat, guide, and help you shape the adventure you have in mind.
Schedule a call
If you prefer a voice-to-voice moment, book a call and we’ll walk you through everything. It’s your time to ask, explore, and get clarity before stepping into the journey ahead.
Call us
Chat instantly with us during our normal hours, or leave a message and we’ll get back to you ASAP.