Once in a Lifetime

In preparation for this trip, I was told time and time again that this would be a “once in a lifetime experience”. I do not think I fully understood the meaning of those words before I set off to camp in the Mexican jungle for a week (with no reception might I add).

Due to the (occasionally long and damp) surveys and the kind and engaging camp scientists, every day was filled with fascinating activities such as going on night-time herp walks in search of snakes and frogs, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, and tracking rare and vulnerable mammals along nearby transects. It felt extremely rewarding to play even a miniscule role in the essential research and conservation that Opwall does for the wildlife and general environment here in Mexico, and I feel very grateful that I was given the opportunity to do so in such a fun and safe environment.

Photo by Malachi Isome

However, that is not to say that my group and I did not face our fair share of obstacles on this trip. From storms and hurricanes, to broken tent zips and mosquitoes, I feel that this experience brough my campmates and I much closer together while strengthening our problem solving skills and resilience.

This has genuinely been one of the most unique and interesting experiences that I have ever been on, and I can certainly confirm that it is definitely a once in a lifetime experience.

Title photo by Alex O’Brien @Whatalexseas