Mangrove Reforestation and AfroCaribbean Community Life in Colombia's Rosario Islands

The Core Regenerative Activity

On the island of Orika, also known as Isla Grande, in the western Caribbean of Colombia, Carlos Machado has been consistently driving a mangrove ecosystem restoration project, motivated by his love for nature and the archipelago of the Rosario Islands.

This project aims to support the island’s coastal ecosystems in mitigating the effects of climate change, as mangroves capture atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and store it in the organic matter of their roots, turning it into blue carbon. Since 2010, community restoration actions have been implemented in the mangroves affected by climate change and intensive tourism. Through this project, more than 8,000 seedlings have been planted in different areas, with over 150 maintenance sessions for channels and inlets, nursery upkeep, and the active participation of visitors and the local community in the process.

During this week, Carlos will share a theoretical session on the role of mangroves in the ecosystem, and together, participants will have the opportunity to plant dozens of seedlings.

The Location: UBUNTU, Isla Grande in Cartagena, Colombia

Located in the Colombian Caribbean, Isla Grande is the largest of the Rosario Islands, an archipelago at about 45 minutes by boat from Cartagena.

Its history is shaped by the influence of Afro-descendant communities, who settled on the island during the colonial era and after the abolition of slavery in Colombia in the 19th century. Culturally, Isla Grande reflects the Afro-Caribbean legacy, with a strong presence of champeta music and traditional rhythms like bullerengue. The local community, mostly living in the village of Orika, preserves ancestral traditions and maintains a close connection with the sea, basing its economy on artisanal fishing and ecotourism.
The island is also known for its rich natural environment, featuring mangroves, coral reefs, and unique biodiversity protected within the Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park. In recent years, it has become a popular destination for travelers seeking authentic, sustainable experiences and a deep connection with nature.

Ubuntu: “I am because we are.” This philosophy embodies the spirit of this special place, where you will stay for a week of regenerative and community-centered experiences.

The Hosts: Margarita and Ever

Margarita and Ever welcome you to their home on Isla Grande, the main island of the Rosario Archipelago.
Ever is of African descent and has dedicated his life to ensuring the recognition of his culture. Margarita specializes in rural community development. She is a Colombian biologist with a master’s degree in Conservation and Rural Development. Her experience includes designing, managing, and implementing sustainable development projects, as well as developing community-based communication and education strategies for conservation. As an expert in networking, she is part of the Environmental Leadership Program at the University of Berkeley and the WWF’s Education for Nature Program. She also serves on the board of CASA Latina (Council of Sustainable Settlements of Latin America).

The conservation of both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, along with cultural and social recognition through education, are the key challenges of the programs they implement across the archipelago. They created UBUNTU as a pilot Community Training Center for Peacebuilding and Conservation, with a holistic and integrated approach. Through practical examples, it demonstrates how to create sustainable solutions in the social, environmental, economic, and cultural dimensions.

Accommodation and Food

• At Ubuntu, all infrastructures are designed to respect the environment and minimize our footprint in such a fragile setting as an island.
• The cabins are made of wood and have private showers with cold water, which is reused to irrigate the flowers and plants surrounding them.
• 2 beachfront cabins with a private terrace and hammock. Each has 1 double bed and 1single bed.
• 2 mangrove-front cabins with a shared terrace and hammocks. Each has 1 double bed and1 single bed.
• 4 luxury cabins with sea views and private terraces.
• 2 dormitories with 3 beds each and a private shower in each dormitory.

We offer delicious and healthy meals infused with all the vibrant flavors of Afro-Caribbean cuisine.
Enjoy a wide variety of options, from fried fish with coconut rice and patacón—a must-try—to shrimp skewers, vegetarian soups, or chicken soups. Our restaurant service includes three meals a day.

Other Experiences to Enjoy Here

• Snorkeling
• Canoeing through the mangroves
• Fishing
• Afro dancing and rythm
• Caribbean cooking

Dates

June Monday 2nd to Sunday 8th

August Monday 4th to Sunday 10th

October Monday 6th to Sunday 12th

December Monday 1st to Sunday 7th

Costs

1450€/ person in a private cabin
1150€ / person in shared cabin with 3 beds

This Includes:

• Round-trip transfer from Cartagena to Isla Grande (hotel pickup included).
• 6 nights of full-board accommodation on the island.
• Three meals per day, with a selection from the menu (up to 130,000 COP/day).
• All scheduled activities and necessary transportation.
• Dedicated guide and interpreter for the entire week.

This does not Include:

• Your arrival in Cartagena (flights or other transportation to the city).
• Meals or drinks outside the full- board package, including alcoholic beverages.
• Additional activities beyond those listed in the itinerary.

Get more information and/or book a call with our team below