Consulting
Operating in remote, often unpredictable environments involves managing numerous factors, many of which are out of our control, while navigating uncharted territory—whether it's cultural, geographical, or psychological. On top of that, the responsibility for the well-being and safety of the expedition team can make the task seem even more daunting. At Merchant Traveller, our extensive experience across Central America equips you with the knowledge and tools to plan and execute your expedition with confidence, ensuring it is both safe and efficient.
Informed by success
Planning:
During the planning stage, we critically assess the expedition’s needs. We take into considering the location, your goals, and most importantly safety. We use our extensive in-county knowledge and local connection to gain a clear understanding of the current situation on the ground.
On the ground knowledge
Visiting the location and reconnoitring is critical to success of any expedition - big or small. Daniel explores solo in some of the most challenging locations on the plant, most of his expeditions are off-map. Planning and recognisance is fundamental to his success. Daniel's successful crossing of the Darien Gap is an example of his approach, a project resulting from 5 years of planning and multiple trips.
Risk Mitigation
We adopt a comprehensive risk mitigation approach. It may not be possible to remove all risks, although this is our focus, but we do not proceed unless we can reduce risks and ensure a safer expedition. Ongoing risk assessments are critical to ensure we are prepared for any unforeseen situations.
Training
We don't know of any expedition which does not require a level of personal preparation. Expedition training equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and physical conditioning needed for a successful and safe journey. An important element of our planning an preparation is to assess the training requirements for all participants. This includes all physical conditioning and skills necessary for a safe and successful expedition. All expeditions are unique in terms of location, goal and participants but, training will typically include an element of the following.
physical fitness - outdoor skills (bushcraft/survival) - safety - teamwork - risk mitigation - cultural awareness -equipment use - first aid - hazardous environment training
Who and Where?
We work with a wide variety of clients and projects:
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Wildlife photography
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Documentary film makers
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Environmental interests
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Individual exploration
We work across Central America and the Amazon Basin.