The Lab is testing a model that transforms expedition travel into positive conservation impact
The first trek: Bioko Island’s remote jungle in Central Africa, in partnership with the Drill Project and Drill Films
Join the expedition from November 22 — December 5, 2026
MALABO, EQUATORIAL GUINEA — From the think tank of Sol Creative: The Expedition Impact Lab has emerged from incubation and is now in trial.
The Lab is assembling a new model for expedition travel: designing itineraries for small groups of travelers and investing profit in related community-led conservation projects.
The Lab’s first expedition, developed in partnership with Drill Films, is to Equatorial Guinea in Central Africa. Join an expedition to Bioko Island’s remote rainforest from November 22 — December 5, 2026.
This expedition will involve backpacking the southern coast of Bioko Island and camping along the way. Accommodations in the field are primitive, and follow the research camp style established on the southern coast. The Luba Caldera Scientific Reserve contains dense rainforest and high biodiversity, which descend toward beaches and rugged coastline along the Gulf of Guinea. A partner, The Drill Project, is dedicated to conserving the endangered Bioko drill – a shy keystone species, yet charismatic primate.
On this expedition, the team will trek along the coastline and upwards to the Gran Caldera. Camp locations emphasize wildlife hotspots, to observe drills from hides and walk beaches where sea turtles nest through the night. The route may include 40 miles of trekking, depending upon group goals. On day one, the team will gather to look at maps and prepare for departure into the jungle for two weeks without cell service.
“Southern Bioko’s jungle feels like the rare experience of untouched – and incredibly wild – paradise,” said Theresa Soley, founder and expedition leader.
“Places like these, without tourists and defined trails, offer a reminder that ecosystems still pulsate away from our noise.”
The expedition price includes group meals, lodging (in double occupancy accommodations and tents while on expedition), in-country transportation, expert leadership, permits, administrative, and local guide rates. The cost is $3,995 USD per person — with questions, send an inquiry through the interest form. For conservation purposes, a detailed itinerary, scheduled call, and booking link are available upon request.
There will be a virtual briefing session with the team in October to discuss mandatory vaccinations, visa applications, a packing list, risks, and ecology on Bioko Island.
Custom dates and itineraries are available, and during the 2026-2027 dry season, can be arranged from December through March with Drill Films.
Expedition Impact Lab itineraries are designed for small groups and venture to remote locations rather than trending hotspots. These are not cookie-cutter trips; think wildness, grit, some misadventure along the way.
The Expeditions: Trips are adaptive and accommodate a range of backcountry experience levels. Spaces are sold individually, and physical activity varies by itinerary. To maintain accessible price points and retain expedition-style character, camping and budget accommodations are common.
The Impact: Ultimately, these expeditions are meant to convert travel costs into positive environmental impact. The profit traditional travel companies retain from sales will be invested into community-led conservation initiatives. Prospective nonprofit partners should contact Sol Creative to discuss future itinerary development. The upcoming expedition would not be possible without the expertise of The Drill Project.
Expedition Impact Lab isn’t presenting a finished model – but testing one. What comes next will be shaped by experiences on Bioko Island.
Media Contact: Theresa Soley
Email: theresa.solcreative@gmail.com
Website: www.solcreativestorystudio.com/lab
