Early Man in Spain
Dr. Lluís Gibert Beotas
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Welcome to Earthwatch Institute!
You are just one step away from an experience that may change your life.
You may travel to a land you’ve never seen, live with a culture you
know little about, learn skills you’ve only imagined. All in the name of
field research that leads to furthering our understanding of our natural
and cultural resources.
The Expedition Briefing in your hands is your initiation to the project
from the scientist’s own perspective. You will learn about the inspiration
that led the scientist(s) to launch the research, the objectives, goals, and
even achievements of the project to date. You will get a very real sense of
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Dear Earthwatch Volunteer,
I’m Lluís Gibert. I have been working with Josep Gibert, my father and colleague in Cueva
Victoria and other sites of Spain and North Africa for the last 30 years. Together we searched for
new data related to early humans and their ecosystems. In 2001 we started the “Early Man in
Spain project” sponsored by Earthwatch Institute. Lots of new data has been collected and
published since then, lots of fun has been had and research has been done with the help of
volunteers. Unfortunately my father died suddenly in October of 2007, his studies on early
humans during the last three decades renovate scientific paradigms, demonstrating the presence
of early humans in Europe one million years before was established. This is a great loss, but his
wish was that his research will continue after him. The people who had the privilege of working
and learning with him want to continue with his unfinished projects. This is the reason Early
Man in Spain will not stop and will continue generating more knowledge about our origins, the
fauna and environment of the Quaternary period for many years.
Since 2001, the project Early Man in Spain has been working in southeast Spain at different sites.
Our work has been centered in the Baza basin in Granada and in the Cueva Victoria cave located
in Murcia province. These regions are separated by only 100 kilometers. In the Baza basin we
found fauna and different evidences of human presence buried in lake sediments. In Cueva
Victoria we uncovered similar finds but near the Mediterranean coast and buried in cave
deposits. Last year’s work at the Cueva Victoria site will continue with the field season of 2008.
Our results from 2008 will be included in a new book in honor of “Prof. Josep Gibert” that we are
preparing about this site which will include all the information collected during the recent past.
We have dedicated the last three years to collecting more evidence of human presence in this part
of Western Europe in ancient time. This evidence will give us more information about how the
first Europeans lived, whether the first occupation of the European continent was continuous and
definitive and what route these people followed to reach southeastern Spain. Present faunal
remains, geological and archaeological data permit us some answers, but we need your help in
increasing the amount of information which is offered by the sediments of Cueva Victoria. If you
come to help us, we will provide you with exciting information that we have from this site and
we will also discuss the new data collected from the field every day.
We live near the site in a nice old farm, which now has apartments for rent. This place has quite
comfortable conditions: different rooms, some of which have two beds, others three, and a big
room and patio that is very convenient for evening lectures. The farm has running water,
showers and toilets for a group of 20 persons and a nice pool and huge garden. Mediterranean
style meals will be variable and will be served outside in the shade.
During some of the evenings we will give talks about geology, paleontology, and archaeology of
the area, which will permit you to become familiar with different aspects of the history of the
region. Also during particular days we organize trips to interesting places.
No specific skills are needed for working with us; the only thing required is an interest in
understanding our past. If you don’t have experience, you will be taught how to excavate, clean
sediments with water for collection of small fossils, and classify fossils and artifacts. We will
teach you how to understand the geology of the cave and interpret the different information. We
normally work between 9:00 in the morning and 12:30 pm, and from 5:30 to 8:00 in the evening.
We avoid the hottest hours (12:30-5:30 pm) in the field and use this time for bathing at the pool or
beach, having lunch, relaxing and, as can be expected, siesta. The Cueva Victoria area is located
near the coast at 38° north latitude; therefore the sun is intense, but we work inside a cave where
the temperature is nice. It is important to use sun protection and hats in the field outside the cave.
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Hard hats (supplied by the project), boots and gloves are necessary during the work in the cave.
Do not hesitate in choosing an interesting and rewarding experience in the southeast of Spain!
We look forward to meeting you this summer.
Lluís Gibert
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Early Man in Spain
Table of Contents
GENERAL INFORMATION...................................................................................................................... 1
THE EXPEDITION ..................................................................................................................................... 2
1. PROJECT OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................................. 2
2.
RESEARCH AREA .............................................................................................................................. 3
3. PROJECT STAFF ...................................................................................................................................... 4
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD..................................................................................................................... 5
4. VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND ASSIGNMENTS ........................................................................................... 5
5. TEAM ITINERARY ................................................................................................................................... 5
6. DAILY SCHEDULE AND TASKS ............................................................................................................... 6
7. ACCOMMODATION ................................................................................................................................. 7
8. FOOD ..................................................................................................................................................... 7
9. BEFORE YOU LEAVE ............................................................................................................................. 8
10. PROJECT CONDITIONS ........................................................................................................................ 11
11. HEALTH INFORMATION ...................................................................................................................... 12
12. PACKING CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................................................... 13
13. RECOMMENDED READING.................................................................................................................. 13
14. EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD .............................................................................................................. 14
15. HELPFUL RESOURCES ........................................................................................................................ 15
APPENDIX ................................................................................................................................................. 17
EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST ................................................................................................ 20
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GENERAL INFORMATION
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORS:
POSITIONS/TITLES:
AFFILIATIONS:
Lluís Gibert Beotas
Researcher
Fulbright grant at Berkeley Geochronology
Center
PROJECT TITLE:
Early Man in Spain
RESEARCH SITE:
Cueva Victoria, Murcia Province, Spain
RENDEZVOUS POINT:
EXPEDITION DATES:
Granada Airport, Granada, Spain
Team I:
Team II:
Team III:
TEAM SIZE MINIMUM/MAXIMUM:
7/15 volunteers
MINIMUM AGE OF PARTICIPATION:
18 years of age
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July 1-14, 2008
July 19 – August 1, 2008
September 2 – 15, 2008
THE EXPEDITION
1. PROJECT OVERVIEW
During the 2008 season the Early Man in Spain project will conduct research at Cueva Victoria, a
large cave with an interesting paleontological and geological history. The cave used to be a hyena
den during the Quaternary times, and is an important site due to the large amount of fossil fauna
and the presence of human remains and African fauna, especially the big ape Theropithecus cf
oswaldi. Though scarce, the human remains in Cueva Victoria, together with Orce, are the oldest
in Western Europe. Cueva Victoria also has a long miner history: in the late 19th century it was a
manganese mine, and the miners altered the original shape of the cave by making tunnels and
ventilation holes.
Research conducted through this project indicates that Cueva Victoria was formed by the late
Pliocene between two and three million years ago (mya). The formation of the cave was probably
influenced by the circulation of acid fluids through the cracks and joints present in the limestone.
This dilution process generated the big rooms in the cave and a residual clay deposit called terra
rosa, which is present in the lower cave deposits. Once the cave was opened to the outside it was
filled in with sediments through rain and gravity. Hyenas lived within the cave to feed their
babies and introduced the majority of the bones. Evidence of hyena activity includes abundant
coprolites, hyena teeth marks in the bones, and the presence of bones from marine mammals in
the cave. This evidence indicates that the seashore was close by and that hyenas transported
their food to the cave. Sometime before 0.8 mya, water circulation permitted the formation of a
layer of calcite in the areas above the sediments, bones and manganese nodules in the sediments.
Later in the 19th century the cave was quarried as a manganese mine.
During the past field season volunteers recovered more than 400 bones from different species of
fossil vertebrates. Some of these fossils are well preserved and have contributed to increasing the
knowledge of the different species that lived in the Cueva Victoria area. Teams also found a large
amount of coprolites of hyenas. One of the current goals of this project is to find more human
bones in order to classify the human species which first arrived in Western Europe. The help of
volunteers is essential to accomplish this goal as it is necessary to remove a great deal of sediment
to find human bones. Not only are human bones important however; all mammal fossils
collected by the volunteers are stored in Cartagena Museum and studied by different researchers
from around the world.
Visit http://cincominutos.net and http://cuevavictoria.com for pictures and comments by
previous volunteers related to this project.
Note: See Early Man in Spain: The Research in the appendix of this briefing for information on the
research objectives, methods, and results of this project.
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2. RESEARCH AREA
Location of Cueva Victoria in southeast Spain.
Location of Cueva Victora between the
town of La Union and the Mar Menor
Cueva Victoria is located near the Mediterranean coast on the east side of San Ginés de la Jara
mountain, near the Mar Menor. Temperatures are pleasant during the evening and can get quite
high during the day (see Section 10 ‘Project Conditions’). Vegetation in the area includes typical
Mediterranean bushes and some populations of pine tress. The region contains different
interesting landscapes, such as the lagoon of Mar Menor and its associated islands and salinas
(shallow ponds used to grow salt). These salinas are home to many different types of birds,
notably flamingos. Also interesting is the landscape of the Mediterranean coast, including the
Calblanque natural park http://www.calareona.com/calblanque.html. In this coastal area,
mountains formed by dark metamorphic rocks connect to a variety of wonderful beaches.
Cueva Victoria itself has six large rooms and more than two kilometers of galleries located at
different levels. The project has explored and mapped these six rooms but the extent of the cave
is still unknown. The biggest room is the Sala Union (over 150 x 30 meters large) and this is
where the main accumulation of fossils occurs. The room is connected to one of the entrances to
the cave and has holes which supply natural light. Some areas in the cave have speleological
interest with nice stalactite formations.
The nearest town to the research site is El Estrecho de San Gines, 1.5 kilometers away. Close to
the entrance of the cave is La Casa de la Victoria, which is an old farm converted to apartments
where the research team will stay. Not far to the north is the monastery of San Gines de la Jara.
Cueva Victoria is located 14 minutes’ drive from Cartagena city, 45 minutes from Murcia city,
one hour from Alicante and approximately three hours from Granada city. During the months of
July and August there are cultural activities in Cartagena including expositions, art and folklore
fairs, performances, movies, and more (see http://www.fotocartagena.com). The city also has a
spectacular Roman theater as well as important museums such as the archaeological museum
built above Roman ruins and the sub-aquatic museum which shows remains collected by
underwater archaeologists. Some activities are also available in the small towns closer to the
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research site. Every Sunday there is a huge street market in Cabo de Palos town. The mining
museum in La Union is also worth a visit.
3. PROJECT STAFF
Principal Investigator
Dr. Lluís Gibert Beotas, 39 years old, holds a degree in geological sciences and a Ph.D. from the
Universidat Politecnica de Catalunya, having studied the geology and paleontology of the Baza
basin region and Cueva Victoria site. His research specialties include Quaternary geology,
sedimentology and magneto-stratigraphy. He has published more than 50 papers and has given
oral presentations at international conferences in South Africa, Copenhagen, Dublin, San
Francisco, Vienna and others. He is a member of the International Association of
Sedimentologists, Society for Sedimentary Geology and a master of prehistoric techniques. Since
1982 he has participated in all the excavations led by Dr. Josep Gibert in Orce and Cueva Victoria.
At present he has a Fulbright postdoctoral grant to develop research at Berkeley Geochronology
Center, Berkeley, California.
Research Assistants
Dr. Alfredo Iglesias Dieguez, 41 years old, is a collaborator in the history department of the
Universidad de Santiago. He specializes in early Paleolithic research, has published 40 articles
and has participated in excavations in Orce and Cueva Victoria since 1983. He is a member of
Charles Darwin International and has given oral presentations at international congresses.
Dr. Gary R. Scott, 60 years old, is a researcher at the Berkeley Geochronology Center. He has
been conducting research in the Orce region for the last five years. His specialty is the paleomagnetic technique, which is finding important results in dating the deposits of these sites.
Gary Geiger, 33 years old, has participated in different archaeological excavations and surveys
and is presently studying archaeology in new York university.
Maria Lería, 31 years old she has a degree in Fine arts, and has collaborated with Dr. Josep Gibert
doing illustrations of books.
Pepa Beotas, 64 years old, she is an artist who married Dr. Josep Gibert, she has helped him
during his career and will help us with meals and other arrangements.
Current Staffing Schedule (Subject to Change)
Staff Member Present
Dr. Lluís Gibert
Dr. Alfredo Iglesias
Dr. Gary Scott
Gary Geiger
Maria Lería
Pepa Beotas
Team I
√
√
Team II
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
4
Team III
√
√
√
√
√
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD
4. VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND ASSIGNMENTS
Training
Project staff will give the team a more detailed onsite briefing when they arrive. Topics addressed
through informal lectures will include archaeology, paleontology and geology in Cueva Victoria
and at other Spanish sites. Training will include the anatomy of vertebrate fossils, including
humans’, and will be aided by an anatomy atlas. When cleaning and classifying bones in the
afternoons, you will be encouraged to check this atlas often to determine to which species the
bones you’re working on belong. During the evenings project staff will teach volunteers the
significance and use of small fossils while you separate the bones of small mammals from
sediment.
It is expected that the spirit of the team will develop well at Cueva Victoria, with interesting and
creative work, the sharing of meals and recreational time, group excursions and friendly staff all
contributing to a good team atmosphere. The educational and cooperative nature of the project
typically results in lively discussions and debates between staff members and volunteers.
Assignments
Volunteers will split work time between excavating the site, cleaning and numbering excavated
fossil remains and sieving sediments to extract small fossils. Normal excavation work consists of
sitting, working with small picks and tools. Team members will sieve all sediment collected and
will separate any bones found. Volunteers may also participate in paleontological and
archaeological categorizing after cleaning the fossils.
The project work will be divided fairly among team members. No specific knowledge is required
to carry out these assignments. English will be the dominant language although a basic
knowledge of Spanish is encouraged.
5. TEAM ITINERARY
Your 14-day expedition will include 9-10 days of working at the research sites, along with visits
to Orce archaeological sites (one full day), traditional markets held in Cabo de Palos (a fisher
town five kilometers from the cave), the miner museum and nearby archaeological sites of La
Union, and attractions in Cartagena city such as the Roman theater and archaeological museum.
Transportation will be provided by either walking or project van.
On day 13 of the expedition, the team will leave Cueva Victoria after breakfast and will travel to
Granada, arriving at about noon. In order to accommodate flight departures the next day, the
team will spend the night together at the Hotel Guadalupe, located on Paseo de la Sabica
(www.hotelguadalupe.es; tel: +34 958 223423/24; fax: +34 958 223798). This three-star hotel is in a
very nice location in front of the Alhambra.
5
Reservations for this night will be made by project staff on behalf of the volunteers; however be
aware that you will be responsible for the cost of your room. Payment should be made directly
to the hotel upon checkout. The hotel offers Earthwatch volunteers a special price of €53 for a
single room, €66 for a double room and €84 for a triple room (breakfast not included).
Volunteers can organize visits to the Alhambra, the cathedral and other interesting places. You
will be responsible for your ticket to the Alhambra (€10), as well as the cost of any taxi rides.
Later the team will meet at the hotel and will walk (10 minutes) downtown together to have
dinner in a local restaurant. This dinner will not be covered in your Earthwatch contribution.
After dinner, there will be an optional activity such as a flamenco show in Sacromonte district.
Volunteers will be free to depart the next morning. Taxis from the hotel to the airport are €25.
Below is a tentative itinerary for your expedition.
Day 1:
Day 2:
Days 3-8:
Day 9:
Days 10-12:
Day 13:
Day 14:
Meet at rendezvous point, travel to the project accommodation
Morning visit to Cueva Victoria, introduction to the site and instructions about
the work, begin digging, lab work in the afternoon (5:00-7:30 pm), beach time
until 8:30 pm, dinner
Work at the sites until 1:00 pm, pool and rest time (siesta!) until 5:00 pm, lab
work until 7:30 pm, beach time, dinner around 9:30 pm, post-dinner talks about
the project on some nights; some days will also include recreational activities,
including a late morning visit to the mining museum in La Union or to the
market of Los Alcazares or Cabo de Palos, and two evenings will be used to visit
Cartagena city
Full day excursion to Orce archaeological sites
Same as Days 3-8, plus one evening visit to Cartagena city
Travel to Granada city in the morning, drop off luggage at the Hotel Guadalupe
upon arrival (around mid-day), recreational time to see the city (at your own
expense), meet at 9:00 pm for a final dinner at a local restaurant (at your own
expense), spend the night at the hotel (at your own expense)
Depart by train, bus or plane
6. DAILY SCHEDULE AND TASKS
Below is an example of a typical research day, but be aware that schedules can and do fluctuate
due to weather, research needs, etc. The schedule below takes the climate and customs of the
research area into consideration. Volunteers unfamiliar with the siesta and the Spanish work day
may feel under worked, however it is important to remember culture differences.
8:00 am:
8:30 am:
8:45 am:
9:00 am:
1:00 pm:
2:30 pm:
3:30 pm:
5:30 pm:
7:30 pm:
10:00 pm:
Wake up
Breakfast
Walk to the site
Begin excavation work at Cueva Victoria
Return to the accommodation to relax, bathe, and/or enjoy the pool
Lunch
Siesta
Lab work (e.g. restoration, classification, sediment washing, etc.)
Trip to the beach, rest, etc.
Dinner, followed on some nights by informal talks and lectures
6
7. ACCOMMODATION
Lodging for volunteers, staff, and other Spanish collaborators will be on an old farm with large
gardens and a pool. Tropical fruits were grown on the farm years ago, but today it is owned and
rented out by a German couple. The accommodation is close to the research site, which is
accessible by gravel road, volunteer can however walk to the cave (5-10 minutes) through a dry
river. The farm has four main apartments with independent bathrooms containing hot and cold
water, modern toilets and showers. Two of the apartments have multiple rooms as well as
kitchens while the rest have only one large room with a bathroom. Team members will share
rooms with one to four others. Bedrooms have single beds and men and women will sleep in
separate rooms. Two independent bedrooms are available for couples at no additional cost. One
single room is available. If you have any special room requirements you should alert
Earthwatch, otherwise you will be allocated rooms on arrival by the project staff.
Sheets and blankets will be provided. There may be some towels available but there may not be
enough to go around, so you should bring your own. Laundry facilities are restricted to a
washing machine used by the owners of the farm; you are encouraged to hand wash your
clothing if necessary. Internet facilities are available in the town of La Union, and the team may
travel there twice a week or so to check email.
Note: On the last day of the expedition, the team will travel to Granada and will spend the night
at the Hotel Guadalupe at the volunteers own expense. See Section 4 ‘Team Itinerary’ for more
information.
8. FOOD
The majority of meals will be eaten in the main cave at Cueva Victoria. Food will be prepared by
members of the staff and will typically be Mediterranean style and rich in vegetables. There will
also be one or two barbeques during the expedition. Vegetarian meals will be available. Each day
two team members will help to wash dishes and clean the table, this will be done by rota.
Below are examples of the foods you might expect during the expedition. Please bear in mind
that variety depends on availability. This list is intended to provide a general idea of food types,
but it is very important that volunteers be flexible.
Breakfast:
Lunch:
Dinner:
Dessert:
Beverages:
Magdalenas (type of muffin), toast
Chicken soup, pasta with ham, salad
Paella, meat (lamb, chicken, rabbit), tomatoes, French fries, tortillas
Ice cream, fruit (peaches, apples, pears, melon, etc.)
Coffee, water, soft drinks, fruit drinks, wine, beer
Special Dietary Requirements
Please alert Earthwatch to any special dietary requirements as soon as possible (e.g. diabetic,
lactose intolerant, etc.). Accommodating special diets is not guaranteed and can be very difficult
due to availability, location and local conditions.
Special note to vegans and strict vegetarians: Please be aware that it is often difficult to
accommodate strict vegetarians and vegans. It may be possible to get meatless meals but vegans
and strict vegetarians may have a problem avoiding animal products altogether. If this poses a
problem, then participation on this Earthwatch expedition should be seriously reconsidered.
7
TRAVEL PLANNING
9. BEFORE YOU LEAVE
For a listing of useful websites for passport and visa requirements see Section 17 ‘Helpful
Resources.’
Passport Information
Most volunteers traveling from outside Spain will require a passport valid for at least six months
beyond the dates of travel.
Visa Information
Citizens of the US, Canada, EU, Australia, and Japan do not need a tourist visa for entry. Citizens
of other countries should check with a travel or visa agency for specific visa and entry
requirements. If you do need a visa, the chart below should be useful.
Essential Information for Volunteers Requiring Visas
Type of Visa
Where to Get
a Visa
Required
Information
Cost of a Visa
You must get a TOURIST VISA.
Contact the nearest Spanish embassy or consulate to find out how to apply for
your visa. Please note that this process can take weeks or more. If you have
less than six weeks or wish to save yourself trouble, we strongly recommend
using a visa agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process.
You will need to send your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your
stay), a Visa Application and Immigration Form, 2-4 passport-size photos
plus payment to the embassy or visa agency (if applicable). Please be sure that
your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
Generally between US$40-100, but varies from country to country and can
potentially cost up to US$180. A visa agency will charge an additional fee
(depending on the amount of time it takes to process the application), which
you can inquire about directly.
Reminder: If you need to apply for a visa, the purpose of your visit should be listed on the visa
form as “vacation,” “holiday” or “travel.” Foreign immigration officials do not always
understand the concept of a “working vacation” or even “volunteering.” Words such as
“working”/”volunteering,” “research” or a “scientific expedition” can raise questions concerning
the country’s foreign labor laws and/or prompt questions about official scientific research
permits and credentials, etc., to which volunteers on their own will not be equipped to respond.
All required research permits for the project are in place and have been approved by the proper
authorities.
Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age
Entry to Foreign Countries
8
In an effort to prevent international child abduction many governments have initiated
procedures at entry/exit points. It may be possible for 16- and 17-year-olds to participate in the
project if accompanied by a parent or guardian. In this case, if the minor will be traveling with
only one guardian or if for any reason they will be traveling alone, it may be necessary to have a
notarized letter from all legal guardians stipulating that they may travel unaccompanied or in the
presence of a single guardian. This letter must give an explanation for why only one parent or
someone other than a parent is signing the letter. For example, if one parent is deceased, only one
parent has legal guardianship, or someone other than the parents are legal guardians, the letter
should state that.
In addition, airlines may also have documentation requirements for unaccompanied minors.
Parents of minors are responsible for checking with each airline that their child will be flying to
ensure that sufficient documentation is provided. This could include a copy of a birth certificate
or a notarized letter stating that the minor has his or her parent’s permission to travel alone or
with only one parent.
Note: Requirements by specific countries and airlines vary and change frequently. You MUST
keep informed of the requirements on your own to avoid problems at immigration. If a letter is
not available, the volunteer under 18 can be refused entry into the country. There is nothing
Earthwatch Institute can do to help in this circumstance.
Travel Medical Insurance
Travel medical and evacuation insurance is mandatory for Earthwatch volunteers while on an
Earthwatch expedition anywhere in the world. The cost of this insurance is included in your
volunteer contribution. It covers volunteer travel medical risk, including medical expenses and
medical evacuation, while traveling with Earthwatch overseas or on an expedition within your
home country. Without insurance, the costs of such measures can range from US$20,000 to
$50,000.
The emergency medical and evacuation assistance provider for Earthwatch is On Call
International. On Call is a 24-hour international operation which provides medical assistance and
evacuation, a 24-hour nurse help line and other travel assistance services such as lost baggage
and lost document assistance.
Basic coverage is valid in the country of your Earthwatch expedition and during international
travel to and from your expedition. If the expedition takes place in your home country, coverage
begins when your group forms for the expedition and ends when the group disbands, and is
incremental to your existing health insurance. Options are available for volunteers who would
like to extend the period of coverage, increase insurance amounts or purchase additional
cancellation or baggage insurance. Application forms for additional coverage are included in
your volunteer packet.
A detailed description of the Volunteer Medical and Evacuation Insurance Program policy,
including the optional coverage increases, will be sent with this briefing. Please note that
policies are specific to each Earthwatch office.
To contact On Call International in the event of an emergency, dial:
•
•
1-866-509-7715 from within the US
+1-603-898-9159 from outside the US
State that you are on an Earthwatch expedition. The Earthwatch policy number is #US008020.
9
Cancellation Insurance
Trip cancellation insurance is highly recommended for Earthwatch volunteers. Depending on the
level of coverage you purchase, cancellation insurance will help cover your airfare and
Earthwatch contribution if you need to cancel your expedition due to medical or other covered
reasons. Earthwatch Institute does not reimburse airfare or costs associated with cancelled flights
or expeditions. Levels of reimbursement for cancelled airline tickets or ticket change fees will
vary depending on what type of trip cancellation policy you purchase. You are strongly advised
to buy flexible or refundable plane tickets. Note that volunteers with preexisting medical
conditions are encouraged to explore their coverage options.
For US and Canadian Volunteers
Earthwatch is offering comprehensive optional travel insurance through CSA Travel
Protection as a service to our US and Canadian volunteers. While our inclusive insurance covers
your emergency medical needs while in the field, this optional policy covers trip cancellation
insurance due to medical emergencies, lost luggage, travel delays, etc. For more information on
the insurance policy, call Earthwatch at 1‐800‐776‐0188 or visit www.csatravelprotection.com.
Please note that some coverage is dependent on purchasing insurance within 24 hours of paying
in full for your expedition. Should you decide to take out our optional insurance, please use the
following producer code to indicate your affiliation with Earthwatch: 83534816.
For Volunteers Signing Up through Earthwatch Europe
Earthwatch Europe volunteers can purchase travel insurance from Earthwatch that is
underwritten by Endsleigh and includes Additional Cancellation Cover. Additional Cancellation
Cover insurance includes cover for non-refundable travel expenses should your expedition be
cancelled. Alternatively, if Earthwatch Europe volunteers hold their own travel insurance they
may be able to purchase Additional Cancellation Cover through their existing insurer.
Travel Agencies
Contact your local travel agent or use the web to find the lowest rates to make your travel
arrangements. A list of suggested travel agents can be found in Section 17 ‘Helpful Resources.’ Be
sure to give your rendezvous details to your travel agent as soon as possible so they can plan
your trip accordingly.
Other Advice / Information
•
Local currency: Euro (€)
•
Electricity: 230 volts, 50 Hz, two-round-prong plug
•
Time zone: GMT/UTC +1/+2 in summer
•
Language: Spanish
•
Telephone dialing codes: When calling Spain from another country, dial the country’s
international dialing code, followed by 34 and the number. When calling within Spain, omit
the 34 and dial 011. When calling another country from Spain, dial 00, followed by the other
country’s country code and the number.
•
Personal funds: Credit cards can easily be used; traveler’s checks are less useful in Orce but
may be used in Granada. Some cash is useful to purchase items in the local market or during
planned excursions. All tickets to visit the Miner and Orce museums and the Velez Blanco
Castle are covered by the expedition. The entry cost for the Alhambra (€10) as well as the
final night accommodation at the Hotel Guadalupe and meals must be covered by each
10
volunteer. The best place to change money is at the airport in Granada or Madrid, though
you can also change money at either of the two small banks in La Union town or during visits
to Cartagena. Tipping is not usually expected in Spain.
•
Checking luggage: Please check with your airline, as some carriers will only accept one piece of
hand luggage or may have other baggage restrictions. Please also note that if you will be
taking an international flight that has one or more connections within Spain, it will be
necessary to collect any checked bags at the airport where you first arrive in the country.
After proceeding through Customs, you will have to recheck your luggage before flying on to
your final destination.
10. PROJECT CONDITIONS
Please show this section to your doctor when he/she is completing your health statement. Be sure to discuss
inoculation requirements with your doctor well in advance of your departure date. See Section 11 ‘Health
Information’ for inoculation information.
To the examining doctor:
Your patient has volunteered to join a field research team that has specific physical demands of
which you and your patient should be aware. We need your accurate evaluation of your
patient’s ability to meet the conditions detailed below in order to safeguard his/her health and
safety and ensure that he/she can participate fully and effectively.
General Conditions of the Research Site
During the months of July, August and September, daytime temperatures are around 30ºC/86ºF
to 35ºC/95ºF, while evenings are pleasant at around 22ºC/72ºF to 26ºC/80ºF. Work will not be
done during the hottest hours (1:00-4:00 pm). It rarely rains during July and August. Occasional
storms can last 15-20 minutes. A light breeze is common after 4:00 pm. Humidity is high.
Humidity
Temperature range
Altitude
Rainfall
20%
to 70%
20°C/68°F
to 44°C/112°F
50 m/164 ft (cave and site) to 600 m/1,968 ft (top of the mountains)
40 cm/16 in per season (rain falls mainly in spring and autumn)
Physical Demands
This project is not overly demanding, though volunteers should be in good physical condition.
You will be walking to the site (transportation can be provided by van if necessary) and
excavation work will consist of sitting for long periods of time and walking around the site. You
should sleep enough, eat enough, and drink plenty of water.
Below are the expected demands of the project, but please keep in mind that conditions may
change and the project could potentially be more or less strenuous than the chart indicates
Activity
Sitting/Bending
Hiking
Walking
Carrying
Workload/Intensity
2-4 hours per day
1-2 hours per day over 2.5-5 mi/4-8 km during optional evening surveys
0.5 hours per day over 0.5-1.2 mi/1-2 km
6-8 kg/13-18 lbs over 10 m/33 ft each day
11
Potential Hazards
Hazard Type
Transportation
Project tasks
and equipment
Animals
Climate/
Weather
Swimming
Associated Risks and Precautions
Transportation will be provided by vans and typical driving risks will be
present. However, staff members are experienced drivers. Volunteers will
not be permitted to drive at any time during the project.
Volunteers must be cautious when using excavation tools such as picks and
hammers. It is also important to take care when walking inside the cave, as
the surface is uneven and there is a risk of slipping and falling. You are
advised to bring good walking shoes for work. Poor lighting also means it is
dark. Although the team will only work in stable areas of the cave, volunteers
should use hard hats at all times when in the cave (provided) to prevent
injury from small pieces of rocks that can fall from the ceiling.
Due to the humidity, mosquitoes, bees and wasps may be present, and while
one might see spiders in the countryside they are not dangerous. A few
scorpions can be found among rocks but staff will warn volunteers about
this. Stings can usually be treated with First Aid supplies. Please list any
allergies to insects on your health form and also inform project staff.
The mid-day heat in the summer can be intense. There is risk of sunburn and
dehydration so you should drink plenty of water, apply strong sunscreen
regularly and wear long-sleeved shirts and a hat. When working in the cave
you will not be exposed to heat/sun, and when working in Monte Miral,
which is exposed, umbrellas will be provided.
If you choose to swim during recreational time, you are encouraged to stay
close to shore and never swim alone or after drinking alcohol. Jellyfish can be
found near shore.
Conditions of Special Concern
The project can accommodate most straightforward medical/physical conditions provided they
are noted on the health form. Below are some conditions that would make participation difficult.
Condition
Severely limited
mobility
Intolerance of high
heat and humidity
Extreme
claustrophobia
Concerns and Precautions
Volunteers with limited mobility (e.g. wheelchair bound or with serious
back, knee, or joint problems) would find participation difficult.
While the cave is not overly hot, the research area in general can be very
hot and humid and would make participation uncomfortable.
Though the cave is very large and there are two sources of natural light,
those with extreme claustrophobia may wish to reconsider participation.
11. HEALTH INFORMATION
All volunteers should make sure to have the following up-to-date immunizations: DPT
(diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and varicella (if you have
not already had chicken pox). Please be sure your tetanus shot is current.
12
Medical decisions are the responsibility of each volunteer. Note that health conditions around the
world are constantly changing, so keep informed and consult your physician, a local travel health
clinic, the US Center for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov), the World Health Organization
(www.who.int) or the resources in Section 17 ‘Helpful Resources’ for the latest health information
for travelers. Please consult your physician for guidance on inoculations if you intend to travel to
other parts of the country.
12. PACKING CONSIDERATIONS
PLEASE SEE THE PACKING CHECKLIST AT THE BACK OF THIS BRIEFING AND
REMEMBER TO TAKE YOUR BRIEFING WITH YOU ON YOUR EXPEDITION.
General Considerations
You are advised to avoid bringing more luggage than you can carry and handle on your own. All
types of luggage (e.g. backpack, suitcase, etc.) are acceptable. If traveling by air and checking
your luggage, you are advised to pack an extra set of field clothing and personal essentials in
your carry-on bag so that you aren’t greatly inconvenienced if your luggage is lost and/or takes
several days to catch up with you. Check with your airline(s) about luggage limitations.
Weather Considerations
Please take weather conditions into consideration when packing for your expedition. Climate
information can be found in Section 10 ‘Project Conditions.’ Days are very warm and you will need
lightweight clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat; nights may be cold so you should also
bring plenty of layers.
Essential Items
Make sure to bring your Earthwatch Expedition Briefing with you! It includes essential
information to which you may need to refer during your expedition, as well as during your
journey to and from the project site. Besides the items listed above, it is important that you bring
boots and long trousers to wear in the cave, as well as a flashlight or head lamp.
Please see the Expedition Packing Checklist for a complete list of what you will need to take
with you. You are encouraged to go through the list and mark off each required item right before
you leave for your expedition.
13. RECOMMENDED READING
Please read Early Man in Spain: The Research in the appendix of this briefing. This document
was prepared by the Principal Investigators and Earthwatch and explains the research conducted
through this project as well as some results to date.
13
Below are additional recommended materials for those interested in further preparing for the
expedition. Many can be purchased online through popular vendors. See Section 17 ‘Helpful
Resources’ for suggested vendor websites.
Books
•
•
•
•
•
•
Lewin, R. 1997. Bones of Contention: Controversies in the Search for Human Origins. Second
Edition. University of Chicago Press, Chicago.
Johanson, D. and Edey, M. 1990. Lucy: The Beginnings of Humankind. Reissue Edition. Simon
and Schuster, New York.
Tobias, P.V. 1984. Dart, Taung, and the “missing link”: An essay on the life and work of Emeritus
Professor Raymond Dar based on a tribute to Professor Dart in his 90th… Witwatersrand
University Press for the Institute for the Study of Man in Africa.
Tattersall, I. et al. 1988. Encyclopedia of Human Evolution and Prehistory. Garland, New York
and London.
Ciochon, R.L. and Fleagle, J.G. 2006. The Human Evolution Source Book. Advances in Human
Evolution Series Second Edition. Ed Prentice Hall.
Gibert, J. 2004. El Hombre de Orce. Editorial Almuzara (see www.editorialalmuzara.com).
Articles
•
•
•
•
•
Bower, B. 1997. “Ancient Roads to Europe.” Science News, January 4, p. 12-13.
Gore, R. 1997. “The Dawn of Humans.” National Geographic, July, p. 96-112.
Larik, R. and Ciochon, R.L. 1996. “The African Emergence and Early Asian Dispersals of the
Genus Homo.” American Scientist, vol. 84.
Zihlman, A. and Lowenstein. 1996. “A Spanish Olduvai?” Current Anthropology 37: 695-697.
Gibert, J., Sánchez, F., Ribot, F., Gibert, L., Ferrández, C., Iglesias, A., Gibert, P. and González,
F. 2002. “Restes humaines dans les sediments du Pleistocène inferior de la region d’Orce et de
Cueva Victoria (au sud-est de l’Espagne).” L’Antropologie 106: 669-683.
Project Field Report
Each Earthwatch Institute-supported project submits a report on the past year’s research and
results to Earthwatch, generally on an annual basis. The most recent field report for this project
may be available online through www.earthwatch.org/expeditions/gibert.html. Note that
reports are not available for all projects.
14. EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD
During the last 28 years of excavations the most common medical issues that have occurred are
bee and scorpion stings and injuries from using small hammers and picks. Minor injuries can be
treated using the medicine cabinet at the field site. Lluis Gibert and Pepa Beotas are certified in
First Aid. If the problem is more serious, the individual(s) will be taken immediately to the doctor
in La Union, four kilometers (10 minutes) away. La Union has 24-hour medical service. Medical
care is also available in Orce between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm. Cars will be available 24 hours a
day to be used in the event of an emergency. If necessary, the injured/ill individual(s) will be
transported by ambulance to the main hospital in Cartagena, 14 kilometers (20 minutes) away.
If a volunteers who have to leave the project early due to an emergency (for example a family
illness) the staff will help arrange transportation to the airport. Any costs incurred in such
14
situations will be at the volunteer’s own expense. Note that volunteers may leave early ONLY in
cases of emergency.
Proximity to Medical Care
Safety certification
Nearest
medical center
Lluis Gibert and Pepa Beotas
Cartagena Hospital
Paseo Alfonso XIII 61
30203 Cartagena, Spain
+34 968 325 000
15. HELPFUL RESOURCES
Project-Related Websites
•
•
Project-related website created by volunteers: www.cincominutos.net
History and finds from Cueva Victoria: http://cuevavictoria.com
Passport and Visa Information
•
•
•
•
•
•
Embassies around the world: http://www.embassyworld.com
For Japanese citizens: http://www.rainbowt.jp/travel/visa_top.html
For Australian citizens: https://www.passports.gov.au and
http://www.dfat.gov.au/visas/index.html
Passport Visa Express (for US citizens): www.passportvisasexpress.com
The Visaservice: http://www.visaservice.co.uk
Thames Consular Services Ltd: http://www.visapassport.com
Travel Guidebooks and Booksellers
•
•
•
•
Lonely Planet: http://www.lonelyplanet.com
Rough Guide: http://travel.roughguides.com
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com
Barnes and Noble: http://www.bn.com
Travel Agencies and Advice
•
Esplanade Tours (specializes in Greece): http://esplanadetours.com
160 Commonwealth Ave Suite L3
Boston, MA 02116 USA
Tel: 617-266-7465
Toll free in the US: 1-800-426-5492 or 1-800-628-4893
Fax: 617-262-9829
Email: [email protected]
•
STA Travel (contact Angie Kurtz or Chris Chappell and mention that you will be going on an
Earthwatch Expedition): http://www.statravel.com
36 Geary Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
Tel: +1 415 391-8407
Email: [email protected]
15
•
•
•
•
STA Travel (UK): http://www.statravel.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 1865 792800
Fax: +44 (0) 1865 792911
Email: [email protected]
Quote code: EWE01/02
Wexas International (Europe): http://www.wexas.com
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7581 8761
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7581 7679
Email: [email protected]
Quote code: EWE01/02
World Travel Guide: http://www.worldtravelguide.com
UK Foreign Office travel advice: http://www.fco.gov.uk/travel
Overland Travel Resources
•
•
•
How to travel by train from London to almost any country in Europe, The Man in Seat SixtyOne: http://www.seat61.com/
How to travel by Bus from London to almost any country in Europe, Eurolines :
http://www.nationalexpress.com/eurolines/home/hp.cfm
European Ferry Information, The Man in Seat Sixty-One Ferry Shop:
http://www.seat61.com/FerryShop.htm
Airline/Airport Resources
•
•
Flight comparison tools: http://www.bookingbuddy.com and http://www.1800-fly.com
Airport codes worldwide: http://www.logisticsworld.com/airports.asp
Country Information
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Country information from around the world: http://www.countryreports.org
National Geographic Map Machine: http://plasma.nationalgeographic.com/mapmachine
US State Department: http://www.state.gov
Time worldwide with GMT/UTC: http://www.worldtimeserver.com
Currency converter: http://www.xe.com
Electrical current converter: http://kropla.com/electric2.htm
Telephone dialing codes: http://kropla.com/dialcode.htm
Online unit conversions: http://www.onlineconversion.com
Worldwide weather: http://www.wunderground.com or http://www.tutiempo.net/en
ATM locator: http://visa.via.infonow.net/locator/global/jsp/SearchPage.jsp or
http://www.mastercard.com/atmlocator/index.jsp
Health Information
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Travel health website: http://www.mdtravelhealth.com
Center for Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov
Tel: +1 800 311-3435 or +1 888 232-3228
World Health Organization: http://www.who.int
The Travel Doctor: http://www.tmvc.com.au
Disease outbreaks: http://www.who.int/csr/don/en
Hospital for Tropical Diseases: http://www.thehtd.org
Travellers Healthline Advisory Service
Tel: 020 7950 7799
MASTA Travelers’ Healthline (UK)
Tel: 0906 8 224100 (within UK)
16
APPENDIX
EARLY MAN IN SPAIN: THE RESEARCH
The following information was taken from the research proposal submitted by the Principal
Investigators to Earthwatch Institute. Included is a description of the research conducted through
this project, some results to date, and other information regarding the accomplishments of the
project and the staff. Specific details regarding research sites, methods, etc. is subject to change
slightly from year to year and such changes may not be incorporated into this document.
BACKGROUND, OBJECTIVES, AND METHODS
Background
Early Man in Spain is a long-term project that works at different sites in the southeast of Spain.
The finds of each field season are new pieces of a very large puzzle, and the project’s research
objectives cannot be completed within just a few seasons. However, it is still possible for
extraordinary finds during particular excavations to permit the project to reach different
objectives. During the field seasons of 2001 to 2007 important work was accomplished. The
project excavated unknown sites such as Barranco del Paso and Fuentenueva-1, which supplied a
lot of fossil material; Venta Micena was excavated in 2003 and Cueva Victoria in 2004-2007.
Surveys have been done exploring the area which has permitted the project to locate new
interesting sites to be excavated in the future. The investigators have done important work with
Dr. Gary Scott of the Berkeley Geochronology Center, collecting samples for paleomagnetic
analysis, which offers a more accurate idea about the ages of the deposits and sites of the region.
A great deal of sediment has been sieved in the river from different stratigraphic layers, and
small pieces of micromammals have been collected. All of these data are helping in the
biostratigraphic framework of the region, which is becoming the reference for Europe. During the
2008 field season, excavations will continue in the Cueva Victoria site. With the help of
volunteers, it is expected that the 2008 field season will be the most productive yet.
Objectives
First Human Occupation in Europe
The age of the first human occupation in Europe has been the object of much debate in recent
years and this has great relevancy in being able to establish the hypothesis about the dispersion
of Homo out of Africa. One of the objectives of this project is to find a more accurate age for the
different archaeological sites. Toward that objective the investigators are working with one of the
best laboratories, the Berkeley Geochronology Center. At present it is known that humans were
in South Iberia by 1.4-1.3 million years ago (mya), and this project hypothesizes that the
occupation could be even older. However, evidence of this is necessary.
Migratory Routes
Migratory routes, especially the crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar, have been the object of the
project’s studies and there exists the possibility of finding more objective data which demonstrate
this, such as the identification of more African mammal species in the sites.
17
Systematic Position of the First Europeans
Systematically characterizing the human remains found in south Europe is of great importance
within human paleontology. In Africa at about 1.5 mya three different species lived
simultaneously: H. erectus, H. ergaster and H. habilis. Human fossil material is for now scarce in
Orce but future excavations will supply new material that will contribute to classifying human
remains.
Long Occupation in Europe
The sedimentary sequence of southeast Spain with different superposed archaeological sites
allows determination of whether a continued occupation of Europe existed since the early
Pleistocene period. It should be possible to confirm the existence of Olduwan artifacts from the
Barranco León (1.4 mya) and Fuentenueva-3 (1.2 mya) and the presence of bifaces in other sites of
indeterminate age, in which systematic excavations still have to be carried out. This allows
project staff to form a hypothesis regarding the long and continued occupation of Homo in
Europe.
Geochronology
Obtaining good data about the age of the fossils and rocks is very important for the project.
During recent years Dr. Gary Scott collected samples with the help of volunteers for paleomagnetic analysis. Paleomagnetism is the best technique available to date the fossils in the Orce
and Cueva Victoria region. Good results were obtained in the last field seasons for Orce sites and
have been published in 2007 in the well known journal Quaternary Sciences Review.
Collection of Fossil Mammals
Each excavation increases the collection of fossil mammals. All this material is stored in the
Cartagena museum, and it is a permanent reference for new studies. In fact, the paleontological
finds (macro- and micro-mammals) from Cueva Victoria are becoming a reference for regional
paleontological studies in Europe.
Geological Information
Geology is the base of any paleontological study, and this project aims to increase knowledge
about the geological history of Cueva Victoria and the Baza basin, permitting a
paleogeographical reconstruction of these regions. The sedimentary record permits study of the
impact of climate changes and tectonic movements through the Pleistocene. Project staff want to
know about the effect of these external factors. The staff has published also in 2007 a new paper
on this topic in the journal Sedimentary Geology. Another paper about the chronology and
geological history of Cueva Victoria will be sent to the Journal of Human Evolution this season.
Methods
Excavations
Traditional excavation methods will be employed, with division of the site into squares of one
meter duly oriented. A reference point of zero degrees will be established to take coordinates.
Points of inclination of natural objects that are mapped will be taken. A “total station” will be
used for collection, permitting great accuracy in the spatial position of all objects in the
excavation and also a fast graphic representation of the finds. The natural objects extracted will
be duly numbered at the site, put in bags and, if necessary, restored. In a second stage the project
will proceed to a premier classification to evaluate the importance of finds. The job of cleaning,
restoring and classifying will be done in collaboration with the excavators.
Micro-mammal Sampling
18
When necessary, bags of sediment will be collected from layers considered interesting. This
sediment will be transported to the river and sieved using a water pump. With this system all
clay fraction of the sediment is eliminated and only fossils and small grains of rocks remain. Once
in the cave the fossil remains will be separated from the sediment.
Paleomagnetic Sampling
Paleomagnetic studies are at present one of the priorities of this research, and these studies were
started five years ago with Dr. Gary Scott. Research conducted last summer filled in the gaps in
particular sections. Samples must be collected under the surface in an area not affected by
weathering processes. Volunteers will help to dig and reach the fresh sediments not affected by
weathering processes. Dr. Scott will show the team how to collect these samples, which need to
have at least one flat face oriented with a compass.
RESULTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
This project contributes to the sciences of human paleontology, archeology and general geology
of the Quaternary. It is hoped that the research will increase knowledge about the geological and
paleontological history of Cueva Victoria, including the characterization of all fossil mammal
species that used to live there around 1.3 million years ago. The project also works towards the
conservation of fossil remains and lithic artifacts from the region and protects them from
deterioration, increasing the collection of the local museum in Cartagena. The conservation of the
heritage will greatly benefit through the excavations conducted by this project.
This work will contribute not only to learning about the prehistory of southeast Spain, but will
also have a positive impact on the area’s current residents. The miner industry in the Murcia
region started with the Romans 2,000 years ago and finished in 1992 when the last mine closed
due to the high cost of obtaining the minerals. This generated a great economic depression in the
region, as thousands of families depended on the mining industry. The people who lost their jobs
have now begun working for the tourism and agriculture industries, and both sectors have been
developed during recent years. The project in Cueva Victoria can contribute to this region by
increasing its paleontological record stored in the Cartagena museum and helping to promote a
museum in the cave. It is expected that assisting with the development of cultural tourism will
help to produce jobs. In general, the region can be revitalized with an international project
through investigations and generating news through mediums of communication. New
important finds would bring more tourists to Cartagena and its surroundings.
Recent papers resulting from this project include:
•
Gibert, L., Scott, G. and Ferràndez-Cañadell, C. 2006. “Evaluation of the Olduvai sub-chron in
the Orce ravine (SE Spain): implications for Plio-Pleistocene mammal biostratigraphy and the
age of Orce archaeological sites.” Quaternary Science Review 25.
•
Scott, G., Gibert, L. and Gibert, J. 2007. “Magnetostratigraphy of the Orce region (Baza Basin),
SE Spain: New chronologies for Early Pleistocene faunas and hominid occupation sites.”
Quaternary Science Review.
•
Gibert, J. and Gibert L 2007. “First people in Spain.” Current Archaeology.
•
Gibert, L., Scott G., Martin, B., Gibert, J. 2007. The early to middle Pleistocene transition in the
Baza basin. Quaternary Sciences review.
•
Gibert, J, Gibert, L., Ferrandez, C., Ribot, F. Iglesias, A. Walkert, M. (In press). CV-0 and early
Pleistocene human phalanx from Cueva Victoria. Journal of Human Evolution.
19
EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST
Essential Items
This Expedition Briefing
Photocopies of your passport, flight itinerary and credit cards in case the originals are lost
or stolen; the copies should be packed separately from the original documents
Visa and/or passport (if necessary)
Certification of inoculation (if necessary)
Required Items
Clothing/Footwear for Fieldwork
Lightweight long-sleeved shirts
Lightweight pants/trousers
T-shirts
Shorts
Sweater, sweatshirt or light jacket for cool evenings
Well worn-in and comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
Sandals
Socks
Hat with wide brim
Heavy duty work gloves
Towel (some towels will be available but there are not enough for everyone)
Note: Sheets and blankets will be provided by the project accommodation.
Clothing/Footwear for Leisure
One set of clothing to keep clean for recreational time, end of expedition, etc.
Bathing suit
Field Supplies
Small daypack/rucksack
Plastic sealable bags (e.g. Ziploc) to protect equipment from dust, humidity and water
Insect repellent spray
Sunscreen lotion with SPF 30 or higher
Sunglasses
Water bottle(s) able to hold at least one liter
Flashlight or head lamp with extra batteries
Camera, film/digital memory storage, extra camera battery
20
Personal Supplies
Personal spending money (credit cards and/or cash)
Personal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos are encouraged)
Antibacterial wipes or lotion (good for “washing” hands while in the field)
Personal First Aid kit (e.g. anti-diarrhea pills, antibiotics, antiseptic, itch-relief, pain reliever,
bandages, blister covers, etc.) and personal medications
Dust mask, to avoid breathing dust during sieving in the cave.
Miscellaneous
Spending money (see Other Advice / Information in Section 9 ‘Before You Leave’)
Camera, film/memory cards, extra camera battery
Optional Items
Some duct tape (a whole roll is not necessary)
Field guide
Travel guide
Books, games, journal, art supplies, etc. for free time
Favorite snack foods
21