Pre-Departure Information
Welcome to the International Summer Course Biotrop 2026. To ensure a smooth transition and a comfortable stay, please read through the following logistical guidelines.
Pre-Departure Orientation Recording
Essential Checklist
Before you board your flight, make sure you have checked off the following items:
Pre-Course Assignments
To prepare for the course, all participants must complete and submit the following pre-course assignments:
1. Introduction Video
- Task: Create a 1–2 minute video introducing yourself, your academic background, and why you are interested in joining this course.
- Due Date: Sunday, 5 July 2026.
2. Short Essay (1,000–2,000 words)
- Task: Write a short essay analyzing the current challenges faced by Tropical Biodiversity and opportunities in the age of data and AI. Select one of the following topics:
- Tropical Biodiversity in a Changing Climate.
- Drone Mapping and GIS for Biodiversity Conservation and Management.
- Sequencing Technology for Biodiversity Conservation and Management.
- Science Communication / Data to Policy and Practices in Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development.
- Due Date: Friday, 10 July 2026.
3. Reading & Coding Prep
- Task: Read the assigned background materials and prepare basic coding skills as advised by the committee.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at: Gadjah Mada University Club (UC) Hotel UGM View on Google Maps
Provided Accommodation Dates:
- Check-in: 28 June, 15 July, and 23 July 2026
- Check-out: 14 July, 20 July, and 25 July 2026
Note:
- Participants who stay beyond the specified dates will need to arrange and cover their own accommodation.
- Laundry services are not covered by the committee.
What to Pack
The weather in Yogyakarta is warm and humid year-round. In July, we are entering the dry season, so rain is unlikely.
Field Gear
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots/sandals.
- Spare clothes to change.
- Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers (to protect against insects and sun).
- Field Hat and/or sunglasses to protect against the sun.
- Anti-UV lotion / Sunscreen / Sunblock.
- Insect repellent / Mosquito lotion.
- Reusable water bottle / Tumbler.
- Headlamp / Flashlight and Personal snacks.
Daily Activities and In Class Session
- Standard Indonesian/European plug adaptor (Type C and F, 220V, 50Hz).
- External power bank for mobile phone charging during field trips.
- A working laptop with administrator privileges (required for software installation for GIS and sequencing data analysis).
- e-SIM card or local SIM card for internet connectivity, toiletries, and tissues.
Do Not Bring (Immigration Check)
Forbidden Items
- Narcotics and psychotropic drugs.
- Pornographic materials.
- Firearms and weapons.
- Fresh plant or animal products.
Prescription Medication
If you are bringing personal prescription medication, it is highly recommended to carry a physical copy of the doctor’s prescription. This will help if you are questioned by customs officials or if you need to refill your prescription while in Indonesia.
Getting Around Yogyakarta
Local Apps
For daily travel around the city, we recommend downloading and using these mobile applications for ride-hailing:
- Gojek
- Grab
- Maxim
Traveling Outside Yogyakarta
If you plan to travel outside the city, please inform the committee in advance. We have an official travel partner to assist you:
- Palawa Group (Contact Person: Abdullah Firaswan —
+62 856-7894-612)
Arrival & Ground Transport
Airport Pickup
Our local organizing team will coordinate airport pick-ups at Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) on Sunday, 12 July 2026. Look out for our team holding the “ISC BIOTROP 2026” sign at the arrivals hall. If your arrival is on a different date, let us know in advance so we can help arrange a pick up for you.
Emergency Contact
In case of flight delays or logistics changes, please contact:
- Program Coordinator:
admin@iscbiotrop.orgor+62 855-2622-9836(Chandra).