General Information

  • The International Congress of Odonatology (ICO2025) is a biennial academic meeting focused on dragonfly and damselfly research, conservation, and networking.

  • The event will be held from August 10–15, 2025, in Villa de Leyva, Colombia.

  • ICO2025 is organized by the Worldwide Dragonfly Association (WDA) in collaboration with local partners, including Fundación MaSuy,  the Instituto de Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt and Grupo de Libélulas de Colombia.

  • The official language of ICO2025 is English. All oral presentations, posters, and official communications will be conducted in English. We recommend that all abstracts and materials be submitted in English to ensure broad accessibility and participation.

  • We understand that English may not be the first language for many of our participants. Please don't worry—ICO2025 is a safe, supportive, and welcoming learning space where everyone is encouraged to share their work and ideas.

    Accents are part of the global nature of science, and we celebrate the diversity of voices in our community. If you would like support or practice ahead of your presentation, we're happy to help. Just reach out—we're here to make sure your experience is enriching and comfortable.

    For assistance, contact us at ico2025@worlddragonfly.org

Registration & Fees

    • Round-trip transportation from Bogotá to Villa de Leyva in safe Pullman buses

    • Access to all scientific sessions, symposia, and poster presentations

    • Welcome reception and closing celebration

    • Mid-congress local cultural/natural tour

    • Congress materials (conference badge, program, T-shirt)

  • Registration is Feb 10  and early registration is available until May 31, 2025.

  • Yes! Guests can purchase a Guest Pass, which includes:

    • Round-trip transportation from Bogotá to Villa de Leyva

    • Access to all social events (welcome reception, mid-congress tour, and closing dinner)

  • If you require an invoice, please contact us at ico2025@worlddragonfly.org

  • If you wish to purchase more than one registration at a time, please follow these steps to ensure all necessary registrations are included in your cart before making your payment:

    1. Complete the registration form for the first attendee and submit it.

    2. Once the registration has been successfully added to your cart, do not proceed to payment yet.

    3. Use your browser's back button to return to the product selection page.

    4. Repeat the registration process for each additional attendee (including guests, if applicable).

    5. After all registrations have been added to your cart, review the cart carefully to ensure everything is correct.

    6. Only then, proceed to payment to complete the purchase.

Visas & Travel

  • Many nationalities can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days. However, some countries require a tourist visa. Check your requirements at the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

    • A passport valid for at least six months from your arrival date

    • Proof of onward travel (return ticket)

    • Some travelers may need to show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds

  • Yes! If you require an official invitation letter, please request one through the registration form or email us at ico2025@worlddragonfly.org

Refund & Cancellation Policy

  • Refunds are available under the following conditions:

    • Before May 31, 2025: 80% refund

    • June 1 – July 15, 2025: 50% refund

    • After July 15, 2025: No refunds available

  • Yes, registrations are transferable until July 31, 2025. Please email us at ico2025@worlddragonfly.org with the new participant’s details.

Accommodation & Transportation

  • We recommend hotels near Santa Bárbara Central (Unicentro Mall area) for easy access to transportation to Villa de Leyva. A list of recommended hotels will be provided soon.

  • Round-trip Pullman bus transportation from Bogotá to Villa de Leyva is included in the registration fee.

  • Yes, but we strongly recommend using the official congress transport for safety and convenience.

Presentations & Scientific Program

  • Abstract submission opens on March 1, 2025.

    Abstracts must be submitted through the official Abstract Submission Portal. Please note that the new submission deadline is June 8, 2025.

    • Duration: 15 minutes presentation + 5 minutes Q&A.

    • File formats accepted: PowerPoint (.pptx) or PDF. Presentation files should be sent to ico2025@worlddragonfly.org at least one day prior to the scheduled talk.

    • Recommended minimum font sizes: 28 pt (text), 36 pt (headings).

    • Slides should be clearly structured, including title, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusions.

    • Poster size: A0 (841 mm × 1189 mm) or 36 × 48 inches, preferably vertical orientation.

    • Content should include title, authors, affiliations, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusions.

    • Recommended font sizes: 24 pt (text), 36 pt (headings).

    • Each presenter will give a 5-minute lightning talk during the poster session

Safety & Travel Tips

  • Yes! Villa de Leyva is one of Colombia’s safest towns, known for its tourism and historical significance. As with any travel, use common sense and keep personal belongings secure.

  • Bogotá is a vibrant city with diverse neighborhoods. We recommend:

    • Using official taxis or ride-hailing apps (DiDi, Cabify, Uber)

    • Staying within safe areas, such as Santa Bárbara, Usaquén, and Zona G

    • Avoiding carrying valuables in crowded areas

    • Yellow fever vaccination is recommended (especially if visiting jungle areas).

    • Make sure to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies.

Post-Congress & Additional Activities

  • Yes! The route and details are here