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Set on the historic Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, this Biennial Conference marks the first time the event will be hosted in Latin America—a milestone recognizing the region’s essential contributions to marine mammal science and conservation. Founded in 1521, San Juan is the oldest European-established city in the Americas and blends colonial heritage with vibrant Caribbean culture, tropical beaches, lush rainforests, and a celebrated culinary scene. Its surrounding warm waters are home to dolphins, humpback and sperm whales, and the endangered Greater Caribbean manatee, making San Juan a compelling destination that unites cultural richness with extraordinary marine biodiversity and reinforces the importance of protecting these ecosystems for future generations.

GETTING TO PUERTO RICO

SMOOTH TOUCHDOWNS BY AIR

Arriving in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is simple and convenient. The city is served by Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), offering a wide range of daily flights from across the U.S., the Caribbean, and international destinations, making it easy to plan your trip.

Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)

• Located just 8 miles from San Juan’s city center and 10 miles from the Puerto Rico Convention Center.
• Serves more than 25 airlines, with nonstop flights to over 40 U.S. cities and numerous international destinations.
• Modern facilities and a range of amenities make arrivals and departures smooth and stress-free.

Other Nearby Airports

While SJU is the main gateway, smaller airports on the island provide additional options for domestic and regional travel.

TIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL ATTENDEES

(Updated: June 15, 2026)

International participants attending the conference must apply for a B-1 Business Visa or Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) well in advance. Plan at least 3 to 6 months ahead to account for processing delays, carry official invitation letters, and ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

Visa and Entry Requirements

  • Business Visa (B-1): Most international conference attendees need a B-1 Business Visitor Visa. Start by completing the DS-160 Form and scheduling an interview at your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
  • Visa Waiver Program (ESTA): If you are from an eligible country, you must register through the ESTA System at least 72 hours before departure, though applying earlier is strongly recommended. 
  • Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is in good condition and valid for at least six months past your planned U.S. departure.

Prepare for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Questions

  • Always carry both physical and digital (encrypted or cloud-saved) copies of the following documents to present to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers:
    • Official Letter of Invitation from the conference organizers (automatically generated when registering to the conference).
    • Conference registration confirmation and hotel booking details.
    • Valid passport, visa, or approved ESTA documentation.
    • Proof of return travel and sufficient funds to cover your stay. 
  • Keep these documents and return-flight details easily accessible.
  • Be prepared to clearly explain the purpose of your trip, the conference you are attending, and how long you will stay.
  • Answer questions truthfully and concisely. CBP officers may ask about your employer, professional background, or conference activities.

Flight & Travel Tips

  • Direct Flights: Book direct flights where possible to minimize the risk of missed connections or delays, especially during busy travel seasons. 
  • Medications: If you carry personal medications, keep them in their original, clearly labeled containers, and bring copies of your prescriptions. 
  • Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel and health insurance that covers emergency medical care and sudden trip disruptions including entry denial.

Disclaimer: This document provides general information regarding U.S. entry requirements for conference attendees and has not been reviewed by a licensed immigration attorney. The organizers do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and are not responsible for individual visa outcomes. Attendees should consult official government sources or seek professional legal advice before making travel arrangements.

DISCOVER PUERTO RICO

From the historic streets of San Juan to the diverse landscapes across the island, Puerto Rico offers an incredible range of places to explore. This image highlights key destinations beyond the capital, showcasing coastal towns, lush rainforests, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders that invite attendees to experience the island’s rich heritage, vibrant communities, and extraordinary biodiversity.

GETTING AROUND SAN JUAN

LOCAL TRAVEL IN SAN JUAN

Getting around San Juan is easy, with several transport options for visitors:

  • Public Transport: AMA buses provide local service within San Juan. Routes, fares, and accessibility information can be found at AMA Puerto Rico.
  • Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available at the airport and throughout the city. Ride-share options such as Uber and Lyft also operate in San Juan.
  • Car Rentals & Private Transfers: For exploring beyond the city, car rental services and private charter options are plentiful.

EXPLORE SAN JUAN

Explore everything San Juan and Puerto Rico have to offer beyond the conference. Below are links to dining, nightlife, cultural experiences, history, music, tours, events, and natural attractions to help attendees plan their stay and make the most of their time on the island.

CARBON OFFSET PROGRAM

SMM2026 is committed to reducing the environmental impact of the conference by supporting carbon offset initiatives through Para la Naturaleza, a Puerto Rico–based non-profit dedicated to conserving and restoring the island’s ecosystems. Their innovative mangrove reforestation project cultivates and plants thousands of red, black, and white mangroves in priority coastal areas, strengthening climate resilience and protecting biodiversity.

By contributing, participants support the growth of critical coastal habitats while promoting sustainable practices within the scientific community. Travelers may voluntarily offset the carbon footprint of their flights based on travel distance: $10–$15 for short regional flights (Caribbean region), $20–$30 for medium-haul flights (North, Central, and South America), and $40–$60 for long-haul international flights (Europe, Oceania, Africa, and Asia).

To make a donation and offset your carbon footprint, please do so through the conference registration form. Login via SMM to add your contribution.

We encourage all conference attendees to support mangrove restoration in Puerto Rico and help reduce the environmental impact of their travel.

To learn more about Para la Naturaleza and their mangrove restoration efforts, click HERE.

CONFERENCE VENUE

Centro de Convenciones Pedro Roselló González
100 Blvd. Centro de Convenciones
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00907

CONFERENCE VENUE

Centro de Convenciones Pedro Roselló González
100 Blvd. Centro de Convenciones
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00907

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QUESTIONS?

Contact our conference team at conference@marinemammalscience.org