CALGARY, Alberta, March 31, 2008, Gran Tierra Energy Inc. (TSX: GTE; OTCBB: GTRE), a company focused on oil exploration and production in South America, today announced that Nadine Smith has resigned from the Board of Directors effective March 27, 2008. Ms. Smith recently became the Chair of the Board of Directors of La Cortez Energy, Inc., where she will need to devote her time and efforts.

Nick Kirton, FCA, ICD.D has joined the Board of Directors of Gran Tierra Energy effective March 27, 2008, and will also assume the role of Chairman of the Audit Committee. Mr. Kirton is a Chartered Accountant and retired after a thirty-eight year career at KPMG. He currently sits on the boards of directors of four public companies and one private company. In addition, he is also a member of the Board of Governors of the University of Calgary and is a member of the Education and Qualifications Committee of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants.

Dana Coffield, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gran Tierra Energy Inc., stated, "The Board of Directors wishes to thank Ms. Smith for her past contribution to the Board of Gran Tierra Energy and wish her success in her new endeavor. We look forward to having the experience and skills of Mr. Kirton as we continue to grow our international oil and gas company."

About Gran Tierra Energy Inc.:

Gran Tierra Energy Inc. is an international oil and gas exploration and production company operating in South America, headquartered in Calgary, Canada, incorporated in the United States, and trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange (GTE) and the OTC Bulletin Board (GTRE). The company holds interests in producing and prospective properties in Argentina, Colombia and Peru. The company has a strategy that focuses on establishing a portfolio of producing properties, plus production enhancement and exploration opportunities to provide a base for future growth. Additional information concerning Gran Tierra Energy is available at www.grantierra.com. Investor inquiries may be directed to [email protected] or 1-800-916-GTRE (4873).