Guides & Crew

Sofia, a Tourism graduate with a focus on Hotel Management, gained experience abroad in France before returning to Ecuador. Residing on Santa Cruz Island, she serves as the president of the Galapagos Naturalist Guide’s Association (AGIPA). Additionally, Sofia holds the distinction of being the very first naturalist guide to work with Ecoventura since the inaugural yacht MY Eric back in 1991.

After working as a guide trained by the Galápagos National Park Service and the Charles Darwin Research Station, Ecuadorian-born “Ceci” Guerrero has spent years leading tourists through this pristine destination. Certified since 1992, she guided for nearly a decade before taking time off to raise her two children. Now back in action, she delights in sharing her home with guests, particularly during snorkeling, her favorite excursion.

Malena, a licensed naturalist guide since 1994, studied professional tourism guiding at university. Her expertise lies in topics such as sea currents, geology, and the marine reserve of the Galápagos. Outside of guiding, she manages her family’s hotel on San Cristobal Island and enjoys activities like reading, music, and fishing.

Karina Lopez, born and raised in Guayaquil, Ecuador, has nurtured her passion for tourism and hospitality through extensive academic pursuits and practical experience. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism and Hospitality from her hometown and a technical degree as a Professional Guide of Ecuador, she has further enriched her linguistic skills by obtaining a diploma in the French language from the esteemed Alliance Française.

Martin Loyola, born on the mainland of Ecuador and raised in the Galapagos Islands, holds a bachelor’s degree in tourism from the University of Guayaquil. With over thirty years of experience, he stands out as one of the most sought-after and respected Licensed Naturalist Guides in the Galapagos Islands.

Native to the Galapagos and raised in San Cristobal, Fabrizio experienced the wonders of this island from a young age. Recognizing the uniqueness of his environment, he pursued certification as a naturalist guide to engage directly with nature and share the marvels of his homeland with nature enthusiasts worldwide.

An Ecuadorian, a Diving Instructor, and a Marine Reserve Guide, Fabricio proudly served as the first guide for Ecoventura aboard the “Eric.” Over the years, he has collaborated with esteemed groups such as the Smithsonian, Audubon Society, Nature Conservancy, and contributed to a marine life documentary for National Geographic. Passionate about fostering a love for nature, he particularly enjoys working with families and teaching children about the wonders of the environment. Since his initial visit in 1983, he reamins a staunch lover and protector of the Galapagos Islands.

Luis Fernando has served as a Galapagos National Park Naturalist Guide for 17 years. Over the course of his career, he seized the opportunity to become a photography instructor through a training program organized by photographers from the National Geographic Society. Actively supporting the national park, he collaborates with fellow trainers in workshops designed to train local naturalist guides.

Similar to Darwin, Antonio has consistently sought grand adventures, traversing all continents and exploring a myriad of ecosystems. Holding degrees in environmental and educational sciences, he stands as an authority with a couple of published books on natural history. Embracing an unconventional approach, he advocates for the use of humor and non-formal education as effective tools to impart knowledge about our world. Additionally, he holds the prestigious titles of National Geographic Diver Specialist and photo instructor.

Following studies in environmental management, tourism, and photography, Ivan achieved his licensing as a guide in 2005. Proficient both on land and underwater, he holds certifications as a scuba instructor and trainer. Beyond his love for nature, Ivan is deeply passionate about music and frequently delights guests with his original songs, adding a unique and personal touch to their experiences.

José Luis Castillo, commonly known as Pepe, hails from the Island of San Cristobal. Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism and Hospitality, along with a technical degree as a Professional Tour Guide of Ecuador, he embarked on a specialization as a Galapagos Naturalist Guide in 1996. Beyond his expertise in land excursions, Pepe’s passion extends to scuba diving and snorkeling during vacations, where he revels in sharing his extensive knowledge with others. With a commendable tenure, he has dedicated over 20 years of service to Ecoventura.

Gustavo, who was raised in Guayaquil, maintains strong ties to the Galapagos. With his family rooted on San Cristobal island for three generations and his father serving as a tour boat captain, his connection to the archipelago runs deep. Despite his training in industrial engineering, Gustavo followed his passion for nature, becoming a naturalist with the Galápagos National Park Service in 2005.

Billy pursued studies in chemistry, biology, and environmental sciences at the university, fueled by an unwavering passion for the Galápagos. With a traveler’s spirit, he dedicated four years to exploring Europe and the United States before returning to his beloved Galápagos. Over nearly three decades, Billy has immersed himself in guiding, evolving into a true expert in the region.

Jeffo, a native “Isleño” from the Galapagos Islands, transitioned from restaurant administration to Environmental Management and now serves as a Galapagos Naturalist guide. With a background as a National Geographic Photo Instructor, he has worked in wildlife-rich locations like Costa Rica and The Upper Amazon. His diverse expertise includes workshops on protected areas, wildlife management, and tropical dendrology. Affiliated with the National Association for Interpretation, Jeffo passionately shares his love for nature as an International Interpretive Guide during field engagements.

Jorge has been a Galapagos Naturalist Guide since 1987, born and raised on the oldest island, San Cristobal, in the Galapagos. Sent by his parents at the age of ten for High School and College on mainland Ecuador, he became a Marine and Port Administration Engineer. Jorge belongs to the third generation of people born in the Galápagos. With 34 years of experience as a Naturalist, he continues to share his knowledge and provide special care for his beautiful islands. As an early traveler overseas, he had the opportunity to compare other places with these unique islands, fostering a deep appreciation for his home like nowhere else in the world.