Our field staff expert guides

At Holbrook, we understand that the caliber of your in-country guide can make a great trip truly

extraordinary, which is why we carefully recruit and train only the best. knowledgeable, resourceful, passionate, and attentive, here are just a few of these dedicated professionals.

pEdro bosquEs COSTA RICA

Pedro grew up in San José, and discovered his love for conservation when he moved to the Monteverde area and worked at the Monteverde Reserve. During his time there, he served as a field assistant and in doing so gained an immense knowledge on the flora and fauna of the cloud forest. He transitioned to guide work, and has been leading programs throughout Costa Rica since 1998.

He was absolutely excellent. Professional, caring, and an allaround asset to the experience.

natHan forbEs BELIZE

Nathan Forbes was born in the tranquil village of Sittee River in southern Belize, and moved to Belize City at age 13 to attend high school. He started as a driver in Belize’s fledgling tourism industry, and followed this path to complete guide certification training, as well as professional development courses on the country’s natural history and ecotourism. He now considers himself a naturalist and avid birder, and loves being able not only to learn every day, but also share his home country with visitors.

Nathan Forbes was excellent. Very knowledgeable and experienced on surrounding land and organisms.

JimmY trEJos COSTA RICA

Jimmy Trejos first fell in love with nature at a young age, when he followed his dad, an agriculture professor, through a “fairy tale” forest on a local farm. From that moment on, he was involved with environmental education, from elementary school to college. He started his career as a research assistant at La Selva Biological Station, and has worked both as a guide as well as a field assistant. He loves all subjects of wildlife, and sharing Costa Rica’s natural paradise with travelers.

I loved the knowledge and love that Jimmy had for nature and the country.

pablo naJarro GUATEMALA

Pablo grew up on his family’s farm in Guatemala, where he gained an appreciation of the nature and wildlife around him. He has worked as a tour guide since his graduation in 1999, and continues to expand his career by attending Audubon trainings, teaching seminars on Maya culture, and conducting research on bird species in Guatemala. Inspired by sharing his passion for birds with the Guatemalan people, Pablo founded the country’s first bird club, the Petén Birders Club.

Pablo was an outstanding leader, and a pleasure to be with.

José naranJo ECUADOR

José grew up in Quito and started his work in tourism and environmentalism at college, studying Engineering in Sustainable Tourism Projects. Passionate about his country’s nature, art, and culture, José’s main goal is to share as much knowledge as he can, and make each traveler’s experience unforgettable. He continues to study environmental sciences, fulfilling his life philosophy of learning something new every day.

José was one of the top guides I have ever experienced.

lucas mHina TANZANIA

Lucas was born and raised in Arusha, the safari gateway of Tanzania. In addition to his BA in Hospitality and Tourism Management, he has certifications in Advanced Field Guiding and First Aid. He is fluent in English and Swahili, and has a keen interest in ecology. He truly enjoys sharing his knowledge of the birds and wildlife of East Africa, as well as the local culture. Born to parents from two different tribes, Lucas offers a unique perspective on Tanzanian society.

I really can’t imagine a better guide. He was the best part of the trip.

lourdEs “lulu” pEsantEs GALáPAGOS

A native of the Galápagos, Lulu studied on the islands and volunteered with the Galápagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Station before attending college in Quito. Guiding in the Galápagos fulfills a lifelong dream, as her true passion lies with her islands. She loves to share the magical Galápagos with visitors, and takes pride in contributing to its conservation.

A wonderful guide we learned SO much from. She really connected with us and showed us the best of the Galápagos.

alain rakotonoElY MADAGASCAR

Alain first became involved in tourism because of his love for Madagascar’s unique natural world and his affinity toward the English language. Beginning as a waiter at the hotel in Andasibe Mantadia National Park, he became a local guide specializing in wildlife, while also doing translation work for nongovernmental organizations. His guiding philosophy sees the role as one of art and inspiration, with an emphasis on personalized service and approachability.

Alain was so wonderful and knowledgeable. He is a great tour guide, very caring, and kept us on schedule.