Who is your guide?

Paulo is a 32-year-old human who finds peace, wonder, excitement, and magic in sailing, in nature, in wildlife, in all living entities.

Paulo’s lifelong connection to nature began in the tropical village of Comala in western Mexico. Growing up on an organic orchard, he spent his childhood exploring native trees and observing local wildlife. He entered university intending to pursue Environmental Engineering, but his passion for nature convinced him to switch paths and study Biology. He earned his SCUBA diving certification in 2016, and the experience of exploring the underwater world propelled his move to La Paz, Baja California Sur. There, an internship in shark research proved pivotal, launching his career as a naturalist guide.

Since 2017, Paulo has been guiding adventures that include swimming with whale sharks and sea lions, whale watching, and hiking through diverse landscapes—from the desert sierras of Baja to the jungles of Puerto Vallarta and the volcanic mountains of Central Mexico. His guiding is driven by a desire to help travelers connect with nature and gain a deeper understanding of wildlife and their habitats.

In 2021, a series of fortunate events showed Paulo the marvelous world of sail boats. He is currently a Yacht Skipper and sailing instructor in Navega Escuela de Vela, further expanding his connection to the ocean while swiftly sailing through the water and air and sharing his passion, knowledge, and skills about the art of sailing.

In 2024, inspired by a fellow expedition leader, Paulo took up birding, which reignited his passion for photography. Since then, he has traveled to top birding destinations across Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Argentina, and Uruguay, capturing vivid moments in diverse ecosystems. His photography style blends technical skill with a creative eye for wildlife and landscapes, and he is always eager to share insights with guests, helping them capture their own inspiring images. As a Photo Expedition Leader, Paulo brings enthusiasm, knowledge and a strong commitment to conservation.

His goal is to create meaningful, memorable experiences that foster a love for the natural world, both above and below the water.

Persona con ropa de excursionismo de pie frente a una cascada en un bosque, con los brazos abiertos y sosteniendo una gorra en la mano.

Education, courses, and certifications

  • BSc in Biology degree by the University of Guadalajara

  • Specialized tourist guide in nature-oriented tourism (NOM-09) certification by the Mexican Tourism Ministry

  • Yacht Skipper certification by the Mexican Navy (STCW95-2010)

  • Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification by SOLO Schools International

  • Advanced Open Water Diver certification by Scuba Schools International

  • Essential Sailing Navigation course

  • Nature Photography Specialization course

  • Tourist Group Management for Bird Watching course

  • Whales of the Gulf of California and Nature Tourism course

  • Whale Shark Biology, Ecology, and Conservation course