Alexander Arias
Originally educated as a computer scientist, Alex’s love for the outdoors eventually lured him into his current career as a professional naturalist guide. Since 1995, he has been introducing guests to the natural splendors of his homeland of Costa Rica and has received certifications from the Costa Rica Tourism Institute and the National Institute of Biodiversity. Today, he is one of Nat Hab's top naturalist guides as well as our Costa Rica Photo Expedition Leader.Alex's passion for nature and desire to share his local knowledge have aligned in his complementary vocation as an accomplished wildlife photographer. For more than a decade, Alex has been shooting animals and birds in the varied habitats of Costa Rica and beyond. He enjoys sharing his expertise with his guests, to help them get the best possible nature photos during their travel adventures. In his free time, he can be found birding, biking, kayaking, exploring new trails or rappelling down waterfalls. You'll also find him capturing and processing wildlife images for his photography website. Alex is also involved with various conservation projects in his homeland, improving restorations of natural habitats following unsustainable farming practices.
Upcoming Adventures with Alex:
Natural Jewels of Costa Rica
Costa Rica Wilderness Explorer
Costa Rica Wilderness Explorer Photo Adventure
Praise from Nat Hab travelers:
J. McDonough
"Alex is amazing and has an encyclopedic knowledge of the flora and fauna of Costa Rica. He went out of his way to try to find the animals and birds we all wanted to see, including a resplendent quetzal. He understands photography and helped us all take better photos. I didn't think I would ever be on a trip that rivals an African safari, but with Alex, this week in Costa Rica did."
D. Dickman
"Alex was the best. He was easy going but kept everything running well and on time. He went out if his way to do special things for us, which made the trip even better. He is a gem!"
S. Noring
"Alex was extraordinary. I couldn't have asked for better, and he's perhaps the best guide I have had on a trip. Alex is not only very knowledgeable and justifiably proud of his country but is incredibly perceptive and sensitive to the needs of every person in his group. He accommodated the requests and concerns of every traveler in a graceful, effective and efficient way. He was tireless in providing extra walks and adventures, seeking out animals from 6 a.m. until well after dark. He had a lovely personality and was a pleasure to be around. Truly, he is a treasure."
D. Judge
"Alex is extraordinary. His ability to spot wildlife and point it out to us was amazing. His enthusiasm for all things Costa Rica is contagious. His patience and energy are boundless. His sense of humor is priceless. I think most enjoyable was how Alex’s professionalism and personality enhanced an already beyond-outstanding trip. I’m running out of adjectives here!"
R. Sulmeyer
"Alex was a 10+++. He was very knowledgeable about his country and attended to his guest's needs, providing little gifts to us throughout the trip and keep us all updated on the day's events. He also kept a close eye on each guests' general wellbeing."
D. Hill
"We could not have asked for a better trip leader than Alex. I was incredibly impressed by his knowledge, his patience, his organizational skills and his people management abilities. His enthusiasm was infectious. He was always willing to answer any question or resolve any issue. I felt totally confident in his judgment and safe under his oversight. His warm personality was an added bonus. I noted that Alex was very attuned to mentoring the young men who he chooses to use as his assistants. You could see him working to develop and hone their skills, while treating them with respect as colleagues. I also noted Alex's collegial interaction with guides whose paths we crossed in Monte Verde. Alex is clearly a wonderful and committed mentor and has the respect of his fellow guides and tourism professionals. He gets an A+ in every aspect!"
H. Epstein
“Alex was
B. Fortney
"Alex was a wonderful guide. He was so informed about everything and tried so hard to find the most amazing things. This was a trip I will never forget because of him."
M. Greenfield
"Alex introduced us not only to a full range of wild and wonderful locales but also to the diverse cultures and people of Costa Rica. He showed us birds and animals we never found on a previous trip with another company. And, he kept it fun."
T. Kepford
"The blend of Alex's expertise, charm and love for his country made our first Nat Hab trip an experience we won't forget. He is a real treasure and ambassador for the preservation of our natural world."
J. Biern
"Alex was superb! He is a kind, warm, helpful individual. He is the absolute best, no question. When our suitcase tumbled into the ocean when leaving Casa Corcovado—an accident—he made sure clothes were laundered and meds replaced. Our hero! When fellow travelers wanted snacks, he loaded the bus with delicious food. Photography questions? Alex was extremely helpful. I can't say enough about him."
C. Sheffield
“Alex is a wonderful guide! He is always willing to give us his time. He is easy-going, friendly and really knows his birds.”
A. Elliot
"I cannot say enough good things about Alex. He was so knowledgeable and so patient with
R. Kinstler
"Alex is an excellent guide, very aware of our interests and willing to make changes to meet our needs. His sense of humor and good nature added greatly to my enjoyment of the trip."
J. Mazzone
"We loved Alex. He was very patient with all of us. I felt he gave each of us the individual attention and help that we asked for. Alex had a great sense of humor, and his knowledge of birds, plants, geology, history and the local culture was amazing. I felt like he tailored the trip to each of us."
B. Gent
"Alex was an excellent Expedition Leader who deserves top marks in all the categories. No task was beneath him and he was always kind, courteous, considerate and respectful. He is another Nat Hab asset."
J. Bruckman
"Alex is a true asset to Nat Hab. He has every aspect that makes a great leader. I felt he was the best from our first meeting. He became our friend during the trip, and is truly an outstanding person."
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