Roberto Plaza

Roberto`s passion for nature started as a young boy, when his father took him  for three months each summer to live on a pristine, isolated beach on Ecuador's coast. He learned early to explore the land and the underwater life. As an adult he continued exploring Ecuador's diverse ecosystems from jungle to desert, from the coast to the Andes, and the Amazon rainforest.

Now a local Galapagos naturalist, Roberto received a degree in biology, with an emphasis in ecology and sustainable development, from the Latin University in Costa Rica. Since 1994, he has worked as a certified naturalist guide for  Galapagos National Park, and also acts as a Park consultant in matters related to tourism management and conservation. His other interests include photography, playing guitar, sailing and surfing.

After more than 20 years living on the Galapagos Islands Roberto and his wife, Reyn, started a sustainable coffee farm on Santa Cruz that includes creative solutions for biodynamic farming, organic agriculture and sustainable living using renewable energy sources. Roberto’s commitment to the islands and nature continues and he leads tours around the islands.  Roberto has been chosen to guide Natural Habitat’s scheduled Galapagos charters because of his passion for the region and his intoxicating nature. He is considered one the top guides in all of the Galapagos.

Upcoming Adventures with Roberto:
Classic Galapagos Adventure
Galapagos Hiking & Kayaking Adventure


Praise from Natural Habitat travelers:

C. Carter
"Roberto was excellent! We were impressed with his wealth of knowledge about the Galapagos Islands and all of the animals. It is obvious that he enjoys what he does, and he does it well. He was courteous and patient with all of the travelers, helping anyone who needed assistance. We could tell that he loves and cares about the islands, and is committed to help conserve them. He is a true asset to your staff."

L. Hanson
"Wow! Roberto was unbelievable..he was a never-ending wealth of knowledge... so much information was relayed, and at perfect moments. Roberto put this trip in the unsurpassable category! We feel very fortunate to have met him and had him as our guide. What an ambassador for the Islands."

T. Ricker
"Roberto is a truly wonderful guide. He cares a great deal about the Galapagos land, people, and animals and it shows everyday. His understanding of EVERY aspect of life there is abundant. On excursions with Roberto, he seems as fascinated with the surroundings as we are, even though he's probably seen them hundreds of times. When I returned home, I missed Roberto's pleasant wake-up calls."

S. Randolph
"Excellent guide! Very fun and friendly and a genuine 'people person'. We were always in motion but never felt rushed; Roberto created a perfect pace and a wonderful environment to relax and enjoy the experience. His George Clooney looks and Roberto Montalban wake up call voice were a fabulous bonus! Highly recommended!"

M. Hayward
"Roberto is a wealth of knowledge and genuinely cares for the environment, and he has the patience of a saint. "

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