Alexander Arias 2006
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. Alex is also involved with various conservation projects in his homeland, improving restorations of natural habitats following unsustainable farming practices.
What's in My Camera Bag
Camera:
Canon 5D MK IV
Lenses:
Canon 300 mm f/2.8
Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II
Canon EF 14-40mm f/4
Canon 24-70mm f/20.8
Other:
Multiflash System YN560 IV x 5
What Our Guests Say
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.
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.
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!
