Daniel Hagaman
Daniel Hagaman
Since 1992, Daniel has migrated seasonally between Alaska and Patagonia, following the rhythms of the sun and birdlife. He spends northern summers with bears in Alaska and southern ones in Chile and Argentina’s temperate rainforests. A naturalist and educator, he has lived and worked across Latin America, including Mexico, Bolivia, Chile, and Costa Rica, and guides wildlife trips in Alaska for Natural Habitat Adventures.
Dan’s interest in bears began with fieldwork on Andean spectacled bears in Bolivia. Later, he spent four summers in Denali National Park, gaining deep familiarity with the landscape and its wildlife. His guiding career began in college with snorkeling and diving trips in the Florida Keys. Since 2008, he has led university field study programs across the Andes and currently teaches in Chile. His experience also includes guiding in New Zealand.
Raised in Wisconsin’s North Woods, Dan pursued anthropology at Colorado State University, focusing on Latin American archaeology. His graduate work at the University of Wisconsin–Madison centered on mountain ecology and forest systems in Bolivia. He remains deeply interested in botany and the relationships between plants, people, and wildlife.
Dan lives with his family in Paonia, Colorado, on the state’s Western Slope. In his free time, he gardens, photographs, and explores the canyons and ranges of the American Southwest. His passions include ornithology and sustainable resource management in protected natural areas.
Photo gallery
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What's in My Camera Bag
I carry two to three lenses and one camera body, and I always bring a large zoom lens and my phone. I switch off the other lenses using the tools I have in my pack. Packing is tough, especially for more extended and more diverse trips, but it is good to keep it light, where all camera gear fits into a carry-on bag. At times, especially with the potential for night photography, I will bring a tripod and will place it in my checked luggage. Some days in the field, I'd like to challenge myself by bringing only one lens to see what I can create with those limitations.
Cameras
Sony A7III
Sony A6500
Lenses
Sony 200-600mm f/5.6
Sony 100-400
Sony 90mm f/2.8 macro
Sony 24-105mm f/4
Rokinon 12mm f/2
Other
Mindshift 26 L backpack
Peak Design harness and straps
Memory cards
Charger + 2 extra batteries
Cleaning Kit
Nikon Pro-Staff 8x30
Lightweight tripod
What Our Guests Say
Daniel was amazing! His extensive knowledge of bears, birds, and other wildlife was impressive. But I was most impressed with his authenticity. He’s genuinely committed to the animals, our environment, and making the world a better place. His intrinsic curiosity was refreshing. He also did a great job managing a diverse group of people.
Daniel was a wonderful Expedition Leader. He did a great job of predicting bear behavior, so we got a great experience and awesome photos. He also remained calm under pressure and diffused a tense situation with a mama bear. He has our total trust!
Dan is one of the most knowledgeable, conscientious, kindest guides I have ever experienced in all my travels!
