Gustavo Andrade Torres2009
Gustavo’s roots in the Galapagos Islands trace back more than a century. His great-grandfather arrived in 1912, seeking work and a better life for his family. Gustavo took his first trip around the islands at age 6 aboard the Beagle III—named for Charles Darwin’s iconic ship—as his father explored a career in yacht navigation. That early experience, playing among sea lions and watching the islands’ wildlife up close, left a lasting impression and shaped Gustavo’s future.
Though he went on to earn a degree in industrial engineering and an MBA, Gustavo couldn’t shake his pull toward the islands. In 2005, he left the corporate world behind to become a certified naturalist guide in the Galapagos, turning his childhood passion into a profession.
At 50, Gustavo gave himself a new kind of gift: his first serious camera setup. Wanting to document the wildlife and landscapes he knew so intimately, he took a deeper interest in photography. Years earlier, he had worked with Natural Habitat Adventures photo expedition leaders like Erick Rock and Cassiano Zaparolli (Zappa), and their influence helped shape his photographic eye.
Photography became more than a hobby—it was a new lens through which to experience the islands. Gustavo now combines decades of ecological knowledge with a growing talent for visual storytelling, capturing both the iconic and the hidden wonders of the Galápagos with a guide’s insight and a photographer’s precision.
What Our Guests Say
Gustavo just the best. And so kind, too. We also appreciated his excitement about seeing wildlife, especially since they have probably seen a frigate puffing out or a blue booby dance about a million times--but it was our first time, and his excitement helped make it a special event.
Gustavo lives on the Galapagos and probably the most informed guide there is in the Galapagos. I tended to eavesdrop on other trips and you could tell what kind of caliber guides we had compared to the others and that we were in a totally different division. Gustavo was extremely helpful while snorkeling pointing out different ocean life, he was very enthusiastic about the history of the islands, the politics of Ecuador, the plant life and animals/reptiles we found on the islands. I really have a lot of respect for him, working so hard and always smiling and staying positive. He was really exceptional.<br />
Could not have had a better guide. Real passion for nature and his work, which showed in his enthusiasm and positive high energy approach. Incredibly knowledgeable and has spent most of his life studying nature and wildlife in the Galapagos We spent most of our hikes in Gustavo's group and he went out of his way to help those with special needs. Also a real pleasure to spend time with socially.
Upcoming Adventures with Gustavo Andrade Torres
Galapagos Discovery: The Nat Hab Experience
Small-group adventures aboard your choice of private yachts, led by our outstanding naturalist guides and photography pros. Snorkel and swim with sea lions, sea turtles and penguins on this incomparable nature odyssey.
