Karla was born and raised on Santa Cruz Island, but her family's history in the Galapagos goes back generations—they first settled on San Cristobal Island in the 1920s, making a living through agriculture. Growing up, she spent her days playing on sandy beaches, scrambling over lava rocks, and exploring the islands with her family, developing a deep connection to the place she calls home.

Eager to see more of the world, Karla spent her senior year of high school in Louisiana before joining an Asian Studies Program in Japan during college. She later earned a B.A. in tourism and management from San Francisco University, preparing her to share the Galapagos with others. In 2005, she became a Galapagos National Park Naturalist Guide, turning her passion for the islands into a career. She joined Nat Hab as an Expedition Leader in 2022, leading travelers through one of the most unique ecosystems on Earth.

For Karla, living in the Galapagos is something she never takes for granted. She loves being outdoors, exploring nature, and helping others experience the magic of these islands—whether spotting wildlife, hiking volcanic trails, or simply soaking in the wonder of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.