Born and raised in Croatia, Marija is a passionate explorer of the Western Balkans and beyond. With a master’s degree in sociology and history, she has spent her career at the intersection of cultural insight and conservation. For years, she served as a regional manager at WWF Adria, where she worked across Slovenia, Croatia and Albania to help integrate local communities into national park management and sustainable tourism models. 

Her professional path took a more hands-on turn in 2022, when she became a full-time guide specializing in hiking and historical journeys through the Western Balkans. Marija’s tours reflect her deep knowledge of the region’s layered past as well as her intimate connection with its diverse landscapes, cuisines, customs and traditions. 

Fluent in the rhythms of both nature and narrative, Marija curates immersive experiences for travelers in Croatia and Slovenia. Her work emphasizes responsible tourism, ecological stewardship and authentic cultural exchange. Guests consistently praise her for her storytelling, attention to detail and encyclopedic understanding of the places they explore together. 

Beyond guiding, Marija is an avid trekker, hiker, rafter and kayaker. She also volunteers her time to train therapy dogs in Croatia, combining a love of animals with a strong belief in giving back to her community.