Latin America Webinars

The Galapagos penguin is the only penguin species found naturally north of the equator, surviving in one of the world's most unexpected environments. Expedition Leader Luis Vinueza explores the remarkable adaptations that allow these tropical penguins to thrive, the challenges they face from El Niño events and climate change, and why their small, isolated population remains especially vulnerable. Learn about the ecology of one of the Galapagos Islands' most beloved residents and the conservation efforts helping secure its future.

Could ancient sailors have mistaken gentle marine mammals for mermaids? Expedition Leader and marine biologist Melissa Silva explores the fascinating world of sirenians—the manatees and dugongs that may have inspired centuries of myths and legends. Discover how these herbivores navigate their underwater world, the vital role they play in healthy marine ecosystems and the conservation challenges they face. We’ll separate sea cow fact from fiction and find out why these real-life mermaids deserve our admiration and protection.

How do you capture the scale of millions of monarch butterflies while still telling an intimate story? Photo Expedition Leader Eric Ramirez offers practical techniques for our Kingdom of the Monarchs Photo Expedition, from composing images in Mexico’s oyamel fir forest to using natural light to reveal color, texture and atmosphere. Learn how to create photographs that capture not only the butterflies themselves, but also the habitats, behaviors and memorable moments from their epic annual migration.

What do volcanoes have to do with monarch butterflies? More than you might think! Expedition Leader Maru Marcias and volcanologist Maria Clara Lamberti, Ph.D., explore how millions of years of tectonic activity, volcanism and mountain building created the landscapes that support Mexico's rich diversity of life. Journey through the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt to the oyamel fir forests where monarch butterflies overwinter, and discover how geology continues to shape the forests, wildlife and ecosystems we experience on our Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure.

From the cloud-draped Andes to the Amazon rainforest, Peru is one of the most biologically and culturally diverse countries on Earth. Expedition Leader Francis Casapino Gonzalez shares highlights of this remarkable region, exploring the contrast between the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and the wildlife-rich Amazon Basin. Drawing on nearly three decades of guiding experience, Francis offers a personal perspective on two of South America's most storied destinations and introduces some of their signature species, from the world's largest hummingbird to freshwater pink river dolphins.

Go ahead and laugh, but there’s more to Galapagos boobies than their chuckle-inducing name! From the famous blue-footed booby to the striking Nazca and red-footed booby, these charismatic seabirds are among the Galapagos Islands’ most iconic residents. Expedition Leader Luis Vinueza explores the ecology, behavior and conservation of all three species, including their remarkable courtship displays and adaptations for life at sea. He also shares insights into the challenges they face from climate change and El Niño events—plus how to see these beloved birds for yourself on our Galapagos adventures.

There may be no better place on Earth for unforgettable wildlife encounters than the Galapagos Islands. Expedition Leader Luis Vinueza shares the highlights of our Galapagos Discovery adventure, from snorkeling with playful sea lions and sea turtles to watching blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and Galapagos penguins up close. Discover what makes each island unique, get a glimpse of life aboard our privately chartered small ships and learn about special experiences like overnighting at our exclusive Tortoise Camp surrounded by giant tortoises roaming freely.

Each winter, millions of monarch butterflies gather in Mexico’s high-elevation oyamel fir forests, surviving on a delicate balance of temperature and energy. Join Expedition Leader Sebastian Velasco to explore the science behind this remarkable phenomenon, where butterfly behavior becomes a lesson in thermodynamics. Learn how monarchs regulate heat through clustering, movement and daily rhythms, and find out why this unique forest ecosystem is the only place on Earth they can survive the winter. Follow their journey from migration to spring departure and discover simple actions that can help support monarchs along their route.

What does it take to bike 1,000 kilometers solo across Patagonia’s wildest landscapes? Chilean environmentalist and storyteller Karin Traeger recently marked her return home after a decade abroad with a 22-day journey along Chile’s Route of the Parks, traveling through the remote terrain that we visit on our Patagonia adventures, such as Torres del Paine National Park. Karin shares stories of her encounters with rare wildlife like pudu and Darwin’s frogs and outlines conservation efforts to protect Patagonia's ecosystems. Her journey offers a powerful perspective on solo travel and deepening our connection to the natural world.

The Pantanal is the best place on the planet to see jaguars—but what we see is only part of the picture. Join Abbie Martin, founder of the Jaguar Identification Project, for an inside look at Project GRID, a large-scale camera trap initiative uncovering a hidden side of the region’s jaguar population. Learn how scientists identify individual cats, estimate population density and document animals rarely seen by travelers. Abbie shares surprising discoveries from the field and explains how this research is shaping conservation strategies to better protect jaguars across the Pantanal.

The waters of the Galapagos Islands support one of the richest shark communities on Earth. Marine ecologist and Expedition Leader Luis Vinueza explores their remarkable diversity—from white-tip reef sharks and Galapagos sharks to tiger and whale sharks. Discover how sharks help maintain the health of marine ecosystems, understand the threats these apex predators face as they move beyond the boundaries of the Galapagos Marine Reserve and learn about the conservation efforts underway to protect them. 

Few wildlife subjects capture a photographer’s imagination like the elusive puma — the “ghost” of Patagonia. Wildlife biologist and Photo Expedition Leader Anthony Amsel explains the challenges facing pumas, their ecological role as a keystone species and the collaboration between ranchers and conservationists to protect this apex predator of the Andes. He also demonstrates how photographers can move beyond single dramatic frames to build meaningful visual narratives that convey the stories of Patagonia's pumas.

Central America's seas and shorelines are home to some of the world’s most inspiring conservation recoveries. In this second installment of Mexico’s environmental success stories, biologist and Expedition Leader Diana Lopez discusses the recovery of gray whales, sea turtles, Guadalupe fur seals, American crocodiles and whale sharks, along with the reef ecosystems that sustain them. Learn how community stewardship, scientific research and international collaboration help protect marine species and their underwater homes.

This winter, hundreds of Nat Hab travelers to Michoacan, Mexico, stood beneath skies alive with millions of monarchs in their oyamel forest wintering grounds. Join Expedition Leaders Melissa Silva and Diana Lopez for a behind-the-scenes look at our Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure. They’ll share highlights from this year’s migration, from what it sounds like when millions of butterflies beat their wings in the quiet of the oyamel fir forests to encounters with tiger moths, bees and birds. They’ll also reveal the latest monarch population numbers and what they mean for the butterflies’ ongoing conservation.

Found nowhere else on Earth, Galapagos marine iguanas are the only lizards adapted to live and forage in the ocean. Expedition Leader and marine ecologist Luis Vinueza offers an in-depth look at how these remarkable reptiles evolved, radiated across the islands and adapted to life at the edge of land and sea. Luis explores their unique feeding habits and their striking physical features, like their dark, camouflaging skin, spiky crests and specialized nasal glands that sneeze out excess salt. Learn how marine iguanas are responding to climate change and what threats and conservation efforts are shaping their future.

Brazil’s Pantanal is one of the world’s premier wildlife photography destinations, renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity. Blending ecological insight with practical camera and composition tips, Photo Expedition Leader Rylee Jensen and Brazil Expedition Leader Helder Brandao share their advice for photographing this vast wetland ecosystem, from elusive jaguars and giant river otters to hyacinth macaws and capybaras.

Can you name all eight bear species? You’ll be able to after this exclusive author talk! Bears have shaped ecosystems and inspired human storytelling for millennia. But today, many bears face an uncertain future. Join award-winning journalist and author Gloria Dickie and Nat Hab Director of Content Rachel Walker for a conversation about Dickie’s acclaimed book Eight Bears: Mythic Past and Imperiled Future. They’ll explore the cultural mythology, biology and conservation challenges facing bears, from grizzlies and polar bears to the little-known bears of Southeast Asia.

Conservation succeeds best where nature and culture are protected together. Join Chris Rainier and Olivia McKendrick, co-founders of The Cultural Sanctuaries Foundation (a Nat Hab Philanthropy grantee), to learn how Indigenous knowledge, language and tradition are essential to safeguarding biodiversity. Drawing on projects from Mexico’s monarch butterfly forests to Bhutan’s mountains and Mongolia’s grasslands, they reveal why responsible tourism plays a critical role in supporting both cultural resilience and ecological protection.

With their prehistoric lineage and specialized adaptations, giant anteaters are among South America’s most fascinating—and vulnerable—mammals. Expedition Leader Helder Brandao and Jorge Gallo of the nonprofit Anteater Institute share insights from two decades of research and conservation across Brazil. Learn how anteaters and their relatives, including sloths and armadillos, evolved to fill unique ecological roles, and discover how science-driven initiatives in the Pantanal are helping safeguard these remarkable creatures.

Each winter, monarch butterflies gather by the millions in Mexico’s oyamel fir forests, creating one of nature’s most extraordinary photographic opportunities. Photo Expedition Leader Charlie Reinertsen shares his tips for capturing this phenomenon on our Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure. From recommended camera bodies, lenses and accessories to field strategy and ethical considerations, Charlie walks through what to bring, what to expect and how monarch ecology shapes photographic possibilities.

Beneath the ocean’s surface, marine mammals communicate in remarkably complex ways. Mexico Expedition Leader Andrea Adame explores how whales and dolphins use sound, movement and social behavior to navigate their world and interact with one another. Focusing on the gray whales of Baja, Mexico, she shares insights into their intelligence and communication, along with their curiosity around humans. Plus, find out how you can encounter these behaviors on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure.

Journey into the dramatic heart of Argentine Patagonia, where vast ice fields, soaring peaks and powerful winds shape one of the world’s most spectacular protected landscapes. Expedition Leader Daniel Hagaman explores Los Glaciares National Park, from the Southern Patagonian Icefield and its immense glaciers to the steppe and subpolar forests that support pumas, guanacos and Andean condors. Learn how climate, geology and conservation intersect in this dynamic region—and what Patagonia can teach us about protecting wild places worldwide.

Join Expedition Leaders Eric Ramirez and Melissa Silva for an insider’s look at our Kingdom of the Monarchs trips in Mexico’s oyamel fir forests. Through field stories and firsthand accounts, they reveal what it’s like to lead guests into the monarchs’ overwintering sanctuaries — highlighting both the magic and the conservation significance of this epic migration. Learn how responsible eco-tourism helps protect one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena. 

Jaguars once roamed the mountains and deserts of the American Southwest—and today, scientists are working to bring them back. WWF's Lead Scientist for Wildlife Conservation, Robin Naidoo, Ph.D., traces the history of jaguars in the U.S., from early records to the few individuals documented in recent decades. Learn about current recovery efforts, including how cutting-edge tools like environmental DNA can help detect and support jaguars as they return to their former range.

The Galapagos is a living laboratory for understanding how climate shapes life in the ocean. Expedition Leader and marine ecologist Luis Vinueza explores how El Nino and climate change are affecting the archipelago’s marine species, from penguins and sea lions to iguanas and coral reefs. Discover which animals are adapting, which are struggling and what scientists and conservationists are doing to help protect the marine wildlife of the Enchanted Isles. 

An emblem of the Pantanal, jaguars symbolize both the beauty and fragility of Brazil’s wetlands. Expedition Leader Helder Brandao and Lilian Rampim, Pantanal Operations Coordinator at the Oncafari Jaguar Project, share how research, rewilding and ecotourism are helping protect these apex predators. Hear the latest news from the field and learn how Oncafari’s science-driven, community-based model is shaping a brighter future for jaguars.

Pollinators are the quiet architects of life on Earth, sustaining the plants that feed people and wildlife alike. Expedition Leader Eric Ramirez (who guides our Kingdom of the Monarchs trips in Mexico) explains the vital role of pollinators — from bees and butterflies to bats and birds — in shaping ecosystems and agriculture. Learn how pollination works, why these species are declining, and how small, everyday actions can help protect them.

In Brazil’s Pantanal—the world’s largest tropical wetland—flashes of brilliant blue signal the presence of the hyacinth macaw. Once on the brink of extinction, these spectacular birds are now symbols of hope thanks to dedicated conservation work and the influence of ecotourism. Expedition Leader Helder Brandao shares stories from the field and insights from Nat Hab’s Brazil adventures, revealing how protecting macaws also safeguards jaguars and the wider Pantanal ecosystem.

Each autumn, millions of monarch butterflies migrate thousands of miles from Canada and the U.S. to the oyamel fir forests Mexico’s Central Highlands (which we visit on our Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure). Their arrival coincides with Dia de los Muertos, when many believe the butterflies carry the souls of departed loved ones. Expedition Leader Melissa Silva shares how this extraordinary migration intertwines with Mexico’s cultural traditions, melding science and spirituality.

What can centuries of Indigenous knowledge teach us about medicine and conservation? Author Rosa Espinoza, Ph.D., joins host Brooke Mitchell for our Nat Hab Author Series to discuss The Spirit of the Rainforest: How Indigenous Wisdom and Scientific Curiosity Reconnects Us to the Natural World. From stingless bees and their healing honeys to animals that self-medicate and new laws protecting native species, they'll discuss Espinoza’s research as a chemical scientist and how Indigenous wisdom continues to inspire efforts to protect our planet.

In 1940, author John Steinbeck and biologist Ed Ricketts set out aboard the Western Flyer to explore the Sea of Cortez—a journey that bridged literature, science and philosophy, later chronicled in Steinbeck’s classic The Log from the Sea of Cortez. Mexico Expedition Leader Sofia Merino—who recently toured the restored Western Flyer—revisits their voyage and its modern legacy, revealing how their observations still resonate today, inspiring new conversations about conservation, climate change and our connection to the sea.

Dive into the extraordinary underwater world of the Galapagos with marine ecologist and Expedition Leader Luis Vinueza. Explore how ocean currents shape the diversity of marine life across the Enchanted Isles and learn what to expect while snorkeling on both our eastern and western Galapagos Discovery itineraries. From playful sea lions and graceful rays to penguins, sharks and marine iguanas, find out why the Galapagos offers one of the most remarkable snorkeling experiences on Earth.

Each winter, hundreds of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Mexico’s Pacific Coast (where we meet them on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure) to mate, give birth and nurture their young. Expedition Leader Karel Beets, a marine biologist and co-founder of the nonprofit Ecología y Conservación de Ballenas (Ecology and Conservation of Whales), shares insights from nearly 30 years of research and guiding. Learn about humpback whale behavior, the conservation challenges they face and the work being done to protect them.

Have you ever enjoyed a delicious ice-cold margarita? If so, you have bats to thank! Expedition Leader Diana Lopez explains how these furry flyers help keep ecosystems and traditions alive in Mexico, where they pollinate the agave (or maguey) plants used to produce tequila and mezcal. Learn about the growing threats bats face from habitat loss, agriculture and human misconceptions, and discover innovative conservation strategies protecting them, from restoring flowering corridors to supporting bat-friendly tequila and mezcal producers.

Ocean currents are often called Earth’s “global engine,” driving climate patterns and promoting biodiversity across the planet. Expedition Leader Eleanor Edye unpacks the science behind these powerful flows, from the Humboldt Current that sustains life in the Galapagos to the Gulf Stream that shapes Iceland’s rich ecosystems. Learn how currents work, how they have shifted through Earth’s history and why changes in ocean currents today could impact species from puffins to whales.

Journey into the world’s largest rainforest on our Great Amazon River Expedition with Expedition Leader Angel Cardenas. This immersive trip travels to the headwaters of the Amazon aboard a luxury riverboat. Along the way, glide by skiff into winding tributaries; scan the trees for monkeys, macaws and sloths; and search the waters for caiman, river otters and pink river dolphins. Angel also introduces Indigenous communities whose traditions are closely tied to the forest and explains how responsible travel helps protect the Amazon’s biodiversity.

The Galapagos Islands are home to fearless wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. Expedition Leader Luis Vinueza introduces us to the wonders of this volcanic archipelago, from snorkeling with playful sea lions and watching giant tortoises roam the highlands to spotting penguins on the equator and marine iguanas basking on lava rocks. Learn what to expect on a Nat Hab Galapagos adventure, including life aboard our private small ships, wildlife insights and tips for making the most of your journey.

Reefs are living networks where corals, fish, invertebrates, algae and even mammals interact to sustain astonishing biodiversity. Closely linked with seagrass beds and mangroves, they form critical ecosystems that support marine life and human communities. Join Expedition Leader and marine biologist Melissa Silva to learn how reefs function, why their connections matter and the mounting pressures they face in a changing ocean. Learn how conservation efforts are working to protect these vulnerable ecosystems and why safeguarding reefs is essential for the future of our seas.

With its lush landscapes and unsurpassed biodiversity, the Amazon is one of the most rewarding locales for nature photography. But shooting through dense rainforest can prove challenging for even experienced photographers. Photo Expedition Leader Giulia Ciampini shares expert tips for capturing the region’s untamed beauty and wildlife like sloths, monkeys and pink river dolphins. Learn how to select the right gear for shooting in humid, low-light conditions and how to manage common challenges like rain and equipment care.

How is climate change reshaping life on Earth, and how are species responding? In Part 1 of her polar series, Expedition Leader Maru Marcias explores the relationship between climate and biodiversity, using examples from both polar and temperate ecosystems. From gray whales and monarch butterflies to macroalgae and krill, she shares what we’re learning from species that are adapting to a warming world—and those that aren't. Discover why polar regions are especially vulnerable to climate change and how they offer insights into its global effects.

Orchids are among the most elegant plants on Earth, but how much do you know about them? Expedition Leader Melissa Silva unveils the hidden lives of orchids, from their astonishing diversity and adaptations to their vital ecological roles, rich cultural symbolism—even their culinary value. (Did you know orchids provide a key ingredient of the world's favorite ice cream flavor?) Discover how these fragile blooms have evolved to thrive around the world, including in Mexico, where Melissa guides our Kingdom of the Monarchs trips.

In times of ecological uncertainty, the gray whale offers a remarkable lesson in resilience and connection. Mexico Expedition Leader Maru Marcias offers an eye-opening look at the gray whales of San Ignacio Lagoon, which we meet on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure. Learn about their annual migration (the longest of any mammal), recent population declines, and how ecotourism plays a vital role in their conservation. This experience goes beyond whale watching—it’s an invitation to reflect on our relationship with nature and the future of travel.

The Galapagos Islands are a photographer’s paradise, home to some of the world’s most approachable and unique wildlife. Photo Expedition Leader Fernando Romo Sirvent shares his expert tips for capturing wall-worthy images during your adventure in the Enchanted Isles. Whether you’re photographing blue-footed boobies in flight, sea lions coursing through the currents, marine iguanas sunning on black lava rocks, or giant tortoises roaming the highlands, Fernando covers everything from recommended gear to camera settings and field techniques.

Get ready to be dazzled by some of nature’s tiniest powerhouses! In this colorful presentation, biologist and Expedition Leader Melissa Silva shares her passion for hummingbirds, exploring their unique anatomy, flight abilities, ecological roles, and the challenges they face in the wild. Discover several species found in the mountains of Central Mexico, including some you may encounter on Nat Hab's Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure. You'll also learn how to support hummingbird conservation at home, including important tips for safe feeder use.

Grab your camera and get ready for one of nature’s most spellbinding spectacles: the monarch butterfly migration. Photo Expedition Leader Eric Ramirez shares expert advice on how to photograph these brilliant endangered creatures as they gather by the millions in Mexico’s Central Highlands each winter. Learn how to anticipate butterfly behavior and navigate shifting light in dense fir forests; get tips for composing images that blend wildlife, landscape and local culture; and find out what equipment Eric recommends.

What does it mean to truly connect with the natural world? Daniel Behn—an Expedition Leader on our Mexico Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure—explores the concept of ecospirituality, a practice of engaging with nature through observation, reflection and reverence. Drawing from practices like nature journaling and sketching, birding, mindfulness, yoga, reflective writing, poetry and even dance, Daniel shares accessible ways to engage with nature not just as observers, but as participants. You’ll leave inspired to deepen your relationship with the natural world.

Journey through marsh and islands in search of jaguar, tapir, capybara, giant armadillo, giant river otter, maned wolf, caiman and over 650 bird species in Brazil’s Pantanal. Expedition Leader Helder Brandao offer an overview of our adventure as we explore South America’s greatest wildlife enclave on foot, by boat and 4x4. Find out what to pack and where we stay, including the renowned Caiman Ecological Refuge, where we seek out giant anteater, ocelot and hyacinth macaw. Learn about our activities, from safari drives and nature walks to five separate boat excursions from Porto Jofre—the best place on Earth to spot jaguars in the wild!

Each winter, millions of monarch butterflies migrate to their seasonal roosting sites in the fir forests of Mexico’s Central Highlands. And for nearly a decade, Expedition Leader Melissa Silva has been there to share this spectacle with Nat Hab guests on our Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure. Webinar host Rob Mess talks with Melissa about her naturalist background, her favorite stories from the field, and what it's like to return to these magical sanctuaries alongside the monarchs year after year, in the latest installment of our series of live interviews with Nat Hab guides.

Although it’s National Park Week in the U.S., there are also fantastic lesser-known national parks around the globe. We’re spotlighting some of our favorites this week! First up, Expedition Leader Alex Arias takes us into Corcovado National Park on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. Deemed "the most biologically intense place on Earth" by National Geographic, the area comprises one of the world's most diverse lowland rainforests. Travelers on our Natural Jewels of Costa Rica adventure should keep a lookout for wildlife like jaguars, tapirs, sloths, monkeys, and a multitude of birdlife, including Central America’s densest population of scarlet macaws.

Meet the vaquita: the world’s smallest and most endangered cetacean. Endemic to Mexico’s Upper Gulf of California off the Baja Peninsula, this elusive porpoise now numbers fewer than 20 individuals. Expedition Leader and marine biologist Diana Lopez introduces us to the vaquita, describing its biology and behavior, and details the threats facing it, including illegal gillnet fishing in the Gulf of California in Mexico. She also shares the conservation strategies in place to protect this critically endangered porpoise, such as the Passive Acoustic Monitoring Program.

Dive into the vibrant world of coral with Expedition Leader and marine biologist Eric Ramirez. From their surprising origins and biology to their critical importance to fisheries and marine food webs, discover why corals are far more than just “underwater rocks.” Eric also explores reef biodiversity and coral’s symbiotic relationships with other submarine organisms, and he explains the growing threats corals face, from climate change to sunscreen pollution. You’ll also find out how you can help preserve these underwater cities.

What's it like to grow up in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth? Find out at the debut of our short film, Growing in the Galapagos: A Nat Hab Guide Story. When Josy Cardoso was a child, her single mother moved her family to the Galapagos to help build a better life for her two young daughters. Watch to see how Josy's unique upbringing and supportive mother led her to pursue an exciting career as a naturalist Expedition Leader in this video premiere presentation, followed by a Q&A with Josy and filmmaker Andrew Ackerman.

Every winter, Mexico's Central Highlands host a charismatic visitor: the monarch butterfly. These migratory marvels travel 3,000 miles each year to overwinter in the region's oyamel fir forests, where they mate before flying north again in the spring. Explore Mexico's monarch sanctuaries with Expedition Leaders Melissa Silva and Diana Lopez, who reveal what makes the oyamel fir tree the perfect winter roost, hear the latest theories on how new generations of monarchs know exactly where to go on their migratory return, and much more.

Discover the fascinating history of Baja's gray whales, which we meet each winter on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure as they migrate from Alaska to Mexico's warm Pacific waters. Expedition Leader Maru Marcias talks about how many species were hunted nearly to extinction during the whale-hunting era and reveals why gray whales are the only species that have recovered to their pre-whaling numbers. Find out why this friendly mammal was once called "devil fish," how they've come to trust humans in recent decades, and why ecotourism is vital to their continued survival.

Webinar host Rob Mess recently explored the Enchanted Isles on Nat Hab’s Galapagos Discovery adventure. Along with hiking, snorkeling, kayaking and communing with wildlife, another highlight for Rob was getting to know naturalist guide Luis Vinueza. Now, Rob and Luis reunite to kick off our new series of live interviews with Expedition Leaders: A Guide’s Life! Learn about Luis’s background, from living in a tent for seven months observing seabirds to researching marine iguanas for his Ph.D., and hear some of his favorite stories from guiding Nat Hab travelers.

If Peru tops your travel list (and it should—U.S. News ranks it #4 for “World's Best Places to Visit for 2025”), there's no better time to go! This year, we’ve added an extra day to our Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley adventure, giving you even more opportunities to explore the ancient Inca ruins of Peru’s Andes and the Urubamba River region. In an overview of this seven-day tour, Expedition Leader Rosa Alegria Gonzales reveals what we’ve added to the itinerary, including new activities and more time in Cusco, the once gold-laden capital of the Inca empire.

Patagonia is renowned for its dramatic mountains, icefields, turquoise lakes and Andean wildlife. Join us in Argentina and Chile to look for colossal condors, guanacos and elusive pumas. Expedition Leader Daniel Hagaman prepares you for our Patagonia adventures, including our Photo Expedition, with tips on what to pack, a peek at our sustainable accommodations such as luxury ecolodge Patagonia Camp, and details on the adventures ahead, including private glacier cruises and safaris on working ranches engaged in conservation.

Our guides are experts on the geographic regions where they live and work—but they love to explore new places as much as our travelers do! Tag along as Southern Africa Expedition Leader Lorraine Doyle recounts her recent adventure to the Galapagos Islands, as a traveler this time, where she encountered endangered giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, Galapagos sea lions and marine iguanas. Learn about ongoing conservation efforts to protect these creatures and the fragile ecosystems they inhabit, and find out how you can experience the Galapagos for yourself!

Each winter, hundreds of gray whales swim thousands of miles from Alaska's Bering Sea to the warm Pacific waters of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, where they mate, give birth and nurture their young. Learn from Expedition Leader Sofia Merino how you can have a front-row seat to the longest mammal migration on Earth. Get the details of our six-day Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure, with close-up viewing on SIX open skiff excursions. Plus, find out what to pack, and get a sneak peek at our private shoreside eco-camp on San Ignacio Lagoon.

Meet Mason Mirabile, a student film director whose short films raise awareness of pressing conservation issues. His new film about the monarch butterfly migration, Monarchs in Motion, has already received multiple awards and is debuting at film festivals around the world. Watch the 13-minute short, followed by a Q&A with Mason and Expedition Leader and videographer Charlie Reinertsen, who contributed footage and an interview for the film. Plus, learn about monarch conservation and how you can help protect these beloved butterflies.

You may know that Nat Hab is the world's first carbon-neutral travel company (humble brag), but our commitment to conservation goes beyond offsetting. Brooke Mitchell chats with Chief Sustainability Officer Court Whelan about our 2024 conservation successes and challenges, as well as our goals for 2025. Find out how sustainability and conservation travel go hand in hand, and learn more about our conservation programs, from philanthropy projects in the regions we visit to trip scholarships for inspiring eco-educators!

Dive into the underwater world of whales! Expedition Leader and biologist Andrea Adame introduces us to some of the whale family’s most well-known members, including humpbacks, orcas and gray whales, as well as other cetaceans (marine mammals characterized by their aquatic lifestyle, streamlined body shape and exclusively carnivorous diet) like dolphins and porpoises. You’ll also find out how you can witness gray whales in the wild during their winter migration to Mexico on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure!

Jaguars are the largest cats native to the Americas. Where they once roamed from the tip of Argentina to the U.S.-Mexico border, now, they are found only in remote regions of South and Central America. In this Conservation Connect interview, Abbie Martin, founder of the Jaguar ID Project, talks about how the non-profit monitors and protects the jaguars of Brazil’s Pantanal—the densest population of these elusive cats on Earth. Plus, learn how travelers like you can help save jaguars by contributing to citizen science data!

The natural marvels of Costa Rica are in a class all their own, from lush rainforests and volcanoes to pristine beaches and misty mountains filled with wildlife. Explore less-discovered realms of this biodiversity hotspot as Expedition Leader Alex Arias details our Natural Jewels of Costa Rica and Costa Rica Wilderness Explorer adventures. Discover the abundant wildlife we’re likely to encounter, such as toucans, tree frogs, tapir, sloths, squirrel monkeys and sea turtles. Get advice on what to pack, and check out some of the deluxe jungle ecolodges where we stay.

Just like human fingerprints, many animals sport unique patterns of coloration, stripes or other features that let us identify them as individuals. Expedition Leader Maria Marcias explains how photo identification is used by conservationists to study and protect marine animals. Learn what identifying individual animals—in particular gray whales—can tell us about a species as a whole, and meet some gray whales that researchers in Baja have monitored for years. Plus, find out how your photos can aid in scientific data collection and conservation efforts!

In 2015, a team led by Christine Figgener, Ph.D., encountered a sea turtle during a research trip in Costa Rica. The turtle had a 10–12 cm plastic straw lodged in its nostril. After the team removed it, the video of the rescue sparked a backlash against single-use plastics. In our latest Conservation Connect webinar, Chris speaks about the threats to these endangered reptiles, conservation initiatives to protect sea turtles, and how the viral rescue video gave her a platform to share ocean conservation priorities with the global community.

From blue-footed boobies to penguins and petrels, the Galapagos Islands offer travelers an abundance of birding opportunities. Avian biologist and Expedition Leader Jonathan Guillen details our eastern itinerary through the Enchanted Isles aboard our 115-foot motorized catamaran, the Natural Habitat Petrel. He also introduces some of the seabirds we encounter, including the Galapagos penguin, waved albatross, frigatebird, and Nazca, blue-footed and red-footed boobies, along with the bird for which our ship was named: the fleet-winged petrel!

From the Arctic reaches of northern Canada to the humid climes of the Amazon, the Americas offer a wealth of nature photography destinations no matter what sort of adventure you seek. Expedition Leader Fernando Romo shares his travel tales and photos from across North and South America, including places we visit on our Nat Hab trips: Patagonia, Peru, Costa Rica, the Galapagos, Mexico, the United States and Canada. Plus, get his tips for photographing wildlife like monarch butterflies, pumas, resplendent quetzals, humpback whales and more.

Each winter, Mexico’s forested Central Highlands play host to one of nature's most thrilling spectacles: the migration of millions of monarch butterflies. Expedition Leader Melissa Silva shares everything you need to know before your Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure, from what to pack to stay warm at high altitudes, to where we stay and how we travel to see the butterflies (including on horseback). Find out about the cultural experiences included on our itinerary and the authentic local cuisine we enjoy—a highlight of the trip for foodies!

Mexico’s Baja Peninsula sits at the intersection of ocean, wetlands, forests, mountains and desert. This environmental diversity brings with it a wealth of plant and animal life, including hundreds of species of permanent and migratory birds. Expedition Leader and marine biologist Daniela Nieto introduces us to some of the birds of Baja and the sanctuaries along the peninsula that serve as resting spots for birds along migration routes and homes for many of the area’s endemic birds. She also explains what birds can tell us about an ecosystem’s health.

Giant tortoises are some of the most iconic animals in the Galapagos -- and some of the most threatened. Expedition Leader and marine ecologist Luis Vinueza has spent nearly 30 years studying, working and guiding in the Enchanted Isles. He shares his knowledge of these ancient creatures, how they arrived on the islands, their evolution and the key role they play in the area’s ecosystems. He also addresses the threats giant tortoises face and the conservation efforts underway to protect and restore their populations—and how sustainable travel can help!

Jaguars hold a precarious position in Mexican culture, regarded as maneaters and pests by some and gods by others. But the truth lies somewhere in between. Mexico Expedition Leader Melissa Silva offers a balanced view of this controversial cat, from its natural history and biology to its place in ancient Mayan mythology. Discover the similarities and differences between jaguars that live in Mexico and those in South America, learn what’s being done to protect these endangered felines, and find out where to see them in the wild for yourself.

Each winter, thousands of gray whales migrate from their feeding grounds in the Arctic to the warm waters along the coast of Mexico's Baja Peninsula to breed, give birth and nurture their young. At approximately 12,000 miles round-trip, it's the longest migration of any living mammal! Expedition Leaders Sofia Merino and Maru Marcias discuss these gentle giants and their mega migration, from their unique feeding habits (and how they’ve helped gray whales survive for millions of years) to why they're considered the friendliest whales on Earth.

When we think of big cats, we tend to think of the lions and leopards of Africa or the tigers of India. But you'll also find plenty of impressive felines just south of the U.S. border! Expedition Leader Melissa Silva introduces us to several species of big cats found in Mexico, from puma, jaguar and bobcat to the less familiar jaguarundi and margay. Learn about their biology and ecology, their importance in Mesoamerican cultures, and the conservation efforts underway to protect these vulnerable species.

Dive into the fascinating world of the killer whale, apex predator of the ocean. Expedition Leader and marine biologist Eric Ramirez shares the natural history of killer whales (also known as orcas), including their biology, ecology, dietary habits, communication skills and behavior. Learn about the different types of killer whale subspecies, delve into family dynamics and gain insight into their global distribution and importance in the ocean food chain. Eric will also highlight current research and ongoing orca conservation efforts.

The 3,000-mile annual migration of monarch butterflies from southern Canada to Mexico is an extraordinary journey, vital for pollination and ecosystem health. It also holds profound cultural significance for many people who witness the monarchs’ flight each year. Biologist Eric Ramirez explores the role monarch butterflies play in communities along their route, diving into their important ecological role and how the butterflies have become a potent symbol of unity and connection among the cultures that exist in their midst.

The Big Bad Wolf had a toothy grin, but when it comes to animals with the strongest bites, he doesn't top the list! Expedition Leader Arpita Dutta introduces us to creatures with some of the world’s most menacing jaws, including predators like the polar bear, jaguar, hippo and leopard seal. Learn how scientists measure bite force and how a strong bite serves a wild animal, from attacking and defending against other animals to tearing and grinding food.

Each winter, gray whales migrate 6,000 miles from Alaska to Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, the longest mammal migration on Earth. These once-endangered gentle giants now thrive in sheltered lagoons like San Ignacio, the site of Nat Hab's Baja whale adventure, where they breed and give birth. Curious gray whales often approach our boats, offering close encounters and excellent photo opportunities. Expedition Leader Sofia Merino, who has dedicated her professional life to studying these whales, shares details of Nat Hab’s winter whale adventures in Baja—which promise to spoil you for whale watching anywhere else!

The largest fish in the sea, whale sharks reach lengths of up to 62 feet and can weigh up to 30 tons—longer than a school bus and as heavy as some yachts. Despite their mass and 3,000 teeth, whale sharks are harmless to humans. They eat plankton and small fish by filtering water through their gills, a process known as filter feeding. Marine biologist Eric Ramirez shines light on whale shark behavior, migration patterns and their vital role in marine ecosystem health. Learn about ongoing whale shark conservation efforts and where to find these “gentle giants.”

Meet some of nature's most intrepid travelers, from the wide-ranging wildebeest of the African Serengeti to the monarch butterflies that wing their way from North America to Mexico each fall. Expedition Leader Eric Ramirez unravels the mysteries of animal migrations and explores their importance to ecosystems worldwide. Learn how various migrations affect biodiversity, support ecological balance and even impact human life. Then find out where you can witness some of nature's most awe-inspiring migrations on Nat Hab adventures!

If it's variety you want to photograph in a nature travel destination, the Galapagos delivers! From high-flying seabirds to slow-moving tortoises to swiftly swimming sea lions, the Enchanted Isles offer opportunities for all kinds of wildlife photography. Expedition Leader and pro photographer Court Whelan shares his advice for photographing the unique creatures of the Galapagos. Learn what camera gear to pack to shoot both terrestrial and underwater wonders, find out how to capture the perfect photo of a Galapagos sunset, and discover the best settings for macro images of minute flora and fauna.

It's a plant of many names: Opuntia, nopal and, perhaps most familiar, prickly pear. With its bright green paddles, vibrant pink fruits (known as pears or tunas) and its colorful flowers, the nopal is a favorite feature of the Mexican landscape. The Aztecs used Opuntia juice to treat burns and other ailments, and the cactus is still a staple of Mexican cuisine and culture today. Expedition Leader Melissa Silva shares her extensive nopal knowledge, from its botanical characteristics and ecological significance to its nutritional and medicinal properties.

Dive into the undersea world of echinoderms like starfish, sea urchins, sand dollars, sea cucumbers and sea lilies. Marine biologist and Expedition Leader Melissa Silva introduces the five main types of echinoderms, including details about their unique anatomical features and adaptations (including the ability to regenerate body parts!) and the roles they play in their marine ecosystems, from the ocean floor to kelp forests. Learn about the importance of echinoderms in global and local economies and the conservation initiatives underway to protect them.

Oceanographer Jacques Cousteau dubbed the Gulf of California (or Sea of Cortez) "the world’s aquarium" due to its rich diversity, from sharks and sea turtles to whales, rays and dolphins. The narrow body of water separates the Baja California peninsula from the Mexican mainland and is home to nearly 100 endemic species, including the critically endangered vaquita, the planet's smallest porpoise. Discover the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem with marine biologist and Mexico Expedition Leaders Melissa Silva and Eric Ramirez.

Jaguars are some of the most mesmerizing creatures on the planet. And the best place to see them? Brazil’s biodiversity hotspot: the Pantanal. Expedition Leader Helder Brandao shares all you need to know about our journey through the marshes, islands and savannas of the Pantanal—the world’s largest wetland. Learn about our activities -- nature walks, 4x4 drives, boat rides and canoe safaris -- and the animals we’ll go in search of: giant anteater, Brazilian tapir, ocelot, capybara, giant river otter, maned wolf, caiman and, of course, jaguar. Plus get a sneak peek at our sustainable accommodations, including the remote and secluded Caiman Ecological Refuge. Please note that visas will be required on trips starting on or after April 1, 2025.

You’re likely familiar with the axolotl’s adorable visage. But did you know that this tiny salamander was once considered a god in Aztec mythology, or that nowadays it is the subject of scientific research due to its ability to regenerate its limbs -- and even its heart and brain? Mexico Expedition Leader and marine biologist Melissa Silva lives in Mexico City, where she has first-hand experience observing axolotls, which are endemic to the lakes and canals of Xochimilco. She shares the natural history of the species: its biology, its cultural and ecological importance, the threats it faces, and what’s being done to protect it.

Mexico City’s floating gardens at Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are the enduring result of sophisticated agricultural practices dating back to the Aztec Empire. Today, this system of canals and artificial islands, known as “chinampas,” provides essential habitat for endemic species like the axolotl, Expedition Leader Melissa Silva traces how ancient agricultural ingenuity supports modern urban ecology, looking at how species diversity can thrive in one of the world’s largest cities.

A spectacular combination of nature, history and culture awaits on our journey to the Lost City of the Incas and the Peruvian Amazon rainforest. Expedition Leader Francis Casapino shares all the details: Get an overview of our accommodations on a luxury riverboat in the Amazon and secluded retreats in the Sacred Valley, find out what to pack for these two wildly different climates, and learn about the animals you may encounter, from sloths, pink river dolphins and tropical birds in the rainforest to the free-roaming llamas of Machu Picchu.

Get a first-hand account of a recent scientific expedition to the eastern Andes of Peru -- a biodiversity hotspot that’s still one of the least-studied areas in South America due to its remote location. Expedition Leader Marcus Oliveira and special guest Silvia Pavan, the assistant professor in the Biological Sciences department at Cal Poly Humboldt who led the expedition to Parque Nacional del Rio Abiseo, share the results of the trip, including the numerous new species of small mammals (primarily rodents and marsupials) the team identified!

There may be no better place on the planet for close encounters with wildlife than the Galapagos Islands! Join Expedition Leader Andres Vergara to find out what to expect on our adventures in the Enchanted Isles, from snorkeling with sea lions and swimming with turtles, to scouting for whales and camping with giant tortoises. Learn about life aboard our privately chartered small ships (limited to just 14–16 guests), what the weather is like during different seasons, and how to pack for this otherworldly adventure.

Voyage all the way to the headwaters of the Amazon River on a luxury riverboat for just 28 guests. Expedition Leader Guillermo Knell shares everything you need to know about our Great Amazon River Expedition—an intimate immersion in Peru’s tropical wilderness as we explore the world’s largest rainforest. Follow the river’s tributaries and small creeks by skiff, looking for caiman, river otters and pink river dolphins. Ashore, walk beneath the emerald tree canopy looking for monkeys, sloths and scarlet macaws. Guillermo also introduces us to some of the local Indigenous people and shares how our presence helps protect the Amazon’s precious natural resources.

The Galapagos Islands are brimming with fascinating wildlife, but we admit we have a soft spot for the Enchanted Isles' most common -- and playful -- marine mammals: sea lions. Learn all about the biology of these pinnipeds -- an order that includes fin- or flipper-footed marine mammals such as seals and walruses -- and what the differences are between curious Galapagos sea lions and shyer Galapagos fur seals (which are, despite their name, also sea lions!). And discover how you can swim, snorkel and kayak with sea lions on our Galapagos adventures.

Hidden to Western explorers until the early 1900s, the ruins of the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu await on this in-depth adventure to the Sacred Valley of the Urubamba River in the Peruvian Andes. Expedition Leader Rosa Alegria Gonzales shares everything you need to know before your trip. Get tips on what to pack for exploring at high altitudes;, enjoy a preview of the places we stay, (such as the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, named one of National Geographic's Unique Lodges of the World), and learn about the wildlife we may encounter—including Peru’s iconic llamas!

The oyamel fir forests of Mexico's Central Highlands play host to one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles: the annual migration of millions of brilliant orange-and-black monarch butterflies. Journey with Expedition Leader Charlie Reinertsen to explore the wintering grounds of this beloved -- but endangered -- butterfly. Learn about the ecological significance of the monarch migration, find out about conservation efforts to ensure this wonder persists, and discover how you can experience it for yourself on our Kingdom of the Monarchs trip.

Each winter, hundreds of gray whales return to their breeding and birthing grounds along the coast of Mexico's Baja Peninsula. And on our Great Gray Whales of Baja trip, you're there to greet them! Join Expedition Leader Sofia Merino to learn more about this amazing migration adventure, including what to bring, how we view the whales (up close on SIX small-skiff excursions), and where we stay: in private thatched "whale cabanas" at our eco-camp on the shoreline of San Ignacio Lagoon.

Peru is a land of extremes, from the flooded forests of the Amazon to the heights of the Andean mountains. Expedition Leader Francis Casapino leads us through the diverse ecosystems we traverse on our Peru adventures and introduces us to their animal inhabitants. Encounter llamas and alpacas in the grassy paramo, look for the world's largest hummingbird in the intermontane valleys, search for Andean bears and condors in the humid montane forests, and spot sloths, monkeys and birds in the palm forests and shrub swamps of the Amazon.

The Inca established the largest empire in the pre-Columbian Americas, spanning from grassland savannas to tropical rainforests to the Andean Highlands. One of the crowning achievements of this civilization was the construction of the city of Machu Picchu. Expedition Leader Francis Casapino reveals why this architectural wonder was such an impressive feat of engineering, describes some of the construction techniques used by the Inca, and explains how and why Machu Picchu was built on such challenging terrain.

The swift-flying petrel is one of a handful of seabirds endemic to the Galapagos Islands. They’re so iconic, in fact, that one of the ships we charter for our Galapagos adventures is named Petrel! Unfortunately, petrel populations are in decline across the Galapagos, primarily due to invasive species that destroy their nesting habitats or prey on petrels themselves. Galapagos Expedition Leader Jonathan Guillen introduces us to the petrel and explains the threats they face and what’s being done to protect them.

Each winter, Mexico plays host to several species that move from their spring and summer homes in the north to the warmer southern climes of Mexico. In this webinar with Expedition Leader Melissa Silva, meet some of these marvelous migrating animals, including humpback and gray whales, monarch butterflies, and dozens of species of birds. Discover the reasons behind these migrations -- reproduction, feeding, hibernating and more -- and what you can do to help ensure they continue.

The autumn monarch butterfly migration from Canada and the U.S. to the highlands of Central Mexico is the greatest of all insect migrations and the only known butterfly migration on Earth. Expedition Leader Charlie Reinertsen unravels the mysteries of one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders and explains the when, where, why and how of the monarch migration. Plus, learn how you can help protect this beautiful but endangered butterfly and experience this natural phenomenon for yourself!

You may associate the Mexican holiday of Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) with colorful costumes, calaveras (skulls) and richly decorated altars. But this holiday also has deep roots in nature. Expedition Leader Melissa Silver explains the cultural significance of nature to this sacred celebration, from monarch butterflies (said to be the souls of ancestors) and Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican hairless dogs thought to guard humans during life and after death), to the orange cempasúchil flowers (marigolds) placed on altars.

Costa Rica may be small in size, but it’s big on biodiversity within its varied ecosystems - from lush rainforests and misty mountains to jungle lowlands and sandy shorelines. Join Expedition Leader Alex Arias as he details our Natural Jewels of Costa Rica and Costa Rica Wilderness Explorer adventures. Learn how to pack, get a peek at some of our deluxe jungle ecolodges, and discover the wildlife we’re likely to encounter, from toucans, tree frogs and tapirs to sloths, squirrel monkeys and sea turtles.

Peru is an ideal destination for wildlife lovers and culture buffs alike, from the abundant wildlife of the Amazon to the ruins of ancient Machu Picchu. Born in the Sacred Valley, Expedition Leader Francis Casapino introduces us to the history and culture of his country. Travel through the various eras of the past, including the rise and fall of the Inca Empire, and discover four aspects of Peruvian culture that persist today, from weaving and farming to religion and the Indigenous people themselves.

Where can you find penguins, pumas, peaks and snowy glaciers all in one place? Why, Patagonia! Expedition Leader Helder Brandao helps you prepare for our Wild Patagonia: Peaks, Glaciers & Pumas, from where we go and what to pack to how we get around and what our accommodations are like. Learn all about the activities in store, including puma tracking, private glacier cruises, a visit to a penguin colony and more!

The forested Central Highlands of Mexico are the stage for one of nature’s most thrilling spectacles: the annual migration of millions of monarch butterflies. Expedition Leader Melissa Silva shares everything you need to know before your Kingdom of the Monarchs adventure, from what to pack to stay warm at high altitudes, to what our accommodations are like in the small mountain town of Angangueo, and how we get to the butterflies (including on horseback!). She’ll also give us a sneak peek at the cultural attractions included on our unique itinerary, and the authentic local Mexican cuisine we enjoy— a highlight of the trip for those who enjoy good food!

The Galapagos Islands are renowned for their prolific birdlife, from Darwin’s famous finches to pelagic penguins and petrels. Join Expedition Leader Luis Vinueza as he introduces us to some of the seabirds of the Galapagos, including blue-footed and Nazca boobies, waved albatrosses, Galapagos penguins and flightless cormorants. Learn about the adaptations that allow them to thrive in this unique environment, their mating and nesting habits, and how they’re threatened by climate change.

Adventure back in time to explore the wonders of one of the most powerful civilizations on Earth. Expedition Leader Francis Casapino reveals the mysteries of the Inca Empire and introduces us to its descendants, many who still reside in the Andes today. We’ll journey to Cusco, the once gold-laden capital of the empire, and on to the sacred city of Machu Picchu. Along the way, encounter diverse topography and learn about local wildlife including spectacled bears, Andean condors and giant hummingbirds.

The Amazon Basin is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth -- making the area a veritable smorgasbord for hungry predators! Expedition Leader Renzo Zeppilli introduces us to some of the many predator species that call this dense jungle home. Meet the black caiman, giant river otters, and anacondas that glide through the blackwater rivers and tributaries. Overhead, the harpy eagles and other birds of prey fly on high, picking off smaller birds, fish, and even sloths and monkeys. Discover all the drama in this riveting webinar!

Travel back in time to meet some of the remarkable creatures that once roamed prehistoric Mexico, from woolly mammoths and giant ground sloths to saber-toothed cats. Expedition Leader Melissa Silva introduces us to key megafauna species and their biology, behaviors and relationships with their Ice Age ecosystems. You’ll also learn about these now-extinct animals’ interactions with early human populations and find out where you can see their fossils in modern-day Mexico

Mexico has given the world so many gifts from nature we take for granted, from color television to chewing gum. This webinar explores just a few of the culturally and economically significant products originating in Mesoamerica that are now common worldwide. Expedition Leader Mel

Join conservation photographer and Expedition Leader Charlie Reinertsen on a photographic journey that feels straight out of an episode of The Magic School Bus. Shrink down to insect size as you explore milkweed prairies in the Adirondacks and fly alongside monarch butterflies during their annual migration to Michoacán, Mexico. Learn about the importance of milkweed to a wide variety of insects, the monarch migration, and how you can visit the Kingdom of the Monarchs for yourself.

Where can you find the only penguins in the Northern Hemisphere, the world’s sole seagoing lizard, and some of the oldest living vertebrates on Earth? The Galapagos, of course! Join marine ecology professor and Expedition Leader Luis Vinueza to discover what makes this group of islands one of the most fascinating and biodiverse places on the planet. Learn what to expect on a Nat Hab Galapagos adventure, from wildlife (marine iguanas, sea lions, giant tortoises, sea turtles, whales!) to activities (swimming, snorkeling, panga rides!).

Sharks are ancient creatures, considered by many scientists to be living fossils! Join marine biologist and Expedition Leader Eric Ramirez as he dives into shark biology and explains the important role they play in the marine ecosystem. He’ll also bust some common shark myths and share a few of the threats sharks face from illegal fishing, pollution and habitat loss and the actions conservationists are taking to protect these fascinating fishes and their ocean environment.

Join marine biologist and Expedition Leader Daniela Muñiz as she explains how Baja’s recent transition from lesser-known travel outpost to ecotourism must-visit has turned local fishermen and rancheros into some of the peninsula’s fiercest wildlife protectors. Many are changing their ways of living, with some rancheros becoming mountain park rangers and fishermen searching for ways to preserve Baja’s migratory gray whales. Come away excited to explore and conserve this coastal paradise yourself on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure.

You may know Baja for its marine wildlife -- like the mammoth gray whales we meet on our Great Gray Whales of Baja adventure -- but the peninsula’s islands, beaches, mangrove estuaries and deserts are also home to hundreds of bird species. Biologist and Expedition Leader Daniela Muñiz introduces us the birds of Baja and reveals some species adaptations that allow them to thrive in this unique coastal ecosystem.

Have you ever seen mangrove trees sprouting from saltwater and wondered how that’s possible? Join us for a fascinating peek into this unique ecosystem and learn why mangroves play a crucial role in a healthy coastal environment.

Go beyond the tourist magnets of Tulum and Cancun to marvel at the incredible biodiversity in some of Mexico’s lesser-known states, from lush jungles and mangroves to gentle manatees and playful howler monkeys.

Boasting everything from grinning axolotls and humpback whales to monarch butterflies and massive mangrove forests, Mexico is the fifth most megadiverse country in the world. Learn from a local what makes this part of the planet so unique.

Get a firsthand account of the mind-blowing monarch butterfly migration in Mexico from a Nat Hab Expedition Leader who just spent a season guiding this trip for the first time.

Did you know that Mexico is the fifth-most megadiverse country in the world? Find out why it nurtures such a profusion of varied animals and plants, from endemic monkeys and jaguars to migratory monarch butterflies and gray whales.

Ready to make giant friendships at sea on Mexico's Baja Peninsula? Find out all about our gray whale adventure, including our exclusive, eco-friendly whale camp at the edge of San Ignacio Lagoon.

Is a cenote a time capsule, an entrance to the Mayan underworld or a subterranean paradise? The answer: All of them! Learn about these sacred limestone sinkholes, from their formation to the unique species they house.

Meet one of our newest Nat Hab Expedition Leaders and learn how the iguanas, turtles and other reptiles of Mexico have relit his passion for photography.

What’s it like to witness Mexico’s amazing migration of millions of butterflies? Find out in today’s webinar.

Whether you’re already signed up for our Natural Jewels of Costa Rica adventure or just thinking about it, today’s webinar will answer all your burning questions about this fantastic itinerary.

Join one of our favorite butterfly experts to meet the marvelous Mayan bee of Mexico and learn why their honey is so highly regarded.

Do you know what entomophagy is? Discover this centuries-old Mexican culinary tradition of eating insects -- and learn why we should be paying much more attention to these tiny, yummy wonders.

Before you take a sip of your next margarita, raise your glass to bats! If no bats, no agave plant, and if no agave plant, no tequila. Learn about these intriguing connections in today’s bat-based webinar.

For a wildlife lover, there may be no nature destination on the planet as alluring as the Galapagos Islands, where unique animals show no fear of humans. Enjoy a firsthand report from a long-time Galapagos guide.

Join professional photographer Richard de Gouveia to learn how to capture striking images in challenging jungle settings – a perfect primer for your upcoming trip to Rwanda, Madagascar, India or beyond.

Kangaroos and koalas sure are charming. And they’re from Australia, right? Wrong! Join a zoologist to learn where marsupials came from and which ones you can see around the world, from Patagonia to the Rockies.

Expedition Leader Kristina Disney is back with more bear tales! Get comfy and listen to bear-based legends from around the world as we discover why these furry creatures hold so much cultural significance.

Ever heard of Xenarthra? This ancient Superorder of mammals boasts its own superhero: the giant armadillo! Learn how these rare prehistoric creatures play a crucial role in protecting other wildlife in South America’s Pantanal.

Learn why South America’s grandest wildlife realm—the vast tropical wetlands of the Pantanal—holds so much ecological importance, why fire threatens it, and how we can protect it, even from afar.

Bolivia is less well known as a nature destination than neighboring Peru and Brazil, and Helder Brandao wants to fix that: Discover all Bolivia has to offer, from the Andes to the Amazon and beyond.

Learn how Brazil’s Humpback Whale Project is helping to further knowledge and conservation of these gregarious cetaceans, and the important role sustainable tourism plays.

If you’ve ever wanted to swim with whale sharks, get the inside scoop on the best place to do it and learn about current conservation efforts to protect these majestic giant fish.

Monarch enthusiast Court Whelan, who guides Nat Hab butterfly trips to Mexico, talks with colleague Joey Sudmeier, a self-professed “skeptic” about butterfly tourism. Find out how Joey’s journey to the monarch kingdom changed his mind.

When you take an accomplished African photographer to a far-away wildlife wonderland, you get a fresh collection of amazing photos—get the full scoop on how Richard de Gouveia achieved his favorite images.

Can ancient knowledge of land and trees help regenerate today’s ecosystems? Through this discussion of indigenous agricultural practices in tropical rainforest communities, discover how forests can be regenerated.

Grab a blanket, make yourself comfortable and listen to myths and legends about bears from around the world—discover how and why these creatures are so significant in many cultures.

Hear from South African Expedition Leader Richard de Gouveia about his journey to the Galapagos Islands, and find out what it’s like for a guide to be a traveler in a totally new part of the world!

Humpbacks follow the sun every year, migrating from their polar feeding grounds to the tropics and back. Learn how they’re monitored along the way—even getting their own photo IDs.

Did you know Brazil is a world leader in dinosaur fossil discovery? Learn from a noted expert why this South American country is such a rich resource for paleontologists worldwide.

The sheer granite spires of Torres del Paine are mesmerizing to behold. Join a Nat Hab naturalist for a guided exploration of one of the most iconic destinations in South America.

Marshes, swamps, bogs, fens, muskeg...did you know wetlands comprise some of Earth’s most important wildlife habitat? From the Pantanal to the Mekong Delta, learn about these complex ecosystems that provide refuge for many endangered species.

The southern right whale, which winters and gives birth off Brazil’s southern coast, was hunted nearly to extinction by the 1970s—yet this species has bounced back since, in part through ecotourism. Hear the amazing story!

Meet Pedro Fruet, a globally recognized Brazilian oceanographer whose life work has been conserving the rare Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin, and find out how strategies to engage local fishing communities may make the crucial difference.

Helder Brandao talks with Diego Viana, a veterinarian and jaguar researcher who’s spent the last 7 years leading groundbreaking research on jaguar conservation in this mountainous region of Brazil’s Pantanal.

Meet Brazilian guest Joares May, Jr., a wild animal veterinarian whose research on jaguars and other apex predators holds major implications for the health of entire ecosystems—and the people who depend on them.