Meet Our Team
At Ecuador Local Guide, we take pride in our diverse and dedicated team, all of whom share a deep passion for crafting extraordinary travel experiences. For us, travel is not just about visiting new places—it’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, building meaningful connections with the people, and uncovering the rich stories that make each destination truly unique. Allow our team of expert guides to lead you on an unforgettable Ecuadorian adventure, one that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this remarkable country.
Cristian Umaquinga
CEO & Founder
My passion for tourism began in 2003 when I decided to study tourism. With over 15 years of experience, I have collaborated with various tour companies across Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia, taking on roles in sales, operations, customer service, product management, and as a freelance Tour Guide & Tour Leader.
My extensive expertise includes designing and organizing customized private tours for both individuals and groups, tailoring experiences to diverse needs, preferences, and budgets. In the past, I served as a tour conductor for educational travel groups, leading tours to destinations such as the Galápagos Islands, which further enriched my experience. My dedication to providing personalized travel experiences has earned me high praise from travelers, many of whom recommend my services to those seeking to explore South America

Diana Valenzuela
Travel Advisor
With over a decade of experience in the tourism industry, I am a bilingual travel professional dedicated to helping travelers uncover the unparalleled beauty of Ecuador. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of representing Ecuador at international fairs, showcasing its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and unique experiences to the world.
I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with tour operators, collaborated with expert local guides, and coordinated personalized journeys for travelers seeking adventure and cultural exploration. My own travels across South America and Europe have further enriched my perspective, enabling me to offer clients a truly global view of the world.
What truly drives me is seeing the joy and wonder in travelers as they experience the magic of Ecuador. Whether exploring the Amazon rainforest, trekking the Andes, relaxing on the stunning beaches or immersing oneself in the vibrant cities, I take great pride in crafting personalized journeys that create lasting memories.

Daysi Araujo
Travel Advisor
As a bilingual tourism professional with a strong academic foundation and extensive experience as a travel agent, I have dedicated my career to helping travelers discover the wonders of Ecuador and South America. My journey began in high school with internships at museums, where I guided visitors in English and uncovered my passion for sharing the rich culture and history of my homeland.
Throughout my college years, I worked with leading tour operators, assisting travelers in exploring the breathtaking beauty of Ecuador. My travels across South America further deepened my connection to the region, allowing me to immerse myself in its vibrant cultures and awe-inspiring landscapes, which has only made me prouder of what we have to offer.
The greatest reward for me is seeing visitors fall in love with Ecuador, knowing I’ve played a part in making their journey unforgettable. Let me guide you through the magic of Ecuador and South America, and help you create memories that will last a lifetime! 😉

Anita Guajan
Operations & Reservations
With a strong passion for travel and customer service, I oversee the Operations Department, ensuring seamless travel experiences for clients worldwide. Specializing in reservations, logistics coordination, and customer support, I have gained extensive experience in the hospitality industry. As an Operations Specialist, my expertise lies in handling reservations, negotiating with suppliers, and providing on-the-ground support to enhance travel experiences. With a keen eye for detail and strong problem-solving skills, I ensure that every aspect of a tour runs smoothly, from transportation and accommodation to guided excursions-guaranteeing a flawless experience for every client.

Our Guides
Maria Esther Segura
Tour Guide
There’s no way around it – I’ve always wanted to be a guide in Ecuador, and that’s exactly why I decided to become one. Hello, I’m María, and I’m incredibly proud to share this beautiful country with visitors. For the past 16 years, I’ve had the privilege of guiding clients through the mountains, forests, vibrant cultures, wildlife, and diverse communities of Ecuador.
I love my homeland, but what brings me the most joy is watching my passengers’ dreams come true when they visit us for the first time. It’s an unforgettable experience to witness their excitement and awe.
I completed my studies at the university, where I earned my degree as a tour guide. I have had the pleasure of guiding tours in our beautiful cities, markets, and National Parks throughout mainland Ecuador. Each tour is a new adventure, and I’m always thrilled to share the wonders of Ecuador with those eager to explore.

Javier Umaquinga
Tour Guide
With years of experience and in-depth knowledge of Ecuador’s unique ecosystems, I’m Javier, and I specialize in guiding birdwatching tours through some of the world’s most biodiverse regions. Welcome to Ecuador, a country with diverse habitats ranging from cloud forests to the Amazon rainforest and the Andean highlands, making it an exceptional destination for birders. Ecuador offers sightings of hundreds of species, many of which are endemic to the region.
I’ve had the privilege of guiding birdwatchers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned experts, helping them discover the vibrant world of birds that call Ecuador home. Whether you’re seeking the iconic Andean condor or the colorful tanagers and hummingbirds, I’m here to ensure that your birding experience is both educational and unforgettable.

Gabriel Nacimba
Tour Guide
Hello, I’m Gabriel. I have been working as a tourist guide in Ecuador for 11 years. I chose this beautiful profession for one reason: to showcase the treasures we have in this wonderful country. Ecuador is a land of megadiversity, unique in the world, with rich flora and fauna, and four distinct worlds all in one place. Birdwatching is one of my favorite activities; Ecuador is home to incredible bird species, and the cloud forests are truly a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Hiking and biking along active volcanoes help me stay healthy, breathe pure air, and enjoy nature—it’s an unforgettable experience. This is just a brief glimpse into my life.

Mijael Najera
Tour Guide
Hello! I’m Mijael, a passionate guide with over 10 years of experience in the tourism industry. I’ve had the privilege of leading travelers through some of the world’s most stunning landscapes and culturally rich destinations, specializing in immersive cultural experiences that go far beyond sightseeing.
Born and raised in Quito, I have a deep-rooted connection to the local history, environment, and traditions. My mission is to offer more than just a tour – I aim to create meaningful, memorable experiences that bring you closer to the heart of each place we visit. Whether it’s discovering hidden gems, hearing local stories, or exploring natural wonders, I’m here to help you connect, learn, and be inspired.

Raul Carrión
Tour Guide
I’m Raúl, and my journey as a tour guide stems from my deep passion for travel, exploring new places, and connecting with diverse cultures, all while embracing the beauty and serenity of nature. From a young age, I’ve always been captivated by the world around me, which inspired me to turn my love for exploration into a career dedicated to helping others experience the magic of our planet. Over the years, I’ve continually honed my expertise in customer service, building a strong foundation of knowledge in various fields, from history to the natural world. I truly believe in the importance of delivering an exceptional experience to my clients, and I am always committed to ensuring that every tour I lead is not only informative but also enjoyable and memorable.

Ivan Agama
Tour Guide
Hello everyone, I’m Ivan, a local naturalist guide from the Galápagos Islands, dedicated to sharing the archipelago’s extraordinary biodiversity and natural wonders with visitors. I have extensive experience leading tours for small family groups as well as large adult and student groups, bringing to life the rich history and significance of the Galápagos. Whether my guests are exploring the islands to deepen their understanding of evolutionary theory or simply to marvel at its unique flora and fauna, I ensure an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most remarkable ecosystems. I look forward to welcoming you soon to the Enchanted Islands of Galápagos.
