Naturalist Guides

Fernando Pérez
Naturalist Guide

Born in San Jose on May 29, 1966, Fernando is a longtime resident in a small town of La Pastora near the Turrialba Volcano.

Fernando’s traces his love of the outdoors and community service to his days as a young Boy Scout, his troop was #22. His Boy Scout troop taught him discipline and love of the outdoors. He enjoyed the challenge of working on is badges and receiving the distinction of being the camp specialist for camping, orientation with a compass and assistance to police officials during events like elections, independence day parades and holiday celebrations.

He especially liked that rather than a rank, each member was given the opportunity to shine by becoming the resident expert on the subject that he found most appealing. To this day, Fernando, spends as much of his free time as possible nurturing his passion for the outdoors.

Later in life, Fernando became a volunteer for ASVO (National Volunteer Association for National Parks). Through his service with ASVO, Fernando volunteered for up to a month at a time over a period of five years at the Cabo Blanco Absolute Reserve. It was here that a company from his home town in Turrialba, offered him his first job as a guide.

Fernando has complimented his knowledge from the field as a Naturalist with course ranging from general to very specific Natural History, talking to local farmers and ready books on ecology. He is also well trained in first aid and CPR. After 12 years of guiding, he says he particularly enjoys traveling with families and hopes that his love of nature will be contagious for the young ones.

When he’s not guiding Fernando enjoys mountain biking and visiting remote areas that he has not visited before. Meeting with local people both in Costa Rica and overseas has given him wonderful experiences, perspective and many stories to tell.