A Legacy of
Exploration
and Conservation
Nauti Expeditions is a second-generation, Galápagos-born family operation — founded by a naturalist guide who left the islands to work with National Geographic and the Galápagos National Park, then came home to build something better.
Our Story
Nauti Expeditions is a second-generation, family-owned Galápagos expedition company with roots going back to the 1980s. We became early pioneers of the archipelago, discovering hidden marine sanctuaries long before they gained global recognition — and today the second generation takes the helm, bridging local operators and modern travelers with responsible, technology-forward practices.
Meet Africa Berdonces
Africa Berdonces grew up surrounded by the wonders of the Galápagos and has returned home after working for Nautidiving, National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions, and the Galápagos National Park — where she served as Head of the Park and as International Promoter of Ecuador’s natural resources. She holds a master’s degree in Protected Area Management from Cairns, Australia, and has trained Master Reef Guides with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
Experience credentials
A Life Shaped by the Ocean
Africa’s journey began as a child exploring the islands with her family. At just 12 years old, she took her first dive off Sombrero Chino Island under her father’s guidance — a moment that unlocked a lifelong passion for marine life. With over 500 dives to her name, she became a Dive Master, naturalist guide, and ocean-conservation advocate, later crossing the Pacific on a traditional Polynesian canoe powered by wind and guided by the stars.
Featured in media
Deutsche Welle (DW)
Our vision
Africa envisions a future where the Galápagos Islands serve as a model for humans living in harmony with nature. Every tour, every dive, and every wildlife encounter is part of a larger mission — a commitment to preserving these islands for generations to come
Nauti Expeditions – Where Adventure Meets Conservation
We promote local, family-owned operators and naturalist guides — many of them second-generation experts — rather than displacing them. Beyond expeditions, we collaborate directly on marine conservation: partnering with the Galápagos Cetacea Project, led by Dr. Daniela Alarcón, in association with the Galápagos Science Center, USFQ, and the University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia — all in support of the Galápagos National Park’s conservation mission.
Meet Nauti Expeditions team
Ixora Berdonces
Naturalist Guide
Walter Perez
Naturalist Guide
Eddie Salazar
Surf Expert
Daniela Alarcon
Galapagos Cetacea Project89k
Total Guide64+
Total Service79+
Award Won120+
Total EventFrequently Asked Questions
Is Nauti Expeditions a local, Galápagos-based company?
Yes — Nauti Expeditions is a second-generation, family-owned operator founded and led by Africa Berdonces, who was born and raised in the Galápagos and is based in San Cristóbal.
Does Nauti Expeditions support conservation work?
Yes — we partner directly with the Galápagos Cetacea Project and run the Bubble Netting Program, contributing 10% of its profits directly to cetacean research and conservation.
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your Galápagos
Adventure?
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Our Address
San Cristóbal
Galápagos,
Ecuador EC20035
Phone Number
