A Legacy of Exploration and Conservation


We are a second-generation tour operator and naturalist guides, growing up in our Galapagos family-owned expedition company in the 1980s. With a deep passion for the Galapagos Islands, we became early pioneers of the archipelago, discovering hidden marine sanctuaries long before they gained global recognition. Over the years, we’ve witnessed the evolution of this breathtaking place, all while staying committed to preserving its pristine beauty.

Today, the second generation takes the helm. Africa Berdonces, who grew up surrounded by the wonders of the Galapagos, has returned after working for Nautidiving, National Geographic – Lindblad Expeditions and the Galapagos National Park. She’s now carrying forward her family’s legacy by launching Nauti Expeditions tour company. This new branch is dedicated to bridging the gap between local operators and tourists, using modern technology and responsible practices to merge the best of both worlds. Our mission is to raise awareness for the protection of our oceans while creating unforgettable adventures for travelers.

We are committed to conservation of our oceans, so we partnered with the Galapagos Cetacea Program to launch the Bubble Netting Program, focused on cetacean research and conservation. Through guided excursions, participants learn about whale and dolphin biology while supporting essential conservation efforts. 10% of profits go directly to the program. This initiative brings together tourism operators, local communities, and scientists to protect the Galapagos National Park and Marine Reserve, ensuring that future generations can experience the beauty of these remarkable marine mammals.

2k

Total Guide

64+

Total Service

79+

Award Won

120+

Total Event

Contact Us:

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Our Address

2690 Hiltona Street Victoria Road, New York, Canada

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Phone Number

+01 234 567 890
+09 876 543 210

email
Email Address

2690 Hiltona Street Victoria Road, New York, Canada

A Life Shaped by the Ocean

Africa’s journey began as a child, exploring the islands with her family, where every tide and current shaped her love for the sea. At just 12 years old, she took her first dive off Sombrero-Chino Island under the guidance of her father. That moment unlocked a new world beneath the waves, igniting a lifelong passion for marine life.

With over 500 dives to her name, Africa became a Dive Master, naturalist guide, and advocate for ocean conservation. Her thirst for adventure led her to cross the Pacific on a traditional Polynesian canoe—powered by wind and guided by the stars. That journey deepened her connection to the ocean and strengthened her resolve to protect it.
Armed with a master’s degree in Protected Area Management from Cairns, Australia, Africa returned to Ecuador to serve as the International Promoter of the country’s natural resources and later as the Head of the Galapagos National Park. She worked for Lindbland expeditions – National Geographic iin the Galapagos islands, Also with the Great Barrier Reef Park Authority, training Master Reef Guides in Australia. Recognized as one of the most inspired women’s in south America by DW 2020. Worked behind the scene on Disney film Sea Lions of the Galapagos. 

Sails of change —Sports for nature 
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct19E2OIaR-/?hl=fr 2023 

Deutsche welle – Tres defensoras de la Naturaleza 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SbutsHjey4 2020
 
Deutsche welle – Africa Berdonces La ausencia del miedo 
https://m.dw.com/es/fuerza-latina-africa-berdonces-la-ausencia-del-miedo/av-52808621 

New York Times Galapagos new guardian
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/23/world/americas/galapagos-islands-ecuador-environment.html

Nauti Expeditions – Where Adventure Meets Conservation

At Nauti Expeditions, we believe exploration should go hand in hand with preservation. We promote local family own operations, and naturalist guides in the Galapagos islands, many of whom are second-generation experts, lead immersive journeys that unveil the magic of the Galápagos while ensuring minimal environmental impact. We don’t just take you to the islands—we introduce you to their heartbeat.
Beyond expeditions, we collaborate on vital marine conservation projects. Partnering with the Galapagos Cetacean Project lead by Phd. Daniela Alarcón in the Galapagos Islands this project is conducted with Galapagos Science Center, USFQ Universalized San Francisco de Quito, Sunshine Coast University Australia. All science in benefit of the conservation of our oceans, woth help of the Galapagos National Park Authority. 
We contribute to the Galapagos Cetacean Project, supporting research. By merging tourism with scientific efforts, we aim to deepen our understanding of marine ecosystems and promote sustainable interactions with wildlife.

Our vision

Africa Berdonces 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 an opportunity to inspire positive change. Whether you’re snorkeling with sea lions, hiking volcanic landscapes, or listening to the calls of blue-footed boobies, your adventure is part of a larger mission—a commitment to preserving these islands for generations to come.

Nauti Expeditions brings the expertise of local naturalists guide together with an innovative platform that directly connects international tourism with the best local operators. This platform blends the best of both worlds, raising awareness for conservation while supporting science and environmental programs in the Galapagos Islands.

Meet Nauti Expeditions team

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Ixora Berdonces

Naturalist Guide

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From our gallery​