Meet Our Team
Our team comprises seasoned professionals with extensive experience in travel and expedition leadership. Our Senior Leaders, Master Guides, and Local Luminary Lecturers bring a wealth of knowledge and a passion for exploration, ensuring that every journey is enriched with expert insights and personal touches.

Jorge Salas Guevara - Senior Leader
Jorge Salas-Guevara is the President and Founder of New Paths Expeditions (NPE); his journey began at a very young age when he had the fortune to spend his summers in the rugged beauty of Patagonia, where he embraced the role of a mountain and trekking guide. Such experiences ignited a lifelong commitment to adventure and exploration. These early ventures laid the groundwork for a unique career in travel, drawing the attention of premier travel brands in the U.S. and affording him the honor of learning from some of the world’s most venerated expedition leaders.
Jorge’s professional path has been diverse and enriched by a variety of roles within one of the travel industry’s largest conglomerates. From guiding, product development, and managing crises to training field staff and ensuring the safety of travel operations, developing new US travel brands, advising new and old local travel services, supervising the safety of planes and ships, and even designing and building expedition travel vessels. His contributions have been instrumental in enhancing travel experiences worldwide. His leadership skills were further recognized through his executive roles, including his tenure as CEO of one of the conglomerate’s brands. Yet, it was his vision for a more intimate and insightful approach to travel that led to the founding of NPE, aiming to offer small-group expeditions that provide higher quantities and quality of content, and delve into the heart of nature and culture.
With a solid educational background in Business Administration, focusing on travel operations, marketing, and finance at Cornell, Jorge has built NPE on the principle that attention to detail is paramount in creating unforgettable travel experiences. His hands-on approach in the field and continuous engagement with guests and destinations underscore his belief in the transformative power of travel.
In addition to his leadership at NPE, Jorge Salas-Guevara is deeply commitment to conservation and community support. As the founder and president of two conservation organizations, he has been devoted to providing clean water to remote Amazon communities and helping wildlife conservation efforts in Africa and Asia. These initiatives are a testament to the holistic approach to travel at NPE—every expedition not only promises discovery and adventure but also contributes positively to the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants.
Jorge’s contributions extend beyond business leadership to include wildlife and travel photography, where his work has been recognized and featured by notable institutions and publications, including Smithsonian, Wildlife Conservation Society, Nature Conservancy, among many others. This creative outlet not only reflects his appreciation for the natural world but also enhances the expeditions led by NPE, offering guests unique insights and memorable moments captured through his lens and lectures.
When not exploring new destinations or leading expeditions, Jorge enjoys spending quality time with his daughter Josefina, exploring his passions for photography, writing, and cooking.
Jorge’s leadership at NPE is not just about guiding tours; it’s about fostering a community of travelers eager to explore, learn, and connect with the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultures. His story is one of dedication, expertise, and a sincere love for adventure that continues to inspire both the team at NPE and the guests who embark on journeys with us.

Antonio Tadeu Marques de Oliveira - Pantanal
Discover the magic of the Pantanal with Antonio Tadeu Marques de Oliveira, your ultimate guide to this stunning wetland. At 43, Tadeu blends his profound knowledge of naturalist guiding with an infectious enthusiasm, turning each tour into an unforgettable adventure.
Since beginning his tourism career as a young enthusiast, Tadeu’s passion for nature took him to the heart of the Pantanal in 2013. By 2014, he was a certified Tourism Guide, specializing in the Mato Grosso region and Pantanal. His expertise extends beyond theory—Tadeu’s years of navigating this intricate ecosystem have honed his skills in wildlife spotting, including a perfect track record of jaguar sightings for New Paths Expeditions groups over the past five years.
Tadeu’s talent for connecting with diverse audiences, paired with his deep understanding of the Pantanal’s flora and fauna, ensures an immersive and enriching experience for every traveler. His skill in wildlife photography, focusing on light, positioning, and timing, empowers guests to capture breathtaking moments, regardless of their photography expertise.
With Tadeu, every expedition becomes more than just a journey; it’s a chance to explore the Pantanal through the eyes of a dedicated expert and passionate advocate for its preservation. Join him for an adventure that promises to reveal the unparalleled beauty and biodiversity of one of the world’s most extraordinary places.

Daniel Restrepo - Colombia
Daniel Restrepo is a distinguished New Paths Expeditions leader, wildlife veterinarian, and proud Colombian with 15 years of specialized experience in wildlife conservation. Educated at CES University in Medellín, Daniel combines his expert knowledge of neotropical mammals and birds with a profound understanding of Colombia’s rich history and vibrant local culture.
Renowned for his leadership in managing conflicts between large mammals and ranchers, Daniel effectively integrates community engagement with conservation efforts. His fun and educational approach to guiding makes him a favorite among NPE guests. As a co-author of significant research on Colombian wildlife, Daniel’s insights greatly enhance the travel experience.
Guiding our Colombian experiences, Daniel offers a deeply informative and engaging journey, making each expedition not just a trip, but a memorable learning adventure through the heart of Colombia.

Joseph Tano - Papua New Guinea
Dive into the world of birds with Joseph Tano, our passionate and experienced birding guide! With a lifelong love for biology and a fascination with avian life, Joseph began his journey as a tourist naturalist guide in his middle years. Though he faced educational challenges early on, his dedication to nature never wavered.
Joseph’s enthusiasm for birds is infectious. He has spent over 20 years honing his skills and knowledge, guiding serious birders and soaking up insights from every encounter. His active nature and vibrant personality make every expedition an exciting adventure. From the dense rainforests to the serene wilderness lodges, Joseph travels the country, bringing his expert eye and charismatic presence to each tour.
Join Joseph for a birdwatching experience like no other, where his expertise and engaging style will make your journey unforgettable!

Edward Kabagyo - Uganda
Edward Kabagyo, born in Uganda’s Hoima District, is a seasoned guide with over 20 years of experience in wildlife conservation and tourism. A resident of Kisubi, Entebbe, and a member of the Munyoro tribe, Edward has a deep passion for Uganda’s flora and fauna, nurtured since childhood.
Edward began his career at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, caring for young and injured animals, gaining extensive knowledge of animal behavior. He has since guided tours in Uganda and Rwanda, sharing insights into animal social structures, behaviors, and local cultural practices.
His qualifications include training in captive management of endangered species, wilderness management, tour guiding principles, team leadership, and first aid.
Work History:
1993 – 2008: Animal Keeper, Uganda Wildlife Education Centre
2008 – 2018: Safari Guide, Classic Africa Safaris
2018 – Present: Freelance Tourist Guide
Edward’s expertise and passion ensure a rich and informative experience for every traveler.

Fernando Angulo Pratolongo - Peru
Fernando Angulo Pratolongo is a leading expert with a Master’s in Natural Resource Conservation. With over three decades of experience, he has passionately worked on bird conservation and natural projects in Peru since 1990. Notably, he directed the critical conservation project for the White-winged Guan (Penelope albipennis), successfully reintroducing this critically endangered species into two protected areas in Lambayeque and reducing its threat level.
Fernando has been instrumental in establishing and managing numerous protected areas in Peru. He served as the Threatened Bird and Important Bird Areas Officer for BirdLife International’s Peru Program from 2008 to 2011. Currently, he is the Principal Investigator at the Center for Ornithology and Biodiversity (CORBIDI), President of the Union of Ornithologists of Peru (UNOP), and an esteemed consultant in ornithology, conservation, and bird tourism.
He is a member of four IUCN Specialist Groups and has authored over a hundred scientific and popular articles on Peruvian birds. Fernando is dedicated to advancing bird research through UNOP’s newsletter and believes that the best conservation efforts are driven by robust research. His main hobbies include birdwatching and exploring new destinations for conservation and bird tourism throughout Peru.

Mustapha Erammache
Mustapha ERAMMACHE is an energetic and dynamic tour guide with extensive experience leading both individuals and groups throughout the country. Known for his exceptional storytelling and vibrant personality, Mustapha transforms every tour into an unforgettable adventure. His professional background includes roles as a travel designer, hotel guest relations specialist, and travel agency representative, providing him with a well-rounded skill set that enhances every guest interaction.
With a BA in English Linguistics and additional qualifications in hotel management and cooking, Mustapha blends his expertise with a genuine passion for travel. Fluent in English, French, and Arabic, and conversational in German, he connects effortlessly with diverse audiences. Outside of guiding, Mustapha enjoys reading and running, activities that help him stay sharp and relaxed. Prepare for an extraordinary experience with Mustapha ERAMMACHE, where professionalism meets personal flair.

Virginia Hauptman - New Zealand
She holds a degree in Biological Sciences and has a rich background in teaching and guiding. With professional experience as an English teacher in New Zealand and a strong foundation in international hospitality, she blends expertise with a love for travel.
Her career shines with a focus on environmental education and experiential tourism. She has been a dynamic force as the Director of the Foz do Iguaçu Tourism Guides Association and has authored a significant project aimed at helping guides reintegrate into the job market. Additionally, she facilitated an innovative online training course, “Capacita Guia,” which enhanced the skills of local tourism guides.
Her leadership extends to managing teams across hospitality and environmental sectors at Macuco Ecoaventura, where her enthusiasm and dedication make her stand out. Her journey is all about creating unforgettable experiences and leading with passion.

George Kanja Gitau - Kenya’s
George grew up on the cool slopes of the Ngong Hills, where he developed a deep appreciation for the beauty of wildlife and nature. Surrounded by the mist that envelops the tall trees and the seven hills, he was enchanted by the sounds of birds chirping and the sight of butterflies dancing in the sunbeams.
This early connection to nature ignited George’s passion for conservation and the preservation of Kenya’s magnificent wildlife. In 1999, he pursued his dreams at a Travel and Tourism college, where he began setting up camps for bush safaris and honing his skills as a spotter during game drives. His fascination with the Golden-breasted Starling, known for its stunning beauty and distinctive white irises, became a defining element of his journey.
As George embarked on his career in travel and tourism, he explored Kenya’s major national parks and game reserves, earning accolades and praise from clients both locally and internationally. Among these parks, Amboseli stands out as a personal favorite, offering breathtaking views of the largest land animal and Africa’s tallest mountain. The memories of Amboseli, along with the charm of the Golden-breasted Starling, continue to inspire his work.

Lova Idriss - Madagascar
Born and raised in Madagascar, Lova is our best “soldier” on this fantastic Island, known as the land of the endemics, due to its fascinating and unique wildlife in the area.
Lova has over 20 years of experience exploring the most remote sites in Madagascar and became part of NPE around 2008. Lova loves his country, and his energy and pride while showing the outstanding wildlife in Madagascar make him one of our top-notch guides.

Raymond Teekishe - Tanzania
Raymond Alais Teekishe is a 37-year-old Maasai, born in Arusha and raised in the heart of the Ngorongoro and Simanjiro regions. Growing up in a Maasai village, surrounded by the breathtaking wildlife of Tanzania, Raymond developed a deep respect and passion for the natural world. His life has been a journey of living in harmony with wildlife, and this connection has shaped his path as a guide.
After completing his secondary education, Raymond ventured into the mining industry for two years. However, his love for wildlife soon called him back, leading him to pursue an advanced diploma at the College of African Wildlife Management, a rigorous four-year program that honed his skills and knowledge. He initially worked on several research projects, but his heart was set on sharing the wonders of East Africa with others, so he transitioned into the tourism sector.
Over the past 13 years, Raymond has climbed the ranks from a driver guide to head guide, and even had the privilege of managing a camp in the Serengeti. Now, as a Tour Director, he has had the honor of working with some of the most prestigious companies in the industry. His travels have taken him across East Africa and beyond, including guiding adventures in Zambia.
Raymond’s passion for Africa is contagious, and he takes pride in making every safari an unforgettable experience for his clients. Whether it’s tracking the Big Five, exploring the hidden gems of the savannah, or simply soaking in the beauty of the African landscape, Raymond is dedicated to ensuring that every journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Raphael Shieni - Kenya
Raphael grew up in a village near the iconic Maasai Mara in Narok County, where the wild beauty of Africa was a daily presence. From a young age, he was captivated by the behavior of the animals that roamed freely near his village, sparking a lifelong passion for wildlife.
After completing high school, Raphael pursued his dream by training as a guide in the Maasai Mara. For the past 16 years, he has been guiding safaris, sharing his deep knowledge and love for the region with visitors from around the world.
Throughout his career, Raphael has developed a profound connection with the Maasai Mara, a place where the abundance of big game is a constant thrill. The endless cycle of life, with its massive herds and the predators that follow, is a spectacle that never ceases to amaze him.
Raphael’s expertise extends beyond the Maasai Mara to all of Kenya’s parks, where he is well-versed in the diverse wildlife that inhabits these areas. While he is knowledgeable about all the animals, Raphael has a particular passion for birds, making him an exceptional guide for bird enthusiasts.

Josué Esquivel - Guatemala
Josué Esquivel, born in the iconic colonial city of La Antigua Guatemala, has always had a deep love for languages, teaching, and history. This passion has led him to explore the most fascinating corners of Guatemala, where he has learned from extraordinary people and committed himself to sharing the rich cultural heritage of his country with visitors from around the world.
With a solid academic background that includes studies in tourism, first aid, graphic and web design, and a degree in Business Administration from the University of San Carlos of Guatemala, Josué has built an impressive career in the tourism industry. For several years, he played a crucial role as a Tour Coordinator, where he supervised guides, drivers, and horse handlers, strengthened strategic alliances, and developed new tourism products.
Since 2016, Josué has worked as a tour guide, leading multiethnic and diverse groups of tourists through Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, in both Spanish and English. His dedication to providing authentic and enriching experiences makes him an exceptional guide, capable of connecting travelers with the true essence of Central America.

Fernando Buttura - Pantanal
Fernando Buttura holds a bachelor’s degree in Tourism and has cultivated a deep passion for the Pantanal region. With an extensive knowledge of the area’s diverse wildlife, including its rich avian species and unique natural environment, Fernando is committed to providing travelers with an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Over the past decade, he has led countless expeditions through the Pantanal, consistently going above and beyond to help visitors discover the region’s hidden wonders.
Fernando’s expertise is not limited to guiding; he is also an avid photographer, having accompanied numerous professional photographers on their quests to capture the Pantanal’s breathtaking beauty.
His gentle demeanor and attentive leadership style ensure that every traveler feels well-cared for throughout their journey. Fernando’s dedication to sharing the splendor of the Pantanal, combined with his warm and approachable nature, makes him an exceptional guide for anyone looking to explore this remarkable destination.

Indrajit (Gangadhar Latey) - India
Indrajit, also known as Gangadhar Latey, is a seasoned professional with 19 years of experience in adventure sports and wildlife. His passion for wildlife began during childhood summers spent in the Melghat Tiger Reserve in Northern Maharashtra. With expertise in ornithology, mammals, and natural history, he started his outdoor career and later worked as a Naturalist in conservation. His experience includes over five years at Kanha National Park, and he has traveled extensively across India, from the Himalayas and Kaziranga to South India, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and West India.
Indrajit is deeply committed to reconnecting people, especially locals, with nature. He believes that educating others about wildlife and conservation is crucial for the long-term survival of our planet. His dream of seeing the Snow Leopard was recently fulfilled in Ladakh, where he led a successful expedition to photograph them.
His childhood dream of traveling to Africa came true when he led a group of professional photographers in Masai Mara and Serengeti, a moment he treasures. Indrajit has also worked on anti-poaching efforts in Ranthambore Tiger Reserve with the late Fateh Singh Rathore. His collaborations with renowned wildlife photographers highlight his extensive experience.
In addition to his wildlife expertise, Indrajit has a deep understanding of India’s cultural destinations, making him a valuable guide for exploring the country’s diverse cultural heritage.

Harendra Singh - India’s
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with Harendra Singh, an experienced guide whose passion for India’s rich culture, diverse wildlife, and vibrant history is truly contagious. With a deep love for storytelling and unparalleled knowledge of India’s most captivating places, Harendra ensures that every tour is more than just a journey—it’s a transformative experience.
Harendra’s journey began with rigorous training from the Government of India, earning the prestigious Guide’s License for the Northern Region. This achievement provided him with profound cultural and historical knowledge, as well as an extensive understanding of India’s architectural marvels. But his expertise doesn’t stop there—Harendra is also a trained naturalist, skilled in animal behavior, tracking, and bird and wildlife identification. Additionally, he is a connoisseur of fine dining, social etiquette, and the luxurious art of hospitality.
Certified by the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) in the USA, Harendra is equipped to handle any situation, no matter where your journey takes you. Since November 2008, he has led high-end cultural, wildlife, and photography tours. His experience has taken him across India, guiding groups at the country’s most iconic festivals like Holi, Kumbh Mela, and the Hornbill Festival. Harendra has also had the privilege of working alongside world-renowned photographers such as Art Wolfe, Joseph Van Os, and Todd Gustafson, enriching the experience of every photography tour.
From the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene jungles of India’s wildlife reserves, Harendra’s tours are the perfect blend of excitement and education. His deep interest in India’s history and cultural heritage makes him the ideal guide for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the essence of India. Whether exploring ancient temples, trekking through dense forests, or attending a lively local festival, Harendra’s enthusiasm and vast knowledge will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
With years of experience and countless stories to share, Harendra Singh is more than just a guide—he is your gateway to the heart and soul of India.






