Andres Cruz

Andrés was born and raised in the Galápagos Islands, descending from one of the archipelago's earliest settler families, who arrived in the mid-1900s. He spent his childhood on Floreana Island in a close-knit community of 150 inhabitants, where life unfolded without modern technology including internet, computers or cell phones. Those early experiences fostered a strong sense of self-reliance and a close relationship with the natural world.

Growing up in such an environment shaped him into a keen observer and nature lover, fostering a deep connection with the wild landscapes of his home. Like many Galápagos locals, Andrés pursued higher education on mainland Ecuador, earning a bachelor's degree in Environmental Communication from Universidad San Francisco de Quito in 2019. His studies provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the natural world and the tools to effectively communicate its wonders with others.

His passion for storytelling and conservation has taken him across the globe aboard expedition vessels, where he has worked as a photographer, filmmaker and naturalist. Through his lens, he captures the beauty and fragility of nature, bringing the magic of the Galápagos to audiences worldwide.

He considers himself fortunate to call the Galápagos home, where he continues to guide, photograph and document its extraordinary landscapes and wildlife. Whether surfing, sailing or photographing the islands' breathtaking moments, he remains deeply connected to the place that shaped him and enjoys sharing its stories and conservation challenges with travelers from around the world.