Jeffo Marquez

Jefferson was born in Guayaquil, the largest and most populous city in Ecuador, but his parents have lived in the Galápagos Islands since 1980, where they both work as scientists for the Charles Darwin Foundation. He grew up surrounded by nature, and ever since he was a child he has helped with his parents' research. His father is one of the main herpetologists in the Galápagos Islands, and has worked with all reptiles in Galápagos for many years.

During school vacations Jefferson had several opportunities to work with both land and marine iguanas on various field trips. He left the islands briefly to attend the Tecnologica Equinocial University in Quito for three years. He considers one of the best experiences in his life to have been part of an exchange program in Watertown, Wisconsin. In addition to his native Spanish, Jefferson is fluent in both English and French.

Jefferson was inspired by his father’s work to become a naturalist guide in the Galápagos Islands, and completed the course run by the Galápagos National Park Service. He hopes to share his passion for and fascination with the islands’ ecosystems and inhabitants with the international community that visits the archipelago. He knows their inspiration will lead to continued support that the islands need to survive. The chance to work with the amazing guests and fellow staff of Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic provides him the perfect opportunity to share his knowledge.

He received his Photo Instructor certification in a multi-day training workshop.  Developed and taught by National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions photographers, the workshop helped him develop additional insight and skills necessary to help you better understand your camera and the basics of composition — to better capture the moments at the heart of your expedition.