Marcel Lichtenstein

A native of the Costa Rican countryside, Marcel was raised in a family environment of French, English and Spanish speaking professors and naturalists, and grew up surrounded by an immense library. He became fascinated with all aspects of tropical and subtropical ecosystems at a young age.

In 1989, he started work as a cultural guide and naturalist in Costa Rica and has spent more than 4000 hours in the Rainforest Aerial Tram canopy — observing, researching, training, and assisting with the children's natural history program. This work has only encouraged Marcel to redouble his efforts at natural conservation, leading to the 1997 creation of his conservation company Bosque Protegido, which has established a preserve of 65 hectares of primary forest. 

Working with an associate in the Sarapiqui region of Costa Rica — a source of an amazing and rich biodiversity — he also started a company that is dedicated to producing high quality native jewelry. Thirty percent of the company’s profits are used to purchase and conserve local rainforest lands.  

His broad knowledge of botany, ethnobotany, ornithology, marine ecology and natural history are driven by a profound passion for nature. Marcel has been sharing his love of nature with Lindblad Expeditions since the early nineties, throughout the Caribbean islands and Central and South America. His unique point of view, experience and rich sense of humor make him a valuable part of any expedition.