Francisco Lau

Francisco "Chino" Yuen Lau is a La Paz native. Raised in the city's oldest fishing neighborhood, he has transformed his curiosity about natural history, ecology, biogeography, and human prehistory into a 20-year career as one of Baja's most trusted expedition and kayak guides. Since earning his naturalist credentials in 2004, he's led hundreds of multi-discipline expeditions combining kayaking, hiking, camping, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters with creatures like whale sharks, sea lions, blue whales, and marlins. Chino is a graphic artist and a dedicated conservationist, and has partnered with nonprofits to protect Baja landmarks like Balandra Bay and Cabo Pulmo National Park. In 2010, the Honorable Congress of Baja California Sur honored him with its Civic Merit Award and Gold Medal, the state's highest distinction for exceptional young leaders.