Galapagos Trip Leader

Dennis Ballesteros

Dennis Ballesteros, born and raised in the Galápagos, has been a naturalist guide in these famous islands since 2009. His passion for ecology, natural history, and conservation stems from his earliest years—as the son of a science teacher, he gobbled up all the reading he could as a child, and continues to constantly expand his breadth of expertise. Dennis is an incredibly warm and deeply knowledgeable leader and a highly skilled wildlife photographer as well. “I'm genuinely enthusiastic about meeting new people, forging meaningful connections, and sharing experiences of the wonders of Planet Earth.” His lectures and fascinating stories bring joy and learning to every journey.

Our Team

Upcoming Trips with Dennis

Galapagos Adventure aboard the Coral II

Apr 3 - 12, 2026

Jun 12 - 21, 2026

View Trip

Client Testimonials

"Dennis' knowledge of the flora, fauna, and history of the Galapagos—and the stars—is nothing short of awesome. I don't think anyone asked a question that stumped him."

Catherine K.

Moorpark, CA

"Dennis was engaging and vastly knowledgeable about a wide array of subject. His presentations were excellent both in the field and on-board. He was always very helpful and friendly. His passion for the islands is infectious."

David E.

Lothian, MD

"Dennis is a very likable person and an excellent trip leader. His passion for the islands was infectious and his knowledge and familiarity of the flora, fauna and environment is impressive. We thoroughly enjoyed having him as our trip leader."

Jon R.

Petaluma, CA

"Dennis was an incredible guide -- his knowledge about so many subjects was extraordinary and his enthusiasm for various subjects, especially the environment, was infectious. He was extremely friendly and very caring about all the group’s participants. "

Laura H.

Zurich, Switzerland

"I can’t imagine a better trip leader than Dennis Ballesteros. He is incredibly knowledgeable about so many subjects and encouraged the group to ask questions and make comments. He was always helpful making sure group members were safe whether we were hiking or snorkeling together."

Lynn B.

Beverly Hills, FL

"I can't say enough wonderful things about Dennis. He was a fountain of information on anything and everything from Darwin's finches to Fernandina's lava fields, and on top of that, he was so genuinely caring with all of our group, so happy to experience each discovery together, and so entirely committed to protecting the Galapagos. He is an inspiring and always fun person to be around, and just one of the many reasons we'll be planning our next adventure with WT."

Martha S.

Nashville, TN

"Thank you, Dennis and Wilderness Travel! I feel so lucky for this trip of a lifetime with such an exceptional naturalist. Dennis has a deep appreciation for the Galapagos, boundless knowledge, and effusive positivity, all of which he shared generously. I learned more than I could have imagined about plants, animals, and geology, and I especially admire his wholehearted dedication to environmental conservation. Every day was an educational adventure and the evening presentations were superb. His kindness, stewardship of nature, and depth of insight made for an unforgettable experience."

Monica C.

Fairfax, CA

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Our Area Specialists know every detail about our adventures around the world. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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