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About Columbus Travel
Our mission is to offer travelers a seamless, top-shelf travel experience.
WORLD CLASS SERVICE
HISTORY OF COLUMBUS TRAVEL
In 1994, Columbus Travel was established with the vision of redefining travel experiences in Ecuador, including the enchanting Galapagos Islands and the rich cultural heritage of Peru. Our inception was driven by the necessity to provide high-quality services and ensure safety for Norwegian students venturing into these regions. Today, we are the go-to provider of unique travel services for explorers worldwide.
Columbus Travel is not merely a tour operator. We are the architects of unforgettable journeys, meticulously crafting each expedition to exceed our travelers’ expectations. Our services extend from Ecuador’s culturally rich landscapes to the Galapagos Islands’ biodiversity wonderland and Peru’s ancient mysteries.
Our personalized itineraries are designed with an intimate understanding of these destinations, ensuring our travelers enjoy the most authentic experiences. Furthermore, our comprehensive accompanying support ensures a smooth and secure journey, making us the preferred choice for quality, safety, and memorable adventures.
Columbus Travel Team
Elevate your travel experience to new heights, with our dedicated Destination Experts leading the way! Reach out to us effortlessly by filling out a
booking form, sending
an email, or giving us a call at
+1 877 559 2050
• UK Number +44 (20) 8638 0738
Maria Soledad Loaiza
Managing Director
As the Managing Director of Columbus Travel, I infuse our mission with a deep-seated passion: crafting extraordinary, genuine, and memorable experiences for discerning travelers. Leading a team of devoted professionals who embody this ethos, our destination experts meticulously tailor each itinerary, ensuring unparalleled personalization. Our dedicated customer service representatives guarantee absolute satisfaction, while our dynamic marketing and operations teams propel us to the forefront of the travel industry. Together, we are steadfast in our commitment to transforming every journey to Ecuador, Galapagos, and Peru into an indelible adventure. We transcend mere trip planning; we sculpt experiences fueled by a collective drive for authenticity and excellence. Embracing the art of forging profound connections and cultivating a profound reverence for the destinations we traverse, we transcend conventional travel services to curate moments that resonate deeply with the soul, leaving an enduring imprint on every traveler we serve.
Pablo Rea
Sales Supervisor
I’m Pablo Rea, a traveler, enthusiast, and your go-to companion for exploring the wonders of Ecuador. My journey began in Sacramento, California, where I spent my early 18s immersing myself in the language. This transformative experience fueled my passion for connecting with people and savoring unique cuisines and instilled a deep pride in my Ecuadorian roots. Upon returning to Quito, my hometown, I aspired to become a cultural ambassador, sharing the beauty of my homeland with friends from across the globe. Curating every travel experience is my commitment, ensuring that each adventure surpasses expectations. Having lived abroad, I comprehend the significance of hard-earned money and prioritize creating a journey that’s not only memorable but also mindful of your expenses. I believe in counting each day of your trip because every moment matters.
Sofia Valdivieso
Sales Manager
My journey in the tourism industry began more than 20 years ago, when my passion for service was first born. I had the opportunity to create enriching and adventurous journeys for travelers visiting Ecuador and attending a Spanish language school.
Over the years, I learned the importance of building genuine connections with people through honesty, reliable information, and, above all, by truly listening to their needs. Trust was the reason our clients chose us, while the memorable moments we created together were what inspired them to return and recommend us to others.
That same passion continued to grow when I began offering journeys to the Galapagos Islands and throughout Ecuador. It was then that I discovered an even deeper enthusiasm for sharing the extraordinary beauty, culture, and experiences that make our country so unique—and that deserve a place on everyone’s bucket list. I have been fortunate to learn from and be guided by some of the finest professionals in the industry, and today, I am delighted to share that knowledge with an exceptional team. Together, we share the same goal: to create personalized travel experiences that are meaningful, authentic, and truly unforgettable.
Gabriela Panata
Operations Supervisor
What captivates me about Ecuador is its abundance of enchanting landscapes waiting to be discovered. Each trip I take leaves me with unforgettable memories and anecdotes, which I deeply treasure. My decision to pursue a career in tourism was fueled by my passion for helping others fulfill their dreams of exploration and adventure. As Operations Supervisor, I take great joy in serving as an ambassador and orchestrating memorable experiences for individuals like you, who dream of discovering new horizons, indulging in delectable cuisines, and connecting with remarkable people. Let’s embark on an unforgettable journey filled with new sunsets, tantalizing flavors, and incredible encounters.
Ana Montenegro
Destination Expert
I’m a travel advisor with more than 15 years of experience creating trips that feel personal and special. Growing up surrounded by Ecuador’s natural beauty inspired me to share the magic of the Galápagos Islands and my country with travelers from around the world.
For me, every trip begins with a conversation. I take the time to learn about each traveler’s interests, dreams, and concerns so I can create an experience that truly feels right for them. I want my clients to feel they are talking to a trusted friend—someone who knows the destination, listens carefully, and genuinely cares about every detail. Thus, giving honest advice and plan a smooth, personalized journey that meets their needs.
I specialize in creating personalized trips to the Galápagos Islands, Quito, Ecuador, Peru, and other destinations in South America. Each itinerary reflects my passion, local knowledge, and commitment to excellent service. My goal is to create meaningful travel experiences filled with nature, culture, great food, and unforgettable moments that stay with you long after you return home.
Veronica Tulcanaza
Destination Expert
I believe a memorable journey often begins with a simple conversation: What would you love to experience? By understanding your interests, travel style, and expectations, I can help shape a trip that feels truly right for you.
As a Destination Expert at Columbus Travel, I help travelers discover the Galapagos Islands, mainland Ecuador, the Amazon, and Peru. Whether you dream of unforgettable wildlife encounters, exploring the Andes, or connecting with local cultures, I’m here to guide you through the possibilities with thoughtful recommendations and attention to the details that matter most to you.
What I love most about my work is seeing an idea evolve into a journey you’re genuinely excited about. From our first conversation until you return home, our local team and I are here to provide personal support every step of the way, so you can travel with confidence and simply enjoy the experiences you’ve been dreaming of.
Manuela Alves
Destination Expert
As a French travel professional who has lived in the U.S., Portugal, France, and now Ecuador for nearly a decade, I specialize in creating tailor-made journeys across South America, with a special focus on Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands, Peru, and beyond. My background in international negotiation and cultural exchange has given me a unique ability to design itineraries that are both seamless and deeply meaningful. From the Amazon rainforest and Andean highlands to the Galapagos’ pristine islands and Peru’s ancient wonders, I craft experiences that blend luxury, authenticity, and connection. Every trip I design is personal, thoughtfully curated, and guided by a true passion for sharing the richness of this part of the world with discerning travelers.
Manuela Alves
Destination Expert
I am passionate about tourism because I believe travel has the power to change lives. As a Sales Assistant, I support the sales team behind the scenes, making sure every ticket, package, and itinerary is prepared accurately and on time.
My experience has taught me that behind every booking there is a dream, a family reunion, or a long-awaited adventure—and I love being part of making those moments possible.
What I love most about tourism in Ecuador is its incredible diversity. In just one country, we have the Andes, the Amazon, the Coast, and the Galapagos—four unique worlds in one destination. Being part of an operation that shares that magic with travelers and helps showcase the beauty of our country is what inspires and motivates me every day.
Our Guides
Pablo Nasevilla
Pablo believes that “being a Tour Guide is more than a profession, it is an opportunity to share your passion about nature, culture, tradition, within one’s hometown.”
Expect nothing less than a magnificent adventure along your Ecuador journey; of course, you should expect great jokes and caring service from one of our most experienced guides.
Languages Spoken:
English (fluent), Spanish (native)
Ramon Andrade
Ramon graduated with a degree in biology from the Catholic University of Quito. His passion for service helped him discover his lifelong career as a tour guide back in 1983.
Born and raised in Quito, he has deep knowledge of Ecuador in a wide range of aspects, ranging from nature, history, and culture.
With over thirty-seven years of experience on nature and culture tour guiding, he conducts special interest groups around Ecuador and Peru.
Languages Spoken:
English (fluent), Spanish (native)
Isabel Ramos
Isabel, born and raised in Quito has been helping guests discover Ecuador’s wonderful treasures for almost 30 years.
She describes Ecuador as “a little country with one of the highest biodiversity on the planet.”
Isabel will be happy to share all her stories about swimming with pink dolphins and piranhas, walking around giants tortoises, diving with hammerhead sharks, and hiking around Andes’s active volcanoes.
Languages Spoken:
English (fluent), French (fluent), Spanish (native)
Romy Bustamante
Romy has been working in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands as a tour guide and tour director for English and German-speaking groups for over 20 years. Her field of expertise is Anthropology and Art history. In her early years, she worked for the Museum of Colonial Art of San Francisco de Quito, where she witnessed the restoration process of several masterpieces. During her free time, she loves traveling abroad to learn from other cultures.
Languages Spoken:
English (fluent), German (fluent), Spanish (native)
Fabricio Yepez
Fabricio Yepez was born and raised in Quito. As a National Tour Guide, he has helped uncountable guests experience Ecuador’s most unique and remote destinations. With more than 20 years in the tourism industry, Fabrizio is very passionate about his job. Expect him to get on his knees to take the best pictures of your adventures. He enjoys outdoor bike rides, preferably downhill. He also likes horseback riding, hiking, and taking pictures.
Languages Spoken:
English (fluent), Spanish (native)
Robby Delgado
Robby has 23 years of experience leading trips to many natural and cultural areas, especially the Amazon Rainforest and the Galápagos Islands. His passion and dedication to explore nature and conservation have taken him to places like Iceland, continental Europe, and many countries in America.
Languages Spoken:
English (fluent), Spanish (native)
