Born and raised in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Helder developed a passion for nature early in life. After earning a biology degree from the University of Sao Paulo, his fascination with the wild lured him to the wetlands of the Pantanal, a magical spot that solidified his desire to pursue guiding as a career. Over the past 10 years, Helder has shared his love of the natural world with groups in wild locales across South America, including Peru, Chile, Argentina and Bolivia. Determined to realize his childhood dream of visiting Africa, Helder ventured far from home to explore national parks and reserves throughout South Africa, Botswana and Mozambique. Throughout his extensive travels, Helder worked with and learned from experienced guides across the globe.

He further expanded his interpretive abilities and his understanding of Brazil’s incredible biodiversity as head guide at one of the country’s best ecolodges. In addition to leading diverse groups into the wildlife mecca of the Pantanal, Helder supervised a team of guides, conducted employee trainings and worked as the lodge’s environmental manager, a position that allowed him to utilize his conservation knowledge to consult on environmental certification and sustainability practices. During his time at the ecolodge, Helder even got to lead one of his childhood idols, Indiana Jones (aka Harrison Ford), on an adventure through the Pantanal.

Always thirsty for more, Helder gained intimate insight into the Pantanal’s most elusive predator while capturing, studying and monitoring wild jaguars as part of a conservation project. In 2015, Helder founded an environmental consulting company so he could dedicate time and offer support to organizations focused on sustainability, ecotourism and wildlife journeys. His extensive knowledge of the ecology and wildlife of the Pantanal, coupled with years of guiding experience, make Helder a perfect fit for sharing the wonders of Brazil with Nat Hab travelers.