Joseline Cardoso2005

Josy was born in Quito, Ecuador and moved to the Galapagos at the age of 10. To this day, she considers it the best thing that ever happened to her. She attended school in Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz and studied abroad in the U.S. and Italy. By the time she was 18, she knew she was destined to pursue her dream job as a naturalist guide, and she began guiding in the Galapagos in 2005. She has a bachelor's degree in tourism administration and hotel management from the University Espíritu Santo in Guayaquil. She also obtained a scholarship to pursue master's studies in in tourism management and planning at the University of Alicante in Spain. As an Expedition Leader, Josy's desire is to share her passion for the islands with her guests and to impart an appreciation for their natural environment and wild inhabitants.

What Our Guests Say

Josy was the trip. She was the most knowledgeable and informative guide that I have ever encountered. She is the reason that I would return. Every subject, briefing and tour was focused and she attended to everyone on the trip's questions and needs. We traveled with experienced travelers and every one of us was highly impressed with her depth of knowledge, her enthusiasm and the breadth of her ability in geology, biology, history and hospitality. I cannot say enough about her personally and professionally. On a scale of 1 to 10 she is a 12.

J. Uliano

Josy was an all-around fantastic guide! She was very knowledgeable, very enthusiastic and friendly to boot. She clearly knew so much about the islands (geology, plants, wildlife, tourism) and was eager to share her knowledge with us. She was also wonderful to talk with while on board the ship, where she told us about her experiences growing up in the islands, her dreams for the future and also got involved in the various games we played. Basically, I could not give her a higher recommendation!

C. Kleeman

Josie was so exceptional—professional, caring and able to transmit her passion and enthusiasm for the Galapagos to all of us. She was wonderful with each of my grandchildren and made sure that each of them had an extraordinary experience.

J. Kremer

Upcoming Adventures with Joseline Cardoso

Galapagos Discovery: The Nat Hab Experience

Small-group adventures aboard your choice of private yachts, led by our outstanding naturalist guides and photography pros. Snorkel and swim with sea lions, sea turtles and penguins on this incomparable nature odyssey.

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Galapagos Hiking & Kayaking Adventure

Paddle, hike and explore in places not included on typical trips! Our sporty catamaran-based adventure offers rare access to less-visited spots, with extended paddling time.

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Videos & Travel Stories

International Women’s Day: Spotlight on Nat Hab Guide Josy Cardoso

In the name of equality and the continuation of challenging gender stereotypes for greater community growth, we’re featuring Nat Hab Expedition Leader Josy Cardoso, who works to actively encourage the people she guides to be more mindful of their responsibility to the planet.

VIDEO | Growing in the Galapagos: A Nat Hab Guide Story

When Josy was a child, her single mother moved her family to the Galapagos to help build a better life. Her mother's brave decision was "the best thing that could ever happen to us." Watch to see how Josy's unique upbringing led her to pursue an exciting career as a professional Expedition Leader.

Our Story