After attending the University of Costa Rica, Leo went on to Costa Rica’s National Institute of Learning. His extensive travels have taken him to nearly every area of the country, from lowland rainforest to mountain cloud forest. He has spent the last twenty-one years leading select groups of travelers on intimate nature tour programs to the most secluded areas of Costa Rica. Adept at locating and pointing out the elusive wildlife, he reveals the splendors of Costa Rica to our travelers. His friends at Natural Habitat call him, “El Professor” referring to his unmatched knowledge. You will find that there is no more qualified or helpful guide in the entire country than Leonardo Chaves, and we are extremely proud to have him on board as one of our staff Expedition Leaders.


Praise from Natural Habitat travelers:

A. Randall
"This man has to be your best...totally...Leo's excitement with everything we saw, his knowledge, his personality...the way he came to know each of us, and give us individual attention...the time we spent together was a joy...every minute..I cannot rave enough about Leo...and...everyone connected with the tour."

B. Donley
"Leonardo was wonderful!!!!!!! We feel very privileged to have spent a week with such a knowledgeable young man. We learned soooooooo much. He loves what he is doing and I certainly hope our paths cross again somewhere. This is our second trip with Natural Habitat and will not be our last. Every detail was covered! We are lucky you are out there and provide such an excellent opportunity for seeing and experiencing this great planet. This trip was way above what I was expecting."

C. Lauzon
"Leo was hands down the best guide we have ever had on a trip. He had become a friend. He was professional, courteous, engaging, polite, and knowledgeable beyond compare, just a very nice man. I considered it a privilege to have known him for even a short time."

J. Fuller
"Can't say enough about Leo! He was attentive to all 10 peoples' needs. What a great sense of humor! His knowledge of local dining places and attractions greatly enhanced the trip."

K. Holt
"Leo was the best guide ever! He was amazing about his knowledge of the plants, insects, reptiles, birds, etc. He can spot anything anywhere! He made the culture come alive. We enjoyed visiting the homes where people lived and eating with them. He was humorous, always willing to accommodate, patient, and courteous. He helped me on several occasions with my camera to get the best photographs. My sister had him 14 years ago on the same trip and she said everyone loved him, too. I cried when when said goodbye."