The Guy
Here's Jeff in action, "dancing" with a sea lion!
Jeff first visited Latin America as a teenager on a service trip and fell in love with the language, culture, and people throughout numerous return visits. He has lived in Ecuador, the Dominican Republic and Colombia. Prior to becoming a South American travel designer, Jeff worked in the hospitality, energy, and philanthropy sectors, always focused on Latin America and often exploring its natural wonders in his free time.
In 2015, Jeff switched careers and bought a boutique travel agency, Untamed Path Adventures, that plans trips exclusively to South America. In that role, he has designed adventures to the Galapagos Islands for hundreds of people and personally led many trips to the region. The Galapagos Guy was launched in 2023 to focus on Untamed Path’s best-selling destination.
As a seasoned traveler and group leader, Jeff guarantees seamless, white-glove service for your tailor-made trip. Previous clients have hailed him as a top-notch luxury travel planner, thanks to his attention to detail and elevated style, providing outstanding oversight and responsiveness throughout the entire process. He has also personally vetted a wide variety of yachts, itineraries, naturalist guides, and off-the-beaten-path spots to explore!
MEET JEFF
Don’t just take our word for it - here’s what happy travelers have said about Jeff.
L. Kelly, TX
“Our family of 6 (kids ages 10-17) traveled to Ecuador and WOW - words cannot describe the amazing experience we had! Jeff's insider knowledge was unmatched and he always ensured that everything was running smoothly. We would give him six stars if we could!”
B. Zande, NC
“We desperately wanted a truly authentic Galápagos adventure and Jeff took this to a level we could never have achieved. You have to put your faith in the hands of The Galápagos Guy; you will be so happy with Jeff guiding the way.”
J. Brody, WA
“Jeff coordinated our group's trip to the Galápagos and in every aspect, his work was excellent. His knowledge made our trip exceptional and memorable, and he always went the extra mile. We can’t imagine how our trip could’ve been better planned and executed.”
W. Kindig, IN
"My number 1 bucket list trip exceeded my expectations. Jeff Boyd was great to work with during the planning process and trip… Wonderful memories and connections for a lifetime."
K. Singer, NC
"What an amazing "trip of a lifetime" Jeff planned for our group of 16 (ages 9-74)! We would most certainly travel through Jeff again and are recommending him to our friends."
J. Henderson, UK
"Jeff Boyd really knows luxury travel and scoped out a fantastic program for our group of 10. It took away the hassle and uncertainty; no stress from start to finish!"
Jason I., NC
“I was so impressed with the luxury yacht Jeff booked – the elegant rooms, the decadent cuisine, the attentive crew, and our expert naturalist guide. I can't think of a better way to experience one of my bucket-list destinations. I wouldn't hesitate to do this trip again!"
The Team
The Galápagos Guy knows it takes a trusted in-country team to make your perfect trip happen. Part of what makes Jeff’s service so valuable is his close relationships with yacht operators, guides, drivers, hotels, and other providers. Here are a few of our favorite partners there:
A Galápagos native, Gustavo became a certified Galápagos Naturalist Guide in 1996. As a naturalist, his role is to ensure the islands live on as the example of conservation for the rest of the world. Apart from nature, Gustavo is also passionate about history and travel. This led him to explore more of the world, in particular Peru, where he also fell in love with the historical richness of Machu Picchu and its surroundings. Nowadays he spends his time between these two very different but equally spectacular World Heritage sites.
Gustavo Castro
Alfredo Villagomez was born and raised in Ecuador and has been working in tourism for over 20 years. He and his father first offered transportation services, which has evolved into a thriving full-service tourism business. Fluent in 3 languages, Alfredo is also a guide and translator across Ecuador's mainland and loves sharing his beautiful country with clients from all over the world. He has assisted our clients for over 12 years, serving as their driver, tour guide, and Quito concierge. His 11 year-old daughter helps him prepare the snack bags that all our clients receive on arrival!