María Caridad Rojas
I was born in Quito. Since childhood, my parents frequently took me on trips; we visited destinations like the beach and the Amazon.
I studied product design at university, and my career led me to live in China, New Zealand, and Germany. In my 20s, I visited over 30 countries and more than 40 cities across Asia, America, Oceania, and Europe. During those years, I came to understand that Ecuador is an incredible place, renowned for its biodiversity, unique landscapes, unbeatable climate, and delightful cuisine. In my late 20s, I developed a deep affinity for high mountains and trekking. When I entered my early 30s, I began trail running, always seeking new places to run or mountains to conquer, which in turn led me to discover more about my own country.
Amid the pandemic, my husband and I moved to Limón Indanza, seeking refuge from the city. It proved to be the perfect hideaway. Together, we explored new locations such as Tayo's Cave, Chiviaza, San Antonio, Yasuní, and Cuyabeno, engaging with the Shuar, Kwichua, and Waorani communities.
Throughout these years, we have become advocates for tourism, organizing trail running races and expeditions to Tayo's Cave. Additionally, we provided location scouting services for international filming projects.
Our creation, Wild Ecuador, was born from a dream to showcase our country to the world, with a particular emphasis on its often-forgotten wild places. Immersing in nature has the power to transform. Exposure to untamed environments can alter lives, fostering gratitude, empowerment, and self-confidence. If you allow it, these wild places have the potential to profoundly change your life.
IG: carirojas.u
Juan Antonio Reyes
My name is Juan Antonio Reyes; my nickname is Jota. I hold a degree in tourism and am a certified national tour guide. With over 20 years of experience in the tourism industry, I've been associated with the country's most significant tour operators, along with a tenure of over six years at the Ministry of Tourism.
I have also been engaged in diverse tourist consultancy projects for the European Union and local Ecuadorian governments. While I was born in Italy, I've spent the majority of my life living in Quito. Since the onset of the pandemic, my wife and I have resided in the picturesque Ecuadorian Amazon town of Limón Indanza. We made the choice to live in Limon and engage in tourism due to our belief in its untapped potential in this sector.
Additionally, I am an Ultra Marathon runner, privileged to represent Ecuador in numerous countries, including Chile, France, Mexico, and Italy.
IG: jota_trails