17 Apr Carlos

Where are you from?

I grew up in paradise, in the Pura Vida land, a very small town called Santa Clara, near the Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica.

How long have you been guiding? Where have you guided?

I started guiding in 2007 in Costa Rica. Fun fact – Roque was my rafting sensei! I’ve guided on 5 different rivers in Costa Rica, and 3 different rivers in Canada. I’ve also gone on trips on many different rivers in western Canada, the US, and Costa Rica.

What do you love about guiding? 

The adrenaline rush is what I enjoy the most; it’s pretty contagious, in a good way! Also, nothing beats working outside with fresh air, cool water, nice landscapes and beautiful people.

What’s your favourite rapid on the Kicking Horse River?

Big Fatties. It’s the picture spot, right underneath the Park bridge. It has so much stuff going on that you have to nail. You need to have a good line on the rapid before, change your angle, tell your guests about the photos, and then make sure your hair looks great while you are taking a big hit from those waves!

What’s on your bucket list that you have left to cross off?

Some places to visit, like Nepal, Alaska and Iceland. I like the fresh-cold weather which is pretty unusual for a Costa Rican! And, a big road trip from Canada down to Central America, with lots of camping, surfing, good food, rivers and days without taking showers!