Mariuxi (Mari) was one of the four naturalists on our cruise of  Galapagos. All naturalists were knowledgeable and friendly, but I found myself trying hard to end up in Mari’s group every day. Her knowledge of the islands and their inhabitants is unsurpassed. Her talent at spotting the animals uncanny. Her excitement - admirable. Each time  that Mari would spot and point out an animal or a bird, it felt as it was her first time seeing them. She obviously loves what she does! Mari was also very accessible to us on the ship after our outings to chat about the day’s experiences and about what awaited us the next day. An absolute wonderful guide.

My husband and I have just returned from an incredible vacation to Machu Picchu, Peru and the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. We scheduled the trip at the end of the rainy season because the sea was supposed to be calmer and the crowds smaller. Luckily, we had only one day of rain in Peru and no rain in Ecuador! But we have learned over the years that what makes or breaks a trip like this is the guides that share their knowledge and love of the location with you. And in the Galapagos, this is even more important because every excursion must be led by a naturalist, since you can not explore the islands on your own. 

For the Galapagos, we couldn't have had a better experience than the one we enjoyed on the 48 passenger Xperience. The crew and guests were so much fun to be with, but more importantly, the naturalists were outstanding....especially, Mari!

Mari was so knowledeable about everything: the islands and their history and topography; the animals and why they are unique; the plants and how they support the wildlife. Her enthusiasm was contagious! Prior to the trip, we never had much interest in birds, but Mari changed that. She spent hours teaching us about how they evolved, about their habits and habitats. She made each island come alive, and told us fascinating stories about how the islands were formed and even the historical significance of some of the grafitti on the islands. She was very easy to understand and careful to speak slowly. She often spelled the names of animals or plants we encountered, which was helpful for us because we always take notes so that we will remember the details of the trip.

Although each of the naturalists was wonderful, we found ourselves trying to time our disembarkation so that we could board Mari's zodiac, which would guarantee us the best possible experience. Her stories and explanations were fascinating. She is kind, conscientious and passionate about her job. If you have the good fortune to spend time with Mari, your tours will be unforgettable.

Mariuxi is the best tour guide, I ever encounter in my 20 years of  World wide excursions. She is very knowelegable and uses language that people understarnd and at the same time she respects and answers every question with the precesion of a Professor. Ms.Prieto is detailed oriented, savvy and delivers her explatanaions with gusto. She made my experience in Galapagos an unique and special one. 

On our trip-of-a-lifetime to the breathtaking Galapagos Islands , my husband and I were fortunate to be in Mari's group on most of our excursions.   While the other naturalists are great,  Mari is exceptional,  and exceeded all our expectations by far.   We marvel at her passion for,  knowledge and love of the wildlife, history, culture and environmental well-being of the islands, and how she is able to spot the tiniest /most camouflaged bird/reptile/mammal which would have gone unnoticed by us.   Mari always ensures that the group is safe, together, and respectful of one another and nature.  She is well-spoken,  and conveys her many years as an experienced naturalist articulately and enthusiastically.   Mari is an inspiration, and, were I many years younger, I'd "want to grow up and be a naturalist just like Mariuxi Prieto"!    Janice Cameron

Mari was terrific!  Not only was she knowledgeable of the Galapagos islands, and an experienced guide but very personable as well.   As a docent for our local zoo, I was trained on how to give a good tour that related the guest to the animals....she did a perfect job.  She could talk about the animals, conservation efforts and geology of the land.....she was the total package.   We were very lucky to have Mari as our guide.  In fact, I would ask for her if the opportunity ever arose again.

Sincerely

Ann Johnson