MEET THE LOCAS TEAM
THE HEART AND SOUL OF LOCAS ONLY
Our loca(L) guides are the absolute heroes of your adventure. Whether that is leading you through the Inca Trail, guiding you through the most beautiful Yoga lesson or sharing their local knowledge and expertise, they sure know how to make a Locas Only Adventure unforgettable and meaningful.
That’s why we have created the “Loca(L) Guides Rule”, where our top priority is hiring local guides and support staff. Why? Because they're the real experts! It's their land, their stories, and their culture, and we believe they should benefit from our adventures. Plus, keeping it local means fewer CO2 emissions—no need to fly in guides from across the globe!
MEET FERNANDA - FOUNDER, YOGA TEACHER & ADVENTURE HOST
Hola Locas! I’m Fernanda, the crazy founder, brains and spirit behind all things Locas Only. A Peruvian at birth, heart and soul, who resides in the beautiful coastal town of Byron Bay, Australia. I moved to this side of the world when I was 21 as part of my University student exchange and well, the rest is history… I just never went back! Oopsie (sorry not sorry dad!)
As crazy and spontaneous as this decision was, it’s probably one of the best decisions I ever took and definitely one of the most pivotal moments of my life. Since then, I experienced a massive transformation inside-out, as I fell in love with the chill, laidback, mindful and nature-oriented Aussie way of living.
That’s why in my free time, you will most likely find me outdoors, either surfing or swimming in the ocean, biking and singing around town, doing day hikes (or multi-day hikes if I have more time - even better!) or camping. I also practice Yoga & Pilates almost on a daily basis (and I teach too!), I like to journal, write poetry, learn about people’s stories, connect with beautiful humans and have a sense of community.
I love crafting experiences that allow for people to experience all these things that I just mentioned which fuel my soul and which have helped me so much in achieving a sense of freedom, presence and connection in my life.
That’s why I dedicate my time to designing and leading mindful adventures around the world for all of you Locas! Particularly in Peru where, as I said at the start, my heart and soul will always be (little marketing spam… check out our upcoming Peru Adventure Retreat by clicking here!).
With all that being said, I am so grateful you somehow landed here, and whether it is by joining us in one of our crazy adventures or through our life stories, I can’t wait to connect with you!
Con mucho amor,
Fernanda x
THE STARS OF THE SHOW!
MEET TINA
Ernestina Valeriano (Tina) is a trailblazing tour guide hailing from the heart of Cusco, Peru, with Quechua roots running deep. For the past 15 years, she’s been leading epic adventures as a local guide, mountain guide, and tour leader, showing off the best of Peru to explorers from all over. Being a tour guide has completely transformed her life—she’s now a total pro with tons of stories and experiences under her belt.
But let’s rewind a bit—breaking into this field wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. Starting out as a woman in the trekking world was tough, especially in a city where guiding was considered a guy’s job. Travel agencies were all about hiring men, tossing out excuses like, “Women aren’t cut out for this.” But Tina didn’t back down. She took on those challenges head-on, and while competing with the boys is still a thing in this macho culture, more and more women are joining the ranks, proving they’ve got what it takes.
Tina’s mission? To inspire the next wave of women guides to step up and shine. She’s all about breaking down barriers and making sure women have a place in tourism, helping them chase their dreams and take the industry by storm, just like she did!
LUCY
COMING SOON...
PAULI:
COMING SOON...
ISI:
COMING SOON...