Paco Flores

Born in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador, by 17 years old Francisco (Paco”) had a passion for adventure and photography. He started backpacking around Ecuador and South America, finally arriving in Galapagos for the first time in September 1997. Francisco fell instantly in love with the islands and the way of life, discovering for the very first time the amazing underwater world through diving.  In 2003 he obtained a degree in Eco-tourism at the School of Polytechnics in Guayaquil, and in 2004 he moved to New York City. Here he undertook several photography courses at The School of Visual Arts of NYC, while at the same time working as a freelance photographer for an Ecuadorian magazine based in the city.

In 2005 Francisco returned to Galapagos Islands to live on a permanent basis. He worked as a tour leader and Divemaster, leading groups underwater for more than ten years. He also volunteered and worked with the Galapagos National Park in the department of Marine Science Investigation. Describing himself as a conservationist, Francisco loves to share his passion and knowledge of the islands with everybody.