Gary Zuniga

Protected Areas Manager

Gary Zuniga's experience is rooted in Natural Resource Management, with a strong focus on biodiversity conservation and protected area management. He is most passionate about safeguarding wildlife and the ecosystems that sustain them, with the goal of ensuring that future generations inherit a world where nature continues to thrive. Born and raised in the coastal village of Barranco, Toledo, his connection to the natural world began early through countless hours spent exploring the shoreline and surrounding landscapes. Today, in his current role, Gary is committed to strengthening the management and long-term protection of Belize's protected areas through effective conservation practices and environmental stewardship. A memorable experience that continues to inspire him was reaching the summit of Monkey Bay National Park, where the sweeping view of lush forests and limestone hills reinforced his dedication to protecting Belize's natural heritage. Gary never tires of hiking to scenic viewpoints and believes that every trail offers a new perspective worth protecting.

Rachel Armstrong

Director of Experiential Learning & Hospitality

Raoni Chan

Reservations & Sales Manager

Raoni plays the key role in developing programs for the many service-learning and academic study abroad groups hosted by Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. He is an accomplished tourism, hospitality, and accounting professional with over 9 years of experience in reservations, guest service, financial, and business operations within Belize's tourism industry, Raoni is dedicated to delivering exceptional guest experiences while supporting sustainable tourism. His expertise in hospitality, administration, and guest services aligns with the sanctuary's commitment to conservation, environmental education, and memorable visitor experiences.

Michelle Guzman

Accounts/HR Manager

Michelle Guzman is the head of Accounts at Monkey Bay. She has a passion for what she does at Monkey Bay; that is working with numbers almost all day, every day. "Life for her at Monkey Bay is about balancing numbers". Michelle now also works as the HR Manager.

Fun Fact: Michelle enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, nature walks, paddling on the beautiful rivers, horseback riding during her free time.

Philip Balderamos holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Air Transport Engineering from The City University, London (1981). In 2016 became a Licensed Tour Guide and works as a contract guide with Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Philip has also successfully completed many certified training activities such as: Certificate Program in Bird Ecology (Massachusetts Audubon Society 2008); Training of Trainers - Bird Guide Curriculum (University of Belize – Environmental Research Institute 2016); Instructor Techniques - Train the Trainer (Fire Management Consultant/Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary 2018); Raptor Certification Program (Belize Bird Conservancy 2019); Belize Archaeology Symposium (National Institute of Culture and History 2019); First Aid/CPR Instructor Trainer (Belize Red Cross 2019); and National Tour Guide Training Professional Core Module (Belize Tourism Board 2019). 

Philip is an expert birding guide with 40 years birding experience in Belize and is also a First Aid Instructor Trainer with the Belize Red Cross Society. Philip speaks English and Spanish.

Eli is a native Belizean who grew up at Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. He began bird watching, caving and canoeing at an early age, and today these are some of his guiding specialties. Eli officially joined the Monkey Bay Crew in 2012, and in 2014 he became a licensed Tour Guide. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Geography from Kennesaw State University in Georgia, USA. Eli is passionate about connecting with people and sharing his knowledge about the natural world.

He is a dedicated conservation activist and has gained experience working with The Peregrine Fund since 2021 to protect the endangered Orange-Breasted Falcon population in Belize and Guatemala.

Eli has participated in several training programmes such as Basic First Aid & CPR (Recertified annually), Wilderness First Aid (2016), Life Guard (2018), Swift Water Rescue (2018), Instructor Techniques (2018), National Tour Guide Training Professional Core (2019), Bird Banding (2019), and Advanced Wildland Fire Management (2020). Some of his hobbies include rock climbing, wildlife photography, mountain biking, and cooking. Eli’s versatility, enthusiasm, and attention to detail showcase his desire to go above and beyond to facilitate a positive guest experience.

Jason Miller was born in the beautiful town of Orange Walk and grew up in Crooked Tree Village. Growing up in a Wildlife Sanctuary he always had a passion for bird watching. Jason had worked at one of the most eco friendly and adventure resorts in Belize for 6 years. This is where he participated in many trainings such as: Advanced Cave and Wilderness Technician (2018), Wilderness First Responder (2020), Trauma Management, Fluid Resuscitation, Wound Repair, Tropical medicine and Tropical infectious diseases, International health and disaster/ relief response, healthcare provider CPR/ AED (Adult/ child/ infant - Recertified Annually). Jason has been a proud Tour guide and an ambassador for the tourism industry. He is knowledgeable of the flora and fauna and the biodiversity of our beautiful jewelry.  When he’s not working, he plays the role of being an awesome dad and husband. He enjoys grilling meat on the grill and also is a great cook. 

Rodney has been a certified tour guide since 2016, after having successfully completed the National Tour Guide Course. Since then Rodney has excelled in many areas of his profession, and has been certified as a Life Guard, First Aid Responder, and Basic Swift Water Rescuer. Rodney has a passion for guiding and leading field programs. He also excels as a competent birder and bus driver.

He has led many field programs in multiple destinations in Belize.

Melito is a child of Monkey Bay and has been a tour guide for more than ten years. He is well known among the professors. Melito’s charismatic personality wins the hearts of professors and students alike! He is a humorous individual, whose extrovert personality reaches out to every member of the group.

Melito is an accomplished water guide and bird specialist. His experience allows him to quickly adapt to any group and their learning outcomes.

Melito is also an accomplished bus driver.