With nearly 20 years of experience as a guide/instructor/facilitator, Michael knew at an early age he was destined to live, work and play in the outdoors. With the exception of a 5 year stint as a dog mushing guide in Northern Canada, Michael has rarely been without a paddle in hand. He spent a number of years with Outward Bound as an instructor, facilitator and guide leading sea kayak and white water canoe trips throughout Canada before landing in Belize, Central America. It was in Belize that Michael was exposed to the diverse ecosystems of the tropics and he remained there seasonally for 9 years leading sea kayak and river running expeditions. Having found excitement in these varied and rich environments, Michael sought a location in Central America to pursue his own dream. Panama proved to be a place of magic, a lost world that combines the things he enjoys in life…the natural jungle and sea wonders, great people, a beautiful area to explore by kayak, fresh vital foods and awesome surf. Fluid Adventures Panama is Michael’s vision and he is thrilled to see his dream come to fruition here in Santa Catalina, Panama.
Michael graduated from the University of British Columbia with a B.Sc. in Kinesiology and Sport Business Admin. He is also a nature photographer, surfer, and an environmentalist who lives his life mindfully and conscientiously. He is more interested in “Presence” than “Presents” and is drawn to sustainable living. His curiosity for nature, big and small, is infectious. Michael is a fully certified guide who takes group safety, sound judgment and risk management seriously while addressing individual needs and creating fun enriching experiences. If you're lucky enough to get him cooking on an expedition you know you're in a good place.
Most common phrase, "Look before you leap!”
Javier Elizondo, Eco Tour, Surf & Sea Kayak Guide
Native to Southern California, Javier has been a resident of Panama for more than 10 years now. He arrived in 1993 as a Peace Corps volunteer after graduating from UCSB with a BA in Spanish Literature and Philosophy. From 1993-95 he worked to introduce sustainable agriculture techniques in Chagres National Park.
Javier settled in Santa Catalina Beach because of its natural beauty. He has been at the forefront of surf exploration in the area since his arrival, and brings 20 years of surfing experience to the table. He also enjoys birding, free diving, homesteading, fatherhood, sailing, and exploring the many wonders Coiba Island has to offer.
With nearly 20 years of experience as a guide/instructor/facilitator, Michael knew at an early age he was destined to live, work and play in the outdoors. With the exception of a 5 year stint as a dog mushing guide in Northern Canada, Michael has rarely been without a paddle in hand. He spent a number of years with Outward Bound as an instructor, facilitator and guide leading sea kayak and white water canoe trips throughout Canada before landing in Belize, Central America. It was in Belize that Michael was exposed to the diverse ecosystems of the tropics and he remained there seasonally for 9 years leading sea kayak and river running expeditions. Having found excitement in these varied and rich environments, Michael sought a location in Central America to pursue his own dream. Panama proved to be a place of magic, a lost world that combines the things he enjoys in life…the natural jungle and sea wonders, great people, a beautiful area to explore by kayak, fresh vital foods and awesome surf. Fluid Adventures Panama is Michael’s vision and he is thrilled to see his dream come to fruition here in Santa Catalina, Panama.
Michael graduated from the University of British Columbia with a B.Sc. in Kinesiology and Sport Business Admin. He is also a nature photographer, surfer, and an environmentalist who lives his life mindfully and conscientiously. He is more interested in “Presence” than “Presents” and is drawn to sustainable living. His curiosity for nature, big and small, is infectious. Michael is a fully certified guide who takes group safety, sound judgment and risk management seriously while addressing individual needs and creating fun enriching experiences. If you're lucky enough to get him cooking on an expedition you know you're in a good place.
Native to Southern California, Javier has been a resident of Panama for more than 10 years now. He arrived in 1993 as a Peace Corps volunteer after graduating from UCSB with a BA in Spanish Literature and Philosophy. From 1993-95 he worked to introduce sustainable agriculture techniques in Chagres National Park.
Javier settled in Santa Catalina Beach because of its natural beauty. He has been at the forefront of surf exploration in the area since his arrival, and brings 20 years of surfing experience to the table. He also enjoys birding, free diving, homesteading, fatherhood, sailing, and exploring the many wonders Coiba Island has to offer.