Meet Susy and Norby

A huge benefit of traveling with Biotropica Expeditions is that you already know your guides.

Welcome to Biotropica Expeditions, where unforgettable journeys through the natural wonders and cultural treasures of South America come to life. Led by the dynamic duo of Susy Muñoz and Norby Lopez, our team is driven by a deep passion for sustainable travel, Indigenous empowerment, and environmental conservation.

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Susy and Norby have crafted extraordinary, tailor-made tours that showcase the breathtaking beauty of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands, and beyond. Susy’s expertise in cultural tourism, combined with her multilingual skills and profound understanding of local traditions, ensures authentic and enriching experiences for every traveler. Norby, a renowned naturalist guide and biologist, brings his extensive knowledge of biodiversity, ecosystems, and birdwatching to create immersive encounters with the natural world. Together, Susy and Norby epitomize the spirit of responsible travel, creating unique journeys that leave a positive impact on communities and the environment.

Join us on a transformative adventure, where remarkable destinations, authentic encounters, and sustainable practices intertwine to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Susana Muñoz Ditsch

Naturalist & Cultural Heritage Guide

A woman in a bright red hat stands at a spotting scope

Susy hails from vibrant Cuenca, Ecuador’s artistic and cultural hub and spent her childhood traveling around the country. From the Andean countryside to the captivating Amazon jungles, Susy seamlessly immerses herself in local cultures. Her experiences in Amazonian communities and chocolate production ignited her passion for tourism. 

Fluent in English, German, and Spanish, Susy has over 30 years of industry expertise, crafting extraordinary cultural and natural history experiences through personalized itineraries. Her knowledge spans natural history, biodiversity, birdwatching, orchids, indigenous practices, archaeology, and more. Holding both National Tourism and Naturalist Guide licenses, Susy creates unmatched lifelong journeys.

Norby Lopez Granda

Naturalist Guide & Birding Expert

A man stands in outdoor clothes for cold weather in front of a gorgeous view of mountains and sky reflecting in a lake

Norby was born and raised in America’s best preserved colonial center, Quito, making him an expert on all things Quiteño. As a freelance birding and naturalist guide, Norby’s exceptional skills, deep knowledge of tropical forest ecology, and respect for indigenous cultures make him highly sought-after in the Neotropics.

With 32 years of experience across South America, Norby has made a significant impact in Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands, and several other countries. He is a seasoned biologist, birder, and naturalist, as well as a trailblazer in conservation, nature tourism, and birdwatching. As a co-founder of the Napo Wildlife Center in the Ecuadorian Amazon, his commitment to sustainability and collaboration with the indigenous Kichwa community of Añangu has gained global recognition.