The People Behind the Conservation

Miguel turns bold conservation ideas into tangible action: restoring wildlife corridors, rewilding degraded landscapes, and creating sustainable livelihoods for local communities. He works directly with local universities and research institutions to base every initiative on science, from species tracking to ecosystem health monitoring, ensuring that each project is measurable, scalable, and lasting. For Miguel, conservation is tactical. It's about understanding which lands to protect, how to connect fragmented habitats, and how to empower communities economically so they become active stewards rather than passive beneficiaries. Every reforested hectare, every corridor reintroduced, every local leader trained is a step toward generational protection of Costa Rica's unique ecosystems. His approach is rooted in a simple principle: nature thrives when we stop dominating and start aligning with it. Grow Jungles isn't just a conservation organization—it's a blueprint for living in harmony with the wild, where people, forests, and wildlife can all prosper for decades to come.

Lindsey Guevara combines a deep understanding of human health with a passion for the natural world. A graduate of Emory University's Physician Assistant program, with a background in Medical Biology and a master's in Biomedical Science, Lindsey brings a scientific and practical perspective to conservation. At Grow Jungles, she leads initiatives that bridge human well-being and rainforest preservation—designing projects where community health, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental restoration intersect. From providing medical support in remote communities to advocating for generational protection of Costa Rica's forests, Lindsey ensures that conservation efforts also nurture the people who depend on these ecosystems. Her work embodies a holistic vision: thriving ecosystems, empowered communities, and the knowledge that the health of humans and nature are inseparable.

Javier Elizondo is a visionary explorer, author, and eco-adventure leader whose work bridges tourism, education, and rainforest conservation. As the founder of the Waterfall Trail, he has built immersive experiences that not only showcase Costa Rica's natural beauty but also create sustainable pathways for local communities to thrive. Through his initiatives, Javier actively supports Grow Jungles by promoting conservation awareness, funding rewilding projects, and connecting travelers with hands-on opportunities to protect ecosystems. His best-selling books amplify this mission, sharing stories that inspire stewardship, ecological respect, and a deep connection to the rainforest. For Grow Jungles, Javier is more than a partner—he is a catalyst for action, turning eco-adventure into measurable impact: reforested landscapes, wildlife corridors restored, and local communities empowered. His work ensures that Costa Rica's natural treasures are protected and celebrated for generations to come.

Tico is the Co-Founder and President of Las Oncas, a conservation-focused operation in Costa Rica dedicated to protecting critical rainforest habitat. With deep roots in the Costa Rican landscape, Tico brings hands-on expertise in land stewardship, wildlife monitoring, and community-led conservation. His on-the-ground knowledge and operational leadership help bring Grow Jungles' conservation projects to life — ensuring that every acre protected is actively managed, monitored, and thriving.

Luis Murillo is a Costa Rican entrepreneur with extensive experience in construction, technical infrastructure, and sustainable solutions. He is the owner of Grupo Instelec, a Costa Rican company with over 30 years of experience in the development of construction projects, industrial maintenance, and infrastructure for important institutions and companies in the country. Through his collaboration with Grow Jungles and the La Danta Salvaje project, he drives initiatives that demonstrate how responsible infrastructure, technology, and conservation can work together to protect tropical rainforest ecosystems. His vision promotes models where sustainable development generates real opportunities for local communities while preserving biodiversity.

César is the Co-Founder and CEO of Las Oncas, driving the strategic vision for conservation operations across Costa Rica's most biodiverse regions. His expertise spans sustainable land management, ecological restoration, and building the local partnerships that make lasting conservation possible. César's leadership and network are instrumental in translating Grow Jungles' mission into real-world impact — connecting conservation-minded investors with the people and places that need protection most.