About Mark Smith Nature Tours

Tours Planned for 2008 and 2009

About Mark Smith

Mark Smith's keen interest in nature as a boy led him to study biology at Oregon State University and build his own business as owner and tour operator of Mark Smith Nature Tours. For over 25 years, Mark has guided travelers to Central and South America, Asia, Africa, Madagascar, Australia and Europe. He has led many tours for the Nature Conservancy of Oregon, Portland Audubon Society, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and Elderhostel. He is co-author of Birds of Oregon and has conducted research for The National Science Foundation, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, The Nature Conservancy, and the National Marine Fisheries Service in Alaska. As owner, director and guide, Mark provides informed, personalized attention before and during each journey. His tours emphasize ecology, conservation, cultural and historical highlights, and usually enjoying birds! Most tours are led by fine naturalists from the host country, and each is researched personally, then designed to maximize natural, cultural and geographic diversity. His wide knowledge and contagious enthusiasm have kept travelers returning year after year.

Mark Smith's Co-leaders:

Marc Egger has led many Central and South American and African tours with Mark Smith. Marc grew up in Brazil and the U.S., speaks four languages fluently, and began his studies of tropical nature while living seven years in Costa Rica. Research experiences include tropical reforestation, ornithology, amphibian censusing, and butterfly migration. In Sao Paulo Brazil, where he lives with his wife and son, he has developed an outdoor school program for kids and is publishing educational and conservation materials. Special interests include botany, birds, photography, history, and music. In recent years he has developed conservation education courses and guidebooks for students in his native Brazil, where he lives with Cecelia and their son. In 2008 he'll lead Brazil and will go to Panama in 2009.

Mark Pretti has organized and led nature tours in Arizona, Oaxaca, and other areas of Mexico for 10 years. He is an expert birdwatcher, accomplished botanist and butterflier, and a student of ecology and all nature. Mark has a BS in zoology. He lives in Sierra Vista, AZ, and for years has organized environmental education programs and camps for students. For eight years he was the naturalist for The Nature Conservancy's Ramsey Canyon Preserve in Arizona.

Rivo Rarivosoa is fluent in four languages, including Japanese. He has been guiding nature, birdwatching and cultural tours in Madagascar for 17 years and is president of the National Guides Association. A fine musician and an accomplished photographer, Rivo's passion for sharing all aspects of Malagasy life has made him a favorite leader of travelers. In 2008 and 2009 he'll guide to Madagascar.

Jon Starks has co-led Australia tours with Mark Smith for over 15 years. A professional ornithologist, Jon does research for Birds Australia, Australia's Audubon Society counterpart, and for government agencies, having conducted dozens of projects on endangered birds. His detailed knowledge of Aussie economics, politics and history are remarkable and he is an excellent lecturer. Jon will co-lead Australia with Mark, and three other guides will guide in different regions.