A blog by Betssy Terrones, Intrepid’s Senior People Partner of Latin America 

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Intrepid. Read our full disclosure statement here.

For me, the most transformative part of travel isn’t the landscapes—it’s the people. And our female tour leaders aren’t just guides; they’re trailblazers. 

After 15 years with Intrepid, I know one thing for sure: you can’t be what you can’t see. Representation matters, and that’s why I’m so proud to share these stories. 

From Morocco’s first female tour leader to a climate activist in Pakistan, these women aren’t just leading tours—they’re opening doors to deeper connections, untold stories, and real impact. 

Their journeys will change how you see the world. So, let’s go meet them. 

Hafida Hdoubane, country’s first female tour leader, Morocco 

Q: How has guiding changed since you started? 

A: Back in the 90s, most mountain guides were European, and many Moroccans didn’t even know it was a career. Showing everyone, it was possible, was important. 

Tourism has transformed once-forgotten mountain communities—bringing roads, schools, and guesthouses to remote areas that once had no hospitals or infrastructure.  

Q: What kind of tours do you lead now? 

A: I guide all-women groups on Intrepid’s ‘Women Expedition’ tour in Morocco, visiting Berber villages and acting as a bridge between two worlds. It’s a role I love because it connects and empowers women from around the world while giving local women a chance to share their skills, stories, and traditions. 

We all share the same struggles—no matter where we’re from. Sometimes, you think you’re alone in a problem—until you hear another woman’s story and realize, “She did that, so I can do this too.” 

Sasha Yoojongdee, Intrepid’s first transgender tour leader, Thailand  

Q: Let’s cut right to it, is everyone accepting of you?  

A: I’ve been working with Intrepid for eight years, and I’ve never met anyone who wasn’t comfortable traveling with me. When I meet my groups at the start of a trip, I don’t introduce myself as Miss or Mister—I just introduce myself as Sasha! 

Every now and then, I meet a gay or lesbian couple, and I can see in their faces that they’re wondering, “Are you…?”  

Once we start talking, there’s this moment of understanding, and they feel happy and at ease. 

I remember one gay couple–they had been worried to hold hands in public, and I reassured them that Thailand is very open and accepting of same-sex couples.  

At the end of the day, we’re all different—man, woman, gay, lesbian, transgender. But if we respect each other, there’s less judgment and more understanding. 

Q: Food you got to try? 

A: Pad ka prow—it’s a must! Spicy chili, basil, rice, and meat—simple but packed with flavor.  

Norma Caller, Intrepid’s Tour Leader of the Year, Peru  

Q: What does responsible travel mean to you? 

A: Responsible travel isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how you show up. It’s about respecting traditions, supporting local businesses, and approaching every experience with empathy.  

Travel has the power to create economic opportunities by uplifting local artisans, farmers, and guides, but beyond that, it keeps traditions alive, ensuring they are shared and celebrated with every visitor. 

Q: How has becoming a guide changed your view of the world? 

 
A: Becoming a guide has completely transformed my perspective. Meeting people from all walks of life has shown me how diverse perspectives reshape our understanding of history and travel. 

It has also deepened my pride in my own cultural heritage, reminding me that history isn’t just about the past—it’s about keeping traditions alive today.  

I’m proud of moving to the city to follow my dreams. It wasn’t easy, but I stayed committed—finished my degree, found a job, and, through hard work, was recognized as Intrepid’s best tour leader! 

This journey has been one of perseverance and growth, making me appreciate my roots even more while pushing myself to keep evolving both personally and professionally. 

Aneeqa Ali, Tour Leader, Pakistan  

Q: How does travel impact your local community?  

A: Tourism plays a crucial role in the economy of remote mountainous communities in Pakistan. With few industries to provide stable employment, many families depend entirely on tourism and agriculture to make ends meet. 

However, mass tourism means a rapid increase in visitors that’s led to unregulated construction, deforestation, and waste mismanagement. Many of these areas lack proper waste disposal infrastructure, leading to pollution of rivers, forests, and fragile ecosystems. The very landscapes that draw travelers in are now at risk. 

Climate change is making things even harder. Pakistan is among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change, with melting glaciers and flash floods accelerating at an alarming rate. 

Q: What is one thing you wish travelers did more of when visiting your local area?   

A: I wish more travelers took the time to truly understand the places they visit—the culture, the history, the struggles locals face.  

Choosing small, family-run businesses, traveling in smaller groups, and visiting lesser-known areas spreads the benefits more evenly and leads to more authentic experiences. 

And finally, be kind to the planet. Reduce plastic waste, use a refillable bottle, and leave no trace.  

It’s the least we can do to protect the places that make us fall in love with travel in the first place.