Freelance Tour Leader, Central America

About the role

Intrepid Travel is looking for a freelance Tour Leader to run tours across Central America, primarily supporting trips in Mexico and Guatemala, with additional opportunities in San José, Costa Rica. This is a freelance contract position offering flexibility in when and how you work, though availability during peak seasons is essential. You will immerse travellers in local culture and help them fall in love with their destination.

Key responsibilities

• Provide excellent customer service and travel advice, from leading market explorations to organising craft workshops and home-cooked meals with local families.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of travellers, acting as the first point of call in difficult situations such as lost passports or medical needs.
• Host, lead and execute tours to budget, follow the itinerary and complete administrative duties.
• Share your passion for travel with customers.

Required profile

• Excellent communication in English and Spanish.
• Strong customer service experience and the ability to build rapport with a wide range of travellers.
• Travel experience across Guatemala, Panama, Costa Rica and other Central American countries.
• Full right to work and travel across these regions, and ability to provide professional service invoices.
• Valid first-aid certificate (valid 2026-2027) and health and accidents insurance; travel industry certification as guide or travel escort licensed is preferred.
• Ability to travel extensively, sometimes for up to four weeks, and to handle long hours, lots of walking and physical activity.

Required skills

• Basic computer skills, including email, Word and Excel.

What we offer

• A free Intrepid trip after leading enough trips.
• Diverse departures throughout the year, with travel to and from the trip start covered.
• Meals and accommodation included on many trips.
• Learning and development programmes, tour leader training and internal career opportunities.
• Travel discounts, recognition awards and the chance to attend the Global Summit.
• Opportunity to support Intrepid Foundation projects.