About You
Tell us a bit about yourself. What inspired you to become a Lokafyer?
First of all, I have a great love for my city—its unique architecture and the lively colors that fill every corner. I also enjoy providing excellent hospitality and making people feel as comfortable as possible during their stay.Another thing I love is the idea of alleys filled with street art, hidden cafés, and a variety of charming shops. Street art is one of the things I highlight most about the city, along with the breathtaking viewpoints where you can see more than three cities at once. Lastly, one of my hobbies is photography, and I really enjoy capturing memories in pictures for both myself and fellow travelers especially with the beautiful scenery Valparaiso offers.
What do you love most about the city you guide in?
What I love most about Valparaíso is its unique character. The city is an eclectic mix of colorful street art, stunning ocean views, and a diverse community that gives it such a distinct, lively vibe. I’m especially fond of how the city blends its rich history with contemporary culture, creating an atmosphere where art, gastronomy, and local life come together seamlessly. The seafood here is absolutely amazing, and I always enjoy sharing that part of the city’s charm with visitors. Valparaíso is a place where every corner has something new to discover, and that sense of constant exploration is what makes it so special.
Can you share a personal story about what led you to live in your current city?
I live in this city because of my grandparents. They were both from the south of Chile—my grandfather was a policeman assigned to work here, and my grandmother was a teacher, just like I am. As I grew up, I decided to stay, captivated by the unique environment, the sense of airy freedom that embraces you, and the way the people here are sociable and friendly, making you feel comfortable and welcomed.
Your Lokafy Experience
- Can you share a memorable experience or moment from one of your tours?
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had was with a couple from California who booked a 5-hour tour, which gave me plenty of time to truly showcase the essence of the city. We connected instantly, and they were thrilled with everything they discovered—the stunning sights and beautiful local jewelry. The man secretly bought a gift for his partner, and it was such a sweet, thoughtful moment. We wrapped up with pisco sours and marisco empanadas, talking about our personal lives. I cherished their kind advice and encouragement to pursue my tourism career. They even invited me to visit them in the States if I’m ever there again. At the end of the tour, she gave me a huge hug, and we were all so emotional—it was such a touching moment that I didn’t want it to end.
What do you think makes a tour truly exceptional?
I believe what makes a tour truly exceptional is the ability to connect with the travelers and adapt to their needs and expectations. Personally, I’m always open to adjusting the plan based on what they really want to experience, even if it means changing things up in the middle of the tour. Being able to read their mood and pace, and ensuring they enjoy the experience in a way that feels personal and relaxed, is what makes it memorable. Most of the time, this approach creates the kind of tour that leaves everyone feeling fulfilled and happy
How do you prepare for your tours to ensure they are unique and engaging for travelers?
It’s important to ask what are they looking for with the tour, what are they expecting to see, to discover, to eat or if they have something planned to buy. Also, it's really important to check if they are able to walk and climb stairs a lot, to consider the mines of transportation. (Valparaiso is to be embraced by walking).
What is your favorite part of being a Lokafyer?
My favorite part of being a guide is the opportunity to share my love and knowledge of this city with others, creating personalized and memorable experiences. I take pride in adapting each tour to the unique interests of my clients, ensuring that they not only see the highlights but also discover hidden gems along the way. The joy I feel when seeing my travelers happy and engaged is what motivates me every day. Whether it's a fun detour or a local recommendation, I’m always ready to make the tour a unique experience tailored to each guest, ensuring they leave with wonderful memories and a deeper connection to the place.
Have you learned anything surprising or unexpected from the travelers you've guided?
There are two things I’d like to highlight. First, the opportunity to learn new slang and expressions that are unique to different English-speaking regions. Second, the personal advice I received, which was unconventional yet positive and helpful—something I truly appreciate.
Can you describe a challenging situation you encountered during a tour and how you handled it?
Fortunately, I haven’t encountered any truly challenging situations during my tours. I always strive to be well-prepared and adaptable, ensuring that my guests have a smooth and enjoyable experience. I believe in staying proactive and flexible, which helps prevent any potential issues from arising
What feedback from travelers has been the most rewarding or impactful for you?
The travelers gave me some very kind compliments, expressing a strong interest in leaving a recommendation at the hotel where they are staying, encouraging others to take a tour with me. They also mentioned they would tell their friends to do the same whenever they visit the city.
Local Insights
What local hidden gems or off-the-beaten-path spots do you love to share with travelers?
Valparaíso is full of hidden gems that truly capture the city’s unique charm. One of my favorite spots to share is Café Barón, a cozy, historic café located near the port. It offers incredible views—if not the best—of the bay and the city, and its warm, inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect place for a relaxing break. Another off-the-beaten-path gem is Cerro Mariposa, where visitors can wander through quiet streets adorned with colorful murals, soaking in the peaceful vibe away from the crowds. I also love taking travelers to La Plaza Echaurren, a lively market square where locals gather, offering an authentic experience with fresh seafood and handmade goods. These hidden gems give visitors a chance to experience a different, more intimate side of Valparaíso."
Can you describe your favorite neighborhood and why you love it?
My favorite neighborhood is Cerro Alegre. The area has a laid-back, bohemian vibe, with charming cafés, boutique shops, and lively bars tucked in between its hills. What I love most about Cerro Alegre is the sense of discovery – every corner reveals something new, whether it’s a hidden café, a breathtaking mural, or a cozy spot with the perfect view. It’s a neighborhood that feels alive and full of character, and it’s a great place to immerse yourself in the soul of the city.
Do you have any favorite local traditions or events that you recommend to visitors?
Definitely, enjoying an empanada at a local shop is a must in Valparaíso—fresh, flavorful, and authentic or a nice Ceviche in a shell. And nothing beats sipping a pisco sour while taking in the view of the bay; it’s the perfect way to experience the city’s charm
Tips and Advice
How do you tailor your tours to cater to different types of travelers (e.g., families, solo travelers, couples)?
I always start by asking travelers what they’re most interested in. For families, I focus on kid-friendly spots, while for solo travelers, I highlight more personal, off-the-beaten-path experiences. For couples, I recommend romantic, scenic locations. This way, I can tailor the tour to their interests and ensure they have a great time.
What advice would you give to new Lokafyers to help them deliver exceptional experiences?
To new Lokafyers in Valparaíso, my advice would be to truly embrace the city’s energy and quirks. Valparaíso is all about discovering hidden gems, so don’t just stick to the usual spots—take your guests to those lesser-known places with breathtaking views or quiet corners filled with local character. Be spontaneous, as the city itself is ever-changing, and a random detour could turn into the highlight of the tour. Most importantly, connect with your travelers on a personal level—ask them about their interests and tailor the experience to their passions, whether it's street art, seafood, or history. Valparaíso is a city that thrives on its stories, so share them with enthusiasm, and always remember that a genuine, heartfelt experience will always be remembered
Do you have any tips for visitors on how to make the most of their trip?
Try to take a good couple of hours to truly experience the best of Valparaíso. As we start walking around, it’s easy to get caught up in the vibrant streets, the colorful murals, and the hidden gems, and before we know it, time flies by. A longer tour allows for a more relaxed pace, giving travelers the opportunity to fully appreciate the city’s unique charm and discover more of what it has to offer, without feeling rushed.
Closing Thoughts
In a city as layered and expressive as Valparaíso, it takes someone like Fernanda to peel back the surface and reveal its heart. Through her eyes, we see more than hills and houses—we see community, creativity, and connection. Whether you're chasing murals, sipping pisco sours, or swapping stories at sunset, Fernanda ensures you don’t just visit Valparaíso—you feel it.
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