Santiago and Nelly are from Cusco. They moved to the rainforest in 1980. At the recommendation of Dr. John FitzPatrick they converted the property into a lodge in 1995. Now the lodge is considered to be one of the best places for birds in Peru. Santiago and Nelly were born in the 1930s. They have 3 grown children, Ramiro, Zaida and Virgilio, and the whole family helps run the lodge. It's a family business, with each person having a different specialization. For instance, Ramiro is the guide for birders, and he has experience not only in Peru but also Costa Rica, Chile and Bolivia. Virgilio, the younger brother, is a biologist and he is interested in birds as well. Santiago & Nellie conduct EarthFoot's "Birding Lodge in Manu biosphere Reserve" experience.