Macarena is a physical education professor, outdoor educator, and expedition leader with a lifelong passion for mountaineering, adventure, and experiential learning. She holds a degree in Physical Education from Universidad Andrés Bello and a Master’s degree in Higher Education from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile.

As part of Leadership Expeditions and Vertical’s experiential learning programs, Macarena specializes in leadership development, outdoor education, and group facilitation. Through her work, she helps participants develop confidence, teamwork, resilience, and self-awareness by engaging with challenging environments and meaningful outdoor experiences.

For more than two decades, Macarena has worked throughout Chile’s most iconic natural regions, including Patagonia, the Atacama Desert, and the central Andes. Her extensive field experience includes leading trekking expeditions, mountain ascents, mountain biking programs, outdoor leadership courses, astronomy experiences, and wilderness education initiatives. She is also experienced in wilderness first aid, risk management, and expedition supervision in remote environments.

An accomplished mountaineer, Macarena has participated in expeditions across South America, Asia, and Africa. Her climbing achievements include successful ascents of Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas; Ojos del Salado, the highest volcano in the world and highest mountain in Chile; Mount Sajama, the highest peak in Bolivia; and Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. She has also completed expeditions in Nepal, Vietnam, Argentina, and throughout the Andes, including trekking to Everest Base Camp.

In addition to her work in Chile, Macarena serves as an instructor for the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) in Alaska, where she contributes to one of the world’s most respected outdoor leadership and wilderness education organizations. This international experience further strengthens her ability to facilitate learning, leadership, and personal growth in diverse and challenging environments.

Known for her enthusiasm, positive energy, and commitment to education, Macarena believes that outdoor experiences provide powerful opportunities for people to discover their strengths, build meaningful connections, and develop the skills needed to lead effectively in an ever-changing world.