Meet Our Team of Seasoned Tour Guides & Travel Professionals

Meet Bud Bates – CEO of Yosemite Private Tours

“Traveling to Yosemite is not a right, but a privilege.”

At Yosemite Private Tours, this simple philosophy has guided us for decades. We believe that experiencing Yosemite is about more than simply seeing its famous landmarks. It is about understanding, appreciating, and respecting one of the world's most extraordinary natural treasures.

Our commitment to Yosemite, conservation, and exceptional personal service is at the heart of everything we do. We want every guest to feel welcomed, well cared for, and confident that they are in good hands from the moment they contact us.

Meet Bud Bates

Bud Bates, our CEO and consultant, brings decades of experience, knowledge, and personal connection to Yosemite and the American West.

Originally from Florida, Bud developed a deep fascination with the region's unique biology, geology, wildlife, and ecology. After spending nearly a decade abroad in South America and Europe, including Germany and France, he and his family eventually made California their permanent home.

His years as an international student and traveler gave him a unique appreciation for literature, art history, different cultures, and the diverse perspectives of people from around the world. Bud is fluent in six languages and has spent much of his life combining his interests in guiding, art, photography, nature, and community service.

A Lifelong Connection to Yosemite

Bud's connection to Yosemite dates back to 1978. Over the years, his passion for the park has grown into a lifelong commitment to protecting and preserving the landscapes he loves.

He has supported conservation and community organizations dedicated to helping ensure that Yosemite remains protected and accessible for generations to come.

Although Bud is now less involved in the day-to-day operation of the company, his experience, knowledge, and philosophy continue to influence the way we design and operate our private Yosemite tours, multi-day adventures, and VIP custom experiences.

Experience You Can Trust

When you book a private Yosemite experience with us, you are not simply booking transportation or a sightseeing itinerary. You are placing an important part of your vacation in the hands of people who know and genuinely care about Yosemite.

Our goal is to combine local knowledge, careful planning, personal attention, and professional service to create an experience that feels effortless for you and your traveling companions.

Bud's passion for Yosemite—and the respect he has developed for this remarkable place over decades—is reflected in the standards we strive to maintain on every tour.

As a devoted father, Bud also values family, time with his two sons, and the opportunity to share the places he loves with others.

Welcome to Yosemite

Whether you are joining us for a private day tour, a multi-day Yosemite adventure, or a completely customized VIP experience, our team is here to take care of the details and help make your visit truly special.

We sincerely appreciate the trust our guests place in us. From your first inquiry to the end of your journey, our commitment is simple: professional service, personal attention, honest communication, and an unforgettable Yosemite experience.

Welcome to Yosemite. We look forward to showing you why this place is so special.

Meet Nicolas — Top-Notch Yosemite Tour Guide & California Outdoor Specialist

Expert Guide. Avid Hiker. Yosemite Insider.

This is not your everyday Yosemite tour. Travel with Nicolas and experience Yosemite National Park with a seasoned local expert who brings more than two decades of guiding experience, an extraordinary passion for the outdoors, and an intimate knowledge of Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada.

Nicolas is one of our most experienced and highly regarded private tour guides. As an avid hiker, outdoor specialist, photographer, and experienced driver-guide, he knows how to turn a sightseeing trip into a truly personalized Yosemite adventure.

Whether you want to explore iconic landmarks, discover scenic trails, enjoy easy walks, photograph spectacular landscapes, or venture deeper into the wilderness, Nicolas knows how to tailor the experience to your interests, pace, and comfort level.

Relax, enjoy the journey, and let Nicolas take care of the details.

With Nicolas, you are not simply hiring a driver. You are traveling with a knowledgeable Yosemite expert who genuinely loves this place and is passionate about sharing it with his guests.

Let Nicolas turn your Yosemite visit into an unforgettable adventure.

Meet Mary — Top-Notch San Francisco & California Expert Tour Guide

28 Years of Experience. Local Knowledge. A Truly Personal Touch.

This is more than a tour — it's your day, and Mary knows how to make it special.

Born and raised in San Francisco, Mary is a native San Franciscan with Irish heritage and more than 25 years of experience as a certified professional tour guide. Her extensive knowledge, warm personality, quick sense of humor, and natural ability to connect with people have made her one of our most valuable and versatile guides.

Mary has a rare gift: she can make almost anyone feel comfortable. She naturally connects with couples, families, children, and travelers from around the world, adapting her personality and approach to each group.

Your California Expert

Mary's expertise goes far beyond San Francisco. She regularly leads private experiences throughout Northern and Central California, including:

San Francisco • Muir Woods • Napa Valley • Sonoma • Monterey • Carmel • Big Sur • Hearst Castle • Yosemite • Redwood National Park and beyond.

Whether you are exploring the streets of San Francisco, tasting your way through wine country, traveling the spectacular California coast, or discovering the giant redwoods, Mary brings local knowledge and personal stories that you simply cannot get from a standard sightseeing tour.

San Francisco Is in Her Heart

Mary grew up in San Francisco and knows the city from the perspective of someone who has lived there—not simply someone who studied a guidebook.

Her father once owned a restaurant near Fisherman's Wharf overlooking the Bay, giving Mary a unique connection to one of San Francisco's most iconic areas. She loves sharing stories about how the city has changed throughout the decades while still preserving the character, beauty, and magic that make San Francisco so special.

Fluent in German, Mary also enjoys connecting with international travelers and sharing her love of California with guests from around the world.

The Guide Who Does It All

One of Mary's greatest strengths is her versatility. She can seamlessly move from fascinating history and local stories to family-friendly fun, scenic viewpoints, food and wine, photography stops, and spontaneous discoveries along the way.

She knows when to share a story, when to make you laugh, and when to simply let you take in the view.

Most importantly, Mary understands that your vacation is about you—not the tour guide.

She listens to what you want, adapts to your pace, and takes pride in making your day comfortable, relaxed, and memorable.

Why Guests Love Traveling With Mary

• 28+ years of professional tour-guide experience
• Certified professional tour guide
• Born and raised in San Francisco
• Extensive knowledge of San Francisco and Northern & Central California
• Experienced with private and customized tours
• Exceptional with families and children
• Fluent in German
• Warm, personable, and naturally engaging
• Great storyteller with authentic local knowledge
• Experienced with San Francisco, Yosemite, wine country, the California coast, and redwood destinations

Let Mary Make Your Day Special

A great tour guide knows the sights.

A truly exceptional guide knows how to make you feel at home while you're discovering them.

Mary brings experience, personality, local knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm to every journey. Whether you are visiting California for the first time or returning to explore somewhere new, she will do everything she can to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

With Mary, you're not just seeing California — you're experiencing it with someone who truly loves it.

Meet Adam — World-Traveled Yosemite Tour Guide & Expert

World Traveler. Expert Guide. Yosemite Enthusiast.

This is not your everyday Yosemite tour.

Adam brings a truly international perspective, decades of professional guiding experience, and a lifelong passion for travel, history, culture, photography, and the great outdoors.

Raised in Paris, Adam studied History and Literature at the Sorbonne University before continuing his studies in Art History. He later became a certified professional tour guide for some of France's most prestigious museums and landmarks, including the Musée d'Orsay, the Louvre, Château de Versailles, Giverny, and other iconic cultural destinations.

His professional guiding career took him throughout France and across Europe, leading travelers through historic châteaux, wine regions, museums, cultural landmarks, and some of the world's most fascinating destinations. His experience also extends to Belgium, Holland, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Mexico, and Peru.

From Paris to Yosemite

In 1996, Adam came to the United States as a volunteer for the Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. What began as an adventure soon became a new chapter in his life.

After traveling extensively throughout the East Coast, Midwest, and American West, Adam eventually made San Francisco his home in the late 1990s.

Beginning in 1998, he started leading adventure tours throughout California, Oregon, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado, combining his love of nature, history, culture, photography, and adventure.

By the early 2000s, Adam was regularly guiding private day trips and custom overnight adventures to Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, Sequoia National Park, and destinations throughout the American West.

Yosemite Has His Heart

Of all the places Adam has explored around the world, Yosemite National Park remains one of his all-time favorites.

He has experienced countless national parks, mountains, cities, and wilderness areas across the globe, yet Yosemite continues to hold a particularly special place in his heart.

As Adam often says:

“I left my heart in Yosemite. It's so unique and magical—you have to see it with your own eyes. Photos simply cannot do justice to its extraordinary beauty. Yosemite is a true temple of nature, filled with wonders and marvels that must be experienced in person.”

That genuine passion comes through whenever Adam guides. He doesn't simply point out the sights—he brings Yosemite to life through its stories, history, geology, culture, and natural wonders, while sharing the personal perspective he has developed through decades of exploring this remarkable place.

A Guide With a World of Experience

Adam is the kind of guide who can move effortlessly between subjects and destinations. One moment he may be sharing the history of Yosemite; the next, discussing photography, geology, California history, French culture, architecture, or the best place to stop for an unforgettable view.

His international background allows him to connect naturally with travelers from many different cultures and backgrounds.

For Adam, guiding has never been simply about following an itinerary.

It's about sharing a place, creating connections, and making memories.

Still Sharing His Passion for Yosemite

After decades of guiding, Adam now enjoys a more selective schedule and spends less time on the road than he once did. When he does lead a tour, however, he brings the same enthusiasm, knowledge, and personal attention that have defined his guiding career for decades.

He also enjoys sharing his experience with our guiding team, helping maintain the high standards and personalized approach that our guests have come to expect.

A Tour Is Like a Photograph

Adam has always believed that a tour is like a photograph.

The best photographs capture more than a beautiful view—they capture a feeling, a moment, and a memory.

That's how Adam approaches guiding. His goal is to create experiences that feel personal and authentic, leaving guests with stories and memories they will still be talking about long after they return home.

If you're fortunate enough to have Adam as your guide, you're in for something special.

Meet Dylan – Part-Time Yosemite Adventure Guide & Tour Specialist

Dylan is your ultimate adventure accomplice and a creative force behind some of the most exciting tours in the Bay Area. Now pursuing his studies, he joins our team on a part-time basis, bringing energy, passion, and fresh perspectives to every journey.

At Yosemite Private Tours, we craft every excursion to blend adventure, luxury, and personalized experiences. With Dylan on board, expect seamless, exhilarating tours guided by someone who knows Yosemite intimately. His expertise and enthusiasm help turn each trip into a memorable masterpiece—from scenic day hikes to custom private adventures.

While Dylan’s availability is part-time, every moment he leads a tour is filled with excitement, insider knowledge, and attention to detail. Rediscover Yosemite like never before and let Dylan guide you through the park’s stunning landscapes, hidden gems, and iconic vistas.

Your extraordinary adventure starts here—with guides like Dylan ensuring every step is safe, inspiring, and unforgettable.

Brandon – A Real Local Tour Guide

Guided by passion and grounded in expertise, Brandon takes you on unforgettable journeys through California’s most iconic landscapes. Discover the Golden State through his eyes, where every adventure is meaningful, fun, and truly memorable.

Meet Brandon – a San Francisco native, certified California Naturalist, and seasoned tour guide with a deep love for the great outdoors. Whether exploring Yosemite’s granite peaks, Tahoe’s alpine lakes, or the hidden gems of the Bay Area, Brandon brings California to life with insider knowledge, engaging stories, striking photography, and a profound respect for nature.

Certified through the University of California’s Naturalist Program, Brandon received hands-on training in Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada Wilderness, gaining valuable expertise in ecology, conservation, and sustainable travel. His immersive education, combined with family roots in Yosemite, Monterey, and San Francisco—and close connections in Tahoe and Reno—gives him a rare, authentic bond with the places he guides.

Beyond guiding, Brandon is a talented photographer, musician, and sports enthusiast. Whether capturing a sunset, cycling a mountain trail, or cheering at a Giants game, he brings energy, creativity, and warmth to every experience.

Clients consistently request Brandon by name for unforgettable journeys through Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and Sequoia National Park. Join him for the adventure of a lifetime—where every moment becomes a lasting memory.

Note: This guide is no longer with Yosemite Private Tours, and we sincerely wish him every success in his future career and endeavors; our door remains open, and we would be delighted to welcome him back at any time should he wish to return as a tour guide with us.

Meet Johanna — Experienced Yosemite & San Francisco Bay Area Tour Guide

Alaska Adventure Expert. Bay Area Guide. Passionate Travel Leader.

Johanna brings a diverse background in travel, guiding, education, and adventure to every tour she leads. Her journey as a professional tour guide began in Alaska, where she led both private and small-group tours, creating customized experiences that introduced travelers to the spectacular landscapes, wildlife, and natural beauty of the Last Frontier.

Today, Johanna brings that same passion for exploration and personalized travel to Yosemite National Park and the San Francisco Bay Area. She enjoys creating memorable experiences for guests, whether exploring Yosemite’s breathtaking scenery, discovering San Francisco’s iconic landmarks, or venturing into Northern California’s magnificent redwood country.

In addition to her work as a tour guide, Johanna works part-time at the University of California, Berkeley, where she assists with student programs, organized campus tours, and administrative activities. Her experience working with students and diverse groups has strengthened her ability to connect naturally with people from different backgrounds and make every experience engaging and enjoyable.

Johanna particularly enjoys leading private and customized tours throughout San Francisco, the Bay Area, Yosemite, and the redwood regions of Northern California. With her adventurous spirit, professional experience, and genuine enthusiasm for sharing the places she loves, she strives to make every tour personal, informative, and memorable.

With Johanna, you're not simply sightseeing — you're exploring Northern California with an experienced guide who loves discovering new places and sharing them with others.

David

A dedicated U.S. veteran, David served actively in the U.S. Armed Forces overseas before transitioning to his love for touring. With a decade-long tenure as a tour guide, he exudes a profound passion, knowledge, and genuine appreciation for showcasing the wonders of California. While his specialty lies in California wine country VIP tours, his heart craves the adventure of exploring Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe. A lover of the outdoors, David finds solace in fishing, hiking, painting, and the thrill of exploration, making every tour an unforgettable journey.

Note: This guide is no longer with Yosemite Private Tours, and we sincerely wish him every success in his future career and endeavors; our door remains open, and we would be delighted to welcome him back at any time should he wish to return as a tour guide with us.

Meet Jonathan, the Rugby Enthusiast Turned Yosemite Maestro!

Originally from Auckland, New Zealand, Jonathan kickstarted his journey as a professional rugby player during his college years. His passion for adventure and exploration led him across the globe, landing him in New York City in 1998. There, he began his career as a vibrant tour guide, igniting his love for showcasing the world's wonders.

Jonathan's quest for discovery took him to the vibrant city of Las Vegas, where he led small groups on enthralling expeditions to iconic destinations like Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, Brice Canyon, and more. His enthusiasm for exploration only grew, leading him to Los Angeles, where he continued his role as a tour guide for five exhilarating years.

In 2004, Jonathan found his true calling amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite National Park, joining Yosemite Private Tours. His dedication and unwavering passion for Yosemite have reached new heights, as he recently celebrated an incredible milestone of conducting 1000 tours to this mesmerizing haven.

With Jonathan, you get the best of both worlds: an unwavering love for rugby matched only by his deep affection for the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite. Join him on an adventure that seamlessly combines his two great loves into an unforgettable experience.

Note: After 12 years of dedicated full-time guiding with Yosemite Private Tours, Jonathan is no longer currently with our team, as he has returned to his home country of New Zealand. We sincerely thank Jonathan for his many years of dedication, professionalism, and friendship, and for the wonderful experiences he helped create for so many of our guests. We wish him every success and happiness in his future career and endeavors. We are grateful for the years we had together, and our door will always be open should Jonathan ever wish to return to Yosemite Private Tours as a guide.

Meet Leo: The Yosemite Guru with an Artistic Twist!

A true Yosemite enthusiast, Leo might as well call the stunning landscapes of Yosemite his second home. Hailing from the San Francisco Bay Area, he's immersed himself in the wonders of this majestic park more than his hometown. As a seasoned tour guide, Leo specializes in backpacking and hiking, navigating Yosemite's iconic landmarks and uncovering its hidden treasures effortlessly.

His knack for guiding extends beyond just pointing out famous sights; Leo's unique style and exceptional service have garnered him a stream of glowing 5-star reviews from delighted adventurers.

Beyond the trails, Leo's artistic talents shine brightly. When not leading tours, he channels his creativity as a professional artist and sculptor, infusing his passion for nature into his art. Currently, he's steering his aspirations toward becoming a national park ranger, fueled by his unwavering dedication to Yosemite and its preservation.

Leo's commitment goes above and beyond. He's always ready to take that extra step, ensuring each visitor relishes an unforgettable and unparalleled Yosemite experience. Join Leo on a journey that seamlessly blends art, nature, and adventure into an unforgettable escapade!

Note: This guide is no longer with Yosemite Private Tours, and we sincerely wish him every success in his future career and endeavors; our door remains open, and we would be delighted to welcome him back at any time should he wish to return as a tour guide with us.

Thomas

Hailing from western Ireland and seasoned with decades of experience, Tom's journey to becoming a top-tier guide started when he settled in Louisiana in the early '80s, where his two sons were born. Later, he found his way to San Francisco, where his passion for leading private guided tours and motor coach trips to Yosemite and Lake Tahoe truly ignited.

With over a thousand tours under his belt, Tom is the epitome of professionalism—meticulous, organized, and dedicated to his craft. His leadership extends beyond the tours themselves; he served as the president of the San Francisco Guild, the very organization that molds aspiring guides into certified professionals.

Tom's expertise isn't confined to specific routes or destinations. He orchestrates escorted vacation packages across the western USA states, particularly reveling in the national parks. His knowledge spans the biological, geological, and ecological facets of these natural wonders in the Wild West. Among them, Yosemite National Park holds a special place in his heart, drawing him at least thrice weekly to revel in its grandeur.

Note: This guide is no longer with Yosemite Private Tours, and we sincerely wish him every success in his future career and endeavors; our door remains open, and we would be delighted to welcome him back at any time should he wish to return as a tour guide with us.

Gerard: A Parisian Guide in Northern California

Originally from Paris, France, Gerard led escorted group tours across iconic French destinations—from the historic Normandy and Châteaux of the Loire Valley to the prestigious Champagne wine region. Since 1980, he has called Oakland home and embraced his role as a professional tour guide.

Gerard boasts an intimate understanding of Northern California's diverse landscapes and attractions. However, his true passion lies in guiding tours through the awe-inspiring Yosemite National Park. Known for his patience, extensive knowledge, and professional driving skills, Gerard approaches every tour with dedication and passion, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for all adventurers.

Patricia: Your Irish Local Tour guide in California!

From the vibrant heart of Dublin, Ireland to the enchanting City by the Bay, Patricia brings the Irish charm to her role as a tour guide. Passionate and ever-friendly, she leads daily guided tours to a multitude of destinations, including San Francisco, Alcatraz, Silicon Valley, Marin County, Redwood National Park, Oregon attractions, California wine country, Monterey, Carmel, Lake Tahoe, and Yosemite.

When she's not guiding, you'll find her ardently preserving the enchantment of Yosemite. Pat volunteers her time to delve into Yosemite's biology, geology, and beyond, ensuring its beauty remains a treasure for all future adventurers. With Pat, your journey is not just an adventure—it's a magical exploration!

Note: This guide is no longer with Yosemite Private Tours, and we sincerely wish him every success in his future career and endeavors; our door remains open, and we would be delighted to welcome him back at any time should he wish to return as a tour guide with us.

Meet Antony: Your Globetrotting Guide from Spain!

Originally from Bilbao, in the heart of northern Spain, Antony's been a San Franciscan for over 25 years. With his foundation in teaching, Antony seamlessly transitions into an exceptional tour guide and driver. But wait, there's more to Antony than meets the eye! He's also a seasoned actor and comedian, gracing movies alongside famous names like Nicole Kidman, lighting up TV commercials, and bringing laughter to the stage with stand-up comedy.

His zest for international cultures and cuisines is unmatched, adding a flavorful twist to every journey. With Antony, expect a delightful blend of professionalism, entertainment, and a side of international flair!

Note: This guide is no longer with Yosemite Private Tours, and we sincerely wish him every success in his future career and endeavors; our door remains open, and we would be delighted to welcome him back at any time should he wish to return as a tour guide with us.

Meet Peter – Yosemite & Bay Area Adventure Guide

Originally from England, Peter relocated to California in the early 1990s and has since fallen in love with the state’s natural beauty. He has introduced countless travelers to Yosemite National Park, including its hidden gems and lesser-known treasures.

Renowned for his wit, extensive knowledge, and unwavering passion, Peter is not only an expert tour guide and hiking leader, but also a skilled photographer. Beyond Yosemite, Peter now enjoys exploring more local Bay Area tours, especially wine country adventures, sharing the region’s rich flavors and scenic landscapes with guests.

Peter is also passionate about sailing and boats—he is a skilled boat repair expert based in Sausalito—and of course, a lifelong soccer fan who proudly follows the English leagues. His diverse interests, combined with his engaging personality and expertise, make every tour with him memorable, fun, and full of discovery.

Note: This guide is no longer with Yosemite Private Tours, and we sincerely wish him every success in his future career and endeavors; our door remains open, and we would be delighted to welcome him back at any time should he wish to return as a tour guide with us.

Luis

Hailing from Argentina, Luis's passion for tourism and hospitality led him to become a certified tour guide, offering captivating tours across Argentina. He then ventured to Chile, guiding thrilling whitewater rafting tours and orchestrating multi-sport vacation experiences.

Arriving in San Francisco in 2005, Luis found his home at Yosemite Private Tours. With an extensive understanding of the region and a deep love for Yosemite, Luis excels in Spanish-guided tours, bringing an infectious energy to every adventure. An incredible guide, spending time with Luis is sure to make your journey unforgettable!

Denis: Adventure Enthusiast & Expert Guide

Denis is more than just an outdoor enthusiast—he's an avid biker, professional ski instructor, and dedicated cyclist. His expertise lies in leading guided biking tours across Yosemite, the Eastern Sierra, and Lake Tahoe, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of these renowned destinations.

His passion truly comes alive during winter, particularly when guiding tours to Yosemite, Mammoth, and Lake Tahoe. As a seasoned ski instructor, Denis finds joy in unveiling the beauty of the white-capped mountains in Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and Mammoth Lakes to our esteemed customers. His deep knowledge of the Sierra Nevada Mountains enriches every journey, making each tour a thrilling and informative experience.

Note: This guide is no longer with Yosemite Private Tours, and we sincerely wish him every success in his future career and endeavors; our door remains open, and we would be delighted to welcome him back at any time should he wish to return as a tour guide with us.

Jimmy

Hailing from the historic town of Mariposa, steeped in Gold Rush history since its settlement in 1849, Jimmy's roots run deep in Yosemite's wilderness. His childhood days were spent trout fishing in Yosemite's rivers, igniting an enduring love for the park and propelling him into the role of a professional tour guide. Having Yosemite as a neighbor throughout his life, Jimmy possesses unparalleled knowledge of the park, often spending more time within its boundaries than in his own home. An enthusiastic hiking guide, Jimmy delights in sharing his boundless passion with visitors, leading them to hidden and enchanting spots off the well-trodden trails.

Note: This guide is no longer with Yosemite Private Tours, and we sincerely wish him every success in his future career and endeavors; our door remains open, and we would be delighted to welcome him back at any time should he wish to return as a tour guide with us.