Jelmer de Mare
Lead Guide
I’m originally from the Netherlands. Canada is the 40th country I’ve had the pleasure of exploring, and I’ve always been drawn to the natural beauty and cultural diversity the world has to offer.
My love for the outdoors started at a young age when my parents took me and my brothers camping for 6 - 8 weeks every summer. I can still vividly remember playing in rivers and staying in mountain huts. Those early adventures sparked a deep connection to nature and a desire to experience the wilderness, which led to me moving to the Yukon. For me, travel is about creating lasting memories, learning from different cultures, and gaining a better understanding of the world around us.
Last year, I embarked on a 3000km thru-hike called ‘Te Araroa’, which means ‘The Long Path’ and covers the length of New Zealand. Along the way, I learned what it means to push boundaries and to disconnect from the hustle of our society. More recently, I worked at a whale-watching company in British Columbia, before making the move to the Yukon. This winter, I’m honored to be part of the Arctic Range Adventure team.