Some people are born in a city and spend their whole life there. Others return to it, not just for nostalgia but because it calls to something deeper within them. Alejandro is one of those people. Though born in Montevideo, he grew up elsewhere, only to find himself drawn back—by friendships, football, and a fierce love for the city’s vibrant soul.
Now, as a Lokafyer, Alejandro brings that same passion into every tour, mixing deep local knowledge with a storyteller’s flair. His goal? Not just to show travelers Montevideo, but to help them feel it—through its people, flavors, neighborhoods, and hidden gems.
About You
Tell us a bit about yourself. What inspired you to become a Lokafyer?
I took a couple of tours during my trip to Europe and beyond the guides' indications I could feel the personal passion they put in each one of the guidelines. And I am talking about the real love for what they were performing in order to give travelers the best experience ever. That was my inspiration.
What do you love most about the city you guide in?
The city spirit with the dynamic of each neighborhood, the rambla and the passion and kindness of the people wherever you go.
Can you share a personal story about what led you to live in your current city?
I was born in Montevideo and moved away at birth. Anyway, during my childhood, I usually traveled to this capital city for two main reasons. First, my neighborhood and school best friend moved here when I was 10 years old and second, we were (and still are) best fans of our favorite soccer team and go to its stadium and follow it regularly. That and the city spirit as I said, led me to live here.
Your Lokafy Experience
Can you share a memorable experience or moment from one of your tours?
I think a memorable experience has been each moment that I shared with the visitors, especially the ones when they taste local flavors, the ones that had never been able to experience before. This happened in one of my first tours, I usually remember it and keep enjoying and sharing this special moments with them.
What do you think makes a tour truly exceptional?
The experiences that you can bring the travelers and that they do not expect, the ones they have no idea of. Beyond the usual landscapes and places, what you can show and talk and share that is out of the box.
How do you prepare for your tours to ensure they are unique and engaging for travelers?
I usually ask first if they want to see or visit any places in particular and then from these answers I ask them to put them in order of importance. Then I perform a dynamic and well thought tour considering places and timelines and add extra seasonings during the tour itself as I love to explore the visitor profile with a talking and exchanging opinions and personal tastes continuous exercise, step by step.
What is your favorite part of being a Lokafyer?
The continuous cultural exchange with travelers, trying to make the tour unique for them from my passion to show my city and country.
Have you learned anything surprising or unexpected from the travelers you've guided?
I get surprised in each moment as I love to learn from their own experiences. I could be listening to them for ours literally. It is very enriching.
Can you describe a challenging situation you encountered during a tour and how you handled it?
The challenge to show a visitor one of the most tasty, original and delicous dish in my country. for this challenge I took her to taste a local food dish that was literally chosen by a member of the Beatles from Liverpool twice the times he came to Montevideo. And she loved it!
What feedback from travelers has been the most rewarding or impactful for you?
The one that they give personally during the tour itself, when they tell you that they are enjoying it.
Local Insights
What local hidden gems or off-the-beaten-path spots do you love to share with travelers?
These are surprises!
Can you describe your favorite neighborhood and why you love it?
My favorite one for tourism is Old City and each neighborhood along the rambla are beautiful.
Walking through it is simply fascinating.
Do you have any favorite local traditions or events that you recommend to visitors?
Yes, a lot, but all depends on the date of visit. the "Desfile de Llamadas and Desfile de Carnaval" besides the candombe with their local Afro-American drums are a must.
Tips and Advice
How do you tailor your tours to cater to different types of travelers (e.g., families, solo travelers, couples)?
I design tours in order to feed each one's expectation and to do so, timelines and each person's tastes are the most important ingredients. It must be time to share with children, the couple itself and if time, for each person in family tours cases. Well planned can be a very pleasant experience for the group and the individuals.
What advice would you give to new Lokafyers to help them deliver exceptional experiences?
To trust themselves and let things flow.
Do you have any tips for visitors on how to make the most of their trip?
Trust the Lokafyers!!!
Closing Thoughts
Alejandro is more than a local—he’s a connector. Through food, football, stories, and music, he brings Montevideo to life for travelers from around the world. Whether you’re strolling the Old City or discovering the secrets of the rambla, he’ll make sure your time in Montevideo is unforgettable—not because of the sights alone, but because of the human moments that stay with you long after.
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