About Miru

Expedition Planning Experts, Decades Strong

At Miru Adventures, we create rare and unforgettable journeys to the world’s most extraordinary places. Specializing in small group and private travel, we craft immersive experiences that combine cultural discovery, meaningful wildlife encounters, and access to remote landscapes few ever see. Every trip is designed to spark curiosity, inspire wonder, and leave a lasting impression.

Our team brings decades of expedition and adventure experience across all seven continents. With deep field knowledge, trusted local partners, and a knack for seamless planning, we shape every itinerary—from the lodges we choose to the unexpected moments that become lifelong memories. Whether exploring ancient ruins with a local archaeologist, tracking wildlife in pristine wilderness, or navigating hidden waterways, we make every journey personal, transformative, and unforgettable.

Richard Heller

Co-Founder
Managing Director

Rich has spent 15 years leading expeditions to some of the world’s most remote and beautiful places, from the poles to the equator. Having lived on five continents and visited 50 countries, he loves creating meaningful, transformative travel experiences. Skilled in navigating hard-to-reach locations, he approaches every journey with creativity and precision. As an Expedition Leader, Operations Director, and MBA, he combines hands-on expertise, thoughtful planning, and a love of adventure to bring people together through travel.

Jon Nicholson

Co-Founder
Director of Product & Planning

Jon has been planning trips professionally for over 50 years and possesses an unmatched knowledge of the travel world—knowing when and where to go, and how best to get there. Passionate about discovering new destinations or revisiting familiar places to uncover fresh experiences, he believes travel is one of the most rewarding ways to enrich your life. Having explored more than 100 countries across all seven continents, Jon brings a wealth of experience, insight, and a personal touch to crafting unforgettable adventures at Miru.

Kelsey Simmons

Co-Founder
Director of Field Operations

Kelsey, a seasoned field leader, began her expedition career nearly 15 years ago and has since explored all seven continents and over 90 countries. She has guided travelers across Europe, Southeast Asia, the Americas, Australia, the South Pacific, and the polar regions, with a passion for learning more about the world and its cultures. As co-owner of Miru Adventures, Kelsey combines field expertise, operational leadership, and creative vision to craft meaningful, memorable adventures for curious travelers like herself.

Heather Voisin

Guest Reservations Manager

Heather has journeyed across all seven continents and explored more than 40 countries, guided by a deep curiosity about the world and its people. Over the past decade, she has honed her expertise in travel logistics and guest relations, combining organization with warmth and care. At Miru Adventures, she uses that experience to ensure every journey is seamless, immersive, and rewarding. Heather brings attentiveness, thoughtful planning, and a passion for exploration to every trip, helping guests connect deeply with the places they visit.

Luis Echeverria

Senior Program Manager

Luis brings 20 years of experience in the travel industry, with expertise across hotels, passenger ships, and expedition travel. He is passionate about operations and logistics, guiding programs from initial concept to seamless execution. Known for his skill in managing complex details and coordinating multiple moving parts, Luis ensures every program delivers exceptional experiences. A lifelong traveler, he draws inspiration from exploring new destinations and cultures, bringing a global perspective and innovative approach to every program he oversees.

Sam Riley

Program Manager & Leader

Sam is an award-winning filmmaker, wildlife photographer, scuba instructor, birder, and naturalist with a lifelong passion for the living world. From fieldwork in South America and West Africa to guiding across all seven continents, he has devoted his career to exploring Earth’s extraordinary ecosystems. At Miru Adventures, he uses that experience to craft expeditions to the planet’s wildest and most remote places. Sam combines deep natural history knowledge with logistical skill to lead immersive journeys that connect people to the natural world.