Which Elf guides the Fellowship through Lothlórien?

Haldir is the Elf who guides the Fellowship through Lothlórien. He is one of the wardens of the Galadhrim, the Elves who live in the Golden Wood, and he meets the Company after they enter the forest following Gandalf’s fall in Moria.

At first, Haldir and his companions are cautious because Lothlórien is threatened by Sauron and has long been isolated from outsiders. Haldir speaks with Aragorn and recognizes the danger facing the travelers. He leads them through the trees to Caras Galadhon, the hidden city where Galadriel and Celeborn reside.

Haldir is sometimes confused with other important Elves in the story. Legolas is a member of the Fellowship and comes from the Woodland Realm, while Celeborn is the lord of Lothlórien. Elrond remains in Rivendell. In the book, Haldir later helps defend Lothlórien during the War of the Ring; the film adaptation gives him a larger role at Helm’s Deep.