Home • Baja California • Island Ecology Program

You will explore ecosystem diversity in Baja California Sur, a desert mecca for terrestrial and marine wildlife. This program is an amazing opportunity to assist with authentic research and be an active collaborator in international conservation efforts in the Sea of Cortez, a World Heritage Site.

Espiritu Santo, an island in the 'Gulf Islands' complex, is a protected area outside of La Paz, México. We'll spend a week studying the unique biological diversity of the area both on land and in the water. We'll also restore coastal habitat and compare the island to El Mogote, a nearby mangrove-covered sand spit.

The 9-day course includes instruction and activities on desert and island ecology, journal writing, scientific method, kayaking, English, and art.

How to Apply

Send in an EPI application and $250 deposit. Applications can be downloaded by clicking on the Application icon to the right.

· Day 1: Arrival in La Paz, México, to a warm welcome from your instructors. La Paz is a vibrant city, the capital of the Baja California Sur state. We'll enjoy some highlights in the city, including an evening stroll along the Malecón as the sun sets over the Sea of Cortez.

· Days 2-4: Ecosystem Ecology at Espiritu Santo. You'll join scientists in the monitoring and protection of Espiritu Santo Islands's diverse coastal and marine ecosystems. Students design their own research projects and spend their days surveying marine life, sea birds, and desert vegetation. You'll also review the data you've helped collect during the snorkel census.

· Day 5: Snorkeling and Wildlife watching at Los Islotes. Today will be a highlight: we travel by boat to the north end of the Espiritu Santo Island complex with Baja Expeditions to spot migrating and resident marine life. The spectacular azure waters and red rock island cliffs will form the backdrop for our snorkeling and boating adventures. You’ll have a chance to snorkel with more of the areas amazing marine life, including sea lions and huge schools of fish.

· Day 6: Intercultural Exchange Day. Several Mexican schools are working with us at Espiritu Santo, and today we'll meet with students from one of these high schools. This day is an wonderful opportunity to practice Spanish and get to know the locals who are collaborating with you to conserve Baja California Sur.

· Day 7-8: Explore Sierra de la Laguna. You will hike through granite canyons divided by waterfalls and natural hot springs while exploring the mountain range south of La Paz. Together with the rest of the group you’ll learn how to make pottery, help restore the native Palo Arco tree, and learn about the area’s rich cultural history.

· Day 9: Morning Departure. After a celebration dinner and time to reflect on our journey, we depart for the airport and look forward to the next adventure!

Course dates

October - April; contact us for the specific course date that best fits your schedule.

Age

This program is specifically designed for high school students who are seeking a learning experience outside of the classroom that is scientifically authentic, academically rigorous, and culturally appropriate. We do occasionally work with middle school groups, and ask that maturity level be considered when determining whether students are appropriate candidates for this program.

Group Size

Our minimum group size is 10, maximum 16. Please contact us to discuss options if you have a smaller or larger group.

Accommodations

Each of the destinations you will be visiting was chosen for its quiet simplicity and sustainable design. Typically, EPI participants and staff will be the only visitors during your stay. When camping, EPI supplies all group camping gear (tents, sleeping pads, kitchen). There is no running water or electricity on the island. The hotels supply sheets, pillows, towels, and other bedding and have electricity and running water. You will sleep in dormitory style cabins and share a room (or tent) with 2-3 other students.

Tuition

Contact us for pricing.