B A J AIsland Ecology Program• Snorkel with sea lions & tropical fish

• Explore desert life on a protected island

• Camp on a pristine beach under the stars

H i g h l i g ht s

Welcome to Baja! The Sea of Cortez is your primary classroom in EPI’s Island Ecology Program - your course provides you a unique opportunity to assist with international conservation efforts in this World Heritage Site that’s home to 39% of the Earth’s marine mammal species.

The Island: Espiritu Santo is a protected island in the Sea of Cortez, just a short boat ride from La Paz, Mexico. The island’s waters are a marine reserve, due to their unique ecology and their bounty of rare and native species. Here you’ll find stunning beaches, red rock cliffs, abundant bird life, reptiles, and desert plants. While on Espiritu Santo, you’ll conduct snorkel counts of echinoderms, including sea stars, urchins, and sea cucumbers. In addition, you’ll develop a field-based research project using data you collect throughout the week.

To the Mountains: After completing your field work on Espiritu Santo, most groups will meet with Mexican peers from a local high school. You’ll present your research data to each other, learn about local customs and traditions, and enjoy a day together. Then, to complete your Baja experience, you’ll head inland to the Sierra de la Laguna, an enchanting mountain range full of dry forests and hidden waterfalls.

This awe-inspiring 9-day program includes over 30 hours of coursework and instruction in subjects like marine biology, desert ecology, and conservation, plus over 20 hours of field research while snorkeling in the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez.

www.ecologyproject.org • academic & cultural exchange field programs • 406 . 7 2 1 . 8 7 8 4

La Paz

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Day 1: Arrive at EPI Campus in La Paz • Stroll along the Malecon, La Paz’s waterfront walkway • Enjoy the sunset over the Sea of Cortez • Get to know your instructors and explore the EPI campus

Days 2-5: Marine Ecology on Espiritu Santo Island • Practice your snorkel skills • Conduct underwater census and gather data on marine invertebrates • Explore and investigate the desert island ecosystem, including a sea lion rookery • Develop your own research project

Day 6: Intercultural Exchange Day • Present results of your research project • Interact with local students and practice Spanish • Explore parks, churches, and other cultural highlights in La Paz

Days 7-8: Explore Sierra de la Laguna • Swim below towering waterfalls • Hike through lush canyons within a unique inland mountain ecosystem Day 9: Depart from the Baja Peninsula

Itineraries may vary based on course dates, group size, etc. • Contact: info@ecologyproject.org

Itinerary at a Glance

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