COURSE AREA
Along the western shore of the Sea of Cortez lies a dramatically rugged coast including more than 15 offshore islands. The precipitous peaks of the Sierra de la Giganta rise more than 5,000 feet on the Baja peninsula only a few miles inland providing a dramatic contrast to the sea and its varied shores.
COURSE OVERVIEW
Your adventure begins on the shores of the Sea of Cortez, where you start your orientation to sea kayaking. This includes proper kayak loading and care, rescue techniques, safety considerations, paddling techniques and expedition kayaking.
Throughout the rest of the course, as you paddle and explore the area, you learn navigation using nautical charts and coastal maps; self, paired, and group kayak rescue techniques; wind and wave theory; cultural awareness skills; Leave No Trace camping; basic outdoor living and environmental skills; and natural history.
OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
As the course progresses you and your companions gradually assume more of the responsibilities of organizing and leading both camping and travel activities as your skill development allows. Though your instructors will be close at hand, there is ample opportunity to employ your newly gained skills and experience rather than be guided through this concentrated adventure.
14 DAY COURSE
The 14-day expedition also includes the elements of an Outward Bound leadership course: training phase, expedition, solo, endurance activity, service project and environmental education. You will get a chance to participate in a cross-cultural exchange and/or service project, have opportunities to snorkel in clear azure waters, hike in the desert, experience a solo and finish with a culminating adventure on the Sea of Cortez.
Though much of the coastline is rugged, there are placid and protected bays which provide locales for camping and training activities. Courses in this area often include crossings from the many islands Coronado, Carmen, Danzante, to name a few to the peninsula. There are numerous opportunities to see a wide variety of marine life including dolphins, whales, fish and birds. Inland expeditions follow desert canyons and dry riverbeds to areas dotted with ocotillo, cacti, ironwood and acacia trees. You may also snorkel the clear emerald waters of a placid cove or bay.
The warm arid winter climate enables adventurers to explore and enjoy backcountry that can be inhospitable at other times of the year. You experience the diversity of this coastal region, both on and off-shore a very exciting course site and a look at the classic Baja.
Region: Mexico
Activities: Sea Kayaking, Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing, Natural History
