Home • Baja California • Whale Ecology Program

Join a whale observation study in the Sea of Cortez, a World Heritage Site. This program is an amazing opportunity to assist scientists in an authentic research project and be an active collaborator in international conservation efforts of these migratory marine mammals.

Like Ahab minus the harpoon, you will spend five days and four nights searching the sea for whales aboard the boat Pez Sapo. You will learn how to identify varied species - blue, fin, and humpback whales, as well as witness pods of swimming dolphins - that migrate annually to this scenic body of water.  You will contribute to the study and protection of these magnificent creatures.

This 9-day course includes instruction and activities on cetacean identification, biology and ecology, conservation biology, journal writing, scientific method, research techniques, kayaking, Spanish, 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.

· Day 2: Whale Research Begins. You'll board the 48-foot research boat in the La Paz harbor, then travel the Sea of Cortez while participating in the Whale Observation Census.  During the investigation, you'll stand sentry in search of whales then hop into small skiffs for up close data collection.

· Day 3-5: Whale Observation Study. From dawn to dusk each day, you'll join scientists from Mexico in their search for whales. You'll design your own independent research project and spend each day surveying marine life, sea birds, and desert landscapes, while maintaining the ship log and your personal journal. You'll spend the nights aboard the boat or camping on remote beaches.

· Day 6: Research Wrap up and Return to Land. Today is your last day of research, and you'll disembark just south of Loreto, at a secluded white-sand cove called Ensenada Blanca.  You'll stay the night at El Santuario, an eco-retreat on the Sea of Cortez, and spend the afternoon sea kayaking or hiking.

· Day 7: Mexican High School Visit. Several Mexican schools are working with us on this project, and today we'll meet with students from one of these schools. This day is a wonderful opportunity to practice Spanish and get to know the locals who are collaborating with you to conserve whales in Baja California Sur.

· Day 8: Local Service Project. You'll participate in a service project with one of our local partners, such as trail building for the national park or an aquaculture project for a local NGO.  Tonight's your last night at El Santuario and in Mexico.  We'll celebrate with a special dinner together.

· Day 9: Morning Departure. After a morning activity to reflect on our journey, you depart for the airport in Loreto and look forward to the next adventure!

Course dates

February; contact us for the specific course date that best fits your schedule.

Age

This program is specifically designed for high school and university students who are seeking an intense and challenging learning experience outside of the classroom that is scientifically authentic, academically rigorous, and culturally appropriate. 

Group Size

Our group size is 9 students, plus one teacher or chaperone. Please contact us to discuss options if you have a smaller or larger group.

Accommodations

You'll spend 4 nights sleeping on the boat or camping on remote beaches, and 4 nights at hostels. 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 and kitchen). 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.