Mexico Register Now! _________________ Supporting Documents 24-Day Course Description Equipment List Current Schedule Travel Information Reading List       "Ted was great at   teaching kayaking and   leadership skills. I now   feel more aware of risk   management issues and I feel   more confident in decisions   that I make in the outdoors."     -Justin R. More Student Comments   -Basking iguana; Cozumel, Mexico. Baja Sea Kayaking; Leadership & Guide Training Course   (12 & 24 days)           The Baja peninsula   is home to rugged mountain vistas, secluded ocean coves, tropical waters and great weather. It is the perfect winter location for learning sea kayaking leadership and guiding skills. We値l explore the coastal waters and pristine coastline in kayaks, on foot, and with snorkels.           Imagine practicing technical rescues in open water, snorkeling in warm azure inlets and hiking along remote island beaches in the Sea of Cortez. The combination of warm winter temperatures, rich natural history, and remote desert topography make this course ideal for people looking to develop their wilderness kayaking skills.           This comprehensive sea kayaking course is the perfect setting to achieve your goals whether you are looking to become a professional guide, hone your technical abilities for personal adventures, or expand your leadership skills. It focuses on teaching students to be safe, efficient, knowledgeable and confident outdoor leaders in a coastal environment.     Course Location  The colonial towns of Loreto and La Paz are thriving towns that also offer insight into the cultural history of Mexico. The town of La Paz was founded in 1535 by Hernando Cortes; its 19th century cathedral and lively marketplace make this capital city an enticing place to experience Mexico. Loreto is a peaceful seaside community and a great place to relax after the course.    The islands and coastline of the southern Baja peninsula between La Paz and Loreto are renowned for their beauty and remoteness. Many of the islands in this area are completely uninhabited, creating a pristine wilderness of untouched beaches. We値l explore islands such as Isla Espiritu Santo, Isla Ballena and Isla Santa Catalina as we make our way along the rugged coast. Much of the course takes place in the Islas De Golfo De California Special Biosphere Reserve.     The ecoregion of the southern Baja peninsula is covered by cacti, xeric shrubs and a variety of other succulent plants. There are close to 500 species of vascular plants, many of which are endemic to the area. Frigate birds, pelicans and ospreys can be seen circling the skies overhead. Coyotes, lynx, mule deer, jackrabbits and badgers are among some of the wildlife species that are found on the Baja peninsula. Colorful tropical fish and abundant marine mammals live in the Sea of Cortez, part of a thriving marine ecosystem.     This rich marine area is surrounded by the Sierra de la Giganta, rising up to over 5,000 feet (1,524 meters). These mountains provide great opportunities for day hikes and exploration of the desert topography. From the summits of this range, participants get spectacular views of the surrounding islands and a new appreciation of the unique environment.     The Instructors and Guides of IWLS are widely recognized as some of the very best in their field and have practical leadership experience from around the globe. They are well trained and have an uncommon enthusiasm for sharing their skill and knowledge, borne out of a passion for outdoor exploration.     The International Wilderness Leadership Schools' educational model nurtures leadership development and creates an awareness of the guiding mentality that is essential for leading safe, fun adventures in the mountains. The combination of technical skills training, experiential education and practical leadership experience make the IWLS curriculum world class.     The IWLS General Curriculum outlines the essential components for effective outdoor leadership. Here are a few points that your course will focus on.     Decision Making and Problem Solving: Over the course of 12 or 24 days, we値l discover ways to assess problems, explore solutions and evaluate options in order to make effective and safe decisions in the field.     Expedition Behavior and Group Dynamics: Because this course is a true wilderness expedition, interactions between group members need to be supportive and contribute to the efficacy of the group. The daily dynamics of the group, combined with instruction, will teach participants not only how to be a member of a team, but how to influence and lead an expedition.     Basic Camping Skills: Mastering these essential skills will prove valuable whether you are pitching a tent in gale force winds or melting snow for drinking water.     Navigation: Learn how to take a bearing, read a topographical map, triangulate your position, or navigate in a whiteout. ____________________________________________________________________ Photo: Ted Roxbury     IWLS Sea Kayaking Curriculum is oriented to providing students with a solid skill set of paddling techniques to be safe and confident in a coastal environment. Here are a few of the topics students will learn on the course.     Paddling Equipment: Safely traveling the remote waters of Southern Baja California requires that you have a thorough knowledge of your equipment and its use. We値l talk about kayak design, appropriate clothing, rescue gear, guide gear, and more!     Towing: Whether you are pulling an injured kayaker away from booming surf or lending a helping hand to a seasick client, you値l learn the finer points of a towing system and the criteria for towing.     Maneuvers: When coming in for a rescue, speed and efficiency are of utmost importance. We値l learn and practice maneuvers such as the low brace turn, bow rudder and hanging draw.     Group Management: Managing a pod of kayaks on a windy day is challenging. You値l learn techniques for managing safety with a group on the water. ____________________________________________________________________ Photo: Eli Fierer     IWLS International Curriculum is designed to provide students with a fundamental understanding of planning and leading expeditions in foreign countries. Here are just a few topics that will be covered:     Cultural History: As visitors to this remarkable place, we place a premium on being respectful and learning about the local culture and history. The rich Mexican history of central Mexico provides great insight into the culture of the region today.     Language Skills: The ability to ask directions, purchase items, and communicate on any level is an essential element of leading an expedition to a foreign country. Throughout the course, we値l develop our Spanish language skills through dialog and lesson plans.     Trip Preparation: Logistics in a foreign country have the potential to be complex and tenuous. You値l take part in shopping at the local market, arranging transportation, and securing permits in preparation for your expedition to Sian Kaan.    Experience Level: No previous experience is necessary for this course. However, with a desire to learn and an enthusiasm for adventure, this course prepares you for a lifetime of wilderness exploration.    Certifications upon completion of the 24-day course participants may qualify for the following certifications:        Certified Outdoor Leader             Wilderness Education Association        ACA Certificates of Completion             American Canoe Association        ACA Assessment Levels 1-5             American Canoe Association        24 Day Guide Training Certificate of Completion             International Wilderness Leadership School Click Here for all available certifications. University credit is available for this and other IWLS courses. Consider combining three 24-day courses for an IWLS semester!