SEE TURTLE MONITORING & WHALE WATCHING EXPEDITION
COASTAL KAYAKING
BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
March 6 – 13, 2011

http://bajawithkathy.blogspot.com/




Whale Watching, Kayaking, Swimming, Snorkeling, Hiking, Turtle monitoring, Field project participation on the Pacific Coast of Baja

DESCRIPTION
Our journey begins in La Paz, Baja California Sur, home of a diverse array of marine legends. The SEE Turtle project partners with GrupoTortuguero, Pro Peninsula, The Ocean Foundation, Ocean Revolution and Baja Expeditions to personally connect travelers with wildlife and local conservation efforts for an inspiring, natural adventure. In Magdalena Bay. You will participate in field studies measuring and tagging sea turtles with locals who are intent on their survival. Your first-hand participation in this trip will directly support community-based conservation of endangered sea turtles, while at the same time provide an alternative income to fishing and help to train local community members in eco-tourism. You can’t get closer to real eco-tourism than this! In the warm and protected waters of Magdalena Bay, gray whale calves remain in close contact with their mothers while they grow large enough to migrate north. The surreal landscape here provides a dramatic background as these noble creatures allow us to watch them roll, breach and tend to their young.
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ITINERARY

DAY 1 ~ ARRIVAL TO LA PAZ, BCS MARCH 6, 2011
Upon arrival to La Paz airport, deliver your taxi voucher to the desk between all the rental car companies inside the airport. Your taxi driver will take you to the Casabuena Bed and Breakfast where you will meet the rest of our group.

DAY 2 ~ TRANSFER FROM LA PAZ TO MAGDALENA BAY
A four-hour van ride transports you to Magdalena Bay. Once we arrive at the Bay, a short boat ride delivers us to our base camp, where you'll enjoy a lunch of freshly prepared by our crew, have an orientation, assignment of tents and a safety briefing. There will be time for an afternoon activity - depending on the weather and available sunlight, maybe even a whale watching excursion! Tonight you’ll enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Bay while the staff prepares a delicious welcome dinner. There will also be an evening presentation of the natural and anthropological history of this area. (L/D)

DAYS IN CAMP ~ MAGDALENA BAY WHALES
The surreal landscape of the ever changing sand dunes combined with the rugged metamorphic rocks provides a dramatic backdrop for exciting excursions to see the gray whales! There are two excursions each full day using motorized skiffs. To take advantage of all that this bay has to offer, some days there will be options to explore the sand dunes of Magdalena Island, bird watch in the estuary nearby, learn kayak techniques from our experienced guides, even take a very casual lesson in Mexican camp cooking from our friendly crew.
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On daily excursions our experienced naturalist guides will point out many behaviors of the whales, including spy hopping, mating, breaching, and nurturing their young. They will introduce you to the world surrounding this sleepy fishing village, from sea turtle research to the geologic formations that created the landscape, you will leave this area feeling like you have had an insider perspective into the history surrounding it.
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In between whale watching excursions, you'll have time for walks along the beach or hikes in the dunes. You can also go kayaking on guide-led forays into the mangroves or other permitted paddling areas using our fleet of kayaks. You may opt to go bird watching, or just enjoy some "down time" as you relax with a book from our camp's library.
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Happy hour brings an opportunity to compare notes with fellow travelers and you sip both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and sample tantalizing appetizers, while watching the sun disappear beneath the horizon. Dinner is buffet-style, and often includes fresh fish and home-made tortillas.
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After dinner, one of our experienced guides will present a natural history talk to help you learn more about the Baja Peninsula, its local people and the marine wildlife protected in Magdalena Bay. Be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to
star-gaze while you are here, too. (B/L/D daily)

PART II - WHALES TO TURTLES OF MAGDALENA BAY

Day 5 - After breakfast we will take a 60 minutes boat ride to change camp sites. Members of the Cooperativa Eco-Tortugueros -a local conservation group working to protect the turtles in the area will welcome us in their Turtle Monitoring camp.
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Turtle watching offers an alternative to fishing or poaching for local residents who want to see a future for turtles and themselves in the region. We will help to put out the nets and monitor turtles in the following 24 hours, where we will check the nets and bring the turtles ashore for study, other activities as kayaking, bird watching & traditional fishing are also possible.

Here you will directly participate in the turtle monitoring process, in which conservationists use scientific monitoring to measure the effectiveness of efforts to recover threatened populations. You will also be part of a novel social and conservation effort in which many different NGOs have created an alternative source of income for local fisherman.

DAYS IN CAMP– TURTLES OF MAGDALENA BAY
Wake to the birds calling from the nearby mangroves. You will help to put out the nets used in efforts to study green turtles. The group will be split into shifts to check the turtle nets. All are always welcome to go out in the skiffs, but our studies continue through the night, so outings are optional. After lunch, we’ll set off to kayak through the mangroves and estuaries of Magdalena Bay, explore the sand dunes of Magdalena Island, or stay back and enjoy some quiet time by the shore. Afterwards, we will check the nets and bring the turtles ashore for study. We will spend another magical night beneath the stars of this sleepy fishing village. (B/L/D)

LAST DAY IN MAGDALENA BAY
Explore Isla Magdalena and check the nets one more time for green turtles. Say goodbye to your new fisherman friends and take a last snapshot of the site that changed your worldview of conservation tourism! After a final lunch in San Carlos, the group returns to La Paz in the late afternoon for a free afternoon shopping or exploring the town. Overnight at hotel. (B/L)

DEPARTURE DAY - MARCH 13TH
Return home with incredible memories and a new view of the world. Some past travelers have furthered their scientific career with a winning science fair project, others have decided to quit their jobs, and some just make a pledge to remain more in tune with the world of conservation recreation. This trip will forever change how you think of resource management and conservation tourism.

This is a general itinerary and is subject to change
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Our itinerary, outfitter and guides for this trip are provided by:
Baja Expeditions – the World’s Leader in Eco-Adventures to Baja
http://www.bajaex.com/

Their Partners for this program are:
The Grupo Tortuguero is a network of individuals, communities, organizations, and institutions from around the world, dedicated to sea t u r t le cons e r v a t i o n . http://www.grupotortuguero.org/ Pro Peninsula strengthens individual and community efforts to protect the natural environment throughout the Baja California Peninsula. http://www.propeninsula.org/ SEE Turtles connects travelers with sea turtle conservation sites that directly benefit from the visit and provide an authentic wildlife-viewing experience. http://www.oceanrevolution.org/
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Weather in the Sea of Cortez is generally great. In late February, early March, the air temperatures ranges from upper 60’s to mid- 70’s degrees and water is around 65 degrees


TRIP LEADERSHIP
Kathy Didier owns and manages Pembrook in Woodstock, NH. She is an AMC Boston Chapter leader (hiking, backpacking, canoeing, and skiing). Kathy leads an average of six week-long Interchapter and Major AMC Excursions each year. This is her fourth trip with Baja Expeditions to Baja California. Kathy has SOLO First Aid certification.

Baja Expeditions provides us with naturalist guides, a cooking and cleanup staff, and all the equipment. They have been in business for thirty plus years and have achieved a balance of expertise and respect for nature. Their knowledgeable naturalists will provide us with educational and fun experiences.

All leaders are trained to administer emergency first aid. The cost of evacuation or any treatment beyond such first aid will be borne by the participant.



ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOOD
Our lodging for the first and last nights will be at a comfortable hotel or B&B in La Paz. You can leave your travel gear and luggage in storage while on Whale Watching and Kayak trip.

We will be camping in comfortable tents for five of the nights. Two person cabin style tents, cots, sleeping pads, sleeping bag, and solar heated showers are provided. Also provided are single and double kayaks.

Delicious meals utilizing local cuisine are carefully prepared by the Baja Expeditions staff. Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables are made available. Water comes from deep wells in the mountains and is filtered. Beer and soft drinks are provided. Baja staff will take care of the meal cleanup. You need only relax and enjoy your vacation. You are responsible for your meals on the days that we are not in camp:…day of arrival and dinner on the last night.


AIRLINES AND TRAVEL

The cost of your airline tickets is not included. You should plan to fly into either La Paz (LAP) or San Jose del Cabo (SJD). It is less expensive to fly to San Jose del Cabo. If you fly into Los Cabos, you will need more time as you would need to take a bus to La Paz.

If you fly into La Paz, you will be given a taxi voucher to provide transportation to our hotel


TRIP INSURANCE
It is advisable to have medical, cancellation, and baggage insurance.

REQUIREMENTS
a) You should be a confident swimmer. Life jackets are provided.

b) No kayaking experience is needed.

c) Adaptability An important criterion for this trip is the ability to be flexible. Our itinerary could change from day to day, planes can be delayed, weather could cause changes. Everyone is expected to be able to “roll with the punches” as much as possible, be cooperative, abide by leader decision, and add to the total group experience while enjoying themselves.

d) Understanding Purpose of Trip This trip is designed for everyone to experience the natural wonders of Baja California and to enjoy sea kayaking and camping. Although each person comes with their own expectations, this is primarily a group trip.

Although enjoyment and appreciation for Baja California is our purpose, our main objective will be a safe trip. Safety will always take priority in the leaders’ decisions.


EQUIPMENT
You provide your own day pack and waterproof gear bag.. When you register we will send a packing list for your personal gear. You need very little. Our outfitter will provide tents, first aid and safety equipment, tarps, lanterns, chairs. While wet suits are not required, you may prefer to wear one for snorkeling. This extra warmth enables you to stay in the water much longer.

COST PARTICULARS - The cost of this eight day/seven night trip is $2200 for a group of thirteen, $2050 for fourteen, $1900 for fifteen, and $1800 for a full group of sixteen.

Included in the price:
two hotel nights – double occupancy
five nights in tent – double occupancy
catered camping - all gear provided
prepared meals as stated on itinerary
kayaks and safety equipment provided
meals starting with lunch on Day 2 through lunch on Day 7
professional naturalists and guides
$30- $40 Conservation Fee
proposed 6% Mexican tax (if it does not happen...price will be lowered)
voucher for taxi to hotel from La Paz Airport upon arrival
transportation from La Paz to Magdalena Bay

Not included in the price:
transportation if you fly into San Juan del Cabo
meals not stated on itinerary
gratuities to Baja Expedition Staff
day pack…waterproof bags for gear
any pre-trip costs and anything else not on the above list of “included in price”
taxi voucher for return to airport



PAYMENT SCHEDULE
Registration - $700
August 1, 2010 $700
November 15, 2010 Balance

CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellation must be writing - Postmarked date below:

Prior to June 1, 2010 - $150 non-refundable fee charged;

After July 1 - All moneys returned except:
a) $150 non-refundable portion
b) Any moneys paid out to vendors and money necessary to keep the trip cost from increasing - causing an increase for other trip members. Therefore, you should have purchased travel insurance by this time.

After February 1, 2011 - NO REFUNDS for any reason, including accident, illness, or any other type of emergency.

Note: Sometimes additional moneys may be returned at a later date, if a cancellee’s spot can be filled from the waiting list. This depends upon two factors:
1. That the trip is filled - 15 participants (in addition to the leaders).
2. That there is a waiting list. This list is compiled by the leaders through the application and screening process only. No one may substitute another person for themselves.

REGISTRATION
The minimum age for this trip is 18. A separate application is required for each person. To reserve a space on the trip, please mail the Application and deposit to :
Kathy Didier
PO Box C
Woodstock, NH 03293

Make checks payable to Kathy Didier . Kathy will promptly review your application. Upon acceptance, a receipt and additional information will be sent to you. If not accepted, your deposit will be returned.

If your application is received and accepted after November 15, 2010, the remainder of the payment is due immediately - according to the payment schedule.

If you have any questions, please call:

Leader: Kathy Didier 603-726-3553
PO Box C kdidier@suchmail.com
Woodstock, NH 03293 http://bajawithkathy.blogspot.com/

SEE TURTLE MONITORING & WHALE WATCHING EXPEDITION
COASTAL KAYAKING
BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
March 6 - 13, 2011

APPLICATION

Please take this form seriously. It must be completed in order to be considered for this trip. Registrants will be considered on a first come (deposit plus completed forms) first served basis. Each person must fill out a separate application.

NAME: _________________________________ PHONE: hm ( )___________________________

ADDRESS: ______________________________ wk ( )___________________________
Cell Phone ( )___________________
______________________________________________ E-Mail Address ________________________

OCCUPATION: ___________________________ SMOKER: ____ NONSMOKER: ___________

DATE OF BIRTH: _____________ SEX ____ HEIGHT _______ WEIGHT _______

PASSPORT NUMBER ____________________________ EXPIRATION DATE__________________




EMERGENCY CONTACT:

NAME: ________________________________ PHONE: hm ( )___________________________


ADDRESS: _____________________________ wk ( )__________________________
Cell ( )_______________________
_______________________________________ RELATIONSHIP: __________________________


From what airport would you like to travel? ___________________
Do you plan to travel with the group? ______ If not, please discuss with trip leader.
Do you plan to extend your trip?

Do you have a preference for a roommate? If not, one of same sex will be assigned. _____________


1. Please be candid about your expectations concerning this trip. Why are you interested in coming on this trip? Are you able to adapt to group living and changing itineraries?







2. Have you been on a previous guided adventure trip? _____ With Whom? Where? When?








3. Describe the extend of your camping, canoeing, kayaking over past three years. Include frequency and level of difficulty.



4. Describe your physical fitness level and any physical activity that you routinely do in order to maintain your health. Please include types of activities, frequency of each, and duration of exercise.




5. Describe health/medical conditions and any disorders, however slight, for which you take medication. Have you ever had altitude sickness? List medications and dosages and medications. Describe any chronic disorders that you have (i.e. knee, ankle, back, etc.)




7. Dietary restrictions/preferences?


8. I have insurance covering injury and health.

Company _________________________ Policy # ____________________


9. How did you hear of this trip?


10. Have you read the detailed description for the trip? Yes ____. ________________________
Signature

Doctor’s note: A note from your doctor certifying that you are in satisfactory health to enjoy and complete a trip of this nature is not normally required. At the leaders’ discretion such a note may be required.

As a condition of participating in one of our adventure programs, we require that you read, understand and sign the contract/release indemnification agreement on this form.
Thank you.



Kathy Didier
PO Box C
Woodstock, NH 03293
603-726-3553
kdidier@suchmail.com