This trip is led by the GGBA-beloved podcaster and guide Ivan Phillipsen of Wild Latitudes. Ivan was born and raised in southern California and is excited to take us to his old haunts.  This year we have a special treat; Ivan is being joined by Co-Leader Zoey Greenburg.

The tour begins and ends in Palm Springs, in the Coachella Valley. This is the western edge of the Sonoran Desert—a landscape of sand dunes, cacti, dry flood channels, and boulder-strewn slopes. Surrounding the valley are the snow-dusted peaks of several mountain ranges. A fascinating mixture of birds, other vertebrates, insects, and desert plants awaits you in this unique environment.

Our exciting and educational journey will take us to nature hotspots across the Coachella Valley, through Joshua Tree National Park, to the shores of the Salton Sea, and into Anza Borrego Desert State Park. You’ll not only see wonderful birds on this trip, but you’ll also learn about desert ecosystems and the region’s fascinating geology.  Several of the most magnificent sites we’ll visit are lush desert oases, shaded by native California Fan Palms.

Some special birds we hope to find include Greater Roadrunner, Phainopepla, Verdin, Gambel’s Quail, Common Ground Dove, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Neotropic Cormorant, Burrowing Owl, Cactus Wren, Abert’s Towhee, and Black-throated Sparrow.

Ivan grew up in Southern California and has spent countless days exploring the region’s deserts. He’s excited to be your guide—to help you enrich your knowledge of the birds, wildlife, plants, and landscapes of the Sonoran and Mojave deserts.

Tour Price:  $2,475 per person
Single Supplement:  $685 
Deposit:  $1,300

Check out the beautiful full itinerary.

Questions?  Contact Dawn at travelprogram@goldengatebirds.org.

Ready to register?  Contact Dawn first.  She will register you and put you in contact with Wild Latitudes.