Fiona Casson
Set out on a transformative 80-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia. The Semester in Patagonia offers you the chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Andes mountains and Chile’s wild coastal regions, all while honing essential wilderness skills and developing your leadership style. Whether you’re rock climbing, backpacking, or navigating remote fjords by sea kayak, this course will push you to your limits and help you grow in ways you never imagined. Join us for an unforgettable adventure that blends nature, personal growth, and leadership development in one of the world’s most pristine environments.
The Semester in Patagonia is more than just an outdoor adventure—it’s a life-changing opportunity to discover your leadership potential. With the majestic Andes as your backdrop, you’ll tackle physical challenges, learn new technical skills, and develop crucial interpersonal abilities, including teamwork, decision-making, and cultural competence. Each expedition will take you deeper into Patagonia’s stunning wilderness, offering lessons in navigating uncertainty and adapting to change. By the end of this semester, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of yourself, your leadership abilities, and the world around you. Prepare to return home with the confidence to lead in any environment.
Photo credit: Isaura Martinez
Patagonia’s natural wonders will become your classroom. From the towering peaks of the Andes to the tranquil fjords of Chile, every corner of this remote region offers new opportunities for adventure and learning. You’ll spend your days rock climbing, mountaineering, or backpacking through the rugged mountains, all while gaining hands-on experience in wilderness survival, navigation, and risk management. You’ll also venture into the crystal-clear waters of Chile’s coastal fjords by sea kayak, exploring hidden beaches and ancient forests along the way. Expect to see unique wildlife, including condors soaring overhead, and learn about the region’s natural history and local culture. This is not just a course—it’s an adventure into one of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on earth.
This course will equip you with a wide range of technical and leadership skills that will stay with you long after your expedition ends. You’ll gain confidence in your ability to navigate challenging terrain, lead a group through complex decisions, and respond to unforeseen situations. Some of the core skills include:
Wilderness Skills: Master rock climbing, mountaineering, backpacking, and sea kayaking techniques to become self-sufficient in the backcountry.
Leadership and Decision-Making: Develop the ability to lead a group, make informed decisions under pressure, and foster collaboration in challenging environments.
Risk Management: Learn how to assess hazards, manage risks, and make safety a top priority during outdoor adventures.
Cultural Competence: Gain a deeper understanding of Patagonian culture and learn how to engage respectfully with local communities.
Wilderness First Aid Certification: Receive an industry-recognized Wilderness First Aid certification, adding an invaluable skill set to your professional portfolio.
Photo credit: Viviana Callahan
Your 80-day Semester in Patagonia is structured to provide a gradual, hands-on approach to wilderness education and leadership. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Day 1: Arrive at the NOLS Patagonia basecamp, where you’ll meet your instructors, receive gear, and complete foundational training in wilderness skills and safety.
Days 2–35: Begin your first expedition, which may include rock climbing or mountaineering in the Andes. You’ll work on developing self-sufficiency and technical proficiency while living in the wild.
Days 36–74-: Embark on a sea kayaking expedition through the fjords of Chile, navigating remote coastal waters, hiking through temperate rainforests, and learning about the region’s diverse ecosystems.
Days 75–79: Put all of your newfound skills to the test with a multi-day independent expedition, where you’ll plan and execute a route through Patagonia’s rugged terrain. You’ll have the chance to lead your group, refine your decision-making abilities, and embrace the challenges of the wilderness.
Day 80: Celebrate the completion of your expedition with a final debrief, reflection session, and course graduation. Leave the course ready to lead in the wilderness and beyond.
Photo credit: Viviana Callahan
Throughout the Semester in Patagonia, you will face physical and mental challenges that will test your endurance, resilience, and adaptability. The unpredictable Patagonian weather, with its sudden changes from sunshine to wind, rain, or snow, will require you to make quick decisions and adapt to shifting conditions. The terrain is equally challenging—expect to carry heavy packs for long distances across demanding landscapes, including glaciers, mountains, and coastal fjords. But the rewards are immense. Not only will you gain the technical skills needed to thrive in the wilderness, but you’ll also develop leadership qualities, resilience, and confidence that will serve you for a lifetime. The friendships you form with your expedition team will be lasting, and the lessons you learn will continue to guide you in your personal and professional life.
This course is designed for adventurous individuals who are eager to grow both physically and mentally. Whether you’re an aspiring outdoor professional, a wilderness enthusiast, or someone looking for a transformative personal experience, the Semester in Patagonia is for you. If you’re ready to challenge yourself, explore one of the world’s most remote regions, and gain leadership skills that will set you apart, this course is the perfect opportunity.
By completing the Semester in Patagonia, you’ll become part of the NOLS alumni network—a global community of leaders, adventurers, and outdoor professionals. The connections you make during this course will open doors to new opportunities and lifelong friendships. Are you ready to embrace the adventure of a lifetime? Join us in Patagonia, and let this transformative journey shape the rest of your life.
Photo credit: Diego Allolio
“You really get to know people out here on such a deeply personal level that you start to understand what type of leadership they respond to and it's not just your kind of leadership.”
