Overview
Volunteer Travel in Guatemala

Voluntary work in Guatemala offers you the chance to make an exceptional difference to the lives of Guatemalan children born into extreme poverty, as you learn Spanish, live with a local family, and truly experience Guatemalan culture living in the beautiful old Spanish colonial town of Antigua.

Much of the Guatemalan population lives in poverty and, as going to school costs money, few of these people can afford an education, so GVI has joined with local indigenous leaders to create community teaching projects. College credit may be available for those attending this project. Consult GVI’s college credit page for helpful tips and advice.

View Film Footage, images, blogs, volunteer stories from the field, volunteer video diaries and more at the programs media centre

Worthwhile doesn’t come close to explaining my feelings on the project. It was wholly fulfilling and perhaps even life changing.

Nathan Golan, 2008

What Difference Does This Project Make?

A substantial part of the fee goes towards the day-to-day running costs of the projects themselves throughout the year, which includes rent, electricity, local salaries, fruit and other food for the children, educational materials for classes, monthly birthday and other celebrations, painting and maintenance. We currently pay for over 400 children to attend National School, as well as our own schools. Of these, almost 50 children entered Secondary School and 8 entered College. Included in your fee is one scholarship per child, per year.

Highlights

Living with a host family in Antigua; learning Spanish (optional); teaching literacy and numeracy to indigenous children in remote communities in GVI schools; going on an adventure weekend at Lake Atitlan (optional) to enjoy activities including hiking, biking and kayaking, opportunities for Salsa Classes and further travel.

Location

Guatemala is one of the jewels of Central America, packed with ancient ruins, active volcanoes and intriguing Mayan culture. Volunteers live in the beautiful old Spanish colonial town of Antigua and project work is carried out in communities all within a one hour journey from the town.

Field Conditions

Living with local families in comfortable but basic accommodation allows for an enriching cultural experience and the valuable opportunity to practice your Spanish! All accommodation provided is private and includes three meals a day (apart from Sundays). Lunch is eaten in the communities with a local family during the week. Travel upgrades are available for this project see dates and costs for more information.