In Guatemala it is possible to live in a modern environment yet experience the magic and enchantment of a legendary past. By volunteering in Guatemala you can experience the warmth and hospitality of its people, the richness of its culture and the contrast of its development. Immerse yourself in the culture by living with a host family as a welcome family member. And, study Spanish in one-to-one classes before beginning your volunteer service.

Guatemala is located in the western part of Central America, bounded on the west and north by Mexico, on the east by Belize and the Gulf of Honduras, on the southeast by Honduras and El Salvador, and on the south by the Pacific Ocean.   It is possible to have breakfast at sunrise in the Caribbean and observe sunset at the Pacific Ocean! About two-third of the country's total land area is mountainous.   Guatemala possesses a striking topography and a wide range of climates-from hot, low-lying rain forests to cold mountains reaching 4,220 meters in elevation.   The country is home to a wealth of biodiversity and natural beauty which is partially what has made it a popular tourist destination.   You will find cloud forests echoing with the calls of howler monkeys; crisp, scenic crater lakes; mangroves and beaches, and dusty deserts, all within a country of 42,000 square miles.

Guatemala is a very diverse country with 24 languages and cultures; the official language is Spanish.   There are 21 different Mayan languages, plus Garifona (Caribbean) and Xinka (Eastern). Today over 80% of the Guatemalan population lives below the poverty line.

When you join one of our community service projects you are giving yourself the opportunity to make a difference by:

Sharing your culture and education with youth groups in a rural village
Helping to preserve the environment as part of an environmental education/ ecotourism project
Contributing to small business projects for rural women and youth groups
Educating and providing emotional support for disabled children