Guatemala Volunteer Programs from $28/day | Most Affordable & Trusted

Volunteering with IVHQ in Guatemala was an experience I’ll always appreciate. I worked in a geriatric clinic, seeing patients every day, and it was both challenging and incredibly fulfilling. The work was hands-on, and I felt like I was actually contributing rather than just observing. Some days were tough, but getting to know the patients and seeing the impact of even small gestures made it all worth it.

The local staff was supportive and really made an effort to involve volunteers in meaningful ways. IVHQ had everything well-organized while still allowing us enough flexibility to learn and engage. Outside of volunteering, getting to experience Guatemala—the culture, the people, the food—made the whole thing even more special.

I’d definitely recommend this program to anyone interested in healthcare, volunteering, or just wanting to do something meaningful while immersing themselves in a new place.

I'm not sure where to begin to describe this incredibly life-changing experience. I had an incredible time in Guatemala. My volunteer placement, host family, local team, the friends I made, and the cultural activities were all aspects that exceeded my expectations. What an incredible way to immerse yourself in a new culture while giving back to the local community. I'm particularly thankful to the kids I taught classes to - I thought I would be teaching them, but they were the real teachers, teaching me to have fun and enjoy the little things in life! All of this would not have been possible without IVHQ's support. Their guidance was truly valuable in ensuring the preparation period and the trip went smoothly. I can now join the comment pool and say, "Go for it." The only problem is that you will not want to leave Guatemala :)

I’d recommend traveling with a friend or group if under 18, home stays can be more isolating. However, the local team helped connect me to other minors and hosted plenty of free social events. I really benefited from the opportunity to explore on the weekends I travels to Lake Atitlan, Tikal, and hiked Acatenango with friends I met through the program. Antigua Guatemala is very safe for female travelers, even at night, so I visited a lot of local festivals and food stalls. Overall, I loved the opportunity to work with kids and learn Spanish.

The local team was really well organized and I felt so supported by both them and IVHQ. My coordinator routinely checked in prior to my start date to ensure I was all set and provide any assistance I may have needed. My volunteering experience in Antigua, Guatemala was an absolutely incredible experience. I found my volunteer placement to be very rewarding and felt like I was making a contribution. Additionally, the home stay had such an amazing vibe. All the volunteers had so much fun together and our host family was really nice and helpful.

I was happy to have this experience volunteering in a community outreach program for elders from the Kakchiquel Maya community in Guatemala. I felt that I was able to both use my nursing skills and make a difference in my patient's lives. I believe that I was able to convey that I care about them as well. I would love to return in the future. I was able to schedule some fun side trips on the weekends such as a trip to the Pacific ocean, with a tour through the mangroves; a trip to a nearby coffee "finca," a trip to Pacaya volcano, and a trip to the markets at Chichicastenango.

I’d honestly recommend IVHQ to anyone interested in volunteer abroad. Both trips came at angelic timing. Jamaica was one heck of a cultural adventure and Guatemala provided lots of solitude and reflection. Both journeys came with great support, especially by program manager Lina, and basically the whole registration process was seemingly smooth and straight forward. I enjoyed the plentiful options that are offered with IVHQ. 10/10! I can’t wait to experience another excursion again especially since I’m connected to the FB page which is encouraging to remain in contact with the community, and I believe that’s a great feature IVHQ offers.

I just finished a wonderful IVHQ trip to Guatemala! It was one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences of my life. I felt that I was able to make a contribution, learn about a new culture and create some new / lasting friendships. Great coordination between IVHQ and their local partner. Already planning my next trip. I would also encourage people to participate regardless of their age. I thought I might be too old but it was totally not an issue. I even met some great people my age. Experiencing new food was also a plus.

If you love people and learning about different cultures, the IVHQ Mayan Immersion program is fantastic. Had the opportunity to live with an indigenous family for a week in their village in Guatemala. To walk in the shoes with these people and be involved in the day to day life’s is priceless. As always when giving the recipients are rewarded, but your reward are even greater. This program will soften your heart and want to do more. Don’t miss this, take a chance and you will have no regrets. Great executions also to hike volcanos or visit ruins.