Volunteer Programs in Guatemala
Guatemala is known for its exceptional biodiversity and its stunning nature. It is also a land steeped in history, having been home to the great Mayan civilization for centuries before being colonized by the Spanish. This combination makes it one of Central America’s most appealing destinations for culture buffs, animal lovers, and adventure seekers.
However, years of conflict have left their mark on this Central American nation. Though things have been steadily improving since the civil war ended in 1996, poverty remains high and development is slow. Volunteers to Guatemala have the opportunity to make a real contribution to the growth and recovery of the country, whether it be by preserving its wildlife or helping its people prosper.
Guatemala has the lowest literacy rate in Central America and one of the highest poverty rates. Combined with the environmental challenges it faces due to global warming and deforestation, the country faces a series of unique problems that volunteers can help with.
Sea Turtles
There are various conservation projects in Guatemala dedicated to the protection of sea turtles. Volunteers move eggs to hatcheries, build hatcheries, clean up the beaches, and return turtles to the sea when the time is right. These projects are usually in remote seaside towns and can be both very fun and incredibly rewarding, as long as you are willing to roll your sleeves up and do some hard work.
Education
There is high demand for teachers in deprived areas of Guatemala since a lack of resources means that there are shortages of staff in public education. Volunteers are often brought in to teach English, but Spanish-speaking volunteers may be able to get placements in other subjects if they prefer.
Education projects are available throughout the country, from larger schools in Antigua to small community classrooms in rural areas.
Community Development
Community development projects in Guatemala can take a variety of forms, from youth outreach groups to small business support, construction, and women’s empowerment schemes. You will either be placed within a specific project for the duration of your stay, or you will be asked to work in various ones as needed, which can be an exciting way to get stuck in various areas.
Perhaps the single most popular city for volunteering in Guatemala is Antigua, the old capital. This is where most projects in education and community development are based. Antigua is a beautiful city, filled with historical buildings, and is probably the most exciting option for everyday city living.
If you are interested in conservation and wildlife projects, you are likely to stay away from Antigua, either on the Pacific coast or in the jungles. There are also various community development and cultural immersion projects in rural villages, including some with traditional Mayan communities.
Guatemala is a popular destination for volunteering, which can actually make it harder to choose a placement. Go for the organization that best aligns with your values, and which can best demonstrate real, tangible impact through its operations.
Money matters
The local currency is the Quetzal, but US dollars are usually accepted in major cities. If you do use dollar bills, make sure they are crisp, unmarked, and intact, or they may not be accepted. Most places outside of the cities do not take credit cards, but ATMs are available throughout the country.
Housing & accommodation
Housing will usually be simple, but fairly comfortable. Some projects place you in a house share, some have dormitory-style accommodation, and some may house you with a local family. The first is most common in city placements, the second with seaside and wildlife projects, and the last with cultural immersion and agricultural volunteering.
