How to Volunteer Abroad in Guatemala Climate. Guatemala has a varying geography - two mountain chains enter it from west to east, splitting the country into three parts: the highlands, the Peten region, and the Pacific coast. The elevation of these regions varies drastically, resulting in a diverse climate and landscape. Lowlands are humid, while the highlands tend to be rainy, mountainous, and cool. The rainy season runs from June to November and can result in mudslides and flooding. Take the diversity in climate and rainy season into account when packing.
Language and Demographics. Over 60 percent of Guatemalans speak the national language of Spanish. The remaining population speaks an array of Amerindian languages. There are also 21 Mayan languages spoken, particularly in the rural areas. If you volunteer or travel in the countryside, you’ll likely have the opportunity to learn a bit of Q’eqchi’ or Castilian.
Spanish, aside from a few irregularities (el coche instead of el carro) is spoken very slowly, making Guatemala a great place to learn. Lessons are very affordable, especially if traveling in the low season.
The country is urbanizing but the majority of the population still lives in rural areas making it easier for these dialects to continue. Guatemala’s population is over 14.6 million and has seen the most rapid growth of any country in the western hemisphere.
Culture. Ninety percent of Guatemalans adhere to some kind of Christianity, thus the culture is fairly socially conservative. That said, there are almost weekly celebrations, and when they celebrate there is activity happening at all hours of the day – parades, cannons, and chanting start in the early hours of the morning and end at night. Holidays like Día de Los Muertos, Semana Santa, and Dia de la Independencia contribute to a rich cultural experience regardless of when you volunteer.
Attractions. Antigua, a colonial city in the highlands, has stunning architecture, Tikal rivals Machu Picchu with its preservation of ancient indigenous structures, and don’t miss Semuc Champey, a collection of pools known as “the most beautiful place in Guatemala,” that is often overlooked. Lake Atitlan, the deepest lake in Central America, is surrounded by idyllic, traveler-friendly towns and is only 30 minutes from Xela.
Affordability. Guatemala is one of the most affordable countries in Central America. Local marketplaces will be teeming with cheap artisan handicrafts and clothes (be ready to bargain) and there are great thrift shops in major cities. Truly Western products or major tourist attractions such as Tikal, an archeological site of Mayan ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Site, tend to be somewhat more expensive. Stick to local brands and it is easier to stay in budget. Some stores will take American money, others won’t. Don’t be afraid to shop a lot. Supporting the local economy is one of the best things you’ll do during your time abroad.
Food. Guatemalan food tends to be derived from Mayan cuisine, with a lot of beans, rice, and corn. Expect a lot of chicken, unidentifiable fruit juices, and fruits unfamiliar to the developed world, like caimito, jocote, and paternas. The dishes have merged with traditions and other flavors.
Types of Programs. Popular volunteer positions include teaching or playing with children and can be found everywhere from bustling cities like Xela, tiny villages like Pasac, or in exotic locations such as San Marcos, a hippie town on the edge of Lake Atitlan. Those interested in conservation work will find a lot to do in the Guatemalan highlands, outside of Antigua, where coffee farmers look for help with their harvest.
Health care clinics in rural areas are often willing to take foreign volunteers, depending on their level of expertise and proficiency in Spanish. Guatemala is also an excellent place for those who are interested in working with animals – there is a huge number of abandoned animals in the streets and projects to help look after them are abundant but understaffed.
Volunteer Life. The experience you have will vary depending on the project you choose. If you’re in a city like Xela or Guatemala City, there will likely be other volunteers and foreigners around and transportation to other parts of Guatemala are more accessible. Guatemala’s cities are also major cultural centers with museums, restaurants, and music scenes to further enhance the experience.
Life as a volunteer in placements in quieter parts of the country, such as a village in the highlands, will likely be much more immersive and slower-paced. There will be more opportunities to learn words and phrases of an indigenous language or participate in a rural ceremony. Plus, you will not see as many foreigners.
Regardless of where you go, be ready for a bit of culture shock. Guatemalans operate on “Guatemalan time,” which means arriving about 30 minutes late, and they love to celebrate. During your stay you will almost definitely be woken up at four in the morning by enthusiastic locals starting celebrations early.