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Gap Year Programs in Guatemala

From Mayan archaeological sites to biodiverse havens to outdoorsy activities, Guatemala offers gappers a one-of-a-kind adventure. Why not wake up every day to the natural beauty of the volcanoes, beaches, and jungles in Guatemala?! Not to mention the mix of today’s Mayan local peoples and historical Spanish colonialism gives this country a colorful culture. Whether you’re looking to take some time off for fun and relaxation, gain communication skills in Spanish, or make a meaningful impact with volunteering, you’ll experience that and much more. Go on, take a gap year in Guatemala!

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23 Gap Year Programs in Guatemala

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8.867 reviews

MAXIMO NIVEL

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Country Jumper Gap Year - Costa Rica | Guatemala | Peru

In three of the world's most beautiful countries—Costa Rica, Guat...

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IVHQ
9.54762 reviews

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

World’s #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) brings people together from all...

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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
9.6837 reviews

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with awa...

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Pacific Discovery
8.3321 reviews

Pacific Discovery

Mexico, Costa Rica & Guatemala Gap Semester

Pacific Discovery's Central America Gap Semester is an unforgetta...

Carpe Diem Education
9.1926 reviews

Carpe Diem Education

Central America Semester | Carpe Diem Education Gap Year

Venture through Guatemala and Costa Rica, exploring lush tropical...

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Volunteer World
8.7512 reviews

Volunteer World

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find ...

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Where There Be Dragons
102 reviews

Where There Be Dragons

Guatemala & Mexico Semester: Spanish & Activism (Gap Year)

A narrow strip of mountains, jungles, and fiery volcanoes unites ...

Intern Abroad HQ
9.2467 reviews

Intern Abroad HQ

Intern Abroad HQ - Affordable Internships From Just 2 weeks!

Are you a student or young professional looking to enhance your c...

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AdventureEXP
00 reviews

AdventureEXP

Trails & Waves: Sustainable Guatemala

Embark on an immersive journey in Antigua and delve into its vibr...

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Latest Program Reviews

An experience of a lifetime!

November 16, 2024by: Allie Gladen - United StatesProgram: Country Jumper Gap Year - Costa Rica | Guatemala | Peru
10

My time in Costa Rica with Maximo Nivel was definitely one that I will cherish and hold near and dear to my heart for forever. There were so many amazing people to meet and so many amazing experiences to be had. My host mom, Marisol was an amazing host and made us all feel very comfortable and happy, all while keeping a fun and lighthearted atmosphere in the house. The campus in Quepos, Costa Rica is very comfortable and well made and I enjoyed spending time there as well!

A Guide to Gap Year in Guatemala

Popular locations

Impressively situated between four countries, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Ocean, Guatemala has a square mileage similar to Tennessee. Nearly one-third of its population of 16.6 million are centralized near the capital of Guatemala City, but more Mayan archaeological sites are worth visiting outside of the city: Tikal in the Peten, Quiriguá in Izabal, and Iximche in Tecpan Chimaltenango. The majority of the Guatemala gap year programs are located in Guatemala City and Antigua. 

Guatemala City. The capital of Guatemala is situated in the southern part of the country and is the hub for museums, galleries, transportation, and more. Visit the Ixchel Museum of Indigenous Textiles and Clothing, ogle at animals at the La Aurora Zoo, and mosey around the Parque Central. Stop for a bite at a cafe and savor the flavors of tamales, guacamole, and fried plantains. Programs here are available for gappers interested in volunteering in anything from health to animal welfare to teaching. 

Antigua. The colonial city of Antigua, located an hour southwest of Guatemala City, was once Guatemala’s capital and now is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture. Known to be more quieter and safer than the capital, Antigua is a popular tourist place for its Spanish monuments. Marvel at the partially finished Catedral de Santiago, browse handicrafts at Casa del Tejido Antiguo, and take some Spanish classes at one of its many language schools. Three large volcanoes on the horizon create stunning views and provide adventurous activities of mountain biking, kayaking, and rock climbing.

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