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School Building Volunteer Program in Guatemala
by: School the World
The School the World Guatemala program brings high school students from across the United States into the heart of Maya Quiché territory for one week of hands-on community service. Participants work directly on building a school in a rural, indigenous community, contributing something tangible that will outlast the trip by decades. Two departure dates are available: February 15-22 and July 7-14, 2...
The School the World Guatemala program brings high school students from across the United States into the heart of Maya Quiché territory for one week of hands-on community service. Participants work directly on building a school in a rural, indigenous community, contributing something tangible that will outlast the trip by decades. Two departure dates are available: February 15-22 and July 7-14, 2026. The program balances meaningful work with genuine cultural connection. Throughout the week, students build relationships with local schoolchildren, teachers, and families who open their homes and communities to the group. Cultural visits are woven into the itinerary, including a stop at Chichicastenango—home to the largest open-air market in Central America—and the stunning colonial city of ...
Program Highlights
Stay in fully vetted hotels selected and approved by School the World's local staff.
Travel in School the World-screened vans with an average one-hour commute to each community.
Have a dedicated U.S. or local nurse present throughout the entire trip, with a medical doctor available on call at all times.
Walk through Antigua, one of the best-preserved colonial cities in the Americas, and take in its history and architecture.
Visit Chichicastenango and browse the largest open-air market in Central America as part of the programme itinerary.
Quick Details
- Guatemala
- 1-2 Weeks
- Alternative Spring Break
- Summer
- Community Service & Volunteering
- Experiential Learning
- Language Immersion
- Building & Construction Projects
- All Nationalities
Awards





Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
Creating long-lasting friendships!
July 08, 2026by: Serina Ohyama - United StatesWhile having traveled with STW before in Panama, Guatemala was another life-changing experience I will never forget. Traveling to Antigua was beautiful, and experiencing its food and markets was an amazing time. In the communities, I built multiple connections with several of the children that was extremely fulfilling. Additionally, I created friendships that lasted long after the trip had ended. All in all, my journey with STW was amazing and gave me connections to multiple placed across the world!
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Guatemala
Types and Subjects
- Focus Areas
- Community Service & Volunteering
- Experiential Learning
- Language Immersion
Availability
Years Offered: 2026
- 1-2 Weeks
- Alternative Spring Break
- Summer
Age Requirement
14-17
Guidelines
All Nationalities
This Program is also open to Group
Starts At
Program Cost Includes
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- All Program Activity Costs
- Group Meals
- In-Country Transportation To & From Project
Accommodation Options
- Guest House
Qualifications & Experience
- English
- Spanish
Language Skills Required
- High School Freshman (1st Year)
- High School Sophomore (2nd Year)
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Written Application
- Online Application
- Essay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Learn More?
The School the World Guatemala program brings high school students from across the United States into the heart of Maya Quiché territory for one week of hands-on community service. Participants work directly on building a school in a rural, indigenous community, contributing something tangible that will outlast the trip by decades. Two departure dates are available: February 15-22 and July 7-14, 2026. The program balances meaningful work with genuine cultural connection. Throughout the week, students build relationships with local schoolchildren, teachers, and families who open their homes and communities to the group. Cultural visits are woven into the itinerary, including a stop at Chichicastenango—home to the largest open-air market in Central America—and the stunning colonial city of ...

School the World

School the World
Ready to Learn More?
The School the World Guatemala program brings high school students from across the United States into the heart of Maya Quiché territory for one week of hands-on community service. Participants work directly on building a school in a rural, indigenous community, contributing something tangible that will outlast the trip by decades. Two departure dates are available: February 15-22 and July 7-14, 2026. The program balances meaningful work with genuine cultural connection. Throughout the week, students build relationships with local schoolchildren, teachers, and families who open their homes and communities to the group. Cultural visits are woven into the itinerary, including a stop at Chichicastenango—home to the largest open-air market in Central America—and the stunning colonial city of ...
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