Volunteer Programs in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala

Guatemala is a truly fascinating country! The volcano-studded horizons, lush forests and stunning coastlines are home to a great diversity of plants and animals that make Guatemala even more fun to discover! But not only that, the culture is just as rich and colorful: a true mix of elements from native Maya people and spanish conlonialism give this country its unique character. The Maya culture can still be found in practise in some sacred sites like Laguna Chicabal. Go ahead and witness it yourself!

Based in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, we’ve spent years building deep, trusted relationships with a strong network of grassroots human rights organisations in the region. Our work is led by the needs of these organisations, meaning volunteers are matched with projects where they are genuinely wanted and where their contribution can make a real difference. We take the time to understand your goals, skills, and reasons for volunteering, then thoughtfully connect you with organisations working on a range of human rights challenges, including women’s rights and gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, indigenous representation, youth empowerment, and migration. When matching volunteers, we consider your Spanish level, time commitment, and experience; some roles need Spanish or specific skills, others don’t; some organisations prefer longer stays, while others welcome short-term support; some placements simply need passion and commitment. As a volunteer, you’ll gain hands-on experience supporting community programmes, contributing to advocacy initiatives, and collaborating with local leaders, while amplifying community voices and helping create meaningful, lasting impact on the ground.

Volunteer in Quetzaltenango – Help Out, Stand Out Ready to do something meaningful during your trip? Volunteering in Quetzaltenango (also known as Xela) allows you to connect with local communities and make a meaningful difference, while gaining unforgettable experiences along the way. There are tons of local projects here that need your help. Whether you’re into working with kids, supporting women, protecting the environment, or helping in healthcare, there’s a project that fits you. You could find yourself teaching in schools, helping in a shelter for teen mothers, reforesting the highlands, or supporting women’s textile cooperatives. Most projects require a minimum stay of 2 weeks, and since many people you’ll work with don’t speak English, a basic level of Spanish is necessary. Not quite there yet? We’ve got your back with online Spanish lessons to get you ready before you go. Volunteering in Guatemala isn’t just a way to give back—it’s an experience that will challenge and inspire you. If you’re open-minded, motivated, and ready for something real, Xela is calling.