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Volunteer in Guatemala

Discover International Volunteer HQ’s incredible Guatemala volunteer abroad program. Choose from a wide range of trusted Guatemala volunteer projects, including Childcare, Medical, Teaching and Construction. Volunteer work in Guatemala is based in Antigua and surrounding rural and coastal locations. With affordable Program Fees and top rated volunteer projects trusted by over 135,000 travellers, IVHQ is the best volunteer organisation in Guatemala.

Highlights:
  • 13 meaningful project options available year-round
  • Program Fees from AU$617 for 1 week
  • Includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, breakfast and dinner and 24/7 in-country support
  • Accommodation in local homestays or a dormitory-style volunteer house in Antigua

  • Exciting add-ons available, including volcano treks, coffee plantation tours, adventure activities and multi-day tours

Apply For Free

Key information

Fully hosted experience from AU$617
Volunteer from 1 - 24 weeks
Ages 16+ and families
Based in the colorful city of Antigua
Projects align with UN Sustainable Development Goals
Impact driven projects run by locals
B Corporation certified organization
Coffee tours & other add-on adventures

Volunteer opportunities in Guatemala

Protects animals

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$617

  • Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Shelters or vet clinics in Antigua
  • Volunteers aged 16+ and families

Assist animal shelters or vet clinics with animal care, working with cats and dogs and exotic animals including turtles, snakes and lizards.

Increases access to education

3-4 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$617

  • Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Schools and childcare centres in Antigua
  • Volunteers aged 16+ and families

Assist in local schools and daycare centers to nurture, educate and have fun with young children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Supports community development

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$754

  • Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Based in Antigua
  • Volunteers aged 16+ and families

Help with community construction and renovation projects in schools, homes and public places. Roll your sleeves up, embrace the physical work and the tangible results!

Improves health & wellbeing

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$754

  • Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Clinics and elderly homes in Antigua
  • Volunteers aged 18+

Volunteer in dental or health clinics to help improve access to important dental care for underserved communities in Guatemala.

Conserves the environment

4-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$754

  • Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Farms in the highlands of Guatemala
  • Volunteers aged 16+ and families

Help local coffee or macadamia nut farmers with seasonal tasks, with an emphasis on sustainable practices to encourage efficiency and conservation.

Increases access to education

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$754

  • Duration: 1 - 2 weeks
  • Only available the weeks of Christmas and New Years
  • Based in and around Antigua
  • Volunteers aged 16+ and families

Help in a wide range of volunteer projects over Christmas and New Year. Perfect for those wanting to experience the holidays abroad, while helping out where it’s needed most.

Supports community development

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$754

  • Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Based in a Mayan village near Antigua
  • Volunteers aged 18+

Immerse yourself in an authentic local community, living their way of life and contributing to a range of tasks including the production of traditional textiles.

Improves health & wellbeing

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$754

  • Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Clinics and elderly homes in Antigua
  • Volunteers aged 18+

A project for medical and nursing volunteers at all levels, based in elderly homes and clinics for the poor. Qualified volunteers can act independently in a hands-on manner, while medical and nursing students assist local staff.

Improves health & wellbeing

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Set Program Fee of AU$930

  • Set duration of 1 week
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Different communities around Antigua
  • Volunteers aged 18+

A project designed for volunteers travelling in groups of 8 or more, involving outreach campaigns delivering basic healthcare in local communities. Campaigns are customizable to your experience and specialty and aim to bring health services to locals in the comfort of their own neighbourhoods.

Improves health & wellbeing

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$617

  • Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Based in group homes and clinics in Guatemala
  • Volunteers aged 18+

Provide care and attention for special needs children or the elderly, helping with physical, intellectual and emotional stimulation.

Increases access to education

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$617

  • Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Schools, libraries and centres in Antigua
  • Volunteers aged 16+ and families

Help to facilitate free English classes for children and adults, fostering better language skills and increased opportunities for your students.

Supports community development

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$3081

  • Duration: 1 - 2 weeks
  • Only available in July
  • Based in a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Volunteers aged 16 and 17

A unique opportunity for 16 and 17 year olds wanting to volunteer solo in Guatemala during the summer. The Teen Volunteer Summer Camp is fully chaperoned and includes an exciting fusion of community volunteering, cultural activities, sports, and tourism activities.

Improves health & wellbeing

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from AU$617

  • Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every Monday
  • Nursing homes and senior centres in Antigua
  • Volunteers aged 18+

Bring a caring and compassionate attitude to nursing homes and senior centers in poorer areas of Antigua, where elderly people get socialisation and help with basic daily necessities.

What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience

AD
Anneliese Delgado-Cate
14 Feb 2024

There are always a million reasons not to go abroad – finances, time restraints, the unknown. But I would encourage anyone who is considering it to take the plunge and just say “yes.” Not only do I feel like I made a positive impact volunteering on an eco-farm in Guatemala, I also improved my Spanish, made new friends, played various sports in the evenings and experienced the rejuvenating tranquility that comes with traveling to a new part of the world.

...
MF
Michelle Fox
18 Jan 2024

It was wonderful in many ways - the work I did was impactful, the people I worked with were friendly and welcoming. They became my good friends. Antigua was beautiful and safe. The local team provided many opportunities beyond volunteering - Spanish classes, excursions, and local activities like dance and cooking classes. I will give a huge thumbs up for IVHQ and the local team.

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MG
Manuel Garcia Estrada
18 Jan 2024

My experience of going to Guatemala to teach English was truly transformative. Not only did I have the opportunity to share my knowledge and skills with eager learners, but I also immersed myself in a rich cultural exchange that broadened my perspective on education and life.

One of the most significant gains from this experience was the deep sense of fulfillment that comes from making a positive impact on others. Teaching English in Guatemala allowed me to witness the power of education in empowering individuals and communities. The resilience and enthusiasm of my students were inspiring, and the bonds formed during my time there are cherished memories.

To those hesitant about embarking on a similar journey, I would wholeheartedly encourage them to take the leap. Teaching abroad is not just about imparting language skills; it's about fostering understanding, building connections, and embracing cultural diversity. The personal growth and the relationships forged during this adventure are unparalleled. My advice would be to approach it with an open heart, be flexible in adapting to new environments, and savor the rewarding moments that teaching and cultural exchange bring. It's an experience that not only benefits others but leaves an indelible mark on your own life journey.

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RT
Ronnie Townsend
27 Dec 2023

Volunteering in Guatemala really and truly changed my life for the better! I met amazing people, was forced out of my comfort zone which enabled me to grow and become a better person! My Spanish skills have improved majorly, and I feel challenged in a positive way.

One of the big impacts that I generated from volunteering was cross-cultural collaboration and understanding. I was able to learn and pick up new things about the Guatemalan culture, and I was able to share elements of my culture as well. This helped me to grow and work together with the team at my volunteer site. I implemented new ways for cleanliness for the animals, and also emphasizing the importance of both speaking and communicating with the animals.

Volunteering with animals and being aware of limitations present when attempting to provide them with the best care possible made my work all the more meaningful. Volunteering is a very special thing to do. Giving back to the world in ways that cannot be put into words! Getting out of your comfort zone is 100% worth it!

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RM
Ruth Miller
13 Nov 2023

First, don't be hesitant about going with IVHQ. I've volunteerd with MANY other organizations and find them the best and the least expensive. Two issues I regard when making reservations to go out of the country. Ask all your questions before you go, and read all the literature they send you including books about the country. I read four amazing books about the history of Guatemala and it allowed me to look at them and us (USA) quite differently. I came back with open eyes and open heart and know the US does not know how to care for disabled children, adults, or older adults the way they should and can for all the money we through at this system in the US, it is broken. Go change the world and come back with new ideas and a new you.

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LG
Lameece Gregorchik
30 Aug 2023

I have recommended IVHQ in many instances, as I believe it is an economical, supportive program that leaves life-changing impressions on the participants. The local team is wonderful; its team is knowledgeable about the locations and fit for each project and participant. You are fully supported both as a student and as a volunteer and make life-long friends from all over the world.

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To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.

Free-time experiences & tours in Guatemala

Take your volunteer experience to the next level with IVHQ's affordable activity and tour add-ons in Guatemala! Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Guatemala program.

Coffee Farm Tour (Half Day)
Coffee Farm Tour (Half Day)

Step into the world of coffee excellence in the lush highlands of Guatemala

AU$126
Mini Adventure (6 days, 7 nights)
Mini Adventure (6 days, 7 nights)

See all of Guatemala’s major hot spots on this 1-week Mini Adventure tour.

AU$1781
Volcano Tour (Half day)
Volcano Tour (Half day)

Trek up Pacaya Volcano, a fully active volcano and national park. Enjoy breathtaking views and learn about Guatemala’s natural history.

AU$78
Mini Adventure (6 days, 7 nights)
Mini Adventure (6 days, 7 nights)

See all of Guatemala’s major hot spots on this 1-week Mini Adventure tour.

AU$1781
Coffee Farm Tour (Half Day)
Coffee Farm Tour (Half Day)

Step into the world of coffee excellence in the lush highlands of Guatemala

AU$126
Volcano Tour (Half day)
Volcano Tour (Half day)

Trek up Pacaya Volcano, a fully active volcano and national park. Enjoy breathtaking views and learn about Guatemala’s natural history.

AU$78

Check what's required to visit Guatemala

How to get started

Pick a destination + project and apply for free
Meet your personal volunteer travel expert
Pay the Registration Fee to secure your place and upgrade your MyIVHQ account
Get ready to volunteer abroad, we’ll support you every step of the way!