GO FOR IT!! IVHQ provide plenty of advice and support to get you sorted and you will not regret a moment of your decision to get involved. Its a massive experience and will have its challenges but you will be safe and supported and will learn a massive amount while doing good. I have no hesitation in saying IVHQ will help you make it happen... and encourage you 100%
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 156,000 travelers, IVHQ is the best volunteer organization in Guatemala.
Highlights:
- 13 meaningful project options available year-round
- Program Fees from $453 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
Key information
Volunteer opportunities in Guatemala
Protects animals
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $453
- 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
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $453
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Schools and childcare centers 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.
Increases access to education
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $548
- 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
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $548
- 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
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $548
- 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 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $548
- 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.
Supports community development
3-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $548
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in a Mayan village near Antigua
- Volunteers aged 16+
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
4 hours volunteering per day
Set Program Fee of $670
- Set duration of 1 week
- Programs start every Monday
- Different communities around Antigua
- Volunteers aged 18+
A project designed for volunteers traveling 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 neighborhoods.
Improves health & wellbeing
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $548
- 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
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $548
- 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
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $453
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Schools, libraries and centers 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 gender equality
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $453
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in non-profit organizations, and community centers
- Volunteers aged 18+
Become part of a transformative movement empowering women in Guatemala to break through barriers and create brighter futures. As a volunteer, you'll lead workshops, mentor women, and support local microbusinesses to help make a lasting impact.
Improves health & wellbeing
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $548
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Nursing homes and senior centers 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 socialization and help with basic daily necessities.
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
HW
Helen Warwick
...
AG
Aspen Griffith
I gained so much from this trip, I gained a new sense of independence, even in my short time volunteering I felt as if I made a difference. I was super nervous about traveling solo but IVHQ made it so easy and comfortable.
...
LD
Lisa Dickson
I gained another level of gratitude for what I have - my health, my wealth and especially my freedom. I really feel like I gained another family from my home stay to the kids I worked with. In just 2 weeks it all felt like home. My heart will forever be in Guatemala and with all those who I had the pleasure of connecting with, especially the children. My advice to others is just do it! If you have ever had the urge to really immerse yourself and be open to learning a new culture then go. If you ever had the desire to give back and make an impact, this opportunity is the go. If you want to grow and be create meaningful memories beyond your wildest dreams then go. I promise as long as you have an open mind and heart, and some curiosity you will not be disappointed. It is better to die with memories than dreams.
...
AG
Aphnie Germain
During my time in Guatemala, I served as the primary provider at a free municipal clinic delivering essential care to underserved patients alongside social workers, physical therapists, and a translator. Each day involved treating 10–20 individuals for a wide range of conditions, from diabetes and hypertension to musculoskeletal pain and mental health concerns, with a focus on high-impact, resource-conscious interventions. The experience offered profound insights into family medicine, cultural humility, and the challenges of healthcare access in low-resource settings. Beyond the clinic, I participated in community outreach, including food drives and local initiatives, which deepened my appreciation for the connection between health, culture, and community. My homestay in Antigua further enriched the experience through warm hospitality and daily cultural immersion, making this a deeply rewarding and reflective journey.
...
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Popular add-ons & experiences in Guatemala
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. 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)
Step into the world of coffee excellence in the lush highlands of Guatemala
$81
Mini Adventure (6 days, 7 nights)
See all of Guatemala’s major hot spots on this 1-week Mini Adventure tour.
$1112
Online Spanish Lessons
Enhance your volunteer experience by mastering the language with our flexible, daily online Spanish Lessons.
From $75
Coffee Farm Tour (Half Day)
Step into the world of coffee excellence in the lush highlands of Guatemala
$81
Mini Adventure (6 days, 7 nights)
See all of Guatemala’s major hot spots on this 1-week Mini Adventure tour.
$1112
Online Spanish Lessons
Enhance your volunteer experience by mastering the language with our flexible, daily online Spanish Lessons.
From $75
Check what's required to visit Guatemala
Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important you monitor this right up until you depart for your trip.
